Swift V Hiking Backpack

Swift V is the first ultralite backpack I bought, the model with a vest. I have it for the second year now and it has traveled with me thorough South America and managed a few hikes in Canada.

The backpack is very modular, but you have to get the size right. Unfortunately, I was unlucky and bought a larger hip belt than I needed, although I chose it according to the sizing tables.

The plastic frame in the backpack is absolutely useless, because it pressed on my spine and also scratched the backpack from the inside. After removing the bent plastick stick the backpack is very comfortable, the vest has many pockets and is also very comfortable. If you are smaller, like me (157 cm), you have to accept that the straps will stick out everywhere and in strong winds you will have them in your face, which is sometimes very unpleasant. A big plus are the large pockets on the hip belt and also the weight lifting straps. Unfortunately, the pockets rub against the vest strap when moving and the material is being significantly damaged at the point of contact (zipper tear) as you go. Also, more stressed areas, such as the weight lifting straps and the loop at the bottom of the vest, are starting to tear. The front pocket could also be more stretchy, it is tight and does not fit as many things as other ultralight backpacks.

At the end, the backpack is comfortable, but the chosen material could be more durable or the backpack could be slightly modified in terms of construction.

I'll start by saying I'm a huge SMD fan. I have and regularly use two SMD tents. Because my old pack is near the end of its life, I wanted to try a SMD backpack. So I purchased this SMD Swift V with the vest harness.

First, the positives: It's extremely well made. I could tell immediately that this pack is high quality, (just like the other SMD gear I own). Also, the flight vest is great! I love the fit, comfort level, and the various pockets. I also like the zip pocket inside the main compartment of the pack. Overall this pack is very comfortable to wear and I was seriously hoping it would work for my needs.

However, as much as I like it, it doesn't quite fit my needs. First, there are a ton of straps on this pack. There are front hip belt straps, back hip belt straps, many vest straps, and two top straps to close the pack. You can't really just take this pack off and put it back on without adjusting quite a few straps. I'm a minimalist, so the fewer straps, the better, in my view.

Also, another negative is that I can't reach water bottles from either side pocket when I'm wearing the backpack. Finally, this pack is lightweight, but there are other packs out there for a similar price that weigh less.

Anyway, yes, this really is a great pack in so many ways. I'm sure it'll be great for a ton of people. But, for the reasons I mentioned, it's not exactly what I was looking for.

This pack is by far the most comfortable backpack I have ever owned or used ever. I am 49 years old, 5’11’, 240 pounds and broad shoulders. I was concerned that the flight vest may not fit due to my width but it adjusts so well that it fits perfect. It feels more like it is supporting my back without limiting movement rather than a typical pack where you feel weight on your hips or shoulders. I bought it specifically because of my fused lower back and troubles I had been having with my other (name brand) packs. I saw many reviews of people with back issues liking SMD flight vest equipped packs. I emailed SMD a few times and they answered all the questions I had. Super nice people to deal with and very helpful in making my decision. I only wish I had gotten a Six Moon Designs pack previously. I could have experienced a lot less pain years ago. Lol

Love the pack, the simplicity and function. It’s also very light and cost effective which made the decision even easier.

I am a small human and sometimes it's hard to find a pack that fits properly. The Swift V is soooo customizable, it finally happened. I can adjust the flight vest harness and the hip belt where I want them. I am 5'2" and 115 pounds. I have the Small Flight Vest Harness and Small Hip Belt.

I find the vest harness extremely helpful for the extra pockets. It securely fits my sunglasses (which are constantly otherwise broken on trail). I also use one pocket to collect all my food wrappers that I eat on the go. It's helpful to have a dedicated pocket there which can also hold a little extra in case I come across trash along the trail.

The Hip Belt was surprisingly comfortable even when I purposely loaded the pack with extra food to see how it would react. The material feels great and I like how wide it is to disperse the weight.

There is also plenty of space to fit everything a thru-hiker needs inside this pack.