NoKnees
09-25-2005, 15:01
Hi all,
I am thinking of a new pack. Mainly to cut some weight. Currently I carry a GG Vapor trail. I love the VT. Its got a great suspension and carries well, but it makes up 20% of my base weight and has about 25% more capacity than I usually need. My base weight is 10-12 pounds (depending if I have to carry that @$%#$# bear canister) and total weights max out at about 20 pounds for 5 day trips. More typically the total weight is 15-17 pounds or so.
I am looking for a pack that will help me in my never ending quest to cut some weight. One option is the mariposa or G4. The advantage here is that they have a more sopisticated looking suspension system than does the rucksac type designs. It would replace the Vapor trail for all my three season trips. However I am concerned that the pad will move the packs center of gravity further back and that the pad next to my back will be hot and sticky.
A simple packbag like the FF Thompson pack seems elegant but might be less comfortable to carry. One consideration is that if I buy the FF I can always go back to Vapor Trail when I need more capacity or support. The FF would likely serve in tandem with the Vapor Trail.
Basically I would love some comments from folks who have carried the G4/Mariposa or a simple packbag. I like the look of the Golite breeze but the reviews I have read have been mixed.
NoKnees
I am thinking of a new pack. Mainly to cut some weight. Currently I carry a GG Vapor trail. I love the VT. Its got a great suspension and carries well, but it makes up 20% of my base weight and has about 25% more capacity than I usually need. My base weight is 10-12 pounds (depending if I have to carry that @$%#$# bear canister) and total weights max out at about 20 pounds for 5 day trips. More typically the total weight is 15-17 pounds or so.
I am looking for a pack that will help me in my never ending quest to cut some weight. One option is the mariposa or G4. The advantage here is that they have a more sopisticated looking suspension system than does the rucksac type designs. It would replace the Vapor trail for all my three season trips. However I am concerned that the pad will move the packs center of gravity further back and that the pad next to my back will be hot and sticky.
A simple packbag like the FF Thompson pack seems elegant but might be less comfortable to carry. One consideration is that if I buy the FF I can always go back to Vapor Trail when I need more capacity or support. The FF would likely serve in tandem with the Vapor Trail.
Basically I would love some comments from folks who have carried the G4/Mariposa or a simple packbag. I like the look of the Golite breeze but the reviews I have read have been mixed.
NoKnees