The Search Is Over - I Found The Perfect Pack - The Durston Gear Kakwa 55

[@Oddmen1]

Great to see there backpacks are as good as their tents.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi thank you for your comments... much appreciated. best wishes Tom

[@Muhlenburger]

I purchased the Kakwa 55 early this year and have found it perfect for me as well. I also had the Granite Gear Blaze 60, found it to be not as comfortable when carrying over 14 kg and it is squeaky! The shoulder harness on that pack attached near the waist belt and created a noise I couldn’t get rid of. Also, the foam of the shoulder harness was so stiff that it dug into my shoulders uncomfortably. The Durston pack, on the other hand, has wonderfully designed shoulder straps, using lighter padding but with a soft rolled fabric edge that doesn’t dig into shoulders. My kit for a 7 day trip (including a bear can) weighs about 14 kg, and I’m comfortable all day long. By the way, I’m using the Durston X-Mid 2 tent as well, and loving that piece of gear as well when I backpack with my wife. Great review!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great to hear of your experience with the Blaze 60 and the Kakwa 55. I appreciate the detail you shared regarding the comfort with a 14kg load as I haven't tested mine to that weight yet... Awesome to hear also that you have and X-Mid and love that as well.. best wishes for many happy camping trips and new gear... Tom

[@hanskirk-hiking9697]

The Kakwa 55 is on my list, I like all the pockets and especially the big mesh pocket on the back, great review.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Hans, yes you need one especially when you have an X - Mid.. great to hear from you... I hope you have a new video out soon... best wishes Tom

[@Pasequale100]

hey Hans :) Which pack do you have at the moment?

[@hanskirk-hiking9697]

I have Zpacks Arc Haul the old model

[@Pasequale100]

@@hanskirk-hiking9697 thanks a lot Hans

[@DDF1408]

Nice review, my findings are the same. I ordered one the minute they went up for sale then did 8 days early Sept with 31lbs all in (food/water). Lots of technical terrain. Not much time to get acquainted but it didn't matter, its very user friendly. This is an end game pack for me. I carry most weight on the hips and it was very very comfortable. Only issue was the slash cut side pocket is a bit short for full smart bottles and they could come out while scrambling. I fixed this fashioning a small piece of guyline across the side.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for sharing your experience of the Kakwa 55. Awesome to hear that you are very happy with it. I also dont think I will be looking for another pack for quite some time as this one definitely sure suits what I need... yes the low cut pocket certainly helps water bottle access but you may need to be careful with larger bottles or attached some extra tie outs like you did... It's a very versatile pack and many options for carrying tonnes of kit.... best wishes Tom

[@BiznessWizard]

Thanks, Tom. Good real world knowledge on these packs. Have a good coming week, Denis.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Dennis thank you for the comment and watching the video of course.. best wishes to you too Tom

[@Cdubb89]

Thank you for the review! Just picked one up and am excited to try it out.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great news and I really hope that you are happy with it.. I love this one... best wishes Tom

[@Ottawa9one9]

Great review, Tom. Love the Kakwa 55 so much I've bought the last two versions. I'm not sure I'll ever have a reason to change to another pack.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you so very much fr sharing your experience with this pack... Mine is loaded as to 13 kg as I write this and am heading out for a gear test tonight.... best wishes Tom

[@Martycycleman]

Cheers, Tom, as always. It's a really good review. I've gone down the Ospray and Falraven route. Falraven for winter and heavy loads and Ospray for Summer.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Marty many great packs out there.. Never tried Fjallraven.. It's an ultralight one for me now that I have tried them.. Depends on how important the reduction in weight is. I must say I also really love some of the new fabrics in ultralight packs.. Especially this one... Hey best wishes Tom

[@andis9310]

Great in-depth review. Quite helpful for decision making. Thank you very much. Andi, from Munich🙂

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Andi thank you for the comment and it's great that the video was helpful.. Have a great new Year.. Best wishes Tom

[@Gyppor]

Hi Tom, thank you for the review. I'm going to try this pack out. After hiking with 80 and 85L packs for almost 20 years I bought a 40L ultralight and discovered that if I shared the light but bulky gear with my wife, I could use this for a 4-day trip, and I don't even pack that light. I'm looking for just a bit more space for solo trips. Thanks again for taking the time to do the video.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great to hear your thoughts and experience... I am still using this pack for every trip and it's still showing no signs of wear any tear. Really happy with it... Best wishes Tom

[@Thedagda801]

Some great advice on this channel for the Irish climate. Thank you

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Thanks very much for the positive comment.. Yes the Irish weather can be very challenging... Best wishes Tom

[@Thedagda801]

@@TOMHEANEY100 it is, wet , always damp and a dose of wind! I like how the Abisko lite performed, so saving the few bob for one.

[@jordymoffat3855]

Thanks!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Jordy, thank you for the super thanks. It actually means so much as the viewers who do it represent about 1 in a thousand..... I really appreciate this so dont hesitate to give me a shout should you require any further detail on clarity on products that I have reviewed... best wishes Tom

[@millerhoo]

6.6lbs backpack. Omg. I feel blessed to get started in this hobby with ultralight gear being a pretty mainstream thing.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi yes it is really great with such choice and value out there.. Ultralight packs are definitely the way forward IMO... Thank you very much for watching the video and sharing your thoughts.... best wishes Tom

[@ryaniam22]

Awesome pack but not durable enough for hunting. 45 pounds isn't enough strength capacity. The military surplus packs like the ilbe can carry 120 lbs. Hence why they weigh 8 pounds. I for one would save weight on pretty much anything else except the pack. If it rips good luck getting anywhere with the rest of your gear. Not applicable to your uses I guess. You clearly know your use case

[@millerhoo]

@@ryaniam2245lbs or 120lbs is for sure not my use case. My use case is multi day hiking, 20-30mi a day in the mnts. Carrying anything over 20lbs for that just seems like overkill. We have a phrase when packing our backpack… don’t pack your fears.

[@Olan...]

Cheers

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you so very much for the super thanks.. I really appreciate it.. I hope you are doing well.. best wishes Tom

[@PeterPeadar]

Well done! I think I know what my next rucksack will be! Thanks!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Peter, yes this one ticks the boxes for me... Really premium and all the features you need... Best wishes Tom

[@PeterPeadar]

@@TOMHEANEY100 I don’t know how it’s done, but a link in the description box where you get a small percentage would be great for your community. Peace.

[@yannickmuller7435]

great review as always!!!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great to hear that you enjoyed it.. best wishes Tom

[@Bikepacking]

It reminds me of Arc Haul Ultra 50L Backpack i had 10 years ago by zpack .. i think they were the first to make that style … good review interesting rucksack

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Mark, great to hear from you and thank you for watching and sharing your experience of the Arc Haul.. Yes the arc haul is still going but very expensive to start then you have the extras such as hip belt pockets if you want them... best wishes. Tom

[@JackKlumpass]

I like my side pockets slightly deeper/longer vertically, but love the look of the additional zip compartment on them. Reminds me a bit of MLD Prophet

[@TOMHEANEY100]

The side pocket with the additional zip compartment is pretty deep and the other one not too bad either.. Practically they work for me. Best wishes Tom

[@Alexhaugs]

Great review as always! Thank you👍🏻

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for the feedback and watching the video... Best wishes Tom

[@gregoryoutdoors]

Glad you found you perfect pack! I think I did too! Its Gregory Focal 58L, I took it on West Highland Way + Great Glen Way 300km(186miles) and it did awesome for me! The most comfy pack I have ever had, beats Osprey Exos too! Its not the lightest 1.3kg and not the most popular but it fots my back just perfect and its super adjustable. I had a change to test Kawka 40L at the Ben Nevis base camp with my pal there and we both agreed that its not the best one for us. Lacks few features and stuff. ATB

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great to hear of your pack experience... the Gregory certainly has a great looking back system ... really good to hear that you are happy with the pack... 1.3kg is very light for all the features and adjustment... best wishes and I really appreciate your comments...Tom

[@Fellmandave1]

Like it! Great review Tom. Still want that jacket! Looking good buddy.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Dave thank you for watching and taking the time to comment... I still recommend the jacket too after much use.... best wishes Tom

[@trickofthetrail]

Hey Tom, great video as always and interesting to see the improvements on the new version. I borrowed the Kakwa 40 off a friend for a while. I loved it for its carry comfort, but I didn't enjoy the position of the side compression and the hip belt pockets, which I found uncomfortable when loaded with something hard. I like that the new 55 has more attachment loops, so you can add webbing, like you've done, which gets around the issue of the side compression position being too high for my liking. Whilst it didn't quite hit the mark for me, it's very well made and carries oh so well. Great to see you're enjoying it mate. 👍

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Mark great to hear your experience of the 40... yeah I have added attachment cord a little lower down as I like my tent poles being super secure.. At least the attachment points are there allowing you to personalise it.... Appreciate your comments once again... best wishes Tom

[@dmac4097]

Hi Tom, thanks for doing this great review i really like Durston stuff also, I’ve bought the Kakwa 55 also, the great thing i discovered was making my own gear to go with it, i ordered some ultra 200 and some dyneema fabric from the us (stackry to dodge vat) and I’ve made waterproof packing pods and drawstring bags, all matching the kakwa looks great

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey amazing that you have ordered fabric and made some gear.. Keep that up and you might be able to start a new business... Best wishes Tom

[@michaelbroyer3918]

Just ordered the Kakwa 55 medium with the ultra 200X fabric; should be arriving in five or six days. Nice video review.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Michael, thank you for sharing your purchase of the Kakwa. I am so very happy with mine and its showing absolutely no sign of wear after decent use.. Very impressed with the Ultra fabric. I wish you all the very best with yours and many great trips in the outdoors... Tom

[@DavidDoyleOutdoors]

Hey Tom, was nice to meet you on Saturday at meelmore lodge, I look forward to your Scarp 1 ultra review. The backpack looks great too, similar to an Atom Pack. I use the Osprey Aether Pro 70, its a nice bag, but I wish it had some stretchy pockets

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey David, great to meet you too and get a chat.. Could definitely have talked much longer.. I will get a review out in 10 days or so with the Ultra 😁. That Osprey Aether pro is definitely a great pack... I looked at them many times.. I think for me now though ultralight is the way forward as my pack weight was just over 6kg for this trip... Best wishes and looking forward to seeing your next video.. Tom

[@KevinSmith-wr1sy]

Thanks Tom! I love everything about this pack but I do wish the colour was not so dull. Maybe that's the only colour Durston can get?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Kevin, yeah I really love the pack and colour fine for me.. Its kind of a classic colour that you will never get tired of... Hey that you for watching and commenting on another of my videos... best wishes Tom

[@paddle_hike]

Love Durston gear... I have the Xmid 1 pro. This pack is my next pack for sure.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for the comment and sharing your thoughts.. Great to hear that you are a Durston Gear Fan . Best wishes and I hope you get the pack very soon... Tom

[@frosty_soda]

another great video!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey frosty, thank you for your comments on the video... great to hear from you.. best wishes Tom

[@WildCampingWelshman]

The search is over……… until Hilleberg introduce their new pack! I’ve just changed my pack from Osprey because I didn’t find my Aether 70 comfortable with heavy loads. I’m trying a Fjallraven for a complete change. Heavier but more comfortable. Another great film Tom. I hope you’re well, ATB Jiffy 👍

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Jiffy great to hear from you and thank you for the comment.... The weight is some of those Fjallraven packs is serious but no doubts regarding comfort and durability... I suppose it just depends on how much weight you carry too, as this is still an ultralight pack... A year ago I was still using the Osprey Argon here and now I have dropped nearly 2kg. Even the Osprey Aether is 2.2 kg... . As I have got older the weight I carry has just become more of a major issue for me.. hey best wishes Tom

[@WildCampingWelshman]

@@TOMHEANEY100 Age is but a number Tom, keep chipping. I look at it as a free workout (my knees don’t appreciate it coming down though). I still haven’t ever weighed my kit other than lifting it in my hand and guessing, it won’t be light though because I like some comforts. The Aether was digging into the bottom of my back for some reason and I just couldn’t get it to sit right. Best wishes 👍

[@frosty_soda]

@@WildCampingWelshman I've figured a way to get down without hurting my knees. I regularly ruck with 16kg on my back (20% my body weight). Just to keep in shape, what I find is, if you don't already know this, that when you descend, bend your knees a good bit and sort of "bounce" softly down using your quads and thighs as support... if that makes sense. And to keep yourself in tippy top shape, ruck every other day, start at 10% our body weight, eventually going to 16%. Unless of course you already do all of this! But I agree, age is but a number. Lighter packs are not as comfy. It's a bit of a trade off, each to their own, really. I use Mystery Ranch and won't look back. 20kg feels like 13kg.

[@WildCampingWelshman]

@@frosty_soda Bulgarian split squats help too, along with walking poles. You’re right about keeping fitness levels up. I never used to suffer with any knee pain so it must be a bit of wear and tear over the years 👍🏻

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@WildCampingWelshman Hey thank you for sharing your thoughts once again... I never weighed my kit either but once I did the ultralight search began.. Best wishes Tom

[@terraelise]

Thanks! Exactly agree on packs: love everything about Granite Gear Blaze, except it's just not comfortable. Other lightweights are okay, but thin and flat frames are poop and the load weights are so low, which is rough carrying bear cans.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for sharing your experience.. All the ultralight packs have limited comfort once the weight gets high.. They just can't compete with the broader thicker padded hip belts and back system.. They are comfortable for their weight but there is definitely a cut off point.. Best wishes Tom

[@stewartgregson8479]

Hiya just wondered if you looked at the atom packs? I toyed between an atom pack mo and the kakwa, and plumped for the atom pack, purely because you could customise the colours and it was British made, the kakwa looks a very similar and great pack.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Stewart, Yes and my camping partner has two of them... Definitely similar to the Durston buts as you say nice to be able to custom them a bit more... Many many cottage brands now making packs so its a difficult choice... best wishes Tom

[@alanmanzie540]

Hey Tom ... Great review on the pack. I'm going to do a little research on this pack and see if this may be a pack I like. By the way, all is well in my world, Summer is over, but temps are still up. All My best. AL

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Alan, great to hear from you... I thought you would have had sorted a pack by now... This one is the best of the bunch that we previously discussed... best wishes and hope you get sorted.. Tom

[@alanmanzie540]

Tom, ... thanks. I have a new Kelty pack. Will be taking it out to see how it holds up. I'll keep you posted. Al @@TOMHEANEY100

[@craig3401]

As always a great review 👍 I keep looking at my gear thinking what could I save weight on without giving up durability and comfort and I keep coming back to my tent and backpack i love my niak so I'm not swapping that out.all my packs are osprey but I've looked at the durston but also the atom packs which I'm kinda surprised you haven't gone for I fall between back sizes so having some kind of adjustment is ideal for me and ultralight pack tend not to have that

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey Craig, great to hear from you and your thoughts... I think with new fabrics you can save weight and not suffer durability... Challenge Outdoor who make the fabric on this pack are really pushing forwards with fabric tech and being used by a number of manufactures. It's great to see the move away from nylon and we have had it too long.... The Atom packs are really nice but honestly I am really happy with this Durston.... best wishes Tom

[@stigfloberghagenphotography]

Great video 👍

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for the comment... Tom

[@cbgny23]

I wish Durston would design a pack with back ventilation. It's a must-have for me.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

I thought so too but I now find that's when its warm I still sweat even with a ventilated pack... When you get a larger pack with more weight inside it some ventilated packs push the weight away from your body which adds leverage to the weight placing more of a strain on your back... Not such a deal in smaller packs but more so with larger ones... BUT it may just depend too on your location and how hot it gets... best wishes Tom

[@sandycultofthesun]

you could use the kakwa with the vaucluse ventilation frame. they have really good reviews and weigh like 90gm or something

[@ryanb3908]

Done now. 👍

[@alexnail]

@@TOMHEANEY100couldn’t agree with this more! I used to use the Osprey Aether and earlier versions had no back arch/minimal ventilation. The newer version had slightly less capacity and a significant gap to allow air in. For me though I didn’t really notice the sweat difference (there probably was a difference but I didn’t notice it) whereas the pack was far less comfortable when fully loaded because the weight was further from my back. So now I only buy larger packs WITHOUT that ventilation

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@alexnail Hi Alex, I appreciate you sharing your experience here.. Sometimes companies need to stick to their guns and not be led by the market wanting features....

[@FLO5ndjdjd]

Looking forward to the comparison video with the 3f. I've got a few direct comparison question, that maybe you can answer: 1. Looks like the kawka hipbelt can be set much tighter, is that correct? (I needed to modify the Stichting on the 3f one due to loosing weight on a thru) 2. I have 2 layers of foam on the 3f, looks like this isn't possible on the kawka. Is there some cushioning? How's the comfort if you have hard items against your back? 3. The hip belt pockets are much smaller, right? 4. How's the circumference, width of the main compartment compared to the 3f?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi thank you for the comment.. I will do my best to cover most of these in my review.. Best wishes Tom

[@Sam-Icy]

If only it was waterproof. I tried to waterproof my kakwa 40 with silicone sealant mix and it still ended up failing. Now I'm thinking on just punching a hole in the bottom of the pack so the water can drain out.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Sam, When you construct a pack with lots of double stitching etc to make it strong and durable that means many holes.... Many holes make it difficult to seam seal. So reducing the stitching holes in the pack also reduce the features... You could make a waterproof pack easy enough but it would just be a dry bag with shoulder strap and a hip belt and that wouldn't be very popular... here is what Durston say - " The Ultra 200 material is 100% waterproof with an impenetrable plastic backing on the Ultra 200 fabric that is much more durable than traditional PU coatings. However some water can seep in via the seams which are not taped. We do not tape the seams partly because we use seam binding which makes them stronger but too bulky to tape, but also because our more capable frame requires seams that are too complex to be seam taped (e.g. many layers of material sewn into the seams). As a result, the pack ends up being water resistant but not fully waterproof. If it rains for hours, a bit of water will seep into the pack. We suggest to keep your sensitive gear like clothes and sleeping bag in waterproof sacks and then everything else will be fine, but for greater protection you can use a pack liner or seam seal the pack yourself". . I hope this helps... best wishes Tom

[@taylorsukoshi6126]

Let us know how it goes, have read that ultra fabric dosent take hole punching well, ie the pockets on the this kakwa 50 have folds to allow drainage, not punched holes.

[@markcummings6856]

No Pack on Earth is Waterproof. Anyone knows you should have a Trash Compactor Bag inside as a Liner Bag or something similar.

[@garynesbitt5078]

Hi Tom. I really do like this pack. Particularly the front pocket and hip belt pockets. I believe it comes up in just under £300 with import tax. While expensive, this actually makes it good value compared to the likes of the arc haul range. For me it’s between this and the Atom packs Mo 50 or atom+ 50. I’m an atom packs fan so I love their packs. But this durston looks to run them very close. Definitely a toss up between both brands!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Gary thank you for sharing your thoughts on the Kakwa 55... You are spot on regarding the price here in the UK which I feel represents excellent value. Like you say the Z - Packs Arc Hauls are pricey even before you add features that are standard on the Durston. I am obviously aware how much you like the Atom Packs and they get a great reviews too... once again thank you for sharing your experience as I know that you are very well dialled in on the best kit..... best wishes Tom

[@wadirunner]

Looks like a great pack. Perchance did you consider any of he Atom Packs sizes, 50L or 60L? Some good KZbin videos extolling their virtues. I've not got a Kawka or an Atom Pack, but Mr. Claus might be bringing me one.... PS, at the moment, my go to pack is my Gregory Paragon 58, lots of features including a sleeping bag compartment, which I'm a big fan of. What's your take on those compartments? I note the Kawka doesn't have one. Still, I look forward to your longer term review, once you've gotten a few hikes with it under your belt. Regards Robert.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Robert thank you for your comments and sharing your experience of the Gregory Paragon 58... I see its quite a light pack at 1.6kg... The Atom packs get great reviews but I chose the Durston for two main reasons... First I had experience with a Durston tent and the build quality was fantastic. Second I prefer the more open mesh pocket with pleats on the front of the Kakwa... the fact that the pocket is looser and has an elastic at the top makes it easier to pack a greater volume of kit in there if that makes sense. Both your Gregory pack and the atom packs have a tighter mesh which I dont think will hold as much... Regarding the sleeping bag compartment - I always had packs with one and thought I would miss it but honestly I never have...best wishes and I hope that this helps.... Tom

[@JurassicRambler]

great video Tom - just subscribed ..Ive just started my youtube journey so I'm learning the ropes and getting inspiration from guys like yourself - any tips greatly appreciated

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey great to hear from you and it's a hard call selecting gear.. While review s are great find some you tube channels that you think are credible and stick with them.. If you involve too many people when selecting gear they will all tell you something different and then things become confusing... Paul Messenger, Justin Outdoors are examples of great channels.. Paul presents his information very clearly and is well balanced.. Best wishes on your journey.. Tom

[@fergpatrick]

Great video. Thank you. Super informative. Looking to get this pack. Does it have a sleeve or hook, or somewhere to put a 2L cook bladder?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Not really but there is a size tab you could add some cord to to make a loop or loop it to the aluminium frame... It does have holes in the side thought for the bladder tube... I hope that helps.. best wishes Tom

[@fergpatrick]

Thx

[@sam18a]

Nice video Tom well structured and detailed as always. Can u share how much it was and what the import duty was on it if any. Regards Sam 🙏

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Sam, the import tax was £60 and 220 conversion into pounds. So I think still great value when you look at what you get.. It's definitely what I have been looking for for some time... Best wishes Tom

[@Martycycleman]

Cheer Tom very interesting. I'm an Ospray user at the moment. Would it be worth it to change in your opinion? The inport tax puts me off.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Marty, I think it mainly depends on how much saving weight is important to you.. I was using a 3kg Osprey Argon 70 which was nearly 3kg. This pack then saved me 2kg which is a massive reduction. But in my experience the Ultralight packs just don't carry heavy loads as well particularly if your pack weight is over 11 kg. The manufacturers of ultra light packs claim much higher than this but in reality it's impossible due to smaller less padded hip and shoulder straps.. So if you want to reduce weight and don't usually carry more than 11 kg then definitely worth it.. Osprey are also dragging their heels regarding the use of dyneema ultra type fabrics...

[@douglasdoucette7352]

Thanks for the great review of the Kakwa. I also have the 3F UL QiDian 40+16L pack. I added a piece of blue closed cell foam which gave enough structure & cushioning to make it a comfortable carry. This has become my summer pack when I can get away with lighter quilts & fewer clothes. I've had the Kakwa 55 for a month & absolutely love it! It will likely replace my Gregory Zulu 55 as my pack for the shoulder seasons or when I just need to carry more stuff. Quality materials & workmanship, great design, comfortable to carry.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you for the comment and sharing your experience with the Kakwa and your other packs . This helps me and many others too . I am always interested in the journey and different bits of gear people use . Best wishes Tom

[@Prashant.Khapane]

Thanks for this, Tom. Where would you put a Tripod and camera? It will be nice to see how you pack this one for a couple of days camping trip. Ta

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi, my camera goes in that side pocket no problem and its a Sony ZV - e10 to give you an idea of the size... When I do a second review I will demo some additional gear storing items such as a tripod... best wishes and thank you for the comments.. Tom

[@Pasequale100]

which size did you choose the pack? and how tall are you?/ torso length?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi I am six foot one inch or 185 cm. I didn't measure torso length but this large fits me great.. I hope that helps.. Tom

[@Pasequale100]

@@TOMHEANEY100 thanks a lot

[@MAXPLOSIVE]

Hiya Tom! Have you ever tried on an Atompacks pack? I've had an Atom+ for the last 5 years, and I think I'm gonna have to give up on it due to the shoulder straps not fitting me well. This pack seems to have very similar features/style but instead S shaped shoulder straps so it might be a good replacement..

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi, I haven't but my friend has and loves both of his.. These lightweight packs have limited features so some fit better than others.. I definitely find this Kakwa very comfortable for what it is.. I have just had a look at both packs and both are quite s shaped. The Durston straps are much wider at the top though so will sit differently on your shoulders.. Have a look on their websites at this point if you haven't already.. Best wishes and hope you get sorted. best wishes Tom

[@alanrowland398]

Hi Tom, a great review, I’m thinking of buying this pack - you have the large … can I ask what back length you are please . Many thanks Alan.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Alan, I measured mine at 22 inches and this large fits me really well... I hope that this helps.. Thank you for the positive feedback and best wishes on getting one of these great packs... Tom

[@alanrowland398]

Fantastic! My torso length is also 22 inches, thats a great help , I shall order one today in large , and thank you for the quick response . Happy camping to you 😊

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@alanrowland398 Hey you are very welcome.. Hope you get it really soon and I wish you many many great trips with it . Best wishes Tom

[@alanrowland398]

Hi Tom, I have received my kakwa 55 - really good pack as you say, all good 😊

[@DemiGod..]

The question is though , will it fit empty into a 24 litre pannier of a bicycle or can it be strapped onto the rear rack or put into a 32 litre duffle bag? You may thing that is a wierd question, but considering using a touring bicycle for transport to and from the hills.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi I will pop the frame out and see how it compresses.. It's not really bulky at all so I'll get back to you again.. Best wishes Tom

[@ScramVenture]

Just decided to finally purchase the pack for myself after watching your review!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hope you enjoy it! that's great news.. I am out with mine again tonight.. Love packing it as so many options.. Best wishes for many trips and thank you for sharing.. Tom

[@patrickelliott5858]

This looks a great pack, how are the costs of getting sent to the U.K. And what if there is something wrong with it or it fails before the warranty on it expires. How then is the customer service from Durstan, because it looks like a pack that i would very much like.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi Patrick, Durston Gear sent me this pack so I didn't pay postage but did pay tax of about £60..The only experience I have regarding customer service is direct contact with Dan. He is very active on all social media platforms and shows real commitment to his brand. The contact that I had was absolutely first class so I would be of the opinion that customer service would be really excellent.. I hope that helps.. Best wishes Tom

[@tactteam00]

Nice review. What jacket are you wearing (dark blue)?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hello its the Cumulus Climalite jacket... cumulus.equipment/uk_en/men-jacket-climalite-full-zip.html. Definitely one of my favourite jackets ever... Tom

[@tactteam00]

@@TOMHEANEY100Awesome I’ll check it out, thanks!

[@Pasequale100]

Is the Kakwa 55 comfortable enough? I have read several times that the frame is kind of too hard in the back or in the hip area.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi, yes I definitely find it very comfortable for an ultralight pack... Up to about 12Kg is my carry weight... Tom

[@nathanmason5337]

im interested in the osprey pack but cant find it online do they not make it anymore great video as usual. ATB-Nathan

[@TOMHEANEY100]

No more Argon's I am afraid.. The Aether is the closest model.. Hope that helps. Best wishes Tom

[@nathanmason5337]

this helps alot thank-you tom ive just purchased the Hilleberg Nammatj 2 on your recommendation cant wait😂 @@TOMHEANEY100

[@vvs3796]

Have you tried flex capacitor?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

No but I hear its a pretty good pack... Tom

[@AlexiMos-gh5hq]

Hey, looks like a great pack. Can you buy it in the UK or do you have to import? Thanks

[@TOMHEANEY100]

You need to get It directly from Durston.....Tom

[@Pasequale100]

how did you modified the ties on the side? Does it work with a do it yourself style? I am wondering if i could also be able to do that because i found it kind of anoying that there are almost no ties/ straps on the outside if the backpack. I don t know if it is a dealbresker

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey really sorry for the late reply but on holiday.. Yes the tie out options are not my favorite aspect of this pack but there are usually work arounds.. It has tabs that you can add cord and line lock s too.. best wishes Tom

[@Pasequale100]

@@TOMHEANEY100 no problem my dear. Nice to read from you. I like a lot your reviews and comments. I think i will buy the Kakwa 55. It is only available in Ultra Grid. I don t know this fabric but the pack is relatively cheap like this.

[@callumguy4]

Any thoughts on how this would compare to a hyperlite mountain gear unbound. Both seem very good wear I live there is no way to try on either

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi, it's always a tough one when I haven't tested the product that you are referring to. The unbound is $140 more expensive so it represents a greater risk at that money than the Durston. The website also doesn't give as much information re the fabric etc so I also see that as a slightly greater risk. Durston gear explain the products exceptionally well. There will always be pros and cons so its up to individual preferences... I hope that this helps... Best wishes Tom

[@callumguy4]

Thank you for your reply and great reviews really appreciate all the detail and time you have taken. That does help think learning towards the kakwa is cheaper and seems to have a better frame

[@Jk_outdoors_]

How's it been with your winter gear?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Yes works very well but don't need ice axes here in Ireland..

[@Jk_outdoors_]

@@TOMHEANEY100 does your nammatj fit in it with the rest of your winter item's

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@Jk_outdoors_ Yes yes no problem at all...Tom

[@Jk_outdoors_]

@TOMHEANEY100 thanks mate two items on my shopping list for winter

[@BlueDragon00]

wonder how it compares to new zpack

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Z packs more expensive but a shade lighter and more technical.. best wishes Tom

[@korling99]

There is only one version of the Kakwa 55L right? Last year’s version was the 40L right?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Just the two packs 40L and the 55L here in this video.. best wishes Tom

[@korling99]

@@TOMHEANEY100 By the way, I bought a Samaya 2.0 tent and vestibule after watching your videos and doing more research. It’s a great tent! I’m hoping to get that Mesh 2.0 add-on mosquito netting, but it’s been backordered since I first saw it on their website. Next time you do a Samaya video, you should let people know they can get Samaya re-use tents and accesories for much cheaper than new. I bought the tent new, but bought a re-use vestibule. Thanks for the great content!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@korling99 Hey I am delighted to hear that you bought a Samaya and that you are happy with it.. I love mine and wanted to show it a bit more here too... Best wishes and great to hear that you have awesome kit.. best wishes Tom

[@kevinstarski1598]

Would a bear spray fit in the shoulder pocket?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi I dont know the size of bear spray as no bears in the UK.... BUT a 850ml smart water bottle will just about fit but its tight.. Obvisouly you need to be able to get it out quick....

[@robbynatividad6857]

Any torso adjustment sir?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

No I am afraid not... The pack just comes in different sizes. I am 6 feet 1 inch and ordered the large which fits perfectly.. I have used this pack now a lot more after this review and really love it. No signs of any wear. I hope that helps.. best wishes Tom

[@davidc107500]

Tom where can you purchase this bag from and cost to the Uk please.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi David, I am not sure that you can.. I got mine from Durston USA and paid the import tax which at that time was £63.00... Hope this helps.... best wishes Tom

[@davidc107500]

@@TOMHEANEY100 thanks Tom will look into it best wishes

[@artMccolly]

Is this better than the mo atom pack

[@TOMHEANEY100]

That's a tough call.. Atom packs look great but I haven't had the opportunity to test one... My camping partner has two and loves them..

[@Pasequale100]

Why is this pack better than a Hyberg Attila Ultra (similar pack which weighs only 600g. 300g less than the Kakwa 55)? Primarily because of the frame? And you have not choosen the framed zpacks pack (600g) for cost-reasons?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi this is not a comparison review and I have chosen this model because it is a popular pack at a reasonable budget.. Lesser known brands make it harder to get views on KZbin.. Best wishes Tom

[@Pasequale100]

@@TOMHEANEY100 thanks a lot! But do you think that a frame is (very) important even if it adds weight, because the Hyberg weighs only 600g!

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@Pasequale100 Hi it also depends how important reducing the weight is... The frame will not weigh 400g so there must be other factors involved in the weight reduction.. Just looked and its made from Ultra100 whereas the Durston here is Ultra 200.. I think the frame becomes more important when the pack carry weight is over 11 ish KG.. I use a pack from 3FUL Gear with no frame and its just as comfortable up to 11Kg.. But instead of the frame it has more padding on the shoulders and hip belt. So if this pack also reduces the padding to reduce weight then its hard to say.. There are just so many small companies now making packs and more springing up every week... Hope this helps. Tom

[@Pasequale100]

@@TOMHEANEY100 thank you so much Tom! :) The advantage of a frameless pack is that you can shrinken the size more easily when the pack is not so filled up. The advantage of the frame is for me the transfer of weight away from the shoulders to the hip.

[@underdgk9]

Hmmm, no back ventilation? Gonna get very sweaty.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Yeah that's what I thought when I initially changed from a pack with ventilation to one without... never looked back to be fair as I found on a warm day I still got sweaty with a ventilated pack... BUT each to their own and I appreciate that.... best wishes and thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.. Tom

[@tomnoyb8301]

Every inch one separates weight from body adds 5% of that weight's pull on the shoulder-straps. It's a tradeoff. Keep the weight in tight to the body vs holding it at arms-length.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@tomnoyb8301 yes I totally agree.. Not so keen on packs that push the weight away from the body for ventilation.... best wishes Tom

[@suewheeler5795]

Does it have space for a bladder please?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Yes just tried a camel 🐪 back.. Hole in the side of the pack too for the tube.. Hope that helps.. best wishes Tom

[@suewheeler5795]

Thanks very much@@TOMHEANEY100

[@tomnoyb8301]

Love Durston and his tents, but not sure why packs? Others make better packs and he didn't bring anything new to the table (vs tents, where he revolutionized tent design).

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hi thank you for watching and sharing your comments and thoughts... Dan has made a few changes to this pack for 2024 so they are getting better all the time.... best wishes Tom

[@tomnoyb8301]

​@@TOMHEANEY100 - Am partial to LiteAF packs, which are 1) Waterproof, 2) Way cushier "S" shoulder-straps (vs "J"-straps shown), 3) Weigh less (my 46L's only 17oz), 4) with Joey-pouch, 5) Bigger rear pocket, 6) Symmetric side water pockets (it makes no sense to put all the water on one-side), etc., etc.. Point is, Packs are mature. Durston's playing catch-up with Packs. More importantly, Durston's contributed zero inventive-brilliancy to backpacks. In trekking-pole tents, Durston is the undisputed champion. There is no one in his league. Realize brilliancy is a rare commodity and maybe it's asking too much for it in every product, BUT... also hate to see such talent wasted chasing other's better designs.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

@@tomnoyb8301 Hey thank you once again for your thoughts... Just had a look at the LiteAF packs.. yes they have some great options for customisation.... best wishes Tom

[@durstongear]

Glad you're liking our tents. For the packs, I think backpacks are a bit more of a mature area since the basic shape is fairly locked in (e.g. 2 straps, hipbelt, top opening etc) but I am trying to innovate in the details. For example, the hipbelt pockets work better one handed compared to most packs, the zippered side pocket is quite unique and a better solution for having larger items handy than a stretchy bottom pocket (that is more easily damaged) and other things like improving durability with protected elastics, non-stretch mesh etc. Also the Kakwa does have a bit of an S shape to the shoulder straps, and the inverted U frame is quite a bit more functional than the frame stays most UL packs are using since they don't have horizontal structure. I do agree that it's less revolutionary than our tents though. We've got some really cool stuff in the works on the tent side of things too that I'm excited to get launched, but also I have a new 30L pack coming out in a few months that is quite unique. I won't say revolutionary but it's way ahead of what's out there a lot of ways. With regard to the LiteAF packs, certainly they are very nice but I don't think the weight of 17oz is a good comparison because my packs include a lot of things as standard that are optional on theirs and thus excluded from the weight. A LiteAF 46L is 31oz with all the options which makes it the same weight and very similar features as the Kakwa, and the Kakwa is a bigger pack with a more capable frame (e.g horizontal structure) and more durable materials (e.g. non-stretch mesh).

[@tomnoyb8301]

@@durstongear - Thanks for the thorough response. Eschew frames entirely. They are always uncomfortable and are completely unnecessary. If one rolls their gear into long, skinny shapes (vs folding or stuffing), the gear itself provides more than enough structure to a (thru-hiking) pack. Long, thin packaging has the added benefit of making most or all items available without emptying the whole pack. No need to dig-down to whatever item is needed when they are all side-by-side. Further, every inch weight is distanced away from one's back adds 5% of that weight to shoulder-straps. Total weight obviously remains the same, but weight away from body pulls uncomfortably on shoulder-straps. Frames move weight away from body. Some prefer the tradeoff, this author doesn't. That's how 46L only weighs 17oz. Then there's integrated shoulder-strap-stretch-mesh pockets that hold way more securely (without anything flopping around in add-on pockets). Joey-pouch stretch-mesh is likewise plenty durable. Some like stiffer-mesh, but this author prefers secure gear and stretch-mesh holds everything tight and compact without snagging. Seems like fixed-mesh is forever catching in things and gear inside rattling around. Then there's the Ultra-fabric, which is both waterproof and bullet-proof. Each of these preferences comes through years of experiencing different options. They are no longer close-calls. At first-glance, one option might seem as good as the other. But there really is a 'best.'

[@_Chris390]

ULA Circuit?

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Sorry I don't understand.. Tom

[@_Chris390]

@@TOMHEANEY100 Hi Tom. The backpack made by ULA called the Circuit. In standard Robic Nylon or Ultra fabrics. Have you considered / tried that? Seems to be extremely popular and comfortable with excellent owner feedback. Slightly less minimalist than the Durston’s too I think, but still very lightweight and spacious.

[@bipedal-ape-man]

You know a guy takes his gear seriously when there is a samaya tent in the backround.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Hey thank you very much for the comment.. Yes I love this Samaya Assaut2... Especially with the dyneema vestibule.🤣🤣

[@Northern_Rockhopper]

I was debating this myself, but got the Osprey Atmos 65 simply for the comfort .

[@TOMHEANEY100]

The Atmos is a great pack... I still have a 35.. Osprey do comfort really well.. Best wishes Tom

[@DDF1408]

I had one a few years back, I find the Kakwa55 more comfortable.

[@nedanother9382]

I don't get nor do I drink the Durston cool aide...the offset tent makes no sense to me. But these packs are pretty close to really really good. I hate mesh pockets but otherwise pretty darn nice. Thanks

[@TOMHEANEY100]

hey thank you for watching and taking the time to comment.. I appreciate your thoughts on the tent too. I have tested one and used it on a number of occasions and actually the offset poles make t very practical and increase the height of the roof over a greater surface area ad its diagonal height and not just the width or length of the tent if that makes sense... best wishes Tom

[@Bandanko]

I see you didnt compare this against an Atom pack...

[@TOMHEANEY100]

I don't have direct experience of an atom pack so that is why.. best wishes Tom

[@gearcampradio]

1.9 lbs sounds decent..

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Yes it's pretty light for what it is . Good durable fabrics too.. best wishes Tom

[@vvs3796]

Granite gear unfortunately is way overrated. Very basic comfort, way too big bcs it s uncomfortable with heavy loads thus no need such volume. Side pockets collect rain water like they were designed to do so. Also durability is overrated. Materials are good,but weight bearing points are just not well reinforced. Belt attachements is a good example for that.

[@vvs3796]

It s well paded but too firm

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Yes I was disappointed by mine and I feel pack construction and materials have move on quite a bit in the last two years... The main disappointment was the comfort just not being up to some of the hype... Thank you for sharing your thoughts here.. best wishes Tom

[@rschreck876]

This pack killed me. Literally the most uncomfortable pack I’ve ever worn. And that was after carrying 23lbs at the start for a two day trip.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Sorry to hear this.. I bought a pack from Granite Gear and had the same problem.. I am sure you understand that ultralight packs will not be as comfortable as a pack that is designed for heavy loads... I just decided to sell the Granite Gear as it was a good pack but not for me. Best wishes Tom

[@serhii2116]

Liteway backpaks are better

[@TOMHEANEY100]

Never heard of them but thank you for sharing your opinion... Best wishes Tom

[@yeahbutytho126]

Where is the Durston kit made. I am trying to avoid anything that isnt made in a western freindly democracy and I am particularly trying to avoid Brics nations.

[@TOMHEANEY100]

My pack in made in Vietnam.. If this is a deal breaker then there are many US cottage brands and Atom Packs for example that are made in the UK.... best wishes Tom