• Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack - Original Model
  • Pair of Shadowlight Ultralight Backpacks highlighting the mesh pockets and zipper details
  • Rear view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack featuring a mesh storage pocket
  • Adventurer in front of a mountain vista wearing the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack
  • Close-up of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack in blue and black color scheme
  • Side view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack in the arctic & black color
  • Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack showcasing its shoulder strap harness system & removable back panel
  • Rear angle of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack showing adjustable straps
  • Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack - Original Model
  • Sunset scene with a traveler carrying the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack
  • The Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack featuring a blue and black color scheme & 60L capacity
  • Detailed view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack's blue fabric and adjustable straps
  • Hiker wearing the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack with a mountainous backdrop
  • Side profile of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack highlighting its spacious hip belt pockets
  • Close-up of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack's hip belt pocket with attached key clip
  • Close view of Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack shoulder straps with a contrasting white logo detail
  • Back padding feature on the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack for added comfort
  • Detail of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack's side cinch pocket for secure storage
  • Back view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack in blue with ergonomic straps
  • Side view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack with a focus on side pockets & hip belt
  • Detailed view of Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack capacity rating below mesh pockets
  • Close-up of the roll top & label on top of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack
  • Individual trekking up a hill with the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack
  • Camper standing by a fire with the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack
  • Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack with visible logo on the pack for brand identification
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Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack - Original Model

Ultralight, Comfortable, & Feature-Rich

$199.97
Membership Pricing: $179.97
  • weighs under 2 lbs
  • comfortable full-framed suspension system
  • proven for thru hikes & long distance backpacking
Capacity - Torso Size
Color
Hip Belt Size
Description

The Shadowlight™ Ultralight Backpack is built to give you the benefits of ultralight gear without sacrificing comfort or usability. Weighing under 2 pounds with a full frame and supportive suspension system, it carries weight efficiently while maintaining the structure and features most backpackers rely on. Whether you're heading out for a weekend trip or a long-distance hike, it delivers a balance of weight savings and real-world performance.

What sets it apart is its practicality on the trail. With full-length zipper access, multiple external storage options, and a comfortable carry system, it removes the common frustrations of ultralight packs. It’s designed to help you move lighter, stay organized, and go further—without giving up the comfort you need for long days in the backcountry.
Specs
  • Sizes: 45L, 60L (includes external pockets, but excludes extra space from the roll top)
  • Volume: 45L - (35L main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L)
    60L - (50L Main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L, Stretch mesh is bonus as well)
  • Fabrics: 100D Robic Nylon w/ 200D Spectra Ripstop, 210D Robic Nylon w/ 400D Spectra Ripstop
  • Water Resistance: WP Rating 1500 mm HH
    Internal Frame: 24" (vertical) Aluminum Alloy
  • Zippers: YKK
  • Hardware: Duraflex plastic hardware
  • Fits up to: 40" Pant Waist
  • Max Recommended Carry Weight: 35 lbs
  • Hydration Compatible: This pack can be used with most water bladders if desired
  • Main Dimensions: 45L: 24" x 11" x 6.5"
    60L: 24" x 11" x 7.5"
  • Hip Belt Dimensions (not including webbing):
    S - 28.5” length, pockets 5.5" x 2.5”
    M - 31” length, pockets 6.5" x 2.5”
    L - 34” length, pockets 6.5" x 2.5”
  • Warranty: Outdoor Vitals Performance Promise
Key Features

Roll-top enclosure, with front center zip access

Top cinch strap to further secure roll-top or to strap on pads, tents, etc.

Self compressing bottom curve to keep your load higher & closer to your back

Front - 2 stretch fabric pockets to hold extra gear

Hip Belt - 2 hip belt zippered pockets with key clip

Sides - 2 Water bottle pockets, with a pocket above to hold even more gear

Removable hip belt

Removable aluminum frame (We recommend you only remove the frame if you intend to go frameless long-term, it is very difficult to put back in place properly)

Removable back pad that also doubles as a sit pad

Reinforced fabric on underside of pack & pockets

What Makes The Shadowlight More Comfortable Than Other Options?

Is This Durable Enough For Thru Hikes?

Why The Full-Length Zipper Matters

What Makes The Shadowlight More Comfortable Than Other Options?

The Shadowlight uses a full frame, padded back panel, load lifters, and wide hip belt to transfer weight efficiently to your hips—allowing you to carry 30–35+ lbs comfortably.

The shoulder straps, hip belt, & removable back panel were all crafted to fit anatomically, making the Shadowlight Backpack feel more like an extension of your body. Unlike frameless ultralight packs, it maintains structure and support for long days on the trail.

What Makes The Shadowlight More Comfortable Than Other Options?

The Shadowlight uses a full frame, padded back panel, load lifters, and wide hip belt to transfer weight efficiently to your hips—allowing you to carry 30–35+ lbs comfortably.

The shoulder straps, hip belt, & removable back panel were all crafted to fit anatomically, making the Shadowlight Backpack feel more like an extension of your body. Unlike frameless ultralight packs, it maintains structure and support for long days on the trail.

Is This Durable Enough For Thru Hikes?

The Shadowlight Carbon 60 is capable of extended use across thousands of trail miles. The fabric construction has already been proven successfully on many thru hikes.

Spectra is 5x stronger than steel by weight, and UltraStretch Mesh is the toughest UL mesh available (stronger than many Nylon fabrics.)

Is This Durable Enough For Thru Hikes?

Detail of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack's side cinch pocket for secure storage

The Shadowlight Carbon 60 is capable of extended use across thousands of trail miles. The fabric construction has already been proven successfully on many thru hikes.

Spectra is 5x stronger than steel by weight, and UltraStretch Mesh is the toughest UL mesh available (stronger than many Nylon fabrics.)

Why The Full-Length Zipper Matters

The full-length zipper allows you to access gear anywhere in your pack without unpacking from the top—saving time and frustration on the trail.

Why The Full-Length Zipper Matters

Rear view of the Shadowlight Ultralight Backpack featuring a mesh storage pocket

The full-length zipper allows you to access gear anywhere in your pack without unpacking from the top—saving time and frustration on the trail.

Key Features

Ultralight and Ultra Comfortable

Coming in at under 2 lbs (including a durable 24 in. frame & wide hip belt,) it comfortably carries up to 35+ lbs. The shoulder straps, hip belt, & removable back panel were all crafted to fit anatomically, making the Shadowlight Backpack feel more like an extension of your body.

Ultralight With Extra Organization and Access

The Shadowlight Backpack is equipped with side pockets, large hip belt pockets, stretch-mesh pockets, & a full length main panel entry zipper to keep you organized on the trail while keeping your pack weight under 2 lbs. The adjustable roll-top gives you additional access & customizable space for packing.

Ultralight and Ultra Comfortable

Coming in at under 2 lbs (including a durable 24 in. frame & wide hip belt,) it comfortably carries up to 35+ lbs. The shoulder straps, hip belt, & removable back panel were all crafted to fit anatomically, making the Shadowlight Backpack feel more like an extension of your body.

Ultralight With Extra Organization and Access

The Shadowlight Backpack is equipped with side pockets, large hip belt pockets, stretch-mesh pockets, & a full length main panel entry zipper to keep you organized on the trail while keeping your pack weight under 2 lbs. The adjustable roll-top gives you additional access & customizable space for packing.

High Strength Ultralight Fabric

We used our own special Spectra / Robic Ripstop fabric, which gives you the benefits of both a high tenacity nylon & UHMWPE fibers! Enjoy the strength and durability of a much heavier fabric, but now in an ultralight package.

Easier Gear Access

The full-length zipper allows you to access gear anywhere in your pack without unpacking from the top—saving time and frustration on the trail.

High Strength Ultralight Fabric

We used our own special Spectra / Robic Ripstop fabric, which gives you the benefits of both a high tenacity nylon & UHMWPE fibers! Enjoy the strength and durability of a much heavier fabric, but now in an ultralight package.

Easier Gear Access

The full-length zipper allows you to access gear anywhere in your pack without unpacking from the top—saving time and frustration on the trail.

Ideal For

  • ultralight backpackers
  • thru hikers
  • easier access to gear
  • anyone looking for more comfort and a lighter pack

Testimonials

OV Media Mentions

Design Story

Frequently Asked Questions

Product, Shipping, & Warranty Info

Full Description

 

The ShadowLight™ Ultralight backpack brings a new meaning to "ultralight backpacking". No longer do you have to sacrifice everything to get below a 2 lb pack weight!

Shadowlight- named for its ultralight weight and how well it rides on your back. Due to its geometry and weight, it feels like an extension of your body.

  • Ultralight and Ultra Comfortable: Coming in at under 2 lbs (including a durable 24 in. frame & wide hip belt,) it comfortably carries up to 35+ lbs. The shoulder straps, hip belt, & removable back panel were all crafted to fit anatomically, making the Shadowlight Backpack feel more like an extension of your body.
  • Ultralight With Extra Organization and Access: The Shadowlight Backpack is equipped with side pockets, large hip belt pockets, stretch-mesh pockets, & a full length main panel entry zipper to keep you organized on the trail while keeping your pack weight under 2 lbs. The adjustable roll-top gives you additional access & customizable space for packing.
  • High Strength Ultralight Fabric: We used our own special Spectra / Robic Ripstop fabric, which gives you the benefits of both a high tenacity nylon & UHMWPE fibers! Enjoy the strength and durability of a much heavier fabric, but now in an ultralight package.

Embrace a better kind of ultralight exploration that doesn't sacrifice comfort & organization with the Shadowlight Backpack.

 

Specs:

  • Weight: 
    • 45L: 1 lb 14.5 oz
    • 60L: 1 lb 15.5 oz
  • Sizes: 45L, 60L (includes external pockets, but excludes extra space from the roll top)
  • Volume: 45L - (35L main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L)
    60L - (50L Main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L, Stretch mesh is bonus as well)
  • Fabrics: 100D Robic Nylon w/ 200D Spectra Ripstop, 210D Robic Nylon w/ 400D Spectra Ripstop
  • Water Resistance: WP Rating 1500 mm HH
    Internal Frame: 24" (vertical) Aluminum Alloy
  • Zippers: YKK
  • Hardware: Duraflex plastic hardware
  • Fits up to: 40" Pant Waist
  • Max Recommended Carry Weight: 35 lbs
  • Hydration Compatible: This pack can be used with most water bladders if desired
  • Main Dimensions: 45L: 24" x 11" x 6.5"
    60L: 24" x 11" x 7.5"
  • Hip Belt Dimensions (not including webbing):
    S - 28.5” length, pockets 5.5" x 2.5”
    M - 31” length, pockets 6.5" x 2.5”
    L - 34” length, pockets 6.5" x 2.5”
  • Warranty: Outdoor Vitals Performance Promise

 

Features:

  • Roll-top enclosure, with front center zip access
  • Top cinch strap to further secure roll-top or to strap on pads, tents, etc.
  • Self compressing bottom curve to keep your load higher & closer to your back
  • Front - 2 stretch fabric pockets to hold extra gear
  • Hip Belt - 2 hip belt zippered pockets with key clip
  • Sides - 2 Water bottle pockets, with a pocket above to hold even more gear
  • Removable hip belt
  • Removable aluminum frame (We recommend you only remove the frame if you intend to go frameless long-term, it is very difficult to put back in place properly)
  • Removable back pad that also doubles as a sit pad
  • Reinforced fabric on underside of pack & pockets

 
Product Care

Spray off both the outside and inside of your backpack frequently. 

To further prevent wear and tear, try to keep your backpack out of the dirt by hanging your backpack up where possible. 

If you really feel the need to get soap involved, get a tote or fill up your tub with water, and put just a little bit of that NikWax Tech Wash we mentioned before in there.

Soak your backpack in that mixture, scrub it a little bit, and the make sure it gets completely rinsed off. 

Once again, spraying off and cleaning your backpack is something that should be done frequently!

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