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Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest Review
Looking for a minimalist backpack built for serious adventures in tough terrain? In this Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest review, we explore why this ultralight Dyneema pack is a go-to for thru-hikers, off-trail explorers, and alpine backpackers who demand durability and simplicity.
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest is a 55-liter ultralight backpack made with Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), offering outstanding strength-to-weight performance. It weighs just 2.0 lbs and is designed to handle 5+ day trips with ease while resisting abrasion, moisture, and rough backcountry use.
This pack is a roll-top design with a minimalist ethos — no lid, no frame sheet, and no frills. Yet it provides smart features like three external Dyneema Hardline pockets, internal frame stays for structure, a padded hipbelt with zippered pockets, and removable aluminum stays. It’s weather-resistant, highly compressible, and extremely durable.
Key Specifications
| Weight | 2.0 lbs (size M) |
| Capacity | 55 liters |
| Frame Type | Internal Frame (removable aluminum stays) |
| Suspension System | Padded hipbelt with no load lifters |
| Torso Fit Range | 16–21 inches |
| Hipbelt Fit Range | 26–42 inches |
| Material | Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) |
Comparisons
Hyperlite 3400 Southwest vs Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60
The Arc Haul Ultra 60 and Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest both cater to the ultralight crowd, but they take different approaches. The Arc Haul is built around modularity — users can configure it to suit their exact needs, from removable frames to hipbelt options. It also weighs significantly less and is favored by ounce-counters on long-distance trails. However, it isn’t as durable in rugged terrain and can feel less secure under heavier loads. The 3400 Southwest, while a bit heavier, offers unmatched weather resistance and long-term durability. If you’re traveling through rough brush, scrambling off-trail, or frequently facing wet conditions, the Hyperlite shines where the Arc Haul may falter.
Hyperlite 3400 Southwest vs ULA Circuit
The ULA Circuit has long been a staple in the ultralight community for its balanced design — offering a solid internal frame, excellent storage options, and ample comfort. It’s more adjustable than the Hyperlite, with customizable torso lengths, load lifters, and a more traditional suspension system. On the other hand, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest trims everything down to the essentials and relies on simplicity, Dyneema durability, and waterproof performance. If you’re heading into varied terrain and want bombproof construction without extra weight or features, the Southwest is the more minimalist and rugged choice. The Circuit offers more flexibility and comfort for everyday ultralight backpackers who still want some customization.
Pros & Cons Summary
| Feature | Hyperlite 3400 Southwest | Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 | ULA Circuit |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | ✅ Ultralight | ✅ Extremely ultralight | ✅ Ultralight |
| Comfort | ✅ Stable & minimal padding | ❌ Less structured | ✅ Supportive & adjustable |
| Ventilation | ❌ Minimal airflow | ❌ Basic back panel | ✅ Moderate airflow |
| Organization | ✅ Simple external pockets | ❌ Minimal pockets | ✅ More external storage |
| Adjustability | ❌ Fixed torso/hipbelt | ✅ Highly customizable | ✅ Adjustable harness |
| Best For | Rugged UL backpackers | Ounce-counting thru-hikers | Versatile ultralight users |
Looking for something else? Visit our Best Backpacking Packs guide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Hyperlite 3400 Southwest waterproof?
Yes — the Dyneema material is inherently waterproof, and the pack’s design resists heavy rain and moisture without needing a rain cover.
Can it carry a bear canister?
Yes — most canisters fit vertically in the main compartment, though horizontal fit is tight.
Does it have load lifters?
No, the pack does not include load lifters — but the removable stays offer basic structure.
Is it comfortable for long hikes?
Yes — as long as you’re staying within a 25–35 lb load range. It’s best for experienced ultralight hikers.
Does it come in different sizes?
Yes — available in multiple torso lengths for a better fit.
Final Thoughts
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest is a premium ultralight backpack built for tough conditions and minimalist adventurers. With its waterproof Dyneema construction, rugged build, and streamlined design, it’s one of the most trusted packs on the trail. If you want a long-lasting pack that thrives off-trail and in bad weather, the Southwest is hard to beat.
