Time tested before review: 5 months

I’ve recently started testing the 5.11 Tactical Skyweight Utility Chest Pack, and while this is not a full review, I wanted to share a hands-on overview for anyone considering it. With shopping season around the corner, especially Black Friday, some of you might be weighing this against more established options like the Hill People Gear Kit Bag.

Basic Dimensions and Sizing

According to 5.11, the pack measures 6 x 10 x 2.2 inches. In practical terms, it’s very close in size to the Hill People Gear Medium Kit Bag, which is 7 x 10 x 2.5 inches. It’s slightly more compact than the original HPG Kit Bag, but still large enough to carry a small EDC loadout or navigation setup.

If you’re looking to carry larger items or pack more volume on your chest, HPG still offers bags with more overall space. But if you value smart organization in a compact format, the Skyweight line makes a strong case.

External Features

• MOLLE webbing: 10mm loops at the bottom let you attach extras like a tourniquet pouch. I’m currently using a Tasmanian Tiger pouch here.
• Harness and back panel: Slightly padded with 3D mesh for ventilation. Comfortable, sits flat under a backpack, and detaches easily via quick-release buckles.
• Front features: A small Velcro panel, minimal external loops (2), and a stretch sleeve for gloves or small gear.
• Looks: This pack leans toward a clean, low-profile aesthetic. If you prefer a more modular exterior with room for add-ons, check out the Skyweight Survival Chest Pack instead.

CCW Compartment

There’s an ambidextrous rear-access compartment designed for compact pistols, with loop Velcro for mounting a holster. Two pull-tabs offer fast access if needed.

I’m not using it for CCW, but it fits my map sleeve (folded in thirds), compass, and navigation tools. I’ve modified the elastic loops to hold the compass, and added a dummy cord for retention.

Internal Organization

This is where the pack really stands out — and where 5.11’s background in EDC and tactical design becomes obvious. The Skyweight Utility Chest Pack has roughly 30 separate compartments, loops, and sleeves, including:

• 2 large internal sleeves (great for first aid items or a space blanket)
• Multiple elastic loops (retention for tools, compasses, firestarting gear)
• Mesh zippered pockets
• Gear tethers and attachment points
• Front pouch for notepad and pen
• Key ring and inner tab for securing small valuables
• Enough structure and layout to accommodate a wide range of loadouts

Compared to the Hill People Gear Original Kit Bag, which has about 8 organizational features, the Skyweight has more than three times the internal options, despite the smaller footprint.

If you’re someone who likes compartmentalization and modularity, this pack gives you plenty to work with.

Final Thoughts (So Far)

This is a first look, not a long-term verdict. But after four and a half months of real use, I can say the Skyweight Utility Chest Pack offers a lot of organizational potential in a surprisingly compact format.

If you prefer simplicity and open space, the Hill People Gear Kit Bag still holds its ground. But if you want lots of compartments and customization options in a cleaner-looking design, this pack might be worth a try.

Field testing continues, but I wanted to share this quick breakdown for those currently deciding between chest packs.

Check price on Amazon → https://amzn.to/4juNV1o
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