Drop 40L Backpack Designed by Dan Durston

When you pack smarter, you can go further, and experience more. That’s the idea behind the Drop 40L: a versatile, durable, and innovative pack designed by experienced thru-hiker Dan Durston. Meant to push the boundaries of performance, the Drop 40L starts with a lightweight and removable inverted U frame, adds cutting-edge custom materials, and layers on an innovative pocket arrangement for quick access to gear on the go. Weighing just 32 ounces, the pack sets a new standard for adventure—whether you’re on a week-long trek through the mountains or a casual stint in the backcountry.

Lightweight backpacks typically rely on dual vertical bars for support. While this design can provide sufficient vertical support, it lacks horizontal structure. The Drop 40L features a 3-ounce aluminum inverted U frame. This frame—along with the load lifters—provides both vertical and horizontal support, and connects directly to the hipbelt wings for solid load transfer. And with the wide, adjustable shoulder straps and foam back pad cushion, you’ll feel fully supported wherever you roam. What’s more, the pack is made using a water-resistant blend of VX21 and VX07 X-Ply fabric for protection against the elements. 

Nearly every aspect of the Drop 40L is designed for rapid access, so you can spend less time digging for gear and more time enjoying the hike. One of its key innovations is the QuickPocket, which offers immediate access to gear, big or small. Because of the QuickPocket’s increased depth, you’ll have no trouble securely storing large items, like trekking poles, a fuel bottle, a second water bottle, and anything else you might want at the ready. On the outside of the QuickPocket, there’s an additional storage compartment for extra security. This sealed pocket can also be accessed one-handed by using the vertical zipper.

The Drop 40L’s front pocket is a game-changer, too. Instead of a traditional mesh pocket (which is prone to damage and often the first source of repair on many bags), the Drop 40L employs a daisy-chain and zipper pocket connected by a shock cord. Large items can be stashed quickly behind the pocket, while smaller items can be stored inside for better security than a mesh pocket.

Canadian-based thru-hiker Dan Durston hiked the Pacific Crest Trail in 2014 and, with his wife, recently completed the first yo-yo thru-hike (1,500 miles) of the Great Divide Trail in the Canadian Rockies. When he’s not on the move, he blogs at IntoCascadia.com, provides gear feedback for small brands, and reviews gear for Backpacking Light. He’s a well-known member of r/Ultralight, Backpacking Light forums, and many other ultralight hiking communities.