The Redwing line is one of the most popular of the Kelty backpacks. As the name suggests, it does kind of look like it has wings on the sides due to the shape.
These are a great option when you’re going on a quick Excursion and need a daytime pack. Or, you can use these for overnight stays at your favorite concert or hiking trip.
The decision to make between the Redwing 40 and the 44 is mostly based on the size. The dimensions are different, as well as the gear capacity. Some may wonder where the extra gear capacity comes from. We will cover all of these in our Redwing 40 vs Redwing 44 comparison.
Comparing The Redwing 40 And 44
We love how these backpacks offer plenty of useful features at a low cost. Compared to other backpack companies, Kelty tends to make backpacks that are feature-rich, yet affordable. Both of these Redwing backpack versions include everything that most people would want in a backpack for hiking.
The real difference between Redwing 40 and 44 lies in the gear capacity. Due to the fact that the Redwing 44 hold more gear than the Redwing 40, it also has larger dimensions. This is to say that the Redwing 44 adds its gear capacity within the main compartment, and not through the extra compartments.
The pockets on the Redwing 44 are the same as on the Redwing 40. However, the overall size of the Redwing 44 simply larger.
Spec comparison
Gear capacity
- Redwing 40: 39 liters
- Redwing 44: 44 liters
Weight
- Redwing 40: 1.5 kg
- Redwing 44: 1.5 kg
Dimensions
- Redwing 40: 23 x 14 x 12 inches
- Redwing 44: 25 x 15 x 12 inches
It should be noted that the torso length that can be accommodated buy these backpacks is the same. If your back measurements is 14.5 to 18.5 inches, these backpacks will fit you wonderfully. Also, these backpacks are made of exactly the same materials. They are made of a polyester blend with an aluminum frame.
As you can see from above, the main difference in the dimensions is the fact that the Redwing 44 is taller than the Redwing 40.
Reasons to love the Redwing backpacks
Below are just some of the reasons why we just love the Redwing line.
- Large mesh side pocket: Compared to other high-end backpacks, the side mesh pockets are quite large. We love them for the fact that they can accommodate for larger water bottles. You can also put many items in there and still have some room left over.
- Top pocket accessibility: Unlike other backpacks, the top pocket is accessible from the side as well as from the top. This means that you have quick access to all of your smaller items.
- Organizational pocket: The front compartment has many organizational pockets for your convenience. Items that you can store there or your electronics, pens, maps, and notebooks.
- Hydration pocket doubles as laptop sleeve: The hydration pocket resides in the main compartment. When not using it for a water reservoir, you can insert a laptop into it. The sleeve is padded to provide extra protection for your electronics.
- Stash pocket: You can store your wet rain jacket in the and the stash pocket located behind the front compartment.
Price Comparison
Even though the Redwing 44 is the larger backpack, the prices for these backpacks are comparable. If you would like to see cheapest prices on Amazon, please see below:
The Verdict
And making a decision as to which Redwing to purchase, consideration must be given to the size of backpack you actually need. Keep in mind that the Redwing 40 has a 44 liter gear capacity, despite its name. The Redwing 40 lbackpack is great if you want to go on a day hike, or if you’re going to be backpacking really light for overnight. But the Redwing 44 would give you plenty more room for gear for overnighters.