Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 55

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 55 is a waterproof ultralight pack with exceptional mechanical durability.

It is specially designed for uninterrupted long-distance trail crossings (thru hiking).

American made Hyperlite Mountain Gear backpacks (made in the USA and Mexico) have long been among the highest rated backpacks on the PCT. We recommend the Unbound 55 especially for longer hiking trips, where you'll appreciate the large internal (55L) and external (9L) volume, the pack's high durability, and good organization.

Thanks to the Dyneema® Woven Composite 3.9 material used, it is a top choice among ultralight backpacks in terms of durability and longevity. This makes the backpack worth buying for longer and more intensive use, despite its higher price. In addition, any tears in the material are easily repaired with a self-adhesive kit.

The back system is reinforced with aluminium reinforcement, which helps to transfer the load to the waist belt. This makes the backpack easy to carry even with heavier loads (up to 18 kg).

Although we label the pack as waterproof, we recommend using it in combination with Hyperlite Mountain Gear bags and pouches. DCF fabric alone will not shed water. Most of the seams, which are minimal due to the construction of the pack, are taped. The main reinforced seams that outline the sides and form the bottom of the pack are sewn on the outside. In this way, the manufacturer achieved a straight seam inside the backpack that could be taped. There is only one unsealed place on the backpack. The seams that hold the shoulder straps cannot be taped due to too much stress on the seam.

What is Dyneema® Woven Composite 3.9?

A three-layer, highly durable, and ultra-lightweight fabric developed through a collaboration between Hyperlite Mountain Gear and Dyneema®. The outer layer is made of 100% woven Dyneema, the middle layer is made of DCF, and the final layer is a water-resistant film. It is currently the most advanced pack material.

Back and straps

• removable aluminium internal reinforcement
• integrated foam back pad
• shoulder straps featuring an adjusted shape for a more natural curve around your neck, providing enhanced comfort
• fixed straps with loops for attaching additional gear (daisy chain)
• chest belt with whistle and the option of attaching an additional Versa pocket or a smaller Vice Versa
• quick and comfortable waist belt tightening system
• waist belt can be removed

Storage space

• front elastic pocket - accessible from top and bottom
• external elasticated pocket on the bottom of the backpack - accessible even when walking, suitable for e.g. waterproof jacket
• two fabric side pockets with drawstring
• two waterproof zipped pockets on the waist belt

Additional features

• roll-up lid - roll up 3 times for sufficient waterproofness, plus you can regulate the overall volume of the backpack
• top handle on the lid, e.g. for attaching a mattress
• sturdy straps with loops for attaching additional gear on the sides of the pack (daisy chain)
• trekking poles can be carried in one of the side pockets
• ice axe loop
• side compression strap

This backpack does not have a hydrovac outlet or an internal pocket for a hydrovac.

Accessories

Accessories can be purchased with the backpack. Not included.

• Hyperlite Mountain Gear bags and pouches
• strap pocket
• Mesh Bottle Pocket
• additional Versa pocket or a smaller Vice Versa
• Camera Pod
• hipbelts (various sizes)

How to choose a backpack size?

Have the length of your spine measured from the level of the iliac crest (the top of the bone on the side of your back) to the C7 vertebra at the base of your neck. This is the top of the first protruding vertebra when the head is tilted.

• Length 38 - 43 cm = size S
• Length 43 - 48 cm = size M
• Length 48 - 53 cm = size L
• Length 53 cm and over = Tall size

If you measure your back length, choose the larger size. For example, for a back length of 48 cm, choose size L.