I'm pretty sure I don't qualify as an "ultra-light" backpacker, but I was wondering if there's an actual base weight in pounds that serves as the official cutoff?
Also, I'm 6'4" and weigh about 200lbs. My base weight before food is usually around 25 lbs. I've found that carrying 12.5% of my body weight isn't uncomfortable to me at all. However, I usually hike with my brother who is about 30 lbs lighter than I. We usually divide weight evenly so he is carrying 25lbs or 14.7% of his body weight. He runs quite a bit more than me, but it seems that on steep inclines he has a harder time. I'm beginning to think it's because he's carrying a greater share (as a percentage) of the weight.
Is there a rolling scale for what a person should carry based on their body weight?
Do any of you bigger guys find that you don't mind carrying some extra weight for the small conveniences they may provide? For example, I carry a heavier sleeping pad because it's more comfy and to me the better sleep is worth the weight.
In summary, does anyone know a maximum recommended pack weight as a percentage of body weight or height?