The Blue Ice Alpine Hauler 45 is a purpose-built mountaineering pack designed for climbers who demand maximum durability, minimal weight, and streamlined functionality. Engineered with cutting-edge materials and a no-frills alpine ethos, it’s a standout choice for technical ascents, multi-day expeditions, and high-altitude objectives where every gram and feature must earn its place.
Materials and Construction
At the heart of the Alpine Hauler 45 is ALUULA Durlyte™, a next-generation composite fabric made from 100% UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene). This material boasts a strength-to-weight ratio eight times greater than steel, while being lighter than nylon, polyester, or aramid2. It’s waterproof, tear-resistant, and mono-material—making it recycle-ready and Bluesign™ approved.
The pack also incorporates recycled 40D siliconised nylon and 140D stretch nylon, both PFC-free, to balance flexibility and abrasion resistance. The result is a pack that weighs just 575 g yet offers the robustness needed for hauling, climbing, and weathering extreme alpine conditions.
Design and Features
The Alpine Hauler 45 is built around a minimalist, haul-friendly design that prioritises function over frills. Key features include:
- Roll-top closure: Offers stormproof protection and compression flexibility.
- 3-point quick-release haul system: Doubles as a rope strap and belay tether, allowing fast transitions between climbing and hauling modes.
- Fully retractable shoulder straps: Stashable for clean hauling and streamlined movement on technical terrain.
- Dual-access accessory pocket: Reachable from both inside and outside the pack.
- Secure ice axe carry: Concealed anti-snag toggles keep tools locked down without interfering with movement.
- Foam back panel: Provides structure and comfort without adding bulk.
The pack’s dimensions—60 x 33 x 31 cm—strike a balance between gear capacity and climbing agility. It’s designed to be hauled up big walls, worn during free climbing, and used as a basecamp hauler without compromise.
Carry Comfort and Ergonomics
While the Alpine Hauler 45 is built for hauling, it doesn’t skimp on carry comfort. The padded shoulder straps, though minimalist, are shaped for stability and can be upgraded with detachable cushioned pads for long approaches. The foam back panel adds structure and reduces pressure points, making it surprisingly comfortable for a pack this light.
Its high carry position and narrow profile make it ideal for technical climbing, where freedom of movement and balance are critical. The pack hugs the body well and doesn’t shift or sag when loaded properly.
Performance in the Field
The Alpine Hauler 45 excels in environments where weight, durability, and simplicity are paramount. It’s been tested on Himalayan first ascents, multi-day alpine missions, and technical rock routes, with users reporting zero rips or failures even after extensive hauling.
Its waterproof fabric and roll-top closure keep gear dry in snow and rain, while the haul system allows for efficient ropework and transitions. The pack’s internal volume is generous enough for 8 days of food and arctic camping gear, yet it remains agile enough for single-push summit bids.
Sustainability and Ethics
Blue Ice’s commitment to sustainability is evident in the Alpine Hauler’s materials and manufacturing. The use of mono-material ALUULA makes the pack easier to recycle, and all fabrics are PFC-free and Bluesign™ approved. The company also contributes 1% of its revenue to environmental associations, reinforcing its eco-conscious ethos.
For climbers who care about the environmental impact of their gear, the Alpine Hauler offers a high-performance option without compromise.
Use Cases and Ideal Scenarios
The Alpine Hauler 45 is best suited for:
- Technical alpine climbing: Lightweight, haulable, and weatherproof.
- Big wall ascents: Retractable straps and haul system streamline ropework.
- Multi-day expeditions: Enough volume for food, shelter, and technical gear.
- Fast-and-light summit pushes: Minimalist design keeps weight down.
- Basecamp hauling: Durable enough for repeated use in rugged terrain.
It’s not designed for casual hiking or heavy load trekking, but for serious alpine objectives, it’s one of the most specialised and capable packs available.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Exceptional strength-to-weight ratio
- Waterproof and tear-resistant ALUULA fabric
- Haul-ready design with retractable straps
- Lightweight yet spacious
- Sustainable materials and ethical production
Cons:
- Premium price point (£360)
- Minimal padding may require strap upgrades for long approaches
- Limited internal organisation
- Not suitable for general backpacking or travel
Comparison with Similar Packs
Compared to the Hyperlite Ice Pack 55, the Alpine Hauler is lighter and more haul-friendly, though the Ice Pack offers more internal organisation. Against the Arc’teryx Alpha FL 45, the Hauler wins on durability and haul system integration, while the Alpha FL is more streamlined for fast alpine missions.
The Exped Black Ice 45 offers similar waterproofing and alpine features, but the Blue Ice Hauler’s ALUULA fabric and haul system give it a technical edge for climbers who need maximum performance.
Final Verdict
The Blue Ice Alpine Hauler 45 is a cutting-edge alpine pack built for climbers who operate in demanding environments. Its ultra-lightweight construction, haul-ready features, and weatherproof design make it a top-tier choice for serious ascents and technical missions. While it’s not a generalist pack, it excels in its niche—delivering strength, simplicity, and sustainability in one sleek package.
If your adventures involve hauling gear up big walls, navigating exposed ridgelines, or pushing into remote alpine terrain, the Alpine Hauler 45 is a tool you’ll be glad to have on your back.
