The NOVA X-PACK 50 is an ultra-light hike & fly backpack for pilots who count every gram but still demand real carrying comfort. Weighing only 525 grams and offering a pack volume of 50 litres, extendable by another 10 litres via a roll-top closure, it targets ambitious hike & fly and competition pilots looking for a minimalist yet fully functional solution for compact lightweight gear.
X-PACK 50 – designed for speed and distance
Developed as a more sturdy evolution of NOVA’s extreme race rucksack, the X-PACK 50 is largely made from paraglider cloth to minimise weight while remaining surprisingly comfortable even at fast walking or running pace. The concept works best with a long, flat-packed wing and correct use of the powerful side compression system, which stabilises the load close to the back and improves balance on steep ascents and technical trails.
Ultra-light build, everyday capable
At 525 grams, the X-PACK 50 sits firmly in the ultra-light class, yet NOVA has reinforced high-stress zones and chosen more robust paraglider fabrics than the pure race version. This makes the pack suitable for frequent hike & fly missions, climb & fly projects and vol-biv adventures, as long as the user treats the thin materials with appropriate care. Minor damage can usually be repaired quickly with adhesive patches, preserving long-term usability.
Smart carrying system and comfort details
The back panel, hip belt and shoulder straps feature airy spacer fabric, which helps reduce sweat transfer from your back to the packed paraglider. A doubled back area further protects the wing from moisture. There is an integrated channel for a drinking tube, allowing hydration systems to be used cleanly. Correct packing turns the flat-folded wing into a quasi-frame, similar to a trekking pack’s support, so weight can be shifted efficiently from shoulders to hips using the load-control straps.
External storage with race-inspired access
On both side panels, generous elastic mesh pockets run almost the full length of the pack, accessible from the top and via lower cut-outs – ideal for spare clothing, food or accessories you need on the move. Inspired by trail-running vests, the front of the shoulder straps includes mesh pockets for bars, sunscreen or power banks, while two Velcro straps hold GPS trackers or smartphones exactly where athletes want them: visible, secure and always reachable without taking off the pack.
Volume concept and packing philosophy
The X-PACK 50 is engineered around compact hike & fly setups and rewards careful, disciplined packing. With around 50 litres of base volume plus roughly 10 litres via the roll-top, it can swallow a light wing, lightweight harness and essential accessories – provided each component is chosen and folded for minimal bulk. Because individual combinations vary widely, NOVA does not provide a compatibility list; instead, pilots are encouraged to test-pack their own kit before purchase.
Lightweight – with realistic limitations
Like all truly ultra-light packs, the X-PACK 50 is not permanently waterproof. NOVA explicitly recommends using an internal plastic liner and, where necessary, additional compression or protection bags to keep the wing dry and shield it from sweat. In return, hike & fly, climb & fly and vol-biv pilots gain a remarkably light, fast and ergonomic backpack that transforms long approaches and competitive vertical meters into efficient, enjoyable parts of the flying day.
Find out more and order your X-PACK 50
If you want to explore all technical details, options and imagery, you can get more information about the X-PACK 50 directly on the manufacturer's website. To equip yourself for your next hike & fly season, you can then conveniently order the X-PACK 50 and complementary gear via Paragliding4.me.