Helikon-Tex Summit Backpack — Coyote

The Summit is a 40-litre hiking and tactical backpack developed by Helikon-Tex for those who need carrying capacity without paying a heavy weight penalty. The 100% Cordura nylon construction brings the dimensions to 55x31x20 cm at an empty weight of 1,300 g — barely more than a full water bottle. It is designed for demanding day outings, light patrol use and trekking where every gram matters.

The main compartment is accessible two ways: via the roll-top closure at the summit, which seals the contents even in rain without exposed zips, or via the front vertical zip, which lets you reach inside without fully opening the pack. This dual-access design resolves a classic trade-off: the roll-top offers weather resistance and saves weight, but slows access; the front zip is faster but adds a potential ingress point. Having both means choosing based on the situation. All zips are YKK.

On the modular side, the 10 mm MOLLE Lite webbing on the sides allows compatible MOLLE/PALS pouches to be attached, extending organisation without the weight of a full load-bearing system. The two mesh side pockets fit a water bottle or a compact garment, while the elasticated mesh beavertail on the front is sized for a helmet or a bulky jacket. Anatomically shaped shoulder straps, a contoured hipbelt with two zip pockets and an elasticated sternum strap distribute the load even when the pack is filled close to its maximum capacity.

Key points

• Dual access to the main compartment — roll-top for weather sealing, front vertical zip for speed — with no need to choose at the time of purchase.
• Empty weight of 1,300 g for 40 litres of capacity: a ratio that holds its own against technical packs of equivalent volume.
• 10 mm MOLLE Lite webbing on the sides for attaching external pouches and adapting the volume to the type of outing.
• Elasticated mesh beavertail on the front: carries a helmet or a winter jacket without using internal space.
• Contoured hipbelt with zip pockets: takes load off the shoulders and keeps frequently used items within reach.
• YKK zips on all zipped openings.