Durston Kakwa 55 Ultra 200X (2026)
Weight: 895 g (Medium), from 855 g.
The Durston Kakwa 55 Ultra 200X combines an abrasion-resistant UHMWPE laminate with an aluminium frame, supportive hipbelt and accessible pockets. For multi-day hikes and long-distance trails. Choose torso length and hipbelt size separately.
- Secure payment by Klarna or Paypal
- Klarna invoice: Order now, pay later, slice your payments!
- 30 Day Returns Policy
- Fast shipping throughout Europe
- BrandDurston Gear
- ClosureRoll-top
- FitWomen Men Unisex
- Frame systemRemovable frame
- Hip circumference (cm)S/M: 76–96; M/L: 86–106
- MaterialUltra 200X
- Minimum weight (g)855
- Recommended maximum load (kg)20
- Size / fitS / M / L. Complete weight: S 855 g, M 895 g, L 920 g. Select hipbelt separately: S/M or M/L.
- Torso length (cm)S: 38–46; M: 43–51; L: 48–56
- Typical packed weight (g)895
- Volume35–60 L
- Weight class750–999 g
Description
Article no.: 2886
Durston Kakwa 55 Ultra 200X
TheKakwa 55 is Durston’s premium backpack for multi-day hikes—designed to combine ultra-lightweight construction with true carrying comfort.
Weight: 895 g (Medium), from 855 g.
The Durston Kakwa 55 Ultra 200X combines an abrasion-resistant UHMWPE laminate with an aluminium frame, supportive hipbelt and accessible pockets. For multi-day hikes and long-distance trails. Choose torso length and hipbelt size separately.
Comfort and Load-Carrying Capacity
Many ultralight backpacks save weight by simplifying the carrying system. This can mean a lack of load-bearing straps, less effective frames, or simpler hip belts, which often limits comfort when carrying heavier loads.
The Kakwa 55 is designed to provide high carrying comfort even with heavier loads.
The inverted U-shaped frame uses hollow aluminum tubes that provide both vertical and horizontal stability while keeping the weight low. The frame is directly connected to the hip belt for efficient weight transfer and works in conjunction with the load straps to relieve pressure on the shoulders.
The shoulder straps feature an ergonomic S-shape that follows the body’s natural contours, while the hip belt wraps around the hips using a double-strap design and an effective 2:1 tensioning system.
The result is a backpack that comfortably handles loads of up to 20 kg.
Thoughtful Storage
The Kakwa 55 is designed to provide quick access to the gear you use most throughout the day.
Hip belt pockets
Two large hip belt pockets with an improved design that can be easily opened and closed with one hand. Perfect for snacks, your phone, a headlamp, or a sunshade.
Shoulder strap pockets
Pockets on both shoulder straps that are ideal for your phone, sunglasses, small water bottles, or other gear you want close at hand.
QuickPocket
Durston’s unique QuickPocket is integrated into the left side pocket and provides quick access to larger items like a hat, gloves, or a map without having to take off your backpack.
Mesh front pocket
A large, durable outer pocket that can hold items such as rain gear, a tent, or other gear you want to access quickly while hiking.
Durability
The Kakwa 55 is built for long hikes and rugged use.
Ultra 200X
A laminate material based on UHMWPE fibers that offers very high abrasion resistance, low weight, and high water resistance.
To ensure a long service life, reinforced seams, heavy-duty thread, and a durable knitted mesh material in the front pocket are used.
Reviews
BackpackingLight – “Most Comfortable”
“The Kakwa is one of the most versatile and comfortable backpacks I’ve ever used for loads over 16 kg.”
Section Hiker – “10 Best Ultralight Backpacks”
“The low weight is impressive for a frame backpack, and it provides excellent weight transfer to the hips.”
The Trek – “I Could Not Be Happier”
“I’ve become a big fan. It carries everything very comfortably and has smart solutions for gear.”
Adventure Alan – “Incredibly Well Designed”
“A strong contender for the best ultralight backpack on the market.”
Weight
| Model | Small | Medium | Large |
|---|---|---|---|
| Ultra 200X | 855 g | 895 g | 920 g |
Removable parts: Frame (90 g) and back plate (15 g) are included but can be removed.
Size Guide
Back Length
| Backpack size | Back Length |
|---|---|
| Small | 38–46 cm |
| Medium | 43–51 cm |
| Large | 48–56 cm |
Hip belt
The Kakwa 55 is available in two hip belt sizes that can be combined with any back length.
| Our size | Durston’s size | Adjustment range | Recommended hip circumference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Medium | S/M | 71–115 cm | 76–96 cm |
| Large | M/L | 81–125 cm | 86–106 cm |
Note: Back length and waist belt size are selected separately. Choose the back length based on your torso length and the waist belt based on your waist circumference.
Volume
Backpackinglight Volume Test
In our own volume test, a Kakwa 55 in Medium held 56.5 litres of balls with two turns of the roll-top. The original test record does not specify the material version.
With three turns of the roll-top, we estimate the practical capacity at approximately 54–55 litres.
Features
- Ultra 200X material
- Inverted U-shaped aluminum frame
- Load straps / load lifters
- Ergonomic S-shaped shoulder straps
- Dual-strap system on the hip belt
- 2:1 tensioning system with reverse pull
- Y-shaped top buckle
- Eight external attachment points
- Two hip belt pockets
- Pockets on both shoulder straps
- QuickPocket on the left side
- Compatible with hydration systems
- Durable mesh front pocket
- Reinforced seams and premium construction
Summary
The Durston Kakwa 55 is one of the most thoughtfully designed ultralight backpacks on the market. The combination of low weight, high comfort, smart pocket design, and highly durable materials makes it an excellent choice for everything from weekend trips to long thru-hikes.