Weight
822 g
Mountainsmith Zerk 40 – 2024
The latest version of the well-designed ultralight backpack, Mountainsmith Zerk 40, introduces new colors and a light redesign. The development of this backpack focused on durability, low weight, and quick access to essential gear throughout the day.
What is the product suitable for?
Lightweight, comfortable, and durable backpack for multi-day hikes and long-distance trails.
Specification
The Zerk 40—this reliable companion for multi-day hikes to long-distance thru-hikes—was born in the field under the strict supervision of elite thru-hiker Thomas Gathman, known as ‘The Real Hiking Viking‘. Thomas has hiked over 27 thousands kilometers on American trails.
The 2024 edition marks the fifth upgraded version of the backpack. In addition to a sleek design, this latest version features a double daisy chain on the back panel, dual compression straps with buckles on the sides, and double ice axe attachments. Whether you're tackling multi-day hikes or extended thru-hikes, this pack adapts to the journey. How far you can go with its volume and load capacity depends entirely on you and how frequently you can resupply along the trail.
The manufacturer advises not to exceed a maximum load of 13,6 kg, making this pack ideal for ultralight hikers who keep their base weight around 6 kg.
You don’t have to be a bearded Viking for this backpack to fit—it is also well-suited for women. The Zerk 40 comes in one size, accommodating hikers with a torso length of 40,5–48,2 cm and a waist circumference of 71–122 cm.
The main compartment offers a capacity of 32–40 liters, depending on how tight you cinch the side compression straps or whether you fill it to the top with its roll-top closure. External pockets add approximately 6 liters of additional storage. The total weight of the backpack is 822 grams, which can be reduced to 765 grams by removing the hip belt and elastic cords.
Features
The backpack is designed in a fast-packing style, perfect for those who enjoy covering long distances efficiently. Like a running vest, it features wide and comfortable shoulder straps. The back panel consists of a breathable 1,5 cm foam insert for added comfort.
The main compartment is a long tunnel with a roll-top closure, allowing for an additional 20 cm of expansion thanks to an extended collar. A compression strap runs across the top for securing the load.
The Zerk 40 features a total of 9 external pockets, providing easy access to essential gear throughout the day and minimizing the need for frequent stops.
Each shoulder strap includes two stretch mesh pockets—a large one with an elastic cinch cord and a smaller one, ideal for carrying 500ml water bottles, a phone, wallet, snacks, and other small essentials.
The side pockets are spacious enough to fit two 1-liter water bottles. Additionally, each side pocket has an extra stretch mesh pocket, perfect for storing a trowel, tissues, or trash.
A large stretch mesh pocket on the front panel offers convenient storage for a rain jacket, wet tent fly, Tyvek groundsheet, tent stakes, and other gear.
The backpack does not have a padded hip belt but features a simple strap with a buckle that serves primarily for stability rather than weight transfer. This strap can be removed if not needed.
The backpack is fully compatible with hydration bladders.
Materials
The 2024 version retains the same materials as the previous model. The main body of the backpack is constructed from 210D EXTREEMA Recycled Nylon Ripstop (UHMPE), ensuring high durability and tear resistance. The mesh pockets are made from Nylon 100D x Span 840D stretch mesh, providing flexibility and breathability. For shoulder strap padding, the backpack uses proven EVA foam, offering comfort and load distribution.
While the backpack is not fully waterproof, it features a high-quality DWR coating, allowing it to withstand light rain without soaking through.
- Weight without accessories (cords and additional straps): 765 grams
- Weight with accessories (cords and additional straps): 822 grams
Product data
Mountainsmith Zerk 40 – 2024
Usage
ColorBlack
Weight822 g
value-undefined.options.option-use.name
SexUnisex
Maximum load capacity13,6 kg
value-undefined.options.option-material.name
Material210D Extreema recycled nylon ripstop (UHMWPE), 100D nylon X-Span with 840D stretch mesh, Recycled 210D nylon SD Oxford
value-undefined.options.option-dimensions.name
Internal volume40 l
External volume6 l
dimension55×33×20 cm
SizeOne size
Volume46 l
Other
ColorBlack, Blue, Gray
ManufacturerMountainsmith
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If you are unsure about which size or color to choose, or if you have any other questions, feel free to contact us via email or directly in the online chat. We are here for you.
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