Rab Womens Exion 45 ND Rucksack

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Designed with comfort and practicality, the Exion ND45 is a versatile pack that carries well over long distances, making it a strong contender for multi-day adventures.

Rab says: 

Fully featured with a clean, simple design, the Exion ND45 is a highly versatile pack that takes you wherever you want to go, from spring bivi and bothy trips to light multi-day hikes. The adjustable V-TRAX™ carry system, with its thermoformed harness and dual densities of foam, ensures full contact with your back while delivering cushioning support where it’s needed and reduced bulk where it’s not. The result is a construction that keeps weight down, carries heavy loads well, and offers you instant comfort which endures over long distances. With an eye-catching embossed pattern and high-comfort, practical design, the Exion ND45 is the perfect pack for unhurried miles on the trail. Built with narrower dimensions, it’s ideal for women or those with smaller frames.

Our Verdict

Rab’s Women’s Exion ND45 builds on the brand’s shift towards more traditional backpacking packs, offering a structured, supportive design that competes with models from Osprey and Gregory. Weighing 1,432 grams, this 45-litre pack is built for multi-day treks and overnight trips, prioritising comfort and functionality over a stripped-back ultralight approach.

The women’s-specific fit features a narrower back length and refined harness shape, making it well-suited for those with smaller frames. The V-TRAX hook-and-loop adjustable back system allows for a customised fit, transferring the load effectively to the hips. The wraparound harness construction enhances stability, while the plush lumbar pad and thickly cushioned hip belt ensure all-day comfort, even under heavier loads.

The U-shaped front zip is a standout feature, allowing quick access to kit without unpacking everything from the top—ideal for grabbing a layer or locating a stashed item on the go. The large mesh front pocket is another practical addition, offering easy storage for waterproofs, maps, or snacks.

One minor drawback is the compression straps over the side mesh pockets, which, while great for securing gear, can limit easy access to water bottles. Adjusting them helps, but a different placement might have improved usability.

Overall, the Rab Women’s Exion ND45 is a well-designed, comfortable rucksack that blends thoughtful features with a supportive carry system, making it a solid choice for backpackers who value reliability on the trail.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• The forward pull hipbelt makes it easy to achieve a stable fit and adjust it on the move.
• V-TRAX™ carry system features our easy hook-and-loop adjustment system for a precise fit.
• Stay organised with the U-shaped front zip giving easy kit access, and a fixed lid with internal and external pockets.
• Wraparound harness construction provides full contact, enhancing comfort.
• Hipbelt pockets provide on-the-go storage for snacks or a compass.
• Carry support and load transfer provided by 6mm aluminium frame.
• Stow an extra layer in the handy front stash, and water bottles in the mesh side pockets.
• Shaped lumbar pad and supportive hipbelt provide comfort on long days.
• Secure your walking poles using the attachment points.
• Dual base compression straps.
• Pull out the rain cover for protection in a sudden shower.

Specifications

• Weight: 1432g
• Dimensions: 17-19″ / 43-48cm

Material & Construction

• 330D Nylon Stripe Dobby with Hydrosheild Coating
• 600D polyester with Hydroshield coating
• Main 70% Nylon, 30% polyester. Lining 100% Polyester

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Rucksack
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Rucksack
• About Rab
• Rab Backpack Size Guide
• Rab Sustainability and Responsibility