>>2844642Unpopular opinion, but because 5oz "DCH 150" is more durable and weatherproof than anything else anyone is doing in the "UL" space. The black-line HMG packs are simpler and more durable and despite the Hyperlite name, HMG isn't really chasing the UL scene anymore.
People are missing the point on contemporary HMG. I think it's the fucking name. The ultralight scene doesn't actually like "Hyperlite" Mountain Gear anymore. HMG catches a lot of shade for "not innovating" and/or not being light enough, because all ultralighters care about is weight and being just durable enough to last a few weekend trips over a couple seasons, and trying to cram as many "traditional features" into as little weight as possible. There's also a bit of Tall Poppy syndrome since HMG graduated from the "garage gear" scene and isn't constantly out-of-stock or waitlisted. It's no longer "exclusive" enough for ultralighters who rely on elitism for self worth. You can buy it at REI; it's not cool anymore.
HMG is really selling to two crowds right now:
Clueless newfags who watch too much YouTube and think they want to thru hike PCT/AT/CDT, etc (or fantasize about it). This is unfortunately the bulk of the market. HMG packs are great for thru hiking, but the fact that they've become so many people's "baby's first backpack" miffs the elitist ultralighters.
The climber / mountaineer / AT skiing scene. You'll notice that all of HMG's new shit is almost all geared towards climbing or other very high output "no fail" type activities. These people prioritize durability and simplicity and weatherproofing most, with weight a very close second. This is a slight inversion of the ultralight scene, which prioritizes weight over almost all else. So the priorities don't really align anymore, I think.
But HMG puts a lot more marketing into the first group, because that's where the money is.