One of the messages we receive most often is the one asking when Lizard backpacks will be back in production and whether it will be possible to purchase them again.

To answer this question, we need to go back to the last production run: July 2024. That was the moment when we realized that the sales model and the partners we were working with were not able to meet our expectations regarding the product quality.

Especially from a manufacturing point of view, producing backpacks (or technical hardware in general) in Europe (and more specifically in Italy) did not meet the technical standards that, in our opinion, such a product should have. Many backpacks arrived with defects, and the companies proved unable to properly work with certain fabrics, materials, technologies, and components.

So we decided to stop production, make the backpacks unavailable, and completely rethink the Lizard concept from zero, searching for reliable manufacturers and without compromising on quality, technical execution, or production standards.

We contacted many manufacturers (Italian and not) and developed prototype after prototype to create a new Lizard without compromises.

After evaluating both final product quality and cost (which is not different from producing in Europe), we ultimately decided to move production to China. The superior quality is evident (both in the know-how and in the type of resources employed) which allowed us to implement modifications that we always wanted to make but couldn’t due to the technical limitations of the Italian manufacturers we previously worked with.

But what is the concept behind the Lizard backpack?

The Lizard is a backpack made at 95% from a single material, with exceptional lightness and durability.

But what is the point of making a backpack from just one material, you might ask?

The idea started from a sentence I read many years ago in Beyond Backpacking by Ray Jardine. In a section about equipment, Ray reflects on how mesh fabrics, even if they look transparent and light, are often significantly heavier than traditional fabrics. 

So we asked ourselves: why not create a “mesh” from the same main fabric, laser-cut, combining the advantages of both?

Thanks to this solution, we managed to achieve extremely low weights. We reached a 40L backpack with MUTATED shoulder straps (double pockets on each side) at only 435g (!!) in the ULTRA 200 version when using meshes in the ultralight backpacks market was the standard.

Starting from this original idea (which was the base of the first version) for the Lizard Backpack V2 we completely rethink it, improving everything that was missing before. We began with the front pocket. We enlarged it by adding a box pleat that significantly increases its volume while remaining compact when empty. The laser-cut holes are now positioned only on the upper section so that small items (like tent stakes) don’t fall out or get stuck at the bottom.

Then we moved to the shoulder straps. We completely redesigned their shape to make them ergonomic, adding a running-vest–inspired yoke that gives the backpack a more “locked-in” fit, making it much more stable when needed (especially during fast downhills). We also increased strap breathability and improved the on-body feel by adding a micromesh (here we accepted a small compromise).

We also increased strap breathability and improved the on-body feel by adding a micromesh (here we accepted a small compromise).

The real revolution, however, lies in the load lifters: completely redesigned, lighter, less bulky, and now fully adjustable while wearing the backpack. Depending on the terrain (uphill or downhill), they allow you to shift the load from the shoulders to the lumbar area in seconds.

Strap pockets have been redesigned as well, now more spacious and secure. Under them, we added two removable bungee loops to attach accessories like trekking poles when you need your hands free or when the terrain becomes easier. This solution was born during our first Tour du Mont Blanc and has been used in every expedition since. Having your hands free without removing the backpack becomes extremely valuable when trying to minimize stops. During our latest trips (for example in Lessinia), storing poles in the bungees and eating while walking allowed us, without running, to significantly reduce overall times.

Regarding the backpack body: the shape has been made more ergonomic without changing the capacity and dimensions, which were already perfect in previous models. The 34L main body allows you to carry a full ultralight 3-season setup with 4–5 days of food in all conditions. We used the Lizard in alpine environments like Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites (with full safety kit), in Lapland on the Kungsleden with 150 km stretches without resupply, on the GR20 unsupported, and in many other situations, including winter conditions.

Inside the main compartment we added a back sleeve where you can store your sleeping pad (both foam or inflatable). This helps keep it in position when gear shifts inside the pack and protects your back from hard objects. The sleeve also includes a hook for a hydration bladder and an exit port to route the hose to the shoulder straps. For those who also use the backpack in the city, the sleeve is designed to fit a 14” laptop as well.

The side pockets have been raised, angled, and enlarged for better functionality. They can be adjusted while wearing the backpack thanks to the cordlock positioning. In the same way, the front pocket closure can be adjusted while wearing the pack and also acts as a compression strap. On the bottom, we added additional bungees to attach anything, from a seat pad to ice axes or foam sleeping pads.

Materials

Over the years we tested many fabrics, and the ones that we trust the most are those produced by Challenge Sailcloth, especially ECOPAK™ and ULTRA™.

The reasons are simple:

• Durability (in our opinion the most ethical reason - if something doesn’t break and lasts long, you don’t need to replace it).
• Ethics (Challenge products are among the most responsible in the ultralight industry).
• Availability (their distribution allows us to maintain continuity and reliability in production).

Ecopak™ is the stiffer and most durable option; the finished backpack in size Large weighs just under 600g.

The ULTRA™ version is more expensive but lighter, weighing around 500g in size L.

Lizard Backpack V2 is now available for pre-order and will be delivered at the beginning of June.

Those who order during the pre-order phase will receive a limited-edition bandana featuring the iconic Lizard graphic (limited to 100 pieces).

After that, the backpack will be available on our webshop and through selected retailers.

“In the heart of south-central Morocco, the Atlas Mountain Race route weaves between the rugged ranges of the Atlas and the peripheral zones of the Sahara Desert, crossing a region where jagged mountains, windswept plateaus, and arid valleys blend into the semi-desert landscapes that precede the vastness of the Sahara.The itinerary follows long-abandoned colonial pistes, stretches of single and double track, and paths shaped by time. Most of the route is rideable, with only a few short sections requiring portage. However, long distances may separate one resupply point from the next.The track covers roughly 840 km with more than 12,000 meters of climbing, demanding constant attention, careful resource management, and the ability to move through a vast, sparsely populated environment. It also passes through territories inhabited by Berber communities, where human presence blends naturally with an ancient and essential landscape.It is a demanding yet captivating route, where the continual transition between mountain terrain and the edges of the Sahara sets the rhythm of the journey and reveals, day after day, the unexpected variety of southern Morocco.”

In February 2024, we set off for Morocco, starting in Marrakech and riding through the Atlas Mountains toward the gateway to the Sahara. From there, we crossed the Berber lands of the Anti-Atlas, finishing our journey in Agadir.

As usual, this adventure became a book collecting photographs from all nine riders, together with practical guides on the route, desert camping, bikepacking, and how to prepare for a trip like this. Inside, you’ll find images, guides, and stories from all the participants in the expedition. The layout was designed by Federico, who collaborated with Press Press, the publishing studio that brought the project into a tangible form.

A special thanks to Bilal , Illyas and Nunzio for their help with this book, and to all the people who helped and supported us along our journey.

 

The Expedition Marocaine team consisted of:
Bianca Belluzzi
Sofia Blu Cremaschi
Davide Dicorato
Pietro Tullio de Giacomo
Francesco Guerra
Yuri Kaban
Clelia Ponteri
Riccardo Sacchi
Giacomo Santi

 

We presented the book first in Paris at STEEL and then in Milan at Officina Opera; below are photos from both events. The book is available for purchase on the shop.

Originally posted on November 14, 2025 12:12 pm Published by DoggieBag

A perfect two-day hike with all the comforts waiting on top

The brew of this track is by Yuri

At a Glance

Distance: 16.2km (10mi)

Duration (average): One or two days

Difficulty Level: Easy

Start / Finish: Dangri

Elevation Gain/Loss: 1300m (4200 ft)

Getting There & Away:
The only way to reach Dangri is by car.
At the start of the trail, there’s a small parking area with about 20 spots available.

Season:
The bivouac is accessible from June to September via an online booking and payment system that provides an access code to open the door — no physical keys required.
We can consider this a three-season hike, though we strongly advise against attempting it in winter without proper alpine equipment.

Informations:
Permits: no permits are required.
Language: Italian and English are useful for the booking system.
Cell/Mobile Phone Coverage: Mostly poor along the route, with a few signal spots near the top.

Resupply & Water:
Since the trail follows the course of the stream, you’ll find water sources along most of the route.

Route / Conditions:
The hike unfolds in three main sections.

The first — and most well-kept — follows a narrow mule track, climbing from the Crotto d’Angri up to the mountain village of Baggio.

Once past the village, the second section begins, contouring along the slope until you reach a small bridge that crosses the stream.

From there, the trail grows steeper and slips into the woods.
At the end of this stretch, the path opens onto a plateau where the view suddenly widens to the peaks above — and, if you’re lucky, you might find a few horses grazing nearby.

The last section is the most demanding: short but vertical, and often damp due to the proximity of the stream — take it slow, stay safe.

Originally posted on September 16, 2025 10:37 am Published by Yuri Kaban

In July 2025, WEEKENDS invited us to Chengdu, China, to unveil a special new colorway of the Wormholes Sunglasses, crafted exclusively by Abicsi in Canada.

We arrived in Chengdu on October 15th. After a quick tour of the city, we set off that same night for Aba (Ngawa) Prefecture in western Sichuan, deep in the Hengduan Mountains. There, we joined the crew led by James from Weekends, who guided us on an expedition to one of the secondary peaks of Mount Siguniang.

It was our very first trek in Asia, at times familiar, yet strikingly different. The mountains here rise sharply, with trails that are steep and fragile, often giving way beneath your feet. What amazed us most was the altitude of the treeline: up to 4,200 meters, firs, larches, and rhododendrons still thrive, creating the surreal feeling of being surrounded by lush vegetation even at such heights.

Back in Chengdu, the journey continued. DJ Doggie Bag played a sick set at GONG. And then we unveiled the new sunglasses at WEEKENDS, sharing stories from the expedition and opening the floor to a Q&A.

The Wormholes Sunglasses are now available at HATCHET SUPPLY, through WEEKENDS’ channels, and on our webshop.
Unfortunately, due to recent U.S. import regulations, we are unable to ship them to the United States.

Watch the recap video above and scroll down for a selection of photos from the trip.

 

Originally posted on July 23, 2025 5:45 pm Published by Yuri Kaban

A low-tech route with spectacular views suitable for all levels (great for running!)

The brew of this track is by Dicor and Yuri

The route we propose here is a loop suitable for everyone that can be done in two/three days hiking. We recommend it for the spectacular views and the relatively low number of hikers. The route is  accessible by public transport (seasonal buses) and by car.

Route:

You can download the gps data here

At a Glance

Distance:  65km (40mi)

Duration (average):  Two to three days

Difficulty Level: Easy but long

Start / Finish: San Giorgio (VR) / San Giorgio (VR)

Elevation Gain: 2530m (8300 ft)

Elevation Loss: 2530m (8300 ft)

Francesco as he leaves the Castel Malera behind him.

 

Getting There & Away:

You can reach San Giorgio (the starting point of the route) by car. There is also a seasonal summer bus from Verona Porta Nuova train station. The “Lessinia Bus & Bike” operates in summer; ATV Line 110 also runs on weekends and holidays.

Season: This is an easily passable route from spring to autumn. Due to the altitude and location, there is snow in the winter months which makes it a ski mountaneering enjoyable destination.

A cow drinks from a lake near Malga Lessinia

A splendid view on the hills of Lessinia

Informations:

Permits: no permits are required

Language: Italian and English. A basic knowledge of either definitely comes in handy.

Cell/Mobile Phone Coverage: The phone works almost everywhere along the route.

Sofia Blu approaching the climb up Cima Trappola

Resupply & Water:

Resupply: The refugios are called that, but they are effectively restaurants. So expect them to have a kitchen (with prices that are not necessarily affordable) and very little choice of backpacking food (almost only sandwiches). In most refugios, you cannot eat food brought from elsewhere. We therefore recommend that you do not use the facilities and bring all your food from home, as the route is not that long.

Water: In the first part of the route (approximately 30 km), there is almost NO water. The Malghe you will encounter will only have drinking troughs for cows (which we do not recommend drinking from!). Please plan accordingly and bring enough water for the day and for camping.

On Mount Sparavieri, the team displays flags rarely seen across Western cities.

Route / Conditions:

Overview: Apart from the first part, which is more mountainous and mainly on single track, the route remains simple and easy to follow. When you reach the highest points, the view is often magnificent, with views of the Little Dolomites and even Adamello and Pizzo Bernina. The route is well marked and the roads are wide and often passable by car. Depending on the season, you can also buy local products at the mountain huts (mainly dairy products). You are sure to meet many cyclists as the route is very popular in the gravel scene.

Worth noting are several tunnels and a cave used during the First World War.

A monumental picture of Dicor with the Piccole Dolomiti in the background

The team sleeps beside a little church near Malga sul Corno d’Aquilio

Apparently wolves are something in Lessinia, there have been several attacks on livestock, but we haven’t had any encounters.