This stable and lightweight pack is great for low load weights and those who like to move fast, says Lara Dunn.
Coming in at a low weight and competitively priced, even with its manufacturer’s high mountain pedigree, the Ducan 32 serves up quite the package for anyone looking for a well-featured but light daypack.
Lara Dunn recommends
Its low weight and bulk make it a decent value for money choice for fast paced hikes and scrambles or simply for those who like to keep their load weight to a minimum.- very lightweight
- stable
- good price
- stretch cord chest harness won’t please everyone
| Quick specs |
|---|
| RRP: $182 / £135 (available from Millets) Weight: 1003g Capacity: 32 litres Materials: 90% polyamide/10% polyester Back system: Contact Stream back system Pockets: front stash pocket, side mesh pouch pockets, hydration system compatible, exterior zipped top pocket, hip belt pockets – one mesh, one zipped with phone pocket Features: Women’s specific fit, trekking pole loops, adjustable stretch chest harness, detachable raincover Sizes: one Men’s version? Ducan 32 www.mammut.com |
The lightweight fabric (which incorporates recycled materials) is still tough and the base is made of sturdier material to ensure good wear. Despite its low weight, there’s no skimping on features here, with zipped internal and external lid pockets, large stretchy front mesh stash pocket and spacious side mesh bottle pockets with handy drawstrings to secure bottles. It’s also hydration system compatible.
Pole loops are easy to use and there are handy daisy-chain loops on the outside for attaching extra bits and pieces if needed. A detachable raincover extents the pack’s usefulness when the weather gets iffy… just make sure you keep it attached!
Wear comfort is good, with broad low-profile, flexible hip fins giving a supportive fit that contours around the hips nicely, moving subtly with a natural gait. The single zipped hip pocket – the other side is a stretch mesh pocket – is relatively small but it also contains a pouch designed to hold a phone which helps make up for it.
Shoulder straps are low bulk like the hip belt and equally well-shaped. The chest strap is quirky though. The unusual bungee cord is easy to adjust but I found it less comfortable across the chest than a conventional webbing strap, given its state of constant tension. Personal choice and individual physique will dictate if this works for you or not.
Storage space feels less generous than some of a similar quoted volume, but it’s far from cramped and certainly plenty for a good long day out.
The low weight and bulk make it a decent value for money choice for fast paced hikes and scrambles or simply for those who like to keep their load weight to a minimum.
Testing conditions
Lara used the packs through winter and spring on a variety of walks and hikes in the Malvern Hills, Black Mountains and Brecon Beacons. She is 5’5” tall with a relatively short back length in relation to her height.
This review was first published in the August 2025 issue of The Great Outdoors. Compare it with other daypacks in our guide to the best hiking backpacks.
