Editors’ Choice: Hyperlite Mountain Gear Headwall 55
For those looking for a bag for overnights and layover day excursions from camp, Hyperlite’s Headwall 55 uses a rolltop and highly compressible body for a versatile size. “The rolltop does close it down to around 40 liters, so someone who carries a lot of gear on a daily basis could use it as their one pack,” a splitboard mountaineer said. “However, it seems like a quiver piece for someone who spends nights out in the mountains.”
Headwall 55 uses Dyneema as its main fabric. It is a lightweight, high-strength composite material that’s commonly used in climbing equipment. The features of the Headwall 55 are minimal to keep weight down. However, both testers found them well-thought out. “The avy tools pocket is big and stretchy, so I was able to stick hardboot bindings in there while skinning,” the splitboarder said after a Cascades traverse. “Hip belt stash pockets held sunscreen, maps and a whole day’s worth of snacks.” A ski guide and avalanche instructor noted that, with only one extra internal zipper pocket for keys and other valuables, this pack is “not for the backcountry newbie who hasn’t dialed in their packing yet.” The splitboarder added that, without a side…
