Best for thru-trampers who want extra capacity

Plusses: Large capacity, lots of pockets, removable harness, durable fabrics. 
Minuses: Basic hip belt pockets, shoulder straps could be wider. 

1170g / 52 litres

Features: Within Macpac’s lightweight range, this single-compartment pack has the greatest capacity and the lightest harness, the HeliumAir. It’s hydration compatible and has an extendable and removable lid as well as roll-top closure with a long cinch strap. The frame is removable for smaller loads and weight savings. There are three external stretch pockets for carrying overflow, poles or wet gear, and dual ice tool attachment points. 

Fit: It’s available in two sizes, and with the hip belt able to be interchanged in store, this pack should fit everyone. I’m 1.76m and the S2 fitted well; taller people would require the S3. There is a women’s version called the Harper (50L) which comes in Macpac’s W1 and W2 back lengths. 

Comfort: I used this pack with a three- to four-day load on board and found the harness supportive, stable and comfortable. But for a fastpacking style pack, the shoulder straps might provide more stability if they were less thick and slightly wider, given it’s a men’s specific fit. The waist belt conforms well to the hips thanks to its minimal padding and flexibility. Breathable mesh and airflow allowance throughout the harness and back panel help keep clothing dry. The recommended load is up to 16kg; beyond this would be uncomfortable due to the torsional flex of the harness, as well as stressing the minimal design.

In use: Packing was easy thanks to the slightly tapered rectangular shape. I liked the removable and extendable lid, which allows the pack to be customised to suit weekend trips or expanded for, say, resupplying on a thru-hike. The combination of 210 and 630 denier fabrics provide the toughness for this. 

The roomy external stretch pockets were great for quickly stuffing a mid-layer or jacket into. The hip belt has pockets on each side, but they are too small to be useful for anything larger than an energy bar. I would prefer these to be bigger and able to be securely shut. There’s a removable phone/glasses pocket on one shoulder strap. 

Value: The base price is expensive, but if you join the Macpac Club it’s less so and, as such, is great value for the size, weight and features. 

Verdict: The Hesper is at the top end of the capacity range for fastpacking-style packs, and with that size comes added versatility, allowing it to cater to thru-trampers and long-trail aspirants.