Hey there! I’ve been looking to get a new pack for awhile. I’m a very experienced backpacker and figure it’s time to do away with my old and 4 lb osprey pack. My base weight is 15ish lb range (not super light I know) but I’ve decided I want to go for a fairly light backpack. That being said, I need something that isn’t fully frameless. I’ve done a lot of research and am super enticed by the SWD Long Haul 50. My gripe is that if I get seam taping and 2 belt pockets, I’ll be at about 500$.

The Kakawa seems great but it’s not seam taped and I also worry about the lack of side closure (I do a lot of bushwhacking and would be concerned about the roll top loop grabbing).

I know the sub hates HMG but I have a discount there and the Southwest 55 is enticing me with its seam taping and really nice pocket layout. Downside here obviously being a much less robust frame and carrying system.

What are peoples opinions? I’d very much prefer a seam taped pack and hip belt pockets are def something I need. Obviously the SWD can offer all this but it would also be ridiculously expensive by that point. Other packs I’ve looked at include the ULA circuit (which has similar shortcomings) and the 6 moons Swift.

Also does anyone have thoughts on the sorta unique shape and design of the SWD? Thanks in advance!

Edit: also have looked at the Zpacks arc haul Ultra 50L. Although it doesn’t address the issues of the belt pockets and I’ve heard durability concerns there too