Hyperlite Mountain Gear Elevate 22L Backpack Review

Nov 29, 2023

With minimal features and super durable Dyneema fabric, the Maine-based bagmaker's new pack is made to lighten your load on day hikes and beyond

Author

Thomas Calara

Photographer

Mike Borchard / Courtesy Hyperlite Mountain Gear

Hyperlite Mountain Gear's cornerstone thesis is to make super-lightweight, super-durable outdoor gear, and it continues that endeavor largely through an ever-growing collection of ultralight backpacks. Each model is designed with a no-frills approach and is extensively field tested to ensure the pack is up to snuff in any environment. The latest addition to join that array of bags is the HMG Elevate 22—a multi-sport backpack ready for day hikes and ultra running.

"Light and Tough" is the name of the game for the Elevate 22. The top outer shell is constructed of a 100% waterproof DCH50 Dyneema composite fabric, while the base is reinforced with the more durable DCH150 for even more abrasion-resistance. Comfort is another consistent design cue that's found in an included sternum strap (equipped with an emergency whistle), a removable hip belt and a ¾ inches of foam sewn into the back for cushioning.

Despite its billing as minimal, there's no shortage of storage options featured on the outer pack body. A front pocket and accompanying shock cord configuration provide storage for extra layers and snacks, while a set of hardlined side pockets found on the pack's flanks provide additional storage for a water bottle or anything else you might want to stow in there. Even with all these features, the Elevate 22 weighs just 17.9 ounces (507 grams) in the medium size.

You can access the 22-liter main compartment via a roll top enclosure that, when packed to the brim, can be secured with a single strap equipped with an aluminum hook. The Elevate 22's interior also features an internal hangloop and built-in tube port for functionality with a hydration reservoir. The bag comes in three different sizes to provide the best fitting pack and comes in the brand's signature white and black colorways.

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Published 05-11-2023