Helikon-Tex Groundhog Backpack — Shadow Grey

The Groundhog is a compact 10-litre pack designed for short outings, everyday carry and cycling: it measures 23x46x9 cm and weighs 645 g — less than a full 500 ml water bottle — while still offering an organised, multi-compartment layout. It is built from 100% ripstop nylon and closes with YKK zips on all main compartments.

The main compartment accommodates a hydration bladder via an internal webbing hook, along with clothing or additional gear. At the front there is an expandable pocket with a vertical zip, which allows direct access even when the pack is pressed against a surface. The fold-away mesh beavertail lets you secure a helmet or wet garments on the outside, keeping them separate from the rest of the contents: this separation prevents moisture from transferring inside, but the beavertail is not a closed compartment, so it is not suitable for items that need to stay put when moving over rough terrain. On each side there are two zippered pockets with mesh bottle holders, stabilised by a compression strap.

The carry system uses narrow, padded and shaped shoulder straps covered in 3D mesh that reduces sweat build-up at the contact points. The back panel is stiffened and also covered in 3D mesh. The sternum strap and waist belt are minimal by design: they keep the load stable without adding weight, but are not intended to distribute heavy loads the way an alpine trekking pack would. Running down each side of the pack are two rows of MOLLE Lite webbing in a 15 mm pitch, narrower than standard MOLLE: compatible with pouches that use this spacing, it delivers a lighter system than traditional MOLLE.

Key features

• Main compartment with hydration bladder support: drink on the move without stopping or opening the pack.
• Fold-away mesh beavertail: keeps a helmet or wet clothing separate from the rest of your gear without using internal volume.
• Expandable front pocket with vertical zip: immediate access even while wearing the pack.
• MOLLE Lite at 15 mm pitch: allows modular pouches to be added while keeping overall weight low.
• 3D mesh on shoulder straps and padded back panel: improves ventilation during extended use or cycling.
• YKK zips on all main compartments: reliable mechanically even with frequent use and in adverse conditions.

In the box

• Helikon-Tex Groundhog Backpack