After 36 years in the climbing gear category, Arc’teryx has just dropped their game-changing Alpha SL pack. Tipping the scales at just 15.7oz (11.1oz without the waist belt and compression straps), this might actually be their lightest alpine pack ever, harnessing a revolutionary material without compromising the durability and performance that it gives you when reaching the highest peaks.
SUBSTANCE OVER SUBTLETY
Technical bag makers have often found the balancing act between durability and shedding weight to be one of the primary puzzles of construction. However, Arc’teryx tackles this challenge head-on with the Alpha SL, leveraging the ALUULA Graflyte material for the first time for a stylish white shell that’ll fit in great in a mountain setting.
Created by ALUULA Composites in 2019, the fabric fuses ultralight, ultra-strong polymer films to create a single substance with “unrivaled tear strength.” Aiming to redefine expectations in the category, it boasts a staggering strength-to-weight ratio that’s reportedly 8x greater than steel!
This isn’t Arc’teryx’s first rodeo with ultralight technical packs. The pre-existing Alpha FL has maintained cult status among climbers for years. But while the FL was (and still kinda is) revolutionary for its use of N400r-AC² nylon 6 ripstop, the SL’s lighter weight serves a different purpose. And with smaller brands recently pushing into the ultralight space with specialized UHMWPE fabrics (like Dyneema and Spectra), Arc’teryx’s technical dominance needed a bit of a push with something more cutting-edge.
EVOLUTIONARY ENGINEERING
Fans of the Alpha FL with appreciate how the SL maintains the same general silhouette but with significant material and design updates. Gone is the roll-top closure in favor of a simpler cinch-only design with a protective flap. While this certainly sacrifices some weather resistance for further weight reduction, the pack addresses two long-standing complaints about the FL. Where the progenitor has mediocre ice tool carry capability and limited compression options, the new design of the SL incorporates dedicated pick sleeves and removable compression straps that also significantly improve versatility for activities besides climbing.
ALUULA’s Graflyte fabric allows for a laminated build, rather than stitched construction, which eliminates issues with seams and glue points. The complex assembly creates improved abrasion and water resistance while reducing bulk and creating a smoother exterior. And in keeping with Arc’teryx’s growing focus on sustainability, the bag can be repaired using Alpha SL Patch Kits, which will be available this fall through ReBird Service Centers at no additional cost.
ESSENTIAL MINIMALISM
Despite weighing less than a pound, the Alpha SL doesn’t skimp on features, such as the rigid thermoformed back panel, which provides structure and comfort. Also, the lightly padded shoulder straps are designed to distribute loads effectively. Keeping the 30-liter capacity offers enough space for day hikes but six integrated lash points give you plenty of options for external attachments on longer trips. Other features include two dog-bone attachments for ice tools, an external WaterTight zippered pocket, and an embedded RECCO reflector for safety.
While most lightweight packs work hard to find what to eliminate, the Alpha SL actually increases some of its functionality. And it’s versatile enough that you could realistically bring this along with you on your daily, non-climbing adventures as well.
SPEC SHEET
Model: Arc’teryx Alpha SL 30L Pack
Shell Material: ALUULA Graflyte composite
Weight: 15.7oz (11.1oz without waistbelt/compression straps)
Capacity: 30L
Dimensions: 21.7” x 10.6” x 6.7”
Features: Thermoformed back panel, removable compression straps, WaterTight external pocket, six lash points, dual ice tool attachments, RECCO reflector
Price: $400
PRICING & AVAILABILITY
Priced at $400, the Alpha SL 30L Backpack is now available from Arc’teryx’s website and retail stores. Fans will notice that price hike from the $280 Alpha FL, but compared to other ultralight technical packs, this price point is fairly competitive.
Recap
Arc’teryx Alpha SL 30L Backpack
Creating an ultralight alternative to its Alpha FL alpine pack, Arc’teryx has created the Alpha SL, utilizing a fabric with a strength-to-weight ratio 8x that of steel, while also improving on features missing from other models.
