The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak 22 Daypack is a minimalist, ultralight daypack designed for hikers, fastpackers, and outdoor enthusiasts who prioritise weight savings without compromising durability or functionality. Built with the same high-performance ethos that defines Hyperlite’s expedition-grade gear, the Daybreak 22 offers a streamlined solution for day hikes, summit pushes, and minimalist overnights. With its Dyneema construction, weather resistance, and smart organisation, this pack has earned a loyal following among those who value simplicity and strength.
Materials and Build Quality
At the heart of the Daybreak 22 is Hyperlite’s signature Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), a material known for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio. Dyneema is 15 times stronger than steel by weight, yet incredibly light and waterproof. The pack uses a combination of 150D and 375D DCH (Dyneema Composite Hybrid) fabrics, offering abrasion resistance where it matters most—on the base and high-wear areas.
The seams are fully taped, and the construction is clean and precise. There are no unnecessary features or dangling straps. Every element is purposeful, from the YKK Aquaguard zippers to the reinforced bar-tacked stress points. The pack weighs just 544 grams (1.2 lbs), making it one of the lightest fully featured daypacks available.
Despite its featherweight build, the Daybreak 22 feels robust. Users report years of use with minimal wear, even in rugged environments. The fabric resists punctures and tears, and the waterproofing holds up in sustained rain and snow.
Design and Aesthetics
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak 22 Daypack has a sleek, understated design that reflects Hyperlite’s minimalist philosophy. Available in white or black, the pack has a clean silhouette with no external branding beyond a small logo patch. The aesthetic appeals to those who prefer function over flash, and the neutral colours blend well in both natural and urban settings.
The pack’s shape is slightly tapered, with a wider base and narrower top. This helps stabilise the load and keeps the pack close to the body. The front panel features a large zippered pocket with internal organisation sleeves, while the sides include stretch mesh pockets for water bottles or quick-access items.
A top-loading main compartment is secured with a waterproof zipper, and the interior includes a hydration sleeve and small zip pocket for valuables. The external daisy chains and ice axe loop offer additional attachment points for gear.
Carrying Comfort and Fit
While ultralight packs often sacrifice comfort for weight, the Daybreak 22 strikes a solid balance. The shoulder straps are lightly padded and anatomically shaped, offering good support without bulk. The back panel is also padded, though it lacks ventilation channels—something to consider in hot climates.
The pack includes a removable sternum strap and a minimalist hip belt. The hip belt is not padded and doesn’t transfer weight to the hips, but it helps stabilise the load during movement. For most users, the pack carries comfortably up to 9 kg (20 lbs), which is more than enough for a full day’s gear.
Fit is best suited for medium to slim builds. Taller users may find the torso length slightly short, though the pack’s flexible structure accommodates a range of body types. The shoulder harness is well anchored, and the pack rides close to the back, reducing sway and bounce.
Storage and Organisation
With a total volume of 22 litres, the Daybreak is ideal for day hikes, fastpacking, and minimalist overnights. The main compartment is spacious enough for layers, food, and emergency gear. The hydration sleeve fits a 2L bladder, and the internal zip pocket is perfect for keys, cards, or a small power bank.
The front zip pocket is a standout feature. It includes two internal sleeves for pens, notebooks, or tools, plus enough room for a rain jacket or lunch. The side mesh pockets are deep and secure, easily holding 1L bottles or trekking poles.
External daisy chains allow for modular expansion. Users often attach carabiners, cordage, or accessory pouches for added versatility. The ice axe loop doubles as a trekking pole holder, and the top handle is reinforced for easy grab-and-go use.
Weather Resistance
One of the Daybreak 22’s strongest features is its weatherproofing. Thanks to Dyneema’s inherent waterproof properties and fully taped seams, the pack resists rain, snow, and splashes without the need for a rain cover. The Aquaguard zippers add another layer of protection, though they’re not submersible.
In real-world use, the pack keeps contents dry during heavy downpours and wet trail conditions. Users report hiking through hours of rain with no water ingress. The white version reflects sunlight and stays cooler in hot weather, while the black version offers a more discreet look for urban or tactical use.
Real-World Performance
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak 22 Daypack excels in environments where weight savings and simplicity are key. It’s a favourite among ultralight hikers, fastpackers, and summit baggers who want a reliable daypack that won’t slow them down. Users report using it for:
- Day hikes in the Rockies and Alps
- Fastpacking trips across desert terrain
- Urban commuting with tech and essentials
- Winter hikes with crampons and layers
- International travel as a compact carry-on
Its durability and waterproofing make it suitable for harsh conditions, while its clean design fits in anywhere. The pack transitions easily from trail to town, and its modular features allow for creative packing strategies.
Limitations and Considerations
While the Daybreak 22 offers impressive performance, it’s not without limitations. The price point—around £230—is steep for a daypack, though justified by the materials and build quality. Some users may prefer more internal organisation or a ventilated back panel, especially in humid climates.
The hip belt is minimalist and doesn’t transfer weight effectively for heavier loads. If you regularly carry more than 9 kg, a framed pack may be more appropriate. The Aquaguard zippers, while waterproof, can be stiff and require deliberate handling.
Another consideration is the lack of external compression straps. While the pack holds its shape well, users who prefer cinching down their load may miss this feature.
Comparison with Similar Daypacks
| Feature | Hyperlite Daybreak 22 | Patagonia Nine Trails 20L | Osprey Talon 22 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight | 544 g | 850 g | 830 g |
| Waterproofing | Fully waterproof | Water-resistant | Water-resistant |
| Material | Dyneema Composite | Recycled nylon | Nylon blend |
| Internal Organisation | Minimal | Multiple compartments | Multiple compartments |
| Price Range | £230 | £110–£130 | £120–£140 |
| Best Use Case | Ultralight hiking | Day hikes and travel | Trail running and hiking |
The Daybreak 22 stands out for its ultralight build and waterproofing. While competitors offer more features and lower prices, few match its strength-to-weight ratio and minimalist appeal.
Final Verdict
The Hyperlite Mountain Gear Daybreak 22 is a premium ultralight daypack built for serious adventurers who value simplicity, durability, and weather protection. Its Dyneema construction, taped seams, and smart layout make it one of the most capable minimalist packs on the market.
While it’s not the cheapest or most feature-rich option, it delivers exceptional performance in demanding conditions. For hikers, fastpackers, and travellers who want a lightweight, waterproof pack that won’t let them down, the Daybreak 22 is a top-tier choice.
