Kathmandu utilises the latest in fabric innovation for their award-winning lightweight XT Series 40l pack, which boasts well-considered features and versatility.  

Kathmandu’s 2026 XT Series is its most advanced hiking package. It incorporates performance-oriented design and the latest in fabric tech for a clothing layering system and pack that, combined, weigh less than 5kg. The mainstay of the series is the award-winning 40l roll-top pack, which ISPO Award judges have described as “exceptionally versatile”.  

The XT Series pack weighs just 1100g, has an impressive feature set and sufficient capacity for ultralight thru-hiking, fastpacking or short tramps. Equally notable is this pack’s Aluula composite fabric. Also an ISPO award winner, this fabric is at the forefront of innovation in material technology owing to its sustainable adhesive-free, mono-polymer construction, which makes it light, extremely strong and resistant to delamination.      

The XT pack is a great example of a mid-capacity pack with running vest-style harness features and pocket accessibility. The wide, pliable shoulder straps and hip belt are stable and comfortable, and six pockets can be accessed without removing the pack. Its lauded versatility relates to its ability to be stripped down to an 850g base weight.

We were impressed by this pack’s technical fabrics and functional, adaptable design, which provide what most hikers require without being weighed down by excessive bells and whistles.

Key features we like

Stable and efficient vest-style harness

The form-hugging harness has a broad and pliable hip belt and flared shoulder straps with dual sternum straps and pockets. These distribute weight to minimise pressure points and stabilise the pack. The minimal padding and foamless back panel conform to your body, dry quickly and breathe well, but careful packing is required to prevent contents from digging into your back.

Aluula composite fabric

The pack’s body and base are made with mono-polymer (single substance) Aluula Graflyte and Durlyte. These ultra-high molecular-weight polyethylene (UHMWPE) fabrics are molecularly bonded, making them less prone to delamination. They’re exceptionally durable for their weight, waterproof, UV-resistant, fast drying and fully recyclable. And in case you do puncture the fabric, it can be repaired simply with heat and an included polyethylene patch.

Access food and stash gear on the go

The shoulder straps have two generous mesh pockets (one drop-in, one zipped) for sunglasses and devices, while the hip belt has two large pockets with capacity for a few energy bars. There’s a large mesh overflow pocket on the pack body, and accessory pockets on each side have side-entry for access on-the-go. 

Modular design for adaptability 

For light loads or summit missions, the hip belt and aluminium frame-stay can be removed, bringing pack weight down to 850g. The wide-opening roll-top closure makes packing easy and works securely whether the pack is maxed out or half empty. Reconfigurable compression cords secure trekking or tent poles and lock the load down.  

Wilderness verdict 

Industry-leading materials and a well-considered practical design earn the XT Series pack a thumbs up. It’s well tuned for fast packing, ultralight thru-hiking and weekender. Although the Aluula fabric is super tough, this pack is most suited to on-track adventures due to the less-sturdy overflow sleeve and compression cords.    

Trail Specs

XT Series Pack

Price $499.98

Weight 1100g

Size S/M, M/L

Capacity 40l

Fabric UHMWPE Aluula Graflyte 125gsm (body) and Aluula Durlyte 155gsm (base). Pockets: 93% recycled nylon, 7% UHMWPE