Deuter Speed Lite Series Review

Testing the Speed Lite Series

We did an overnight trail this summer through Liechtenstein. But if you’ve been to Liechtenstein, you know that you don’t need to carry very much, as it’s a very comfortable place to hike. That kind of trail is perfect for a small, fast pack, since I wasn’t carrying a tent or cooking gear, just a change of clothes, some food, water, and the essentials. The Speed Lite handled all of it easily. I had the 21L version, and it felt like the right size for the trip. I think the other sizes, 13L and 17L, would be best for day hikes since they’re a bit on the smaller side.

Right away, I noticed how comfortable the harness system was. The shoulder straps are thin but well-shaped, and they didn’t dig in or move around, even after a few hours on steeper sections. The back panel is simple, but the shape really worked for me. It sat flat, didn’t pull, and didn’t get too sweaty, even in the afternoon heat (and that’s what really matters!).

The waist belt is minimal, just a thin strap really. It’s not padded, so if you’re carrying more than 4 or 5kg and want that hip support, the Pro version might be worth looking at. But for my load, I didn’t mind. It kept the pack stable without feeling bulky.

There’s a small front pocket for odds and ends, two side stretch pockets that easily hold a bottle and some snacks, and a little zip pocket for valuables: nothing fancy, but everything I needed. The hydration sleeve worked fine with my 2L system, and there are loops for poles if you’re carrying them.

What I appreciated most, though, was the weight. The pack is genuinely light. I didn’t feel like I was carrying anything extra, which made it easier to move fast and just enjoy the trail.

About the Speed Lite Series

The Deuter Speed Lite Series is stripped back in the right way. There’s no frame, no heavy-duty hipbelt, and no overbuilt features. The shoulder straps are made from mesh, the back panel is breathable, and the whole thing packs flat if you stuff it into a travel bag.

It’s not meant for carrying heavy loads. But if you’re doing day hikes, fast hut tours, or training hikes with light gear, it does the job. It also works well as a travel daypack when you’re moving between cities or jumping on trains with minimal luggage.

The three sizes make it easy to pick what works best for your setup. The 13L is for absolute minimalists, the 17L is probably the most versatile, and the 21L gives you just a bit more room for layers or a bulkier hydration bladder.

It’s hydration compatible, has pole loops, compression straps, and a small loop for a light. You can also attach a helmet holder if you’re using it for alpine routes or cycling. The fabric is tough enough for mountain use (though I wouldn’t go dragging it over rocks) while still being a lightweight pack.

Conclusion

The Speed Lite Series is simple in the best way. Sometimes, newer packs are so full of features and other specs that it can be easy to forget that it’s just supposed to be a vessel to carry your things and make life easier while it does its job. The Speed Lite does that. It’s one of those packs you don’t need to think about much; you can just grab it and go. If you’re hiking light, staying in huts, or just want something that keeps up with you without being in the way, this is one to consider.

After Liechtenstein, I’ve already ordered the 13L to use as a daypack in addition to my 21L. As for the 21L, I’ll keep using it on fast hiking trips or warm-weather tours where weight matters more than extra features.