The Kipling Hikelite 32 is an excellent choice for hikers and outdoor enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, highly ventilated 32-litre backpack for all-day adventures. It offers superior carrying comfort and quick access to essential gear, thanks to its AirSpeed™ SUSPENSION system and thoughtful organizational features. While its bucket-style main compartment simplifies packing, users who prefer extensive internal compartmentalization might need to adapt their organizational approach.
AirSpeed™ SUSPENSION: A tensioned mesh backpanel keeps the pack weight off your back, providing highly ventilated carrying comfort and preventing sweat buildup during strenuous activity. It ensures maximum airflow, making long hikes more enjoyable.
32-Litre Capacity: Generous storage suitable for all-day hikes, allowing you to carry extra layers, food, water, and essential gear without feeling cramped.
Integrated Raincover: Comes with a built-in raincover made from bluesign® approved fabrics with DWR treatments free of PFAS, offering immediate protection against unexpected downpours. Stored in a zippered pocket at the base, it's always ready.
Hydration System Compatibility: Features an internal reservoir sleeve with a hose port in the backpanel and an Osprey Hydraclip, making it easy to integrate your preferred hydration reservoir (sold separately) for on-the-go hydration.
External Organization: Includes a front fabric shove-it pocket with stretch panels for quick-access items like a jacket or helmet, extra-tall stretch mesh side pockets for water bottles, and a zippered hipbelt pocket for small essentials.
Trekking Pole Attachment: Dual upper side compression straps with a trekking pole capture system and lower trekking pole loops allow for secure and easy attachment of poles when not in use.
Sustainable Materials: Constructed with bluesign® approved main body and bottom fabrics, which are GRS-certified 100% recycled, reflecting a commitment to environmentally responsible manufacturing. All DWR treatments are made without PFAS.
Exceptional ventilation provided by the AirSpeed™ SUSPENSION system.
Lightweight design contributes to comfortable all-day wear.
Integrated, PFAS-free DWR raincover ensures immediate weather protection.
Convenient external storage options for quick access to essentials.
Hydration reservoir compatible for easy on-trail hydration.
Made with environmentally friendly, recycled, and bluesign® approved materials.
Bucket-style main compartment may offer less internal organization for some users.
32L capacity might be considered excessive for very short or minimalist hikes.
Info needed: Specific weight of the pack is not provided.
No explicit mention of dedicated laptop sleeve, if needed for urban use.
Exceptional ventilation provided by the AirSpeed™ SUSPENSION system.
Lightweight design contributes to comfortable all-day wear.
Integrated, PFAS-free DWR raincover ensures immediate weather protection.
Convenient external storage options for quick access to essentials.
Hydration reservoir compatible for easy on-trail hydration.
Made with environmentally friendly, recycled, and bluesign® approved materials.
Bucket-style main compartment may offer less internal organization for some users.
32L capacity might be considered excessive for very short or minimalist hikes.
Info needed: Specific weight of the pack is not provided.
No explicit mention of dedicated laptop sleeve, if needed for urban use.
The Kipling Hikelite 32 excels in providing comfort and utility for day hikes and longer excursions. The AirSpeed™ SUSPENSION is a standout feature, creating a constant airflow between your back and the pack, significantly reducing sweat and discomfort on warm days or during strenuous climbs. For instance, during a steep ascent, you'll notice how the tensioned mesh keeps the pack from clinging, allowing your back to breathe.
The 32-litre capacity is ideal for carrying everything you need for a full day on the trail, from extra layers and a packed lunch to a first-aid kit and navigation tools. The front fabric shove-it pocket is perfect for quickly stashing a rain jacket or a pair of gloves as conditions change, while the stretch mesh side pockets securely hold larger water bottles or even a lightweight tripod. The external access zip pocket with a key clip on the hipbelt ensures your small valuables and keys are always within reach without needing to take off the pack.
When unexpected weather hits, the integrated raincover can be deployed in seconds, offering full protection for your gear. Its bluesign® approved, PFAS-free DWR fabric also aligns with eco-conscious outdoor practices. The trekking pole attachment points are intuitive, allowing you to quickly stow your poles when scrambling or not needed, enhancing safety and convenience. For hydration, the internal reservoir sleeve and hose port make it simple to stay hydrated throughout your hike.
Adjust Shoulder Straps: Loosen all straps, put on the pack, then pull the shoulder straps down and back to snug the pack comfortably against your shoulders.
Fasten Hipbelt: Position the padded hipbelt over your hip bones and tighten until snug. The hipbelt should bear most of the pack's weight.
Adjust Sternum Strap: Fasten the sternum strap across your chest and adjust its height and tension for comfort. This helps stabilize the pack and prevents shoulder straps from slipping.
Load Compression: Use the dual upper and lower compression straps to cinch down your load, bringing the weight closer to your body and preventing items from shifting.
Hydration Reservoir (Optional): Insert your hydration reservoir into the internal sleeve, feed the hose through the designated port, and secure it to the shoulder strap with the Osprey Hydraclip.
Hydration Reservoirs: Compatible with most standard hydration reservoirs up to 3 litres (reservoir not included).
Trekking Poles: Designed to securely carry most standard trekking poles.
Cleaning: Hand wash your pack using a mild soap (like diluted dish soap) and cool water. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub dirty areas. Rinse thoroughly and hang upside down in a well-ventilated area to air dry completely. Do not machine wash, tumble dry, bleach, or iron.
Raincover Care: After use, ensure the raincover is clean and completely dry before storing it back in its pocket to prevent mildew.
Storage: Store your backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Avoid prolonged exposure to extreme temperatures.
DWR Maintenance: The PFAS-free DWR treatment can be revitalized over time with a suitable spray-on DWR product, following the product's instructions.