What is the Hikelite 26?
The Hikelite 26 is a 26-litre backpack designed for hiking and hill walking. It's made with durable materials and features various organisation options for maximum functionality.
What is it made of?
The pack's main body is made of 100D high-tenacity nylon, which is durable enough for regular use. The lining is made of 70D nylon. The pack's base is reinforced with 420D nylon, which is more robust and improves strength where it's needed most.
All of these materials are recycled, which of course, is much better for the planet, and treated with a PFAS-free DWR, eliminating the use of harmful PFAS compounds, otherwise known as 'forever chemicals'. DWR (durable water repellent) encourages water to bead off the fabric and provides reliable water resistance for unpredictable weather; however, please be aware that this doesn't make the bag fully waterproof!
All fabric is also bluesign® approved, meaning it's manufactured in a way that is safe for the environment, workers and consumers. bluesign® certifications ensure that the materials used avoid harmful substances, use reduced air and water emissions, increase resource productivity, and the production line is more transparent and trustworthy.
What backsystem does it use?
The Hikelite uses an AirSpeed suspension system with a LightWire alloy frame to create low-profile air space, further optimising weight distribution, pack balance, and ventilation.
A 3D-tensioned breathable mesh backpanel delivers support and helps the pack to keep its structure. This backpanel also offers a high level of ventilation to increase comfort and help to prevent sweat build-up.
Osprey has used a fixed BioStretch harness with elastic binding to deliver maximum flexibility without compromising stability. It works well for dynamic body movements during hiking and scrambling, making it an incredibly versatile piece of kit.
Spacer mesh over die-cut foam provides a breathable, comfortable contact surface that won't cling to sweat and moisture. Plus, an adjustable sternum strap helps to keep the backpack secure and prevents it from bouncing excessively.
The hipbelt offers stability and support and helps to alleviate the weight from your lower back, lowering the risk of injury. You can remove it entirely if you'd prefer not to use it or want to save weight.
What are the features?
The spacious main compartment uses a traditional panel loader and convenient zip opening and is ideal for holding extra layers and lunch. You also get a front fabric shove-it pocket, which works well for holding maps, guidebooks, and emergency waterproofs. Furthermore, the additional external access zip pocket (with a key clip) keeps small essentials safely tucked away, and extra-tall mesh side pockets help to keep contents secure and provide an accessible storage solution for water bottles.
Dual upper and lower-side compression straps cinch in the load when your bag isn't fully packed, helping to prevent things from moving around inside. If you're a fan of walking poles, then you're in luck! This bag has pole storage functionality, so you can store them neatly when you're not using them.
An internal reservoir sleeve with a hose port (located in the backpanel) and Osprey Hydraclip allows you to hang a water reservoir easily. A rain cover is included for when the forecast is looking bleak.
Lastly, the sternum strap features a built-in whistle that you can use to call for safety, should you need to, or perhaps your pooch if he's far into the distance (dogs enjoy hiking too, you know).
Features:
- Included raincover made with bluesign® approved fabric and treated with DWR made without PFAS, stored in zippered pocket at base of pack
- Extra-tall stretch mesh side pockets keep contents secure
- External access zip pocket with key clip keeps small, essential items handy
- Dual upper-side compression straps with trekking pole capture
- Dual trekking pole loops
- Internal reservoir sleeve with hose port in backpanel and Osprey Hydraclip for easily hanging a reservoir
- Adjustable sternum strap with rescue whistle
- Traditional panel loader design with convenient main compartment access
- Front fabric shove-it pocket
- Dual lower compression straps for additional load control
- Removable webbing belt