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What is the difference between the Windrider, Southwest, Junction and NorthRim?Updated a month ago

Our main line of backpacks - the WindriderSouthwestJunction, and NorthRim - feature a proven roll-top design that allows you to organize contents inside to suit the way you travel, without the burden of unnecessary compartments. We offer four distinct external pocket configurations to meet the demands of different activities and diverse environments.

The external pockets of the Windrider feature high-grade mesh, the external pockets of the Southwest feature Hardline with Dyneema®, the external pockets of the Junction feature a combination of high-grade mesh for the center and Hardline with Dyneema® for the sides and the external pockets of the NorthRim feature ultra-durable DCHW.

If lush woods, dense tree canopies, and mountainous hiking are your thing, the Windrider is the Hyperlite Mountain Gear pack for you. With all three outer pockets constructed from durable mesh, this pack allows full visibility of what’s inside while ensuring maximum ventilation for wet (or fragrant) gear. 

When the trail gets narrow, and contact with the surroundings becomes inevitable, the three Hardline with Dyneema® outer pockets of the Southwest provides a substantial line of defense around the gear inside.  And if you’re heading into town or traveling abroad, the solid pockets will keep the contents hidden from view. 

The Junction blends Hardline with Dyneema® sides for abrasion resistance, and a mesh middle for visibility and ventilation. Its versatility makes it a great choice for hikers traveling through a wide variety of geographies and climates. 

When blazing your own route through burly environments is on the agenda, the NorthRim is the pack of choice.  Built to sustain repeated abuse and abrasion, the NorthRim meets the challenge with 375-Denier fully-woven Dyneema® Composite Fabric for the pack bottom, side pockets, center pocket, and hip belt pockets. Additionally, the NorthRim is the only model from the Core 4 that does not feature a hydration port.

For more information about the materials we use, check out our Technology page.

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