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REI’s Flash 55 is the outdoor retail giant’s proprietary take on a low-weight, high-utility backpack targeted at as wide of an audience as possible. This pack offers aspiring lightweight hikers the means to make easy customizations to their bag, and stretch its utility from day hikes to days of backcountry travel.
Things we like:
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Versatile bag at an impressively affordable price -
Modular setup allows hikers to tailor the bag to their needs
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Thoughtful features show REI has been paying attention to the competition
Things we don't like:
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Durability is a concern for a pack this light
Continuing their trend of affordable in-house gear influenced by the best the industry has to offer, REI’s Flash 55 is their take on a lightweight backpack built for versatility. Equipped with a well thought out modular accessory system, hikers can adjust their bag for any kind of hike ranging from quick afternoon strolls to extended overnighters.
Based on its weight, price, and adjustable attitude, we think the Flash 55 holds broad appeal for a wide array of hikers. Not to mention that it’s readily available at your local REI. If you’re skeptical about how featherweight packs hold up compared to their more traditional counterparts, the Flash 55 makes for a great entry point.
Notable Features
Packmod System: REI’s modular system allows hikers to strip certain components off of their pack to save weight, or add accessories such as waterproof pockets based on their needs
Add the Features You Need
The standout feature in the Flash 55 is REI’s Packmod technology. This allows you to easily strip unnecessary components from your pack, or substitute others as you see fit. Some of these features, like the compression straps, come with the bag, while others are aftermarket amenities sold separately from the bag. Other considerations like forward-canted water bottle holders and a compressible rolltop make it clear REI has been taking notes from what’s been working for everyone else.
Ultralight
The Flash 55 weighs startlingly little. In fact, at less than 3lbs it’s lighter than most of the “lightweight” packs on this list. Hikers can strip off even more weight with the aforementioned Packmod system. All of these weight saving efforts make a difference in how much the Flash can carry, but the bigger concern is durability. Hiker’s should be wary of snags and sharp rocks while underway.
Do We Recommend It?
We’d recommend the Flash 55 to anyone curious about lightweight hiking that doesn’t want to spend a fortune on a custom bag from a boutique cottage company. You may run into durability issues down the line, but the Flash 55 offers many of the same features that specialty ultralight bags are beloved for – at a much more modest price.
Related Reviews
Things we like:
-
Versatile bag at an impressively affordable price
-
Modular setup allows hikers to tailor the bag to their needs
-
Thoughtful features show REI has been paying attention to the competition
Things we don't like:
-
Durability is a concern for a pack this light
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