Gear Review: Windrider 70 Backpack by Hyperlite Mountain Gear
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 70 Backpack is a high-capacity ultralight pack featuring Hyperlite’s new material. With 70 liters of storage, waterproof construction, and iconic mesh pockets, it’s built for thru-hikes and big expeditions.
When it comes to ultralight backpacking, Hyperlite Mountain Gear has long been at the front of the pack. Their Windrider series is already legendary, and with the Windrider 70 Backpack, they’ve brought all the proven features of their smaller models into a large-capacity pack built for extended trips. What makes this version even more exciting is the use of Hyperlite’s newest material, designed for improved strength and durability while maintaining the ultralight performance they’re known for.
Whether you’re tackling thru-hikes, multi-week expeditions, or need the extra volume for bulky gear, the Windrider 70 delivers an impressive balance of weight savings, comfort, and carrying capacity.
| Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 70 Specifications | |
|---|---|
| Main Pack Volume | 70L (4270 cu in) |
| External Storage | 16L (mesh pockets) |
| Total Volume | 86L |
| Material | Dyneema® Woven Composite 3.9, Large Hole Mesh |
| Weight | 34.8 oz | 986 g |
| Load Capacity | Up to 60 lbs (27 kg) |
| Closure | Roll-top with side compression straps |
| Frame Type | Internal aluminum stays |
| Torso Sizes | Small / Medium / Large |
| Hip Belt | Integrated, padded, with dual zippered pockets |
| Color | White and Black |
Standout Features
New Material Innovation
Hyperlite has introduced a fresh evolution of their fabric tech in this pack, offering a perfect blend of abrasion resistance, waterproofing, and reduced weight. It maintains the clean look of classic Hyperlite packs while being tougher against sharp rocks, bushwhacks, and heavy use.
70L Capacity Without the Bulk
A full 70 liters of volume makes this one of the largest packs Hyperlite has ever offered. Unlike many high-capacity packs, the Windrider 70 stays sleek and minimalist, with just enough structure to handle big loads while remaining agile on the trail.
Signature Windrider Mesh Pockets
The oversized front and side mesh pockets are game-changers. Perfect for wet gear, water bottles, or quick-access layers, these durable stretch pockets have made the Windrider a thru-hiker favorite for years.
Comfortable Ultralight Carry
The pack features a removable aluminum stay system and well-padded hip belt to distribute weight effectively, even when loaded with food and gear for a week or more. At just over 2.5 pounds, it’s incredibly light for its size.
Streamlined Design
No unnecessary frills here; just waterproof roll-top closure, external attachment points, and a clean profile. Hyperlite’s design ethos ensures you’re carrying only what you need and nothing more.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a quick breakdown:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Ultralight for a 70L pack | Pricey compared to traditional packs |
| Made with Hyperlite’s new, more durable material | Minimalist design may lack extra features some hikers want |
| Waterproof construction with roll-top closure | Large size could feel too big for weekend trips |
| Huge mesh pockets for organization | White color shows dirt quickly |
| Comfortable carry system with load stays | Limited external pockets beyond mesh |
Packing It Out
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Windrider 70 Backpack is a dream come true for ultralight backpackers who need serious carrying capacity. It takes everything hikers love about the Windrider series- lightweight performance, waterproof construction, and those giant mesh pockets -and scales it up for big-mile, big-capacity adventures.
If you’re planning a thru-hike, a long alpine trip, or simply need a pack that can handle hauling gear for multiple people, this pack delivers. Yes, it’s an investment, but if you want one of the lightest, strongest, and most reliable 70L backpacks on the market, the Windrider 70 is hard to beat.
My review is independent of the supplier and reflects my own opinions. Some of the links on this page are affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission if purchases are made through those links at no additional cost to you.
