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Weighing less than 2 lbs., this 45-liter Mountain Hardwear pack is built to go far. It's fully waterproof thanks to ALUULA™ shell fabric. The innovative swivel hipbelt distributes weight naturally.




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Imported.
View all Mountain Hardwear Backpacking Packs| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Frame Type | Internal Frame |
| Ultralight | Yes |
| Gear Capacity (L) | 45 liters |
| Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 2,747 cubic inches |
| Weight | XS/S: 1 lb. 12.2 oz. S/M: 1 lb. 12.9 oz. M/L: 1 lb. 14.3 oz. |
| Fits Torso Length (in.) | XS/S: 15-18 inches S/M: 16-19 inches M/L: 18-21 inches |
| Fits Waist/Hips | XS/S: 26-45 inches S/M: 27.5-47 inches M/L: 31.5-50 inches |
| Material(s) | ALUULA Graflyte™ ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) 78 g/m²; lining: ALUULA Graflyte™ UHMWPE 78 g/m²; bottom: double-layer of ALUULA Graflyte™ UHMWPE 78 g/m² |
| Frame Material | Aluminum |
| Number of Stays | V-shape frame includes 2 stays |
| Reservoir Compatible | No |
| Pack Access | Top |
| Number of Exterior Pockets | 8 + main compartment |
| Raincover Included | No |
| Hipbelt Pockets | Yes |
| Waterproof | Yes |
| Dimensions | XS/S: Unavailable inches S/M: Unavailable inches M/L: 26.4 x 12.6 x 10.6 inches |
| Gender | Unisex |
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I thru-hiked the entire PCT with the Alakazam Pack and it DELIVERED. In the four-ish days that I got rained on (and we're talking heavy, Pacific Northwest rain with lots of overgrowth, making it even more wet), the contents of my pack remained dry. It perfectly fit my Bearikade canister while having enough room to carry all my other things. I love the front pockets for being able to eat on the go. The side pockets were perfect for carrying 2x 1 liter Smartwater Bottles on each side, and it was easy to access the bottles while walking. I received the most comments/compliments from other hikers on the side pockets. Even after 2650+ miles, my pack has held up really well–I just used it again for a section hike on the AZT.
The Alakazam 45 Pack has quickly become one of my favorite go-to packs for technical days when you want to move efficiently but still carry real gear. The capacity feels spot-on: it fits everything I need for long approaches, alpine layers, and climbing essentials without turning into a floppy, overstuffed mess. What really stands out is how stable and “locked in” it feels once you dial the fit. It hugs close to your back, stays balanced on steep terrain, and doesn’t bounce around when you’re scrambling or moving quickly. The design is refreshingly clean and functional—easy access where it matters, smart compression, and nothing that feels gimmicky or in the way. If you’re looking for a pack that can handle big mountain days while still feeling nimble and streamlined, the Alakazam 45 is an easy 5-star recommendation.
The lightness and comfort of this pack is rad. On longer mountaineering trips I like being able to quickly grab an item from the vest like shoulder straps and front stash pocket. Roll top closure for the main compartment is a great feature as well.
Once again Mountain Hardwear nails their gear. This pack has been perfect for me so far, its light and packs super easily. love the extra loops for holding everything on the outside as well.