First Impressions of 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack promises to be a lightweight and versatile solution for carrying essential gear. 5.11 Tactical aims to provide a comfortable, durable, and functional pack suitable for a variety of activities, from hiking and travel to everyday carry and tactical operations. With features like laser-cut MOLLE, a concealed rain cover, and a dedicated hydration sleeve, the Skyweight 24L Pack seems well-equipped to handle diverse challenges.
As an outdoor and tactical gear specialist, I’m always on the lookout for packs that strike a balance between weight, durability, and functionality. I was searching for a pack that could serve as a reliable daypack for hiking and also function as a go-bag for emergencies. The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack’s advertised lightweight design and modularity caught my attention.
Upon unboxing, the Skyweight 24L Pack felt surprisingly light, yet the 330D ripstop nylon material seemed robust enough to withstand some abuse. The design is sleek and functional, with well-placed pockets and attachment points. Initial inspection revealed clean stitching and a generally high level of build quality.
Compared to other 20-25L packs I’ve used, like the Condor Outdoor Venture Pack and the Eberlestock Halftrack, the Skyweight 24L Pack felt noticeably lighter and less bulky. I chose the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack because of its promise of being a true “lightweight” option, something neither of the other packs emphasized as much. I was excited to see if it could live up to the hype.
My first impression was positive; I was eager to put the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack to the test and see how it performs in real-world conditions. The lightweight design and thoughtful features were immediately appealing.
Real-World Testing: Putting 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack on a day hike in the local mountain range. The pack was loaded with approximately 15 pounds of gear, including water, snacks, a first-aid kit, and extra layers. The weather was mild, but there were some steep ascents and descents.
The Skyweight 24L Pack performed well during the hike, remaining comfortable even on steep inclines. The padded shoulder harness and adjustable chest strap helped distribute the weight evenly and prevent the pack from shifting. I did, however, find the airflow in the back panel to be less effective than anticipated, resulting in some back sweat.
The bucket-lid top opening made it easy to access gear inside the main compartment. The dual external stretch pockets were perfect for carrying water bottles. No immediate issues presented themselves, aside from the minor back sweat.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several weeks of use, including multiple hikes and a weekend camping trip, the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack is holding up reasonably well. There are no signs of major wear and tear. However, some minor fraying has appeared on the laser-cut MOLLE on the lumbar pad.
The 330D ripstop nylon has proven to be fairly durable, resisting tears and abrasions from brushes with rocks and branches. Cleaning is relatively easy; a quick wipe down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The pack has generally performed to expectations, offering a good balance of weight, comfort, and durability.
Compared to my experiences with heavier, more robust packs, the Skyweight 24L Pack prioritizes lightweight comfort over extreme durability. It has been performing well for light to moderate use. However, I wouldn’t recommend it for extremely demanding or abrasive environments where heavier-duty materials would be more appropriate.
Breaking Down the Features of 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack
Specifications
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack has a capacity of 24 liters. It is designed to fit small to medium torso sizes. The pack is constructed from rugged 330D nylon ripstop and features a 200D PU coated polyester rainfly.
The pack includes dual external stretch water bottle pockets and an external “first grabs” top pocket. There are also gear loops, side compression straps, a slideable chest strap, and a lumbar pad with a removable hip belt featuring laser-cut laminate MOLLE and a quick-release buckle. A safety orange concealed rain cover and an internal hydration sleeve are included. These specs suggest a focus on modularity, light weight, and weather protection.
These specifications are important because they dictate the pack’s overall capabilities and suitability for different applications. The lightweight materials and modular design allow for efficient load management and adaptability. The included rain cover and hydration sleeve enhance its utility in various environments.
Performance & Functionality
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack performs its intended job of carrying essential gear in a lightweight and comfortable manner effectively. The bucket-lid top opening allows for easy access to the main compartment. The various pockets and attachment points provide ample storage and organizational options.
A strength of the pack is its light weight, making it comfortable for extended use. A weakness is that the airflow in the back panel could be improved. Overall, the pack meets expectations, offering a good balance of functionality and comfort for its intended purpose.
Design & Ergonomics
The Skyweight 24L Pack is well-designed with a focus on functionality and user comfort. The materials used are of good quality, and the pack feels reasonably well-built. The padded shoulder harness and lumbar pad enhance comfort, and the adjustable straps allow for a customized fit.
The pack is relatively user-friendly, requiring minimal time to get accustomed to its features. The design strikes a good balance between simplicity and functionality.
Durability & Maintenance
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack should last for several years with proper care and use. The 330D ripstop nylon is reasonably durable, resisting tears and abrasions under moderate use.
Maintenance is simple, typically requiring only a quick wipe down with a damp cloth to remove dirt and grime. Repairs, if needed, may require professional assistance due to the pack’s intricate construction.
Accessories and Customization Options
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack comes with a concealed rain cover. The laser-cut MOLLE on the lumbar pad allows for the attachment of various MOLLE-compatible pouches and accessories.
The pack is compatible with many popular MOLLE-compatible accessories from other brands. This allows for a high degree of customization. Users can tailor the pack to their specific needs and preferences.
Pros and Cons of 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L PackPros
- Lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended use.
- Bucket-lid top opening provides easy access to the main compartment.
- Laser-cut MOLLE allows for customization with MOLLE-compatible accessories.
- Concealed rain cover provides protection in wet weather conditions.
- Adjustable shoulder straps allow for a customized and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Airflow in the back panel could be improved to reduce back sweat.
- 330D nylon ripstop, while durable, may not be suitable for extremely abrasive environments.
Who Should Buy 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack?
Pros
- Lightweight design makes it comfortable for extended use.
- Bucket-lid top opening provides easy access to the main compartment.
- Laser-cut MOLLE allows for customization with MOLLE-compatible accessories.
- Concealed rain cover provides protection in wet weather conditions.
- Adjustable shoulder straps allow for a customized and comfortable fit.
Cons
- Airflow in the back panel could be improved to reduce back sweat.
- 330D nylon ripstop, while durable, may not be suitable for extremely abrasive environments.
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack is perfect for hikers, travelers, and everyday carry users who prioritize a lightweight and versatile pack. It is also suitable for tactical users who need a modular and adaptable pack for light to moderate use.
Those who require extreme durability or need a pack for heavy loads in harsh environments should skip this product. Heavier-duty packs with more robust materials would be more appropriate.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality hydration reservoir to take full advantage of the internal hydration sleeve. Additional MOLLE pouches can also be beneficial for further customization and organization.
Conclusion on 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack
The 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack is a well-designed and versatile pack that delivers on its promise of being lightweight and functional. It is comfortable to carry, offers ample storage and organization options, and is reasonably durable for its intended purpose.
The price of $150 is justified considering the pack’s features, build quality, and versatility. It represents a good value for those seeking a lightweight and adaptable pack for various activities.
I would personally recommend the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight 24L Pack to anyone looking for a comfortable and versatile daypack or go-bag. Its lightweight design, modularity, and thoughtful features make it a solid choice for a wide range of users. Check it out and lighten your load!