Considering SWD Long Haul in Ultra400x, please share experience with pack or 400x

Ryan,

The SWD Long Haul is a great pack — for me, it hits the sweet spot for durability, function, features, and overall weight. Mine has Ultra 100 and 200 (400 on the side pockets) and that has proven plenty durable in my mostly Sierra adventures over the last 3 years.  I’m pretty careful with my gear and don’t do much canyon hiking where abrasion is a real concern.

It appears from your post that you might be disappointed if you don’t go with the 400, so I think that is your answer. No one likes that feeling of regret. For me, it’s overkill, but if you want the peace of mind why not go for it?

That’s a really great answer. Yeah I’m thinking the 400x only adds 2-3 ounces maybe

I haven’t had my Wolverine (400x)  long enough to make a serious review. I like the quality and I like the fit. Very good folks to work with. I placed an order just to get on the waiting list. I asked them to notify me before doing the build, which they may do anyway. They emailed me a final build sheet to approve. You have time to make changes, pick a different pack even. I don’t know their refund policy.

I also have a SWD Bow Bag made from 200x.

I prefer the feel and the compressibility of the 200. That may change as the fabric gets broken in. It’s not a deal breaker as the 400 gets better reviews for durability. It feels more durable. It may be overkill, but I have no regrets.

I feel white has a slight advantage for visibility. It’s easier to see inside and the straps stand out. ( You’ll understand as your eyes get older). Perhaps a little too bright until it gets a patina. A little dirt don’t hurt.

Ryan, what advantage do you anticipate that the Long Haul will have over the Unaweep? I ask because I’ve been interested in both of these packs.

It’s a great question. Off the jump, the SWD will be 1-1.5 lbs lighter. I absolutely love the Unaweep. Only used it a few times. But the use cases were so specific and I actually couldn’t have done the trips without it. For example, someone I was hiking with overheated. I strapped their bag to my Unaweep and hiked out with them. Such a comfortable load even then. Also a 70 lb carry another trip.

the SWD I anticipate being more reasonable and not so overly spacious regarding liters which I want. And again, the weight savings. For 2 night trip in Eastern Sierra, my Unaweep just felt so overkill despite being really nice still.

A little dirt don’t hurt! Thanks for sharing. A good goal for me to use the 400x enough that is breaks in and becomes softer. I’m excited. Went with 400x white SWD LH but in a custom 40L. What to force myself to me more intentional with gear choice. Think it’ll be easy though given the external pockets provide so much forgiveness.

I have the rugged long haul with 400x and it has held up incredibly well. SWD makes great comfortable packs and I highly suggest it, especially for off trail and desert backpacking.

thank you. Do you have a 40L or 50L