THE FLEX CAPACITOR: BUILT FOR THE SHORT HAUL, OR THE LONG HAUL

Developed to meet the needs of one of the world's leading backpackers, the Flex Capacitor adapts to any distance. But what it makes it so flexible?

A few years ago, the lightweight backpacker and long-distance walker Andrew Skurka began working with Sierra Designs to develop his ideal backpack.

Having pushed the limits of light and fast backpacking with achievements like his 6,875 mile Great Western Loop and 7,778 mile Sea-to-Sea route, Andrew wanted a comfortable, easy to use, lightweight and durable pack which solved issues he’d been having on his longdistance challenges. He needed a pack that would cope in all conditions: wet, dry, hot and cold. Back ventilation was important, and durability was paramount. So together we worked with him to build the first 40 - 60l Flex Capacitor.

Word of this new design has spread through the backpacking world. The Flex Capacitor was the pack which Chris Townsend, one of Britain’s most prolific long-distance walkers, chose to take with him on his 400 mile walk across the Colorado Rockies.

Expandable and adaptable

We say the Flex Capacitor is “Built for the short haul, or the long haul”, but what does that actually mean? What sets the Flex Capacitor apart from other backpacks, and why is it right for you?

The key, as the name suggests, is flexibility. On big walks you need something that’s going to fit. Covering long distances means what you carry is going to change. You’ll eat your food, change what you’re wearing, and if you pitch and hike then you won’t be carrying your gear. The solution? To have a pack with an adjustable size that could be cinched down to keep your kit locked in place.

Andrew chose to use a light but tough 100D (denier) Nylon-Poly Ripstop for the body and an upgraded 420D Nylon Oxford for the critical contact points. This mix of fabric proves toughness when you need it, while also remaining lightweight.

Andrew moves fast over varying terrains, so he challenged the designers to make his pack work anatomically. We partnered with DAC and used tent pole tech to create our “Y” Flex Suspension. This system sits at the waistbelt and follows your spine and shoulder blades. This allows the frame to rotate with your body, which eliminates rubs and chaffing at your waist and lower back. That’s something you benefit from whether you’re out for a few hours or weeks.

Put to the test

Andrew took it out, put it to the test… and he loved it!

For 2020 we’ve upgraded our original 40 –

60L pack. We increased the waist pocket sizes so GPS, phones, cameras and snacks are all at hand. We added an extra hydration pocket on the shoulder, and we’ve launched the 25 - 40L version for day walks and short overnights, and the 60 -75L for expeditions.

The Flex Capacitor will withstand the elements but for extra confidence in European conditions we’ve launched the 92g Flex Rain Cover, so we’ve definitely got you covered on the likes of the TGO Challenge.

Ask your local speciality outdoor shop to fit you with a new Flex Capacitor and follow us on social media to hear what’s coming next.