Six Moon Designs Swift X Backpack Review
a lightweight backpacking pack with the utility, comfort, volume, and durability of a heavier, traditional backpacking pack
May 8, 2023
The Six Moon Designs Swift X backpacking backpack is a lightweight pack designed to comfortably carry load any you can carry, including food and extra water for long desert hikes.
Our Verdict
The Six Moon Designs (SMD) Swift X is an excellent backpacking backpack for weekend outings or months long thru-hikes. Despite only weighing 2 ½ pounds, the Swift X offers all the utility, comfort, volume, and durability of a heavier, traditional backpacking pack.
It has been my primary backpack for over two years. I’ve carried the Swift X on thru-hikes of the Blue Mountains Trail, Oregon Desert Trail, and Northern New Mexico Loop—all routes that required long food and water carries, river fords, and difficult bushwacks. It's also my go-to pack for a casual quick overnight trip.
The Swift X has an excellent suspension system that can comfortably carry heavy loads when necessary. The pack has an optional innovative vest harness system that securely holds the backpack to your core through a six-point connection, reducing pressure on your hips and shoulders. The Swift X also includes a full set of functional and easy to access pockets on the pack, hip belt, and shoulder harness.
The Swift X is not the lightest framed backpack. The Gossamer Gear Mariposa, Hyperlite 3400 Southwest, and Zpacks Arc Haul are lighter ultralight backpacks. However, for a candy-bar-or-two weight difference, the Swift X has a better suspension system and more robust features than these other packs. In this gear review, we delve into the details of its thoughtful design and why we like the Swift X for lightweight backpacking and thru-hiking.
VIEW THE SIX MOON DESIGNS (SMD) SWIFT X
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Swift X Specifications
Size: 56 Liters (41L in the main body, 10L in the extension collar, 5L in exterior pockets). See How Accurate are Pack Volumes for more information on how we measured pack volume.
Weight: 39 ounces (40 ounces with the vest harness)
Max Recommended Weight: 35 pounds (12 pounds recommended base weight)
Main Body Pockets: 1 large front pocket
Internal Stash Pocket: 1 zippered
Water Bottle Pockets: 2 (each holds 2 Smart Water bottles)
Hip Belt Pockets: 2 zippered
Shoulder Strap Pockets: Vest harness has 8 pockets; the shoulder harness and S-curve shoulder straps have 2 pockets.
Suspension: Internal removable Delrin hoop stay
Shoulder Harness: There are three options available: a vest, a standard shoulder harness, or an S-curve harness.
Load Lifters: Yes
Compression System. Yes
Roll Top Closure: Yes
Material. X-Pac VX21 or Liteskin LS21. See the material section for a discussion of the options.
Gender: Unisex
Ice Axe/Trekking Pole Attachment Point: Yes
Bear Canister Capability: A full-size bear can (such as a BV500) fits vertically inside or horizontally on the top of the pack.
Torso Lengths: 16-22"
The Swift X is a mid-sized backpack with a quality suspension system that can comfortably carry loads over long distances and uneven terrain, including off-trail and less well-marked routes.
Best For
The Swift X is for backpackers seeking a mid-size pack with a quality suspension system that can comfortably carry moderate (and occasionally heavier) loads over long distances. The Swift X is durable enough to withstand the rigors of a thru-hike, off-trail travel, or generally rough handling.
The Swift X is also an excellent choice for folks looking for versatility. You can remove the hip belt and suspension system if you want a frameless pack. There is also a multipoint compression system to stabilize smaller loads.
Comparison of the Six Moon Designs Swift X models. The left model is the older model and the right is the new model.
2022 Upgrades
In November 2022, Six Moons Designs updated the Swift X and made the following improvements. We first announced them in our Gear News a few months ago. Here are the full details.
Close-up on the updated stretch mesh on the 2 water bottle pockets. The pack on the left is the new Six Moon Designs Swift X. The pack on the right is the older model, which has seen thousands of miles of backpacking.
Upgraded Stretch Pockets
The stretch front pocket and 2 water bottle pockets now use a 4-way stretch woven mesh material called UltraStretch. This lightweight yet durable fabric is tear-resistant. Although slightly heavier than the previous mesh, it is significantly more durable. We think the UltraStretch mesh is worth the slight weight penalty.
The old Swift X pocket material was stretchier but more prone to tears than the new pocket material.
Bigger Stash Pocket
The size of the internal zippered stash pocket has been significantly increased. It is now large enough to fit a passport, which is useful for folks traveling internationally.
The old pack closure on the SMD Swift X.
The new pack closure on the SMD Swift X.
Redesigned Top Enclosure
The Swift X now has two ways to close the top enclosure: 1) a roll top closure (like a dry bag closure system); or 2) side straps. The side strap method is better when using the main body’s extension collar.
Improved Sternum Strap
The vest’s dual sternum straps are now a fixed daisy chain instead of a sliding strap. The daisy chain method will help prevent the sternum straps from sliding out of place and improve the fit.
We tested the SMD Swift X backpack over two years of backpacking thousands of miles, including in Bandalier National Park in New Mexico (seen here).
How We Tested
The Swift X has been my primary backpack for over two years. I have logged thousands of miles with the Swift X, including thru-hikes of the:
Northern New Mexico Loop
numerous shorter trips
I have loaded the pack with six-day food carries and eight liters of water, exceeding the recommended 35-pound max weight. While we don’t recommend carrying such weight regularly, the Swift X’s vest harness and suspension system helped prevent shoulder and hip soreness.
What We Like
Fit and suspension
Harness options
Large useable external pockets
Side compression cords
Pack volume
Internal stash pocket
Six Moon Designs are designed to carry any load you can fit in the backpack comfortably, including food and water for multiple days.
Fit & Suspension
The Swift X fit and suspension system is one of its stand-out features. Ron Moak, the owner of Six Moon Designs (SMD), says his packs are designed to carry any load you can fit in the backpack comfortably.
An internal Delrin hoop stay frame connects directly to the hip belt to better transfer the pack weight to your hips. The following are fit and suspension details:
Multiple Harness Options. The Swift X is unique for its three harness options: a flight vest yoke, a traditional shoulder harness with standard shoulder straps, or an S-curve shoulder straps. We explain the harness options below.
Minimal Body Contact Back Panel. This feature is important for long-distance hikes or hiking in hot and muggy conditions.
Adjustable Dual Sternum Straps. The dual sternum straps easily adjust perfectly to fit your chest.
Adjustable Torso Length. The Swift X comes in one size, but you can adjust the torso length from 16” - 22”.
Removable Frame. You can remove the hoop stay frame, converting the Swift X into a frameless ultralight pack. When frameless, SMD recommends a maximum 25-pound load.
We discuss how to fine-tune your fit in our story on How to Choose Backpacks.
Close up on the harness system on the Six Moon Designs Swift X pack. The left shows the newer harness and the right shows the older harness system. All of the harness options come with multiple integrated, easy access pockets.
Harness Options
The multiple harness options distinguish the Swift X from other lightweight packs. You can select a large or small-sized flight vest, traditional shoulder straps, or S-curved shoulder harness. All of the harness options come with multiple integrated, easy access pockets.
Vest Harness
The vest harness uses a six-point connection between the pack and your body to use more of your core to support the backpack (the shoulder/load lifter, side of the pack, and the base of the pack). The vest reduces pack sway and bounce, much like a running backpack.
I've hiked thousands of miles with a Swift X vest harness. I appreciated the secure fit when negotiating difficult trail conditions. When climbing over fallen trees and rocks, the pack stayed secure and well balanced. It remained comfortable when hiking in hot weather.
The vest has 8 pockets, including two large cinch-able pockets, perfect for carrying a phone or small camera. It also has two large shoulder strap pockets, including a zippered pocket for small items. The other pockets are sized for carrying hand sanitizer, lip balm, sunscreen, or other small items.
Shoulder Harness
A traditional shoulder harness is available if you do not want a vest. An S-curved shoulder harness is also available for large-chested individuals.
The shoulder and S-curved harnesses have two large, cinch-able pockets perfect for carrying a small camera, phone, or snacks.
Vest vs. Shoulder Harness
It’s a matter of personal choice. I found the vest trickier to adjust to get the perfect fit, but it was more secure and comfortable once properly fitted than a traditional shoulder harness. However, a shoulder harness could be a better option if you prefer a looser pack fit. I have generally found that hikers that don’t use a sternum strap are likely to prefer a standard shoulder option.
The Swift X has a large stretchy mesh front pocket perfect for storing a wet tent, rain gear, lunch, or other items you may want to reach without opening the pack.
Large Useable External Pockets
I love large, easy to access pockets in my backpack. The Swift X has a large stretchy mesh front pocket perfect for storing a wet tent, rain gear, lunch, or other items you may want to reach without opening the pack.
There are also two stretchy side water bottle pockets. Each water bottle pocket is big enough to carry two Smartwater bottles securely. I find the side pockets easy to reach while on the move.
The hip belt has two integrated pockets. Each pocket is large enough to carry several energy bars or the day’s maps.
Side Compression Cords
The Swift X has compression cords on both sides of the pack. You can adjust the cords to adjust the size of the main body to carry loads more securely.
The compression cords are very useful for securing items such as my tent, umbrella, or clothes on the outside of my pack.
Side compression cords help manage the volume of the pack. You can secure items to the outside of your pack, such as drying clothes, seen here. We recommend doing so with diaper pins.
Pro-Tip. I always carry diaper pins to attach drying clothes or a bandana outside my pack securely. Diaper pins are much more secure than standard safety pins.
Pack Volume
The Swift X has 56 liters of volume (41 liters in the main body, 10 liters in the extension collar, and 5 liters in external pockets). I think this is the perfect size for a backpack. I can pack all my gear and several days of food without overstuffing the main body or using compression bags.
Internal Stash Pocket
The Swift X has a zippered internal stash pocket. This feature is one of the little things I love in a pack. I worry about losing my wallet or keys on a hike. I feel more confident knowing they are in a secure internal pocket. SMD recently increased the size of the stash pocket to make it even more functional (it's now large enough to fit a passport).
The large woven front mesh pocket adds several liters of volume and is useful for accommodating gear outside your pack.
Features
The following features key the Swift X:
Large Front Woven Pocket
The Swift X’s large, 4 way stretch front pocket adds several liters of additional volume. A large front pocket is useful when temporarily accommodating gear outside your backpack, such as when packing a wet tent. It is also convenient to store items you want to access without opening your pack, like rain gear or lunch.
The side pockets can accommodate 2 water bottles.
Side Pockets
The woven side pockets are stretchy; each is big enough for two bottles–either Smartwater Bottles or wider diameter insulated hiking water bottles. You can also cinch the side pockets tight to securely hold water bottles or other items.
Hip Belt Pockets
There are two large pockets on the hip belt. These pockets are big enough for a phone, camera, or snacks.
The Swift X pack can easily store trekking poles, umbrellas, or ice axes for times when you don’t want them in your hands.
Hydration Sleeve and Dual Hydration Ports
There are loops to secure a drinking tube to either shoulder strap. The hydration sleeve is removable.
Trekking Pole and Ice Axe Attachment Loop
Your trekking poles and ice ax can be securely attached to the back of the pack. (Read our trekking pole guide here).
Adaptability
You can remove the hip belt and hoop stay, converting the Swift X into a frameless pack.
Internal Stash Pocket
The Swift has a zippered internal pocket perfect for safely storing a wallet or keys.
Side Cord Compression System
The side cords help stabilize your load and provide a convenient place to secure wet clothes, a tent, or an umbrella.
The new woven pockets are significantly more durable for hiking in rough terrain.
What Could be Improved
Exterior Pocket Size
SMD recently upgraded the material used for their exterior to pockets. The new woven pockets are significantly more durable that the previous pocket material. The downside is that the exterior woven pockets are not as stretchy. For folks like me that like to overstuff their external pockets, the new material reduces the volume available. I’d like to see the size of the exterior pockets increased.
The Swift X pack is available in multiple fabrics and colors to customize it to your preferences.
Materials
The Swift X pack body is available in 210 denier Liteskin or X-Pac. Both Liteskin and X-Pac are lightweight, waterproof, tear-resistant, and durable. Please note the seams of the Swift X are not taped; therefore, the pack is not waterproof. However, neither fabric will absorb water.
Pro-tip: I always carry a dry bag or trash compactor bag to protect my gear from rain.
Liteskin 21
Liteskin is a newer fabric for the backpacking industry. It is a laminate of nylon ripstop and a non-woven polyester face coated with polyresin. Liteskin has been used for boat sails because it resists UV degradation, abrasion, and shrinkage. The Liteskin pack only comes in gray.
X-Pac 21
X-Pac has become popular for backpacks over the last several years. It is a laminate fabric with a nylon face, black polyester X-ply, .25 PETfilm, and poly taffeta backing. The X-Pac 21 packs come in blue, black, and coyote brown.
Liteskin vs. X-Pac
Liteskin and X-Pac are both outstanding materials for backpacks. Having used backpacks made from Liteskin and X-Pac for thousands of miles, I can attest to their durability, puncture resistance, and lack of water absorption. Either material is a good option. Your choice may ultimately depend on the available colors, as Liteskin is only offered in gray, while X-Pac comes in blue, brown, and black.
Other Versions
Six Moon Designs Swift V
Capacity: 50L
Weight: 35.96 oz
Cost: $250
The Six Moon Designs's Swift V is a lower-cost alternative to the Swift X backpack. The Swift V is the same as the Swift X, but the main body uses 100-denier Robic material. It has the same volume, pockets, mesh, and harness options for $65 less than the Swift X.
Robic is a material used in many lightweight packs, but it is not as durable or water-resistant as the X-Pac or Liteskin material used in the Swift X. But, it is a good option for folks looking to save money. The Robic Swift V comes in gray or green.
VIEW THE SIX MOON DESIGNS SWIFT V
Other Backpacks to Consider
Gossamer Gear Mariposa
Capacity: 60L
Weight: 1.9 lbs
Cost: $270
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa is an ultralight backpack with 60 liters of capacity (36 liters in the main body). The main body is 100D Robic. The large size weighs 34 ounces and costs $285. Pockets in the shoulder straps cost extra.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE GOSSAMER GEAR MARIPOSA
HyperLite 3400 Southwest
Capacity: 50L
Weight: 1.88 lbs
Cost: $320
The Hyperlite 3400 Southwest is an ultralight backpack with a 55-liter capacity and is constructed of Dyneema Composite Fabric. The white 3400 has 50-denier Dyneema, weighs 32 ounces, and costs $379. The black version of the 3400 is constructed for the much more durable 150D Dyneema. The black 3400 weighs 35 ounces and costs $399. It isn't designed to carry a load as heavy as the Swift X. Pockets on the shoulder straps cost extra.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE HYPERLITE 3400 SOUTHWEST
Zpacks Arc Haul 60
Capacity: 55L
Weight: 1.31 lbs
Cost: $325
The Zpacks Arc Haul 60 is an ultralight backpack with a 60-liter capacity. The Arc Haul is constructed of Ultra 200 or Robic. It weighs 21 ounces and costs $399. Hip belt and shoulder strap pockets are not included.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE ZPACKS ARC HAUL 60
Osprey Exos/Eja 55 Pro
Capacity: 58L
Weight: 2.65 lbs
Cost: $220
Osprey recently introduced the Pro version of their popular Exos (men) and Eja (women) packs. The Exos 55 Pro (large) has 58 liters of volume and weighs 35 ounces. The Eja has 55 liters of volume and weighs 33 ounces. Both packs are constructed of 100D nylon and cost $290.
COMPARE PRICES OF THE OSPREY EXOS/EJA 55 PRO
MEN'S
WOMEN'S
A note about backpack comparisons
Side-by-side comparisons of backpacks can be difficult. Each manufacturer may measure volume differently (see Treeline’s backpack volume test). Also, some manufacturers do not include hip belts or shoulder pockets in their standard design. The pockets and other accessories are not included in the pack’s weight or cost.
Pack material is a critical factor in a backpack’s weight and durability. For instance, SMD’s Swift X uses 210D X-Pac, a very durable material, while Osprey’s Exos/Eja 55 Pro uses 100D nylon, which is lighter but significantly less durable.
See more backpacking backpack gear reviews in our guide to The Best Backpacking Backpacks.
Mike Unger on the Continental Divide Trail in Lake City.
About the Author / Why You Should Trust Us
Mike Unger has been thru-hiking since 2006. He’s closing in on 28,000 miles on North American long trails. He is one of a handful of people who is a Double Triple Crowner, having hiked the Appalachian Trail, Pacific Crest Trail, and Continental Divide Trails each—twice. He’s also hiked more obscure routes like the Pacific Northwest Trail, Ouachita Trail, Oregon Desert Trail, and Grand Enchantment Trail. Mike was part of the group that set the First Known Time on the Blue Mountains Trail.
He’s also picked up another passion along the way: long-distance bicycle touring, including the 1,850-mile Pacific Coast route. When he’s not hiking or biking, he’s probably planning his next trip and/or researching ultralight gear.
You can read all articles by Mike Unger here.
