Contour 35

The Contour 35 is more comfortable than the Waypoint which has rigid frame, rigid waist belt, rigid shoulder straps. For the same size, the contour gets you a nicer fit, the add-on pockets and waist belt is a must. The pocket underneath for snacks and trash is great. The pockets on the shoulder straps are great. For a dialed in thru Hiiker it’s just the right size it’s not too big. Being waterproof is also important to me, I think it’s a must for any pack.

The shoulder straps look good in the picture but unfortunately do not work in practice. They are too straight and too tightly sewn so the edge of the straps rubs a lot on the neck, creates pain and sores after just a few kilometers.

It’s perfect. Elegant and capable of a big load.

I've hiked with this for a couple of months now (3-4 days per week), ranging from alpine day hikes to multi-day hut trips. This pack checks all the boxes: simple and minimalist, yet highly functional. This pack has taken the place of day packs like the Summit and overnight packs like the Porter 40L. It carries weight perfectly and yet does not feel too large for day hikes.

I found the Hyperlite Contour 35 I received to be suboptimal for backpacking! This backpack needs a Y strap on the top of the backpack to carry a pad. Space is at a premium inside this backpack. The bottom pocket is open at one end and anything put into that pocket, will fall out and be lost. This backpack would greatly benefit from vest-style shoulder straps to balance the load across the chest. For these reasons, I returned this poorly designed $329 dollar backpack.