Best Sweetwater UL 43L Rucksack Backpacking Rucksacks

Jump to: Our Verdict / Features / Specifications

A capable mid-volume pack with a stable carry, smart storage, and standout comfort for long trail days.

Big Agnes says: 

SET THE PACE on your next adventure with the Sweetwater UL. Streamlined to prioritize a perfect fit, featuring a running-vest-style harness that securely hugs your chest, back, and shoulders. Integrated frame design provides structure without unnecessary weight, while an ultralight recycled nylon outer created from discarded fishing nets ensures sustainable durability. Choose the Sweetwater UL when you need ultra-lightweight, comfort and durability.

Our Verdict

The Sweetwater UL 43L from Big Agnes stands out with its broad, vest-style shoulder straps—wide enough to distribute weight across the chest without digging in, and large enough to accommodate generously sized pockets for snacks, bottles, or a phone. At 1,110g for the medium, it’s not the lightest in its class, but the integrated frame and sculpted back panel make up for it in comfort and support. I found the foam panel breathable and shaped enough to sit well under load. The main storage is simple and effective, with quick-access mesh and a neat expanding collar. I could live without the dangling cord on the lid, but it’s a minor point. More of a shame is the absence of hip belt pockets—I’d expect them on a pack of this capacity.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• The Load Wrangler Plus includes all the features of the Load Wrangler, plus load lifters and shoulder straps
  that attach directly to keyed framesheet slots for for efficient weight transfer and simple torso length adjustment.
• The Open Range hip belt passes behind the framesheet and pulls it inwards for integrated load transfer. Articulated design securely wraps the hips, and multiple adjustability points customize a perfect fit.
• Internal water reservoir sleeve fits up to 3L reservoir, with routing port and hose clip for hands-free hydration.
• Removable rain cover packs away small, and is made using ultralight, PFAS-free recycled materials
• ALL GENDER FIT Built to fit a wide range of torso lengths. Wide, running vest-inspired shoulder straps disperse load and fit comfortably on a variety of body types. Anatomically curved frame with body mapped foam padded back panel provide support and comfort. Ultralight, articulated hip belt securely wraps on hips and adjusts for a custom fit.
• Broad, running-vest-style shoulder harness connects directly to lumbar to keep your load secure
• Proprietary integrated frame system stabilizes load and transfers weight from the shoulder straps directly into
  the frame sheet, and down to the hip belt
• Key slots in injection-molded frame sheet for adjusting shoulder straps to precise torso-length
• Easily adjustable load lifter straps help balance upper pack weight for optimal stability
• Open Range Hip Belt passes behind the framesheet and securely wraps hips for integrated load transfer off the shoulders
• Load Wrangler Plus system adjusts to keep your gear compressed and comfortable
• Oversized stretch-mesh quick stash pockets on front, side, and on chest straps for easy drop-in storage
• Top-loading main compartment with expanding spindrift collar for when you’re fully loaded, and side compression cords for packing light

Specifications

• All-Gender Small Weight: 1101g (excluding rain cover)
• Volume: 38L
• Dimensions: 71 x 30 x 24cm
• Top Opening: 30cm
• Hip Belt Min / Max: 64 – 117cm
• Torso Length: 38-43cm

• All-Gender Medium Weight: 1110g (excluding rain cover)
• Volume: 43L
• Dimensions: 71 x 30 x 24cm
• Top Opening: 30cm
• Hip Belt Min / Max: 71 – 122cm
• Torso Length: 46-51cm

• All-Gender Large Weight: 1247g (excluding rain cover)
• Volume: 44L
• Dimensions: 71 x 30 x 24cm
• Top Opening: 30cm
• Hip Belt Min / Max: 79 – 130cm
• Torso Length: 46-56cm

Material & Construction

• Shell: Recycled ultralight regen™ ocean robic nylon ripstop made from reclaimed fishing nets
• Rain Cover: Recycled nylon ripstop with a waterproof, tear-resistant coating
• Lining: Silicone-treated, recycled ultralight nylon ripstop with waterproof UTS coating
• All materials and finishes are PFAS-free compliant
• Frame: Injection-molded, anatomically curved framesheet with adjustment for torso length

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Rucksack
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Rucksack
• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear