Southwest
"Absolute game-changer. I put it to the test during my rain-soaked W Trek in Patagonia, and it kept all my gear bone-dry." — Josh W.
The Southwest is a versatile backpack that is easy to adapt to a variety of backcountry activities, from trail hiking to exploring rugged off-trail environments. While the main body of the pack is built the same way as the Windrider and Junction, the Southwest features solid-fabric exterior pockets for added protection in abrasive, rocky terrain. Using lightweight, waterproof Dyneema® composite fabric and a proven, durable design, the Southwest is a lightweight and comfortable pack that offers premium performance wherever you’re headed.
KEY FEATURES:
- Durable solid-fabric exterior pockets protect gear and hide contents, ensuring your items stay safe and out of sight during your adventure.
- Side and over-the-top compression straps securely hold external gear, preventing shifting and keeping your load stable, no matter the terrain.
- Hydroport and internal mesh sleeve provide easy access to water, making it simple to stay hydrated on the go without slowing down.
- Volume40L
- External Volume9.8L
- Load CapacityUp to 40 lbs
- WhiteDCH50 (Main Body) & DCH150 (Bottom)
- BlackDCH150 (Main Body & Bottom)
- White29.9oz | 848g
- Black32.4oz | 919g
- Back Width10.5" | 26.7 cm
- Height - Fully Unrolled30.0" | 76.2 cm
- Top Circumference37.5" | 95.3 cm
- Bottom Circumference33.5" | 85.1 cm
- CountryMexico
Average weight based on size medium
- Volume55L
- External Volume9.8L
- Load CapacityUp to 40 lbs
- WhiteDCH50 (Main Body) & DCH150 (Bottom)
- BlackDCH150 (Main Body & Bottom)
- White31.7oz | 899g
- Black34.6oz | 981g
- Back Width10.5" | 26.7 cm
- Height - Fully Unrolled34.0" | 86.4 cm
- Top Circumference40.0in | 101.6 cm
- Bottom Circumference33.5" | 85.1 cm
- CountryMexico
- Volume70L
- External Volume9.8L
- Load CapacityUp to 60 lbs
- MaterialDCH150 (Main Body & Bottom)
- Weight39.3oz | 1114g
- Back Width10.5" | 26.7 cm
- Height - Fully Unrolled38.5" | 97.8 cm
- Top Circumference45.0" | 114.3 cm
- Bottom Circumference37.5" | 95.3 cm
- CountryMexico
Average weight based on size medium
Product Walkthrough Video | Southwest
WHY CHOOSE THE SOUTHWEST?
SOLID & SECURE
Three easily accessible external pockets to store and protect your gear
DURABLE ABRASION PROTECTION
External Hardline with Dyneema® side pockets keep your gear protected and free from any unwanted snags or abrasion
WATERPROOF MATERIALS
Pair with our Stuff Sacks for a buttoned up, nearly waterproof kit
- James M.Verified BuyerAge Range 35 - 44What activities did you use this product for? Backpacking, Day HikingWhat size pack did you order? Medium2 hours agoAge Range 35 - 44What activities did you use this product for? Backpacking, Day HikingWhat size pack did you order? MediumReviewingSouthwestRated 5 out of 5 starsGreat pack
Light, durable, and got asked about it first time taking it out. Not a fan of packs that try to over complicate storage. Simple and clean. Great pack
- Lena K.Verified ReviewerAge Range 45 - 54What activities did you use this product for? BackpackingWhat size pack did you order? MediumYesterdayAge Range 45 - 54What activities did you use this product for? BackpackingWhat size pack did you order? MediumReviewingSouthwestRated 5 out of 5 starsGreat backpack — light, practical, and stylish!
This backpack has already been with me on the Lost Coast, climbed Mt. Whitney, traveled to Madeira, just came back from Nepal, and is now getting ready for Mt. Shasta. On every trip, people ask me to share all the benefits of this backpack—and then they go and buy one themselves! :) It's comfortable, lightweight, and fits with any outfit (which is important for us girls!). :). The only thing I added was a front pocket for my phone (first pic) and a couple of stuff sacks for my gear.
- Elvis o. t. T.Verified ReviewerAge Range 55 - 64What activities did you use this product for? Backpacking, Thru Hiking, Day HikingWhat size pack did you order? Large2 weeks agoAge Range 55 - 64What activities did you use this product for? Backpacking, Thru Hiking, Day HikingWhat size pack did you order? LargeReviewingSouthwestRated 5 out of 5 starsBetter than Z Pack
So the current YouTube battle seems to be between the Arc Haul and the Southwest. I closely compared both. The AHs main claim advantage is the weight and carbon frame curve and mesh to reduce perspiration and improve comfort (with load lifters). 1)You MUST fit the SW correctly for the pack to carry properly 2) the SW includes waist belt in price and weight. On the AH, you pay to add everything: waist belt, pockets, lumbar strap . 3) the AH straps and buckles are thin and cheap I guess to reduce weight 4) and this is probably nitpicking but when I would be packing up, the AH will NOT stand up. Falls over and over and over. Serious PIA at daybreak. 5) SW has interior hydration bladder Mesh pocket. In summary, I used both and landed on the 70L SW. just finished section hiking GA portion of AT. I’m 6’3” 200 lb 60 yo male in pretty fair shape. Avg 10-15 miles a day depending on terrain. Not once did I finish the day with sore shoulders or low back issues. My plan is to thru hike the AT next year if my wife will let me 😬. I’ll be packing the Hyperlite SW 70L. Hope this helps!
- William A.Verified BuyerAge Range 65+What activities did you use this product for? OtherWhat size pack did you order? Large3 weeks agoAge Range 65+What activities did you use this product for? OtherWhat size pack did you order? LargeReviewingSouthwestRated 5 out of 5 starsGreat pack!
Does the job for SAR missions, comfortable despite minimalist padding, secure on back when loaded, light as expected. Nice pack!
- Kiani1 month agoReviewingSouthwestRated 5 out of 5 stars5 Stars
Love it, packing cubes make a huge difference.
