Mountainsmith Zerk 40 Backpack

Product detailed description

It seems that lightness, speed, and efficiency are becoming increasingly common terms when it comes to hiking in the mountains. After all, who wouldn’t want to move faster, carry less weight, and cover their daily route in half the time...

You can find lighter backpacks than the Zerk 40 on the market, but you always have to pay a price for low weight. Such backpacks are quite stripped down, often lacking a hip belt to distribute the weight, and they can’t handle more than 10 kg of total load. The line between lightness and comfort is thus narrowing considerably.

The now-iconic American brand Mountainsmith has apparently found the optimal balance of weight, comfort, and durability for the entire package in the development of the Zerk. The Zerk 40 was developed in collaboration with the well-known American thru-hiker Tom "The Real Hiking Viking" Gathman. The backpack was designed primarily for his attempt at the FKT (Fastest Known Time) on the Colorado Trail. Before this model was released, the backpack was tested over more than 5,000 miles (Wind River High Route, Colorado Trail, Tetons, and more...)

In 2020, the Zerk received the prestigious Editors’ Choice award from Backpacker magazine, which is something like an Oscar in the outdoor world—and that says a lot.

At first glance, the backpack has everything you need—no unnecessary extras, and that’s how it should be. The most striking feature is the design of the shoulder straps, inspired by the style of a running vest. This strap design is appearing more and more often in lightweight backpacks. The straps gradually widen from the shoulders, so they won’t get in the way or dig into your skin. The straps feature very well-designed, double mesh pockets that can hold an incredible amount of items. They easily fit a compact camera, a smartphone, a water bottle, a few energy bars, gels, and other small items. This ensures you always have everything you need within reach throughout the day. The pockets can also be easily cinched shut to prevent items from falling out while you’re on the move. For better stability on your back, the shoulder straps are equipped with a height-adjustable chest strap. In addition, the straps feature several other loops for attaching a whole bunch of other gear...

For 2021, the backpack is made from a new, highly durable, sturdy yet lightweight 210D Extreema Nylon material, which is also made from recycled materials. The backpack’s design is based on the popular “roll-top” closure, allowing you to easily pack the backpack exactly as needed. Inside the backpack is a pocket for a removable back panel. The back panel is made of sturdy, Atilon, and EVA foam, which keeps the backpack in the desired shape. The back is also very well ventilated. During our first test of the backpack, it seemed more comfortable and adaptable without this support panel, but everyone has different preferences, so you’ll need to find what works best for you.

The hip belt is removable and has a fairly minimalist look. Compared to heavier backpacks with a padded hip belt, weight distribution won’t be as good here. However, the design assumes the backpack won’t be overloaded, and the shoulder straps—styled like a running vest—will do most of the work.

On the front of the backpack is a huge, mesh, elastic pocket that easily fits a bunch of things you need to have on hand during the day without having to open the backpack (waterproof jacket, pants, gloves, snacks, water filter, etc.)

The side elastic pockets are brilliantly designed; they have a diagonal cut for easier access to water. The best feature is that the pockets are covered by yet another elastic pocket. You can use this, for example, to store trash while walking or to keep a small snack...

Of course, there are loops for attaching trekking poles or an ice axe.

The backpack’s volume can be easily compressed thanks to the side compression straps. The backpack comes with easily removable, long straps for attaching a bear canister and a single elastic cord to thread through the large mesh pocket, which can be used for hanging additional items, drying gear, etc.

The backpack’s weight, including the hip belt and removable straps, is a respectable 790 grams. If you remove the hip belt, the other straps, and possibly the back panel, the backpack’s weight can be reduced to as little as 600 g! The manufacturer’s recommended maximum load is 13.6 kg. Which is an excellent figure for such a lightweight backpack. The backpack is available in a single back length, corresponding to a back length of 40–49 cm.

The Zerk 40 is a great choice for anyone who has already optimized their base weight to between 5–7 kg and needs a high-quality, durable backpack that is also lightweight and comfortable even under heavier loads and during active movement in the mountains.

Mountainsmith Zerk 40 :

• Weight 793 grams (including hip belt, straps, and back panel).
• Volume 40 liters.
• Materials: 210d EXTREEMA Recycled Nylon Ripstop (UHMPE), Recycled 210d nylon SD oxford, and 100D nylon x 840D stretch mesh.
• Back length suitable for torso lengths of 40–49 cm.
• Atilon and EVA foam.
• Wide shoulder straps with double mesh pockets featuring drawstrings.
• Removable hip belt.
• Removable back panel.
• Large main mesh pocket.
• Dual side mesh pockets.
• Side compression straps.
• Roll-top closure.
• Removable straps for a bear canister.
• Loops for poles and an ice axe.