Kakwa 55

The perfect pack

I couldn’t be happier with this pack. The amount of support and comfort you get from a pack this light is incredible. Every pocket, zip, strap has been added with careful thought and consideration. The hip pockets actually fit your phone! Plus a snack, lip balm, small bug spray etc. The shoulder straps hold bear spray, a drink, phone or glasses. The shoulder straps don’t twist when you’re putting on the bag, my older pack always did this and it drove me crazy. The material is durable. The design is aesthetically pleasing, the pack looks as good as it functions. The load lifters are KEY for anyone who holds more of their tension in the shoulders. This was the first trip I’ve ever done with no shoulder pain. Overall a 10/10. Thanks for creating something wonderful! I’ve also purchased a tent and I’m equally excited about it. I’m so happy to be out in the Rockies taking about this gear and proudly supporting Canadian small businesses.

Now it's here, the final one

Very stressful process. I put up my 2nd generation Kakwa 55 for sale after having ordered the 2026 model, and had to barricade my house against people who wanted to 'get it' ;-) Another good argument for Durston Gear products, passing them on via the second hand market is not an issue. My 2nd generation Kakwa 55 was in perfect condition, even though I'd done lots of bushwhacking and 4 season trips over the last year. It was an UltraGrid version, and that material is incredibly tough. I now have Ultra200X because only those were available, so there's a chance I'll keep that one for another couple of decades. Main reason for buying the 2026 model: The 5 cm additional width at the bottom, I can now comfortably put my 1,6 kg down winter sleeping bag horizontally in the bottom of the pack. I am now no longer looking for 70l backpacks, this one will now do for my max 4 nights winter trips. However, I have to also mention hat the padding for the lower back is really nice, like jumjum! It reminds me of when I stopped pretending being tough and finally brought a pillow for my nights, just so much better ! ;-) So a 100% recommendation for the upgrade. Thanks to the whole Durston team ! Peter

Kakwa-55-perfect fit

I love it! I've had this backpack for about 1 year, taken it on numerous backpacking trips and it has impressed me each time. The small fits my 5'2" frame perfectly. It is more comfortable than any of my previous Ospreys and it is sooooo light.