Swift

Just got this pack in the coyote brown VX21, with the standard shoulder straps bc the vest wasn’t available to me. The pack is not exactly ULTRAlight but a typically sturdy and versatile lightweight SMD pack. If you know SMD, you know what to expect. One thing that did surprise me, though, is, compared to my SMD Fusion 65 (1st gen) this supposedly 40/45/49 liter pack is an absolute GIANT. I assumed the Swift would sit/fit in between my Fusion 65 and my 30’ish liter SMD DayBreaker (now Wy’East) but it’s definitely bigger than the Fusion. I’d be interested to learn how these sizes are measured (thought I knew but seeing these two next to each other has left me confused). That said, I’m not at all unhappy with the pack, just surprised with the size(ing).

Second thing I’ll say is there’s a lot of excess strapping. But I’ve actually put that to good use (I think) so instead of trimming it I’ve tinkered a bit: (1) I’ve redone the yellow paracord to run across the front pocket as well as sides, and (2) more importantly, and ingeniously if I do say so myself, I’ve run the shoulder straps through the extra attachment points otherwise reserved for the vest harness by running them diagonally across the back (through the hip belt attachment gap). This way the pack should sit closer to my back, like the vest (remains to be tested in the field but maybe try this hack if you, like me, wanted the vest but could only get hold of the standard yoke).

This pack was so comfortable. I bought with the standard type shoulder straps and they were fine. Hip pockets easy to negotiate and held quite a bit. 4 night, 3 day trip on the Three Capes trail at bottom of Tasmania (Australia). Did not have to carry tent nor sleeping mat but I know exactly where they'll fit for next trip.

I upgraded from the Flight 30UL. 20 lbs is MUCH comfier with the swift x. 25-30 lbs is still quite comfortable. I haven’t yet exceeded 30…

I have carried this pack now for three months, thru-hiking. The material has held strong, the fit is great, the adjustability is great. I am VERY GLAD to have NOT purchased a seam-sealed pack, the breathability long term is really important. 2L in each side pocket easy. I added bungee chord to the back. Tenor uke in the back mesh fits perfect. Hip belt pockets hold camera/garmin well. Comfortable/durable/affordable. Thank you Six Moons-

Such a great pack. We used these for up to 10 day stretches making a thru-hike in the wilderness around Yellowstone, and it’s shockingly comfortable with a full bear canister (or even 2!) packed inside. Lots of straps make it easy to dry wet gear or lash things to the outside, and snug it up when it’s less full.

I highly recommend buying packing pods to keep gear organized, because this pack doesn’t contain interior pockets. A dry bag is probably a good idea too if it’ll be rainy and you’re using down, but the pack is very weather resistant. We tried the vest harness and regular shoulder straps; both are great, depending on body type.

The Swift X is also a surprisingly good alpine/climbing pack. I used it working this year’s Valdez Ice Climbing Festival and it was great! Ice tools fit on it well, and it holds a rope securely on top (although you have to loop the top strap around the rope once before clipping it, or it will slide down the pack). When you remove gear to rack up, it’s easy to snug the pack against your back for smooth climbing.

It’s versatility and durability, combined with its light weight, replaced two other packs of mine. I’m looking forward to years more adventuring with it, and highly recommend it!