Durston Wapta 30 | Superlight Pack

[@hologos_]

What I love about this company is that it's not some kind of faceless entity. It's Dan who is here to explain every design decision. I love gear designed by geeks. :-)

[@durstongear]

Thanks. Geeks are the best :) - Dan

[@kerry1383]

Agreed. We need to rename Where's Waldo to Where's Valesko?

[@alistairshephard7124]

Words can't describe how thankful I am for Dan and his products. Someone with his level of experience, knowledge, and insatiable desire to create truly great and innovative products makes my personal experience so much better every single time I step into the wild using his gear. Thank you so much for all your hard work Dan and I'm glad there are so many people who also appreciate what you do :)

[@durstongear]

Thanks so much! It's an honor to have a chance to make gear. Thanks for the kind words and using our gear. - Dan

[@christopherdesantis9876]

Outdoor Industry..... OWNED. everyone else either step it up or step aside. Nice Work.

[@durstongear]

:)

[@DevinSchiro]

Certain companies I won't name here will continue to put out 10 year old designs and charge almost $400 for it, calling it "tried and true" instead of going the route of innovation.

[@FilipWinter]

This bag is absolutely genius! I received mine today and instantly packed it with all my gear and food for a six-day fishing trip. It is so comfortable. Truly, it's next level!

[@durstongear]

Thanks Filip!

[@davidshirley6850]

Looks great! I hope his free standing tent hits soon

[@paulwright5009]

Three weeks with this pack on travel and day hikes. All the claims are real, especially the comfort. I am in my 70’s and my shoulders are not as nimble as many others. This set up still allows me to access water bottles and bottom items. The side pockets open and close with one hand, even when cold. This is a small but significant feature. It is extremely “understated”. Great design and manufacture execution. I have been dragging climbing and day packs around for 60 years. This may be the best by far. Interested to see how it performs in the winter. Fits perfectly in the overheads on airlines. A masterpiece.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words! It'd be awesome if you left this review on our Wapta 30 page. At the bottom there is a spot to post a review. Cheers, Dan

[@paulwright5009]

Dan In the backcountry community we are very fortunate to have someone like you who challenges the “standard” and designs a builds a superior product that improves comfort and accessibility. Thinking back to the high end “sacks” that we all coveted from Europe, this development is now on another level. If you do need to access the main compartment, the procedure is so seamless that you never hesitate to undertake an entry into the pack. Today in heavy winds in Iceland I was delighted to see how contained it was in the gale. It just performs so well when time and weather matter Paul Wright Whistler BC

[@durstongear]

@@paulwright5009 Thanks Paul! Nice to hear it's working well and you're able to get to Iceland.

[@ThePsychoSykes]

Crazy to see how many comments are responded to by the man himself! Don't you love to support a company that takes customer interaction so seriously? Dan really seems like the man. Keep up the good work!

[@ryanb3908]

This is the way.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. Being involved is great. It's fun, important, and really helpful to listen to feedback.

[@ryanb3908]

@@durstongear Feedback like making a black version perhaps? 🤔

[@durstongear]

@@ryanb3908 This pack is sorta black. The face weave is black, but the film behind it is white and sorta shows through a bit to give a grey look. We could do all black but we had to pick something and going with all black makes it black inside (harder to see) and you can see the accents/buckles/straps as well when it's black on black.

[@ryanb3908]

@@durstongear Grey is just not my color but it looks good otherwise. Thanks for answering on a comment about how awesome you are at answering haha.

[@BackcountryPilgrim]

This looks amazing! I really was not expecting this level of innovation for a smaller pack. Great job!

[@durstongear]

Thanks!

[@ShastaBubba]

Wow! That's an incredible amount of innovation in one pack. Congrats on another big success Dan. Can't wait to try all the new stuff!

[@durstongear]

Thanks!! I'm looking forward to your video :)

[@dustinnagy6011]

Dan you are single handedly changing the UL backpacking community forever! The timeline of UL backpacking will be thought of before and after Durston. You’re basically jesus!

[@durstongear]

Glad you're liking the gear! Thanks for the support. - Dan

[@-ChrizB-]

You never stop Dan. Very nice. Really like the heat bonding aspect and laser cutting. You definitely put the Q in quality!

[@durstongear]

Thanks Chriz! It's pretty cool construction for sure. - Dan

[@greg.jacobs]

Great inovation Dan, thanks for pushing boundaries on gear and materials.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. Glad you're liking it.

[@hemrog]

Awesome! We love our 55L and 40L - I can't wait for all these cool features in a version 3 of the 55L!!!!

[@envman67]

I’m with you right there… I have the first generation 40 Kakwa and it’s a good pack, but seeing that ventilation and padding combo makes me excited for the future Durston packs.

[@eric55406]

I have been moving towards UL the past couple of years and would love to try this pack out. On the email list so hopefully I will get my chance next year.

[@roamwiththewind]

Not gonna lie--this pack has absolutely every single feature I'm looking for in a thru-hiking backpack. Nothing was missed in this design! I'm in the market for a new pack so this one is up there on the list for me! Stoked.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words Nicole! Nice to hear you're liking it. - Dan

[@johndoobus]

I have the Kakwa 40, and I feel like it is the perfect pack for being in between ultralight and traditional. The one feature I felt was missing from the pack was a pouch underneath. Im glad to see that you have added it on this pack. Im a huge fan of the gear, I already have the Kakwa and X Mid 1, and Im planning on purchasing the new version of the X Mid 1 Pro for an upcoming long hike. You have an exceptionally innovative mind Dan, keep thinking of new gear and ideas!

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words John. I appreciate you using our gear. - Dan

[@Mikehastohike]

This isn’t just a pack, this is a pursuit towards perfection. It’s amazing how much thought you put into the smallest details Dan. We’ll done. After my PCT hike this spring I will definitely be getting one of these.

[@durstongear]

Thanks Mike :)

[@durstongear]

Good luck on the PCT!

[@hackendan1921]

Damn Dan! I just got my kakwa 55! Now I want this too! I love that you listen to your customers and constantly progressing!

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words and using my gear! - Dan

[@Craigsoutdooradventures]

Looks great, you’ve emptied my hiking funds for 2023 with the x mid pro, z flick poles and kawaka 40 but will add this to the budget for 2024 😊

[@durstongear]

Nice. Thanks for the kind words and using our gear. - Dan

[@Craigsoutdooradventures]

@@durstongear no problem Dan, happy to be able to support Durston

[@lyndacorkum4399]

Dan, you have designed a fabulous light-weight backpack using exceptional materials! Thanks for your dedication in producing a pack that seems close to perfection.

[@durstongear]

Thanks Lynda!

[@hikewithview]

I preorder mine and can't wait to get it and put some miles on the trail with it. I own so many ultralight packs, and this truly does look like it will be my go-to pack. The new materials and designs feature's look like they solve things where my other packs fell short. If it performs as well as my X-mid 1 pro on my last thru hike, I will be one very happy hiker! Keep these great innovations to gear design coming!

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words and trying our gear! The Wapta is such a cool pack. I hope you like it :) - Dan

[@hikewithview]

@durstongear I really am interested in the laser cut daisy chain feature. I think it will make this pack so versatile on such a small ultralight pack. I had a question about a bear canister mounted to this pack. I don't need it often, but I was wondering about carrying options on this pack. First thought since food is in canister pack will have low fill. Would I be able to use top v compression strap to secure the canister? Then, the second thought is to use the cool daisy chain to make a cross lashing strap on top to hold it. What are your thoughts on my ideas or your suggestions on this subject?

[@durstongear]

@@hikewithview Yeah the laser cut daisy chains are really cool. Yeah I would use the top V strap. It's a skinnier webbing so the grip is less but if the pack is only 3/4 full then the canister will nestle into the pack and should carry reasonable well.

[@thebadhombre9917]

I wished you would make a day pack for commute for school and work. Like the osprey nebula but with this material

[@durstongear]

That would be cool. Maybe one day.

[@jandcb5689]

Dang. That bag is badass! Super light and an amazing addition to the UL community.

[@durstongear]

Glad you're liking it! - Dan

[@briantalbert]

Fantastic looking pack - very well thought out and with some real innovation. Nicely done. Looking forward to spending some time with it on the trail!

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words Brian. I hope it works well. - Dan

[@gregoryoutdoors]

Not gonna lie, looks like a perfect day pack or for in town adventures and walks with family when you need to carry stuff around etc. Good job as always😊

[@durstongear]

Thanks!

[@stuff662]

seems kinda overkill for that purpose lol

[@ryancheney7009]

Not when you have 4 boys! 😉😝

[@AndyShepard]

This pack is SLICK! Love the new innovative features and very happy about the wide shoulder straps without binding on the edges!

[@durstongear]

Thanks Andy!

[@_Chris390]

Just sat here Wapping off to this I'm so excited.

[@doughus4287]

Nice, hard to top this one.

[@durstongear]

Thanks Doug :)

[@millerhoo]

We getting a kakwa 40 update with new fabric and features :)

[@jguhe91LH]

I can totally see those side strap set up in on both the Kakwa 40 and 55.

[@ALLWEATHERRIDERM]

Loving the adjustable side straps

[@tommurphy2306]

Wow. I have the Kakwa 55 and love it for longer trips. Just ordered this pack and can’t wait to use it next Spring on the Camino de Santiago! Looks like next level great

[@ManivanAdventures]

Dan!!! No video for the Kakwa 55, so I’ll leave this comment here… I have loved my Kawka 40, but I wanted more space, so I ordered a Kakwa 55. Just got it in the mail and you have no idea how STOKED I am to see some of these updates! So happy that you guys decided to update the shoulder straps and hip belt/hip belt pockets to be similar to this Wapta design!!! Those were my only complaints about the Kakwa, but certainly wasn’t a deal breaker (Obviously, since I bought another one lol). I feel like these will provide more comfort without those harder black edges that were on the previous models. The hip belt also seems taller and the pockets are certainly bigger. I had no idea these updates were going to be on here, so this was such a pleasant surprise. Anyway, just wanted to share my appreciation and love for your products man. I so appreciate you constantly improving your design, instead of just shelving ideas for future packs! Literally my perfect pack now… 🤙🏼

[@durstongear]

Thanks! Yeah some nice updates on this batch of packs. Always working to improve :) Thanks for your long time support. - Dan

[@ManivanAdventures]

@@durstongear Ok, actually now that I have loaded the pack up and have been wearing it around the house, I do have a slight bit of feedback… I’m going to try my best to articulate this lol Even though the hip belt pockets are larger, the hip belt has trouble curving around my hips when they are full and it causes uneven pressure on my hips. The pockets really aren’t as big as they look because the middle of the pocket kinda collapses into itself when the hip belt bends. Items that don’t conform to the body easily will end up forcing the hip belt straight, instead of letting it curve around the body. My Kakwa 40 was similar, but it might make it seem more dramatic to me now, since they are bigger. I can still fit more than the Kakwa 40 I was using and I don’t usually load the pockets full anyway, so it really is a non issue for me, but I was pumped when I first saw the updated pockets and thought I might be able to ditch my fanny pack with how big they looked. It seemed to work until I put the pack on, then they just ended up being way too tight unfortunately. I thought it would really help to maybe expand the front and back sides of the pockets outward and have the ultra fabric between the zipper and the padded part of the hip belt, taper in the middle, so that it allows the hip belt to naturally curve around the hips without distorting the zipper or shape of the pocket as much, if that makes sense. Lol Maybe even keep the outer part of the pocket flat, so battery banks and phones wont distort the pocket at all when tightened around the body. So basically make them similar to a skateboard halfpipe on its side and instead of a perfect box shape, make it so the natural shape of the inside of the pocket is concave and curves with the hip belt more. I don’t know. I’m not sure if anyone else is having the same issue or if it is just my body type or what (I’m very thin), but I just know you like feedback and thought that would work well and possibly be a relatively easy update for future iterations. All that said, I am still so stoked for this pack/upgrades and even though the new pockets weren’t as perfect as I thought, they are still better than the old, so I have no real complaints, just constructive criticism! I can’t wait to get it on the trail! Thanks again, Dan! Cheers! - Steve

[@durstongear]

@@ManivanAdventures Thanks for the feedback Steve. Shaping the pockets around a curve is tricky partly because it's complicated to construct and partly because everyone's hips have a different curve. The new pockets have more depth to them than the old ones, so they can better keep space around a curving hip, but certainly they do still lose space. I don't have an easy fix for this, but I think these new pockets are quite good while still being able to operate one handed (most even larger pockets get harder to operate) but also I will continue to tinker and likely continue to improve over the coming years. - Dan

[@ManivanAdventures]

@@durstongear Totally understandable and I definitely agree that the pockets are quite good! Honestly just nitpicking at this point, but I thought it was a good idea worth mentioning, since the pockets are concave on my REI Flash 55 pack and I can stuff those completely full of snacks without affecting the hip belt at all. It has a more rigid belt, but still. Good point about the zippers though. I struggle a bit more with the Flash 55 zippers one handed, but the pockets do fit on the pack more loosely. I’m sure my thin frame exaggerates it more, but I feel like everyone is going to have at least some curve there, so if you can figure it out, it might be beneficial to add some concavity, even if just a little bit, to help create a bit more usable space. Just some thoughts! Looking forward to what comes next! I’ve gotta pick me up some of those new poles at some point! 🤙🏼

[@somedavehikes]

Nice! Keep up the great work Durston Fam!

[@DevinSchiro]

Looking forward to seeing what custom mods you trick this thing out with!

[@durstongear]

Thanks Dave. The people need a webbing hipbelt that fits right in ;) It could have fabric patch and velcro to connect inside the sleeve but otherwise be webbing.

[@somedavehikes]

@@durstongearsend details can investigate! Would love to get a reject sample for other add ons too, if available! 🎉🎉❤

[@swampyhiker]

Mine is on order. Just a shame it won’t one in time for my next section of the AT in a few weeks time. I have been loving my X mid 1 pro. It was amazing on my previous section and I was lucky enough to get one of the first orders. Always a personal touch with you Dan. Keep it up 👍🏻 Hope you are still finding time to get on trail. 🥾🥾

[@durstongear]

Glad you're liking the tent! Sorry the Wapta won't quite make it. It is a super cool pack so hopefully you've got another hike coming soon. We expect it to ship about April 10-15. Cheers, Dan

[@swampyhiker]

It should be waiting for me at home when I get back. It will be perfect for a section of the Camino I have planned. I would love it if you could work on a Fanny pack. Perhaps with a similar front pouch as this has. Maybe some way of integrating it in to the hip belt of the pack rather than its own webbing belt. 😊

[@jjinthemountains369]

Looks really good, Dan. A nice addition to your gear. Nice haircut too!

[@durstongear]

Thank Jim :)

[@MadxMan96]

This couldn't have come out at a more perfect time for me. Just pre-ordered one and look forward to using it!

[@durstongear]

Thanks for giving it a try :)

[@kerry1383]

This was a no-brainer pre-order, fantastic design and tech, Dan. Nicely done, man. This is going to replace my Lite AF Ultra 40 for 3-season backpacking. Can't wait until next Spring! Good luck with the production.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for giving it a try Kerry.

[@jungleperry]

Okay now you gone and done it again Dan! You gone a made another thing I need to buy! :) hopefully there are quantities.

[@chadbrow]

Nice! Someday I'd like to see a smaller daypack from you. Maybe something like a running pack, with wider stretchy shoulder straps, two small sternum straps and about 20-25 liters.

[@durstongear]

Yeah that would be nice.

[@1519Spring]

Would preorder that at announcement. I trust Dan.

[@Jc21112]

Awesome! Love the innovations for this pack, keep it up Dan :)

[@durstongear]

Thanks JC!

[@Greggsvlog]

Love the innovative materials and design, any chance of a 15 liter. I really need a great daypack and that would fit the bill.

[@durstongear]

That would be awesome. Maybe some day but not anytime soon.

[@Tokenontwo]

Really cool pack! I'm anxiously awaiting the arrival of my kakwa pack. The detail put into these packs is wicked and I can't wait to get my hands on one to see for myself. Great video and great products Dan! I'm glad I stumbled on durston gear a few months ago.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words :)

[@Jiraiyashouse666]

This is ingenious. I need one... well done!

[@durstongear]

:)

[@joshscott9905]

Looks awesome! Bought a Kakwa 40 earlier this year and have been loving it. My wife might be interested in this one if I can convince her to go more ultralight like me :).

[@AndrewJensen-pe3ww]

This wan an easy preorder for me. Loving the new material choice and can’t wait to hit the trails. Dan, any idea how shipping times are looking other than “late April”?

[@durstongear]

It's a pretty cool pack! Thanks for giving it a try. They will start shipping next week. Might take until the week after to get them all sent.

[@tinytippy]

This is everything I could ever want in a backpack, well done Dan! Will you be making these in S, possibly XS sizing in the future? I'm very short with a short torso, so M won't fit me :( My current pack was custom-made and is 13.5" from top of shoulder straps to middle hip belt, and any deviation from that more than an inch becomes very uncomfortable for me, sadly

[@durstongear]

Thanks Tiffany! We are hoping to add an S size but it depends on how popular this pack is. The 30L frameless pack niche is quite a bit smaller than our other packs so it's harder to sell a full production run in less common sizes, but we are optimistic we can add that for our next production run.

[@tinytippy]

@@durstongear Thanks for the reply, Dan! I hope there is enough market for it, but its understandable if not haha. I will be saving up for one and crossing my fingers!

[@zacharykuhns6060]

Well done Dan! Great looking pack.

[@durstongear]

Thanks 👍

[@briancrosier1742]

absolutely love what Durston Gear is doing with packs and tents. Any chance you'll be adding attachment points so the top doesn't have to be buckled together, but can compress the pack vertically by buckling the top to lower on the sides? This is a feature I'd really like to see as a way to close up your packs. I've been holding out on buying a bpack until you changed the material to waterproof like my HMG pack, I'll buy this one. Would love to see this fabric in the larger sized kakwa and also the closure option mentioned above.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. We don't have the side attachments for the roll top because buckling it to itself is simpler/quicker/lighter but it does look cooler to put it to the sides. If you want that, it's easy to rig it up because you can get matching buckles and connect them to our laser cut daisy chains.

[@andydickson5400]

Nice looking pack. Will this new material be used to make the Kakwa line?

[@durstongear]

The Kakwa packs use Ultra 200X which is an excellent fabric too. ALUULA is more expensive and to really get the benefit you have to design the pack for the material (e.g. design it for heat bonding etc) so if we just switched the Kakwa to this it would substantially increase the price yet wouldn't improve the pack too much aside from saving about 50g.

[@paulmctaggart3760]

I give this a DG sticker rating of 100/100

[@durstongear]

Thanks Paul!

[@NathanHassall]

The song playing in the background is on loop 24/7 in hell

[@durstongear]

Sorry Nathan. My mistake. I put it quiet but should have shut it right off.

[@NathanHassall]

@@durstongear Its ok :) Im still pretty sure Im buying one of your packs for 2024 cheers

[@conglu-g9c]

Hi Dan, very nice pack. Just wondering is there rigid frame in the meshed straps?

[@durstongear]

The mesh strips on the backpanel? There is just foam inside. It adds a bit of stiffness but it is not a rigid frame. We call it a frameless pack.

[@JessicaTPeterson]

It's exciting to see these design innovations. The pack looks great. I like the way the cords on the side work, but I'd be catching those long loops on branches and things. I think I would cut those in the middle to eliminate the loops. I hope some of these design ideas will make their way into the bigger packs, too. One suggestion on the video: The "music" is annoying. If I never hear Bb or Ab again in my life, I'll be okay. I finally muted and read captions, which is a shame since Dan does such a nice job introducing this pack.

[@durstongear]

Sorry about the music. Yeah I should have just shut that off entirely. My mistake. Glad you're liking the pack. You can untie one end of those side cords and trim them shorter if you wish, but also you could add some way of anchoring the extra cord. Or just remove the stock cords entirely and add shockcord. Depending on how people like the features here, there could be some hybridization between the Wapta and Kakwa packs but it's early days right now so that's at least a year off.

[@JessicaTPeterson]

@@durstongear Would cutting the stock cord in the middle knotting the new ends work? It would eliminate the loop. Yeah, I really like the pack. For me, it would be a day pack. The Kakwa 55 is actually the first thing on my wish list right now. I like the room as I carry a bit of stuff to keep me warm at night. I have two of your tents ❤but not one of your packs yet.

[@durstongear]

@@JessicaTPeterson Glad you're liking the tents. You could snip the Wapta side cords in the middle and then retie, but the ends of the cord are easily untied so you could shorten it at the ends to avoid the knot in the middle. Yeah the Kakwa is a great pack and a better for most people for backpacking. You have to be pretty ultralight to use this for backpacking.

[@1519Spring]

Love my Kakwa 55. For me and the gearI like to have with me, 30 is too small to backpack and larger than I want for a day pack. I'd buy the Wapta 20 or 22, preferably without any of the cords or toggles.

[@JessicaTPeterson]

@@1519Spring Good to hear on the Kakwa 55. I've had my eye on it a while. I carry a lot on day trips in case things go wrong and I have to spend a night, so 30 would suit me.

[@katarzynaj.3630]

I am completely in love

[@durstongear]

Glad you're loving it. It's really cool.

[@hikingmovie]

Looks great! I loved my Kakwa 55 on the AT this year

[@durstongear]

Awesome. Glad it served you well. - Dan

[@heidialonso4342]

It looks like a great backpack. The only thing I'm missing are load lifters. I'm just trying to find a new backpack in this size and did try out many different backpacks. For me it feels more confortable on the upper back when I can adjust how close it is to my upper back (not to lift any load)

[@durstongear]

Load lifters are nice when a pack has a frame, whereas without a frame like the Wapta they aren't as helpful because they don't attach to anything. You might prefer our Kakwa 40 pack which is only slightly larger but has a frame and load lifters.

[@heidialonso4342]

@@durstongear thanks for your explanation. All the backpacks I was considering had some kind of a frame

[@MrJenssen]

Great and clean intro video! I personally would like to see some kind of simple way to close off the bottom and front pockets, just like a little button or tab or string or whatever. Just for those times you absolutely don't want to lose the stuff in your pack. Also, shpuldn't there be a drainage hole at the bottom of the front pocket, since the fabric is waterproof?

[@durstongear]

Thanks! We do have drainage holes on the front pocket. They are small laser cut holes. Closing the pockets totally shut could be handy, but it's not a common feature so it's hard to add the weight for that in a superlight pack. -Dan

[@trickofthetrail]

Looks fab Dan. I would love to see some of these features on the Kakwa 40. The bottom pocket and daisy chain features would be an awesome addition. Love the air mesh strips also. What's the recommended max weight carry capacity of this bag?

[@durstongear]

The short answer is about 25 lbs. The longer answer is that the Wapta 30 is a frameless pack so its maximum comfortable load will be the sum of: 1) How much weight you are comfortable carrying on your shoulders, and: 2) How much weight you can transfer to your hips. Most people are comfortable carrying 15 - 20 lbs (7-10 kg) on the shoulders. Then without a frame the load transfer to the hips depends largely on how tightly the pack is packed and is usually 5 - 15 lbs (2 - 6 kg). Overall, we suggest keeping the weight usually below 25 lbs (12 kg) although higher weights can be acceptable for shorter durations. The Wapta 30 is ideal for ultralight hikers with a baseweight at or below 10 lbs who may use it for hikes up to 7 days, but it also works well for dayhikers and for hikers with heavier baseweights on a shorter trip.

[@trickofthetrail]

@@durstongear Thanks for the detailed answer. I've been looking for a new pack that I can use as carry on for my trips abroad. I think I need look no further.😉 Great job as always. 👍

[@durstongear]

Thanks!@@trickofthetrail

[@1DrBar]

Wow, I'm impressed by the details and the potential of the new fabric. I don't like frameless backpacks and 40 l is about the least I find suits me, so it is not for me but I am quite excited about some of these new features making their way up to a frame 40L pack in the future. Visionary design is what Durston seems to be all about. What is not to love?

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words :)

[@ManivanAdventures]

Looks amazing, Dan! Really like the daisy chain feature and the bottom pocket! Are those shoulder straps wider/thicker than the Kakwa? I LOVE my Kakwa 40, but I’m built like a stick figure and have no natural padding lol, so I just wish the shoulder straps were a bit thicker and wider. Would love to see that on newer versions on the Kakwa! 🤙🏼 Great work on this one! As always, making it hard for me to not spend money…. 😂 Cheers! - Steve

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. The shoulder straps are very similar to the Kakwa (almost identical). They look wider because the main fabric extends to the edges instead of having black edging, but the width and thickness is about the same. However this pack is intended for lighter loads so you may not need more padding at these lower weights.

[@ManivanAdventures]

@@durstongear For sure, makes sense. Thanks for the quick reply! Again, it looks awesome! 🤙🏼

[@jessewicklund4273]

Great looking pack, Dan. Are there plans to incorporate certain design features on this pack to the current lineup of packs available? (Kakwa series).

[@safir2241]

i recently got my first ul packpack for 60 bucks, maybe in a few years ill get one of your designs. i really like your style

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the interest and good luck on your UL journey. It's nice to start with more affordable gear until you're confident in what works for you. The Wapta is a really high end pack so it functions great but costs more.

[@olshamus]

Are there plans for some of these features (especially the modular webbing) to make it into the larger framed packs?

[@durstongear]

It's possible there is some cross pollination between our pack lines in the future depending on what features people like the best. We don't have any firm plans at this time though - just our usual focus on constant improvement.

[@mudbone7706]

@@durstongear Would love to see bottom pocket, side daisy chains and the back ventilation mesh on new version of Kakwa 40

[@1519Spring]

​@@mudbone7706and Kakwa 55!

[@Mike_Blanda]

Wow Dan this looks amazing!

[@durstongear]

Thanks :)

[@peterk4280]

This looks great!

[@durstongear]

Thanks Peter.

[@theoutdoordogandhikinggirl]

That looks like an awesome pack!!

[@durstongear]

Thanks!

[@SGGPatrickJ]

Are there any plans to update the Kakwa series with some of these innovations or will that potentially just be a new series of larger multi-day bags? I love my Kakwa 40 and this just addresses any small wish I had for it.

[@durstongear]

There could be cross pollination between the Kakwa and Wapta lines in the future, but for 2024 we are getting the Wapta 30 out there and listening to how people are liking it, and then deciding on next steps (e.g. do people like the side zippered pocket in the Kakwa better? Or the bottom pocket in the Wapta?). Eventually some of what you see here will probably arrive in a larger framed pack but it might be more of a premium model above the Kakwa because ALUULA is more expensive.

[@markusthulin2204]

Cool pack! I wonder how it compares with Gossamer gear kumo 36? I can easily fit 5 days of food in the summer in kumo. The main compartment on kumo is 28 l and on Wapta 30l. So Wapta shouldn’t be any problem.

[@durstongear]

Yeah it should fit easily. The Wapta is a true 30L inside (32L in large) and then the front pocket can hold a ton of gear.

[@markusthulin2204]

Great! Perfect! Thanks! 😀👍

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Any chances this pack will be also made in a 40L or 50L for through hiking? Thanks in advance 🤙🏽

[@durstongear]

For 2024 we'll only have the 30L. If people are liking it, we may hope to add more sizes in the future but wouldn't be sooner than 2025.

[@paulkhanna1]

Dan, this looks incredible. I think I might finally have found a replacement for my g4-20.

[@coreyvirgil2025]

This looks awesome! Can't wait to get my hands on one. Now I just need this pack in a 55 liter size, and with the Kakwa frame. And if you could get me one by April 2025, that would be perfect! Seriously Dan, this looks great! I'll definitely be grabbing one.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. We won't have more packs with this material in 2024 but the Ultra material we use for the Kakwa is great too.

[@coreyvirgil2025]

@@durstongear It is. I have both sizes. It's *almost* my perfect pack, but some of the tweaks on this one look awesome! Especially the bottom pocket.

[@pierce1444]

Love kawka 40! Could you provid man in different shape use wapta 30? Im not in the us😢

[@durstongear]

I'm not quite sure what you're asking. We do ship to all countries.

[@frogturtle]

well done dan!

[@durstongear]

Thanks!

[@frogturtle]

@@durstongear of course man, thank you!

[@JoeGunawanfotosiamo]

Love the design elements for this backpack. Are you going to carry over the features to your larger Kawka packs, too?

[@durstongear]

It could happen eventually where the Wapta and Kakwa hybridize. This material is quite a bit more expensive though so I'm not sure we want to increase the Kakwa price that much, and also the Ultra fabric we use there are already mostly UHMWPE and very good too.

[@calvinminer4365]

Roger Sterling voice: "god damn it Dan you've done it again!"

[@durstongear]

:)

[@mrtru1te]

Looks nice! Really unique design! Just some questions, how is this new fabric on the inside? Does it look the same than on the outside or is it a bit different? Also, do you plan to use this fabric for the future Kakwa packs? Last question, why did you decide to go with a more classic tightening system for the hip belt? I actually prefer the one used on the kakwa.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words. The fabric has a white film, so it is solid white on the inside which makes it easy to see your gear. We could use this fabric for the Kakwa but you really need to design the whole pack around it to optimize it for the material, so just swapping the material wouldn't be a big change. It could happen some day but not in the near future as Ultra 200X is awesome fabric too. The dual strap/reverse pull hipbelt on the Kakwa is a better system for higher loads. It makes sense on the Kakwa because it is a framed pack so it can put more weight on your hips. The Wapta is a smaller pack for lighter loads, so it's less important here, which is why the Wapta uses a simpler/lighter buckle setup on the hipbelt.

[@mrtru1te]

@@durstongear Thanks for your detailed answer as always!

[@Mattskis36]

Any chance the air mesh panels make it over to the Kakwa? Would they be able to be heat bonded on the Kakwa, or is that done on the Kapta specifically because of the different material?

[@durstongear]

It's a neat feature but with the Kakwa we'd have to sew them on because the material is not heat bondable. We could do it, but it would need to be seam taped or it would let more water in, and stitching in the middle of the panel like that would be a bit risky for delamination, so tape would be needed. It could work - just adds weight/hassle/cost.

[@Mattskis36]

Makes sense. Thanks Dan!

[@andymytys]

Is the circumference of the main pocket large enough to accommodate a bear canister like the Bearikade Scout or BearVault 450. If so, will it be so tight that the canister rubs up against the fabric or is there still room to wrap a fleece or something around it to prevent abrasion? Thanks for introducing yet another wonderful pack to the community and making those pockets functional in size and accessibility.

[@tarafrey-durston2606]

The BV450 would fit inside of the Wapta 30, but would take up a fair bit of the volume. We would recommend putting it in with the top (flat side) against your back so that the shape of the pack does not round or barrel. We do not have a BV450 here to verify with certainty, but we believe you could stick a fleece or clothing items in beside the canister. Thank you for your kind words!

[@durstongear]

Glad you're liking the pack. I haven't tried the BV450 in here but it should fit easily so you could wrap it if you want.

[@andymytys]

@@tarafrey-durston2606 on other frameless packs, I’ve just taken a four-section of x-rest foam pad, folded it in two, and put it between the bear canister and my back. There’s enough padding using this method to protect my back and keep the shape of the pack intact. For summer loads, where I just pack a 50 F quilt, hammock, extra clothes, and cook kit, there would be plenty of room in a 30 liter pack for a bear canister, as long as the pack’s circumference supports it. Many areas in the Sierra mandate bear canisters so compatibility is probably of interest to many potential customers.

[@wio2189]

Looks great! My use case would be using it without the hipbelt mostly. I wonder due to the fixed placement of the pockets if they would sit too far back for me because I tent to be fat when I start my thru hikes. So if I wanted to attach the nylon strap of my fanny pack to it (keep it from bouncing, minimal weight transfer), how would I best do that. Looping it through the attachment of the Wapta? I worry about the strap edges damaging the pack due to rubbing. Have had rain gear fail because of that. Any other way I am missing? Mod the fanny?

[@durstongear]

Hmm...you may have to experiment when you get the pack. But I think you could loop your fanny pack through the hipbelt sleeve of the pack and that should work fine. I'd keep an eye to see if it is sawing back and forth to cause damage, but should be okay.

[@FirstnameLastname-yh5fb]

legend

[@BlastHardCheese711]

are the two shoulder strap going to be removable or optional? Would love to have clean straps and the ability to add your own attached phone holder or water bottle if you wanted to

[@durstongear]

They aren't removable but the daisy chains run underneath and they sorta slide to the side, so you can attach other pockets on top. If you really want you can snip them off.

[@ryanb3908]

Named after the waterfall in BC or the icefields in AB?

[@durstongear]

A bit of both. The word "Wapta" has its origins in the indigenous Stoney Nakoda language where it means flowing water. As you know, this word has been used to name many features in the Canadian Rockies near where we are based, including Wapta Mountain, Wapta Falls, Wapta Icefield, and Wapta Lake. The iconic Great Divide Trail contains a popular alternate route developed by me (Dan) traveling past Wapta peak on the Wapta Highline trail. While the Wapta name is best known from the famous Wapta ski traverse, it's usage here is a more general tribute to this amazing and wild area of the Canadian Rockies.

[@ryanb3908]

@@durstongear Right on, thought it had something to do with the GDT. Congrats on the new pack and know it will be successful.👍

[@spinewalker_]

This is very exciting! This pack's features, weight to size ratio and THAT FABRIC sound remarkable!🤩 Dan, do you plan on releasing accessories for the daisy chain channels? I could 100% see people liking a modular system with the option to attach upper side pockets or a pouch for an UL fishing pole. Possibilities are endless - maybe even additional food storage (detachable food bag, across / atop the pack?). This would make it a thru hiking pack for the common ULer on those long stretches. Congratulations on innovating, super cool! Happy trails! -Spinewalker

[@tarafrey-durston2606]

We do not plan on releasing accessories for the pack necessarily, but the idea was that the pack is versatile and easy to customize as you mention. The daisy chain laser cut outs open up endless possibilities. We appreciate your excitement!

[@durstongear]

We have some people in the community that sell accessories like SomeDaveOutdoorGear on Etsy. He could probably make whatever you want.

[@DevinSchiro]

@@durstongear Came here to say that maybe this is where you should give Dave a plug, but already got there first!

[@BearsSeasonTickets]

Will the Wapta 30 fit a BV 500 Bear Canister on top of the pack between the top of the backpack and the strap that closes the top of the bag?

[@durstongear]

As long as it's not super full, yes you can do this. The strap is too short if it's super full, but also you wouldn't want it to be super full or the canister won't nestle into the pack enough to be secure.

[@alexkio]

Bravo! Bravo!

[@ERUtheWINDRIDER]

Very nice pack. Any chance in the future for a trampoline back system?

[@durstongear]

Probably not. They feel cool at first but move the center of gravity back which degrades the ergonomics and contributes to muscle soreness that is arguably a bigger problem than it is trying to solve (and it still doesn't fully solve it). Maybe a small gap someday but the venting strips here help a bit without creating such a gap.

[@carmenhernandez6102]

Dan I wear a small in the Kakwa … will you be making small size

[@durstongear]

Yes that is the plan, but it would be a part of the second production run so it wouldn't be ready until the second half of 2024.

[@frstesiste7670]

I'm curious about the bottom pocket. Seems like a quite useful feature, but how does it perform in heavy rain? Any chance of water getting in - and out again?

[@durstongear]

It's possible you'd get a little water in these because it's not a waterproof area like the main pack compartment.

[@xs9732]

I was looking for a light, durable, simple, wearable and more "new" backpack of 30-40 liters, and you have presented me with just the right one. The only negative point is that it will be shipped in March or April. Of course I pre-ordered, but I can't wait! It would be fun to replace the compression belt to give it a little unique color, but is it possible to replace the top compression belt?

[@durstongear]

Thanks for the kind words and giving this pack a try. It's really cool. For giving the pack some color, you could use some colored cord to rig up your own side compression system instead of the black webbing that is there now. You could use a "TensionLock Hook" cord tensioner which will hook to the existing holes and allow you to adjust the cord.

[@xs9732]

Thanks, Dan! I could discern from the photo that the side straps could be removed, but I couldn't discern how the top straps were attached. I'm really looking forward to the ease of customizing these!

[@flutingaround]

Hi Dan, I'm trying to figure out if this pack would be good as a carry on bag for international travel--one that would be placed under the seat in front of me. For me to determine that, I would need to know how short the top could be rolled down. It would be nice to see the pack empty and the inside of the pack. For example, the notorious budget airlines in Europe can limit the dimensions to 45 x 36 x 20 cm, and they are starting to get so stingy that they will require us to smash the pack into a measuring device before boarding. Most daypacks I look into are too tall for these budget airlines, so it would be great to know the shortest height it could be rolled down to.

[@durstongear]

This pack is not firm, so it can be rolled into any size. You could roll it down that small for sure as long as it wasn't too full.

[@flutingaround]

​@@durstongearAwesome!

[@nitho-legacy]

Hi Dan, I am a short guy and I am wondering if you have any plan to release a shorter-sized torso length for any of your pack (Wapta or Kakwa) ? Thanks

[@durstongear]

Yeah we plan to add S (small) torso and belt options for the second production run.

[@nitho-legacy]

@@durstongear Thanks a lot. I'll look forward to it then, even if I have to import it to Europe or Southeast Asia :)

[@skzofskrzynskoandthechurch2214]

Looks cool, 👏🏽. Can a carabiner fit into the laser-cut daisy chain holes?

[@durstongear]

Thanks. A carabiner won't fit directly in the holes but there are many ways to rig it up. You could add a loop of cord and clip to that. Or weave a cord down through the holes and then clip the carabiner to any section.

[@skzofskrzynskoandthechurch2214]

Thanks! Love seeing you push the envelope with your innovations! @@durstongear

[@soissle]

Didn't find this in other comments, sorry if asked already... Can you use the hip belt by itself?

[@durstongear]

Yeah you can. Sorta like a dual pocket fanny pack.

[@soissle]

@@durstongear Excellent. This means I need to buy one. ;)

[@Anjenito]

how strong is the fabric compared to a Ecopak EPLX 200 or even an cordura material? Durability is a big concern for me, when spending so much money for a backpack (that I've to import to Germany)

[@durstongear]

It's super strong for a light fabric. It can be damaged of course, but is stronger by far than EPLX200 and most versions of Cordura.

[@ryanb3908]

Check out Atoms Packs in the U.K. and safe on import fees?

[@durstongear]

@@ryanb3908 The fees from them may be included in the price instead of charged separately,, but either way the same fees would be paid. The difference is just whether it's a lower price with tax separate, or a higher price with tax included.

[@LucyBarnard]

This is awesome! 👏 👏 👏

[@durstongear]

Thanks Lucy! Good luck with Mexico :)

[@alpineearth]

I almost died when I saw the price, very expensive for a day pack, but I sold 3 packs so I could buy this one so I ordered it. Looks like a great day pack, love the fabric, and the bottom pocket and is why I am ordering it. Would have been nice to have vest style straps. I guess I need to still keep my fastpack for a while and hopefully Dan will come out with vest style straps you can run in.

[@durstongear]

Thanks for giving it a try. Yeah it is expensive. The ALUULA fabric is a really premium materials so it costs more than other options, but offers a lot of real benefits too.

[@alpineearth]

@@durstongear yes I figured that is why it’s expensive and I have been waiting for a Dyneema day pack forever and this looks like it is better than Dyneema so I am excited to try it. The hyperlite day packs are of course Dyneema but are missing the features (bottle pockets on the straps and bottom pocket etc).

[@durstongear]

@@alpineearth Yeah they don't have all the features and also the "dyneema" is just tiny bits of it on the inside. The face fabric on HMG packs is just polyester.

[@alpineearth]

@@durstongear would love to know more about that Dan. I have heard that before but don’t know the technical details.

[@tarafrey-durston2606]

@@alpineearth totally! We have a great answer on this on the FAQ portion of the Wapta 30 web page, but I can post that here too: ALUULA Graflyte™ provides more durability for the weight than any other pack fabric because it is the only composite fabric with an outer 'face' fabric made from 100% UHMWPE (the good stuff). Pack fabrics use a wide variety of brand names (e.g. Cordura, Robic) but the vast majority are just using some form of nylon which is good but heavier and less durable than UHMWPE. When other pack fabrics do use UHMWPE (aka Ultra or Dyneema®) they still do not have a face fabric that is 100% UHWMPE. The most common UHMWPE fabrics are: 1) DyneemaX (aka Dyneema GridStop, UltraGrid, Extreema) is a nylon pack fabric with a ripstop grid of UHMWPE. The UHMWPE grid is helpful and this is a good affordable fabric but only a minor component is UHMWPE so it is heavier with lower durability. 2) Hybrid DCF (aka DCH) is a polyester outer face fabric with trace amounts of UHMWPE underneath. The UHMWPE fibers do very little since they are are on the inside, this is much less durable. 3) UltraWeave (aka Ultra 200 or 200X) uses a blended face fabric that is 2/3rds UHMWPE and 1/3 polyester. It is an excellent premium fabric but about 30% heavier than Graflyte™ while offering about 30% less tear strength and abrasion resistance, and not having the same fusion and heat bonding characteristics, nor being recyclable. ALUULA's Graflyte™ has tear strength and abrasion that are much higher than hybrid DCF and still about 50% higher than Ultra 200X while weighing less (98 vs 130 g/m2) in the V-98 version we are using. Aside from superior strength:weight, this material also has the advantages of an interior film that is fused in place (not reliant on glue) and thicker to be more durable for long term waterproofeness. Graflyte™ is also recyclable, can't be stained, has excellent UV resistance, and uniquely allows for heat bonding. We're excited to the first brand to launch an ALUULA ultralight pack. We expect it to grow in popularity as other top brands are also working on ALUULA packs and other outdoor products.

[@_Chris390]

Is the bag itself 100% waterproof (so no need for pack liners etc), or just the material is?

[@durstongear]

The bag is totally waterproof. It's all heat bonded or seam taped.

[@_Chris390]

@@durstongearThank you.

[@IdRatherBeHiking]

Love the innovation Dan, if you want it put through its paces on the wet west coast of Vancouver Island, I'd happily review it if you want to loan me one.

[@jeffozimek2178]

Dan can you list the dimensions of the hip belt pockets? I'm curious if they would fit my dji RC drone controller for short fast excursions.

[@durstongear]

The hipbelt pockets have a bit of a curved shape (not a perfect box) so it's hard to accurately describe the size, but it is about 18 cm long, 11 cm high and 6 cm thick. It is a bit taller than 11cm in the middle and a bit shorter and the front end. It can bulge thicker than 6cm near the middle.

[@jeffozimek2178]

@@durstongear thank you very much! It looks like I am 1.2 cm too tall with the controller to fit but the other dimensions work

[@durstongear]

@@jeffozimek2178 It would probably fit in the bottom pocket if you wanted to put it there.