Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40 – Technical Summit Backpack Made of Dyneema

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40 is an advanced summit tour backpack designed for ski mountaineering, ski ascents, and technical adventures in alpine environments. The backpack was developed in collaboration with renowned skier Cody Townsend, with a focus on low weight, exceptional durability, and quick access to essential gear.

The Crux 40 is made with Dyneema® Woven Composite 5.0, an extremely durable material that withstands the stresses of sharp ski edges, ice axes, and heavy use in mountain environments. The design combines a base volume of 40 liters with an expandable top-loading system that provides up to an additional 15 liters of packing space.

Weighing 1,250 grams in size Medium, with a stable carrying system and well-thought-out solutions for avalanche gear and skis, the Crux 40 is built for demanding tours where every detail counts.

Designed for technical skiing and quick transitions

When ski touring and summiting, it’s important to be able to quickly switch between walking, climbing, and skiing. That’s why the Crux 40 features a large opening with a YKK zipper on the back panel. This allows you to access your gear without having to open the backpack from the top or remove all your equipment.

Inside, there are three dedicated compartments for avalanche gear, designed to hold items such as a shovel and probe. On the outside, there are separate attachments for ice axes, compression straps for skis, and a large stretch pocket for gear that needs to be easily accessible.

Features and Details

• Dyneema® Woven Composite 5.0: Highly durable main fabric that withstands abrasion from skis, ice axes, and rocky terrain.
• 40 + 15-liter pack volume: An expandable top with dual drawstrings allows you to increase the pack volume by up to 15 liters.
• Access via the back panel: A sturdy YKK #8 zipper provides quick access to the main compartment, especially handy in steep terrain and during quick transitions.
• Internal storage for avalanche gear: Three separate compartments—one larger and two smaller—help you organize your shovel, probe, and other safety equipment.
• Ski attachments: Four side compression straps allow you to carry skis in an A-frame configuration or attach a splitboard. Diagonal ski carry is possible with a separate accessory.
• Dual ice axe loops: Two loops with 19 mm buckles and reflective elastic cords keep ice axes and other ice tools securely in place.
• Removable top lid: A floating top lid with a zippered pocket provides extra storage and can be removed to reduce weight.
• Y-shaped top strap: Provides extra compression and allows you to attach items such as a climbing rope to the top of the backpack when the top lid is not in use.
• Dyneema Stretch Mesh UL: Large elastic front pocket for items such as climbing skins, a shell jacket, or other gear that needs to be easily accessible.
• Narrow side pockets: Low-profile pockets for items such as snow anchors and other long, narrow alpine gear.
• Removable hip belt: Padded hip belt with an equipment loop and an ice climbing carabiner attachment on the right side, as well as a zippered pocket on the left side.
• Stable carrying system: Two anatomically shaped, removable aluminum stays help distribute the load and stabilize the backpack.
• Ergonomic shoulder straps: Reinforced with Hardline and Dyneema®, padded with closed-cell foam and spacer mesh for comfort and durability.
• Adjustable chest strap: Elastic chest strap with an integrated whistle.
• Daisy chains: Attachment points on both the shoulder straps and the outside of the backpack allow you to customize your pack for the needs of your trip.
• Lifting and pulling loops: Loops on the front and back for handling, pulling, or securing the backpack as needed.
• Water-repellent construction: The materials and construction provide good protection against snow and moisture, but the backpack is not guaranteed to be completely waterproof.

Three features that set the Crux 40 apart

Quick access to your gear

The large opening in the back panel is one of the Crux 40’s most important features. By laying the backpack face-down on the ground, you can open the main compartment from the back and access items such as extra layers, water, or climbing gear. You avoid having to dig through your entire load and can work more efficiently in steep and exposed terrain.

Built for Rugged Use

During technical ski mountaineering, the backpack is subjected to extreme stress. Ski edges, ice axes, rocks, and repeated handling take a heavy toll on the material. Dyneema® Woven Composite 5.0 gives the Crux 40 very high abrasion resistance relative to its weight, making it well-suited for demanding trips where durability is crucial.

A backpack for the entire trip

From the first ascent to the final descent, the Crux 40 can be adapted to the activity. Attach your skis to the backpack during steep sections, secure your ice axes in their holders, and keep your avalanche gear organized in the main compartment. With its expandable storage space, removable components, and stable carrying system, the backpack works equally well for long day trips and more gear-intensive alpine projects.

Technical Specifications – Crux 40

The weight listed is the manufacturer’s average weight for size Medium and may vary depending on size.

Size Guide – Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40

To choose the right size , base your selection on your back length, not your overall height. The right size is especially important for skiing and climbing, as the backpack needs to sit securely and close to your body.

How to Measure Your Back Length

1. Tilt your head slightly forward and locate the prominent cervical vertebra (C7) at the base of your neck.
2. Have someone measure with a soft tape measure from C7 down along the natural curve of your spine.
3. Place your hands on the upper edge of your hip bones with your thumbs pointing backward.
4. Measure down to the imaginary horizontal line between your thumbs. The measured distance is your back length.

Size Chart

Between two sizes? If your back length falls right on the border between two sizes, we generally recommend choosing the larger size. The measurements are rounded off from the manufacturer’s inch specifications.

See the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40 in action

For those who take their skiing beyond the usual trails

The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Crux 40 is designed for skiers and mountaineers who demand the most from their gear. The combination of durable Dyneema, well-thought-out storage, flexible ski and ice axe loops, and quick access via the back panel makes it a functional choice for technical summit tours, ski mountaineering, and demanding winter adventures.