Non-stop Dogwear was founded in Norway in 2009, and today you can find their products in stores across the globe. We love their passion for designing the best-fitting dog harnesses to “release their potential,” as their slogan says. Their focus used to be on pulling harnesses and other types of equipment for skijoring, canicross, etc. but they also have products more suited for everyday dog walks.
Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack
Lightweight & breathable
Use the code DogGearReview for a 20% discount on all their products worldwide.
Disclaimer: this review contains affiliate links, which support Dog Gear Review if you purchase the product after clicking on it without costing you anything extra. Using affiliate links will never compromise us in writing unbiased, honest reviews!
About the Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack
The Trail Light Backpack offers an ultra-light, ergonomic, and breathable solution for day hikes and trail running with your dog when you need non-restrictive gear that allows the dog to carry some items. It was inspired by a traditional dog harness, so its base features a Y-shaped neck design and comfortable armpit clearance for free, unrestricted leg movement.
For carrying items, the backpack includes two water-resistant side pockets lined with soft material to minimize shifting within the pockets. The pack volume goes from 1 L to 12 L (size XS to XL) - for reference, Zulu’s small size has a 2 L pocket. Additional bungee cords on the top and sides provide extra storage options. The bungee cords can be adjusted from inside the pocket to help minimize the bouncing of the load when the dog moves.
To prevent overheating under the dog pack during summertime, the Trail Light Dog Backpack incorporates a mesh top and uses the highly breathable Hexivent material on the belly panel as well, promoting increased airflow and quick drying. The light-colored pockets effectively reflect heat, to further help keep dogs comfortable on warmer days.
The Trail Light Backpack also features a minimalistic and reflective handle along with reflective pockets and other high-visibility details. The backpack has six adjustment points and four plastic Duraflex buckles (no buckles on the neck-straps).
The leash is attached to the orange webbing loop at the end of the harness is sturdy and and can be tucked away when not needed (in size M and above). The backpack can handle mild pulling but it is not designed for pulling activities.
It is available in sizes XS to XL, accommodating various dog breeds and sizes. Zulu is wearing a size small.
Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack Review
The Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack is a low-profile but highly functional option for those who don’t need a large pack but want the dog to carry some items. It is incredibly lightweight (Zulu’s small size only weighs 258 g / 9.1 oz).
The use of the HexiVent material adds padding without trapping the heat under the pack which is always a concern on summer adventures while wearing a gear with large coverage. The last second strap is placed perfectly to keep the pack in place without interfering with the leg movement even on the deep-chested Zulu, while the last strap goes back far enough to provide stability to the pack without being placed on the waist and putting pressure on the stomach (as long as it is adjusted correctly).
The angle of the neck sections and the width of the part between the front legs are also designed to ensure the pack stays in place while minimizing the chance of chafing on the inside of the front legs.
Even when the packs are filled, it is still not an overly bulky backpack while the bungee cords allow you to add light items to the top or sides as needed.
The only issue I have been running into was the placement of the chest buckles. They are all “hidden buckles” which minimizes the chance of the dog running into something and breaking/ accidentally opening them. However, this makes them hard to secure and open once the packs are filled since they just slide deeper in when you try to snap in the buckles and it’s hard to get ahold of them to keep them in place. Usually, I need to do this only once or twice on a hike, so it is not a huge functionality issue but can get annoying when you try to quickly put it on or take it off.
Functionality Review of the Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack
No-pull correction: It does not have a no-pull ring.
Running/Biking: This is not a pulling harness although it can handle light pulling.
Hiking: It was designed for hiking: it is super light, breathable, easy to clean, and quick to dry! It has a handle to help dogs on seep sections or obstacles.
City walks: The leash attachment is farther back on the dog which provides better pressure distribution on the chest but less steering power and control over the dog at busy places. It was not designed for daily walks but can be used for that as well.
Easy to put on/adjust: It only has buckles on the chest strap so they need to go over the head. Easy enough to adjust and the straps did not loosen over time. The hidden buckles are not the easiest to secure/open.
Visibility: It comes with reflective elements all around.
Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack Review Summary
The Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack is a well-balanced option for those seeking a lightweight yet functional pack for their dog. Its ergonomic design ensures unrestricted movement, while the breathable and water-resistant materials make it comfortable even on longer adventures. The pack remains compact even when loaded, and the adjustable bungee cords provide additional storage flexibility.
While the hidden buckles improve durability and prevent accidental openings, they can be tricky to secure when the pack is full. However, this is a minor inconvenience compared to the overall performance and comfort the backpack offers.
Non-stop Dogwear Trail Light Dog Backpack
Lightweight & breathable
Use the code DogGearReview for a 20% discount on all their products worldwide.
Disclaimer: this review contains affiliate links, which support Dog Gear Review if you purchase the product after clicking on it without costing you anything extra. Using affiliate links will never compromise us in writing unbiased, honest reviews!
Always ensure the harness is a good fit for YOUR dog. If you need help deciding on the fit, read our article on harness fitting or more specfially about the safe fitting of three-strap harnesses.
Zulu’s measurements
Many of you asked for the dog’s measurements in reviews to better understand the different products’ fit, so I’m sharing Zulu’s below for reference.
- Shoulder height: 19 inches (50 cm)
- Weight: 31 pounds (14 kg)
- Widest chest circumference: 24 inches (60 cm)
- Neck circumference for collars: 13 inches (33 cm)
- Back lengths: 17 inches (44 cm)
