View Full Version : What's your favorite pack?
Hey everyone, I'm thinking about getting a new pack, and was wondering if anybody had any shout outs for there favorite pack brand and size? I know this differs for each person, but out of curiosity, I would like to see what the major consensus is...
Sarcasm the elf
12-28-2014, 13:43
http://www.ula-equipment.com/product_p/circuit.htm
Slo-go'en
12-28-2014, 13:54
An REI UL65 CRUISE. Unfortunately, it's no longer available. Mine has seen a lot of use and is starting to show some serious wear. I really need to replace it but haven't found anything that strikes my fancy yet.
Feral Bill
12-28-2014, 14:31
It depends on the trip.
For a few days in decent weather i like my Granite Gear Cornice (40L) ski pack.
For heavy loads (winter, group leading, serious photography) my Dana Terraplane
For going old school, my Mountain Master external frame pack, now used mostly by my son
None are made anymore or are ideal for a through hike.
Hey everyone, I'm thinking about getting a new pack, and was wondering if anybody had any shout outs for there favorite pack brand and size? I know this differs for each person, but out of curiosity, I would like to see what the major consensus is...
54,436 members ... almost that many opinions. Osprey Atmos 65 for me
HooKooDooKu
12-28-2014, 16:46
I've considered the REI Flash 62 to be the most bang for the buck/weight. The medium size is listed as 62L and 2lbs 14oz. Full retail is ~$190, but I simply waited until REI had one of their 20% on REI gear sales and picked one up for ~$170.
The overall design of the REI Flash 62 is ok. I've found dealing with the top compartment that flops and cinches down over the main compartment to be a little odd, but otherwise ok.
One of the YouTube videos discussed here on WB featured a hiker that used the REI Flash for hiking the JMT.
Another pack that IMHO is in a similar "most bang for the buck/weight" might be the Osprey Exos 58. It's a little smaller than the REI flash, but has more space for the weight of the pack. A large Flash62 is 65L @ 3lbs. A Large Exos58 is 61L @ 2.5lbs.
12trysomething
12-28-2014, 18:15
Ask 10 backpackers what their favorite pack is...you will have 17 different answers. ULA Ohm 2.0 and zpacks zero for me.
Many Moons
12-28-2014, 22:04
I use the 65 to!
Hike On!!!
Miller!!!
54,436 members ... almost that many opinions. Osprey Atmos 65 for me
I use the 65 to!
Hike On!!!
Miller!!!
Taking it out tomorrow to Raccoon Creek SP on a quick overnight before the highs drop below freezing here in SW PA.
Traveler
12-29-2014, 07:29
You didn't say what type of use you had in mind for this new pack. Are you a day hiker, overnight hiker, section hiker, more than five day hiker? Your use will define the "Best Pack". I have several packs for example, depending on what activity and season of the year I am headed into.
The "Best Pack" debate is best answered by you and the pack that fits you best. I am a pretty big fan of Osprey, but my hiking buddy has a different body frame and finds those packs don't work well for him. Some things you should consider:
What is the weight of your gear (collective weight of all the items that you put in your current pack)? What is the volume size of your gear? How much food do you normally take with you? What kind of stove do you use if any? Does all this fit well into your current pack? How do you carry water and how much do you normally carry with you? Do you need a hydration bladder compartment or side pockets for water? That will give you an idea of size and minimum specifications to start looking at.
Do you like an external or internal frame for the pack or do you prefer a lighter pack that does not have much in terms of independent support? Do you prefer the pack to be tight against your body or do you prefer having webbing that allows airflow on your back?
If these aren't well known, you may be best off going to a good retailer (REI or EMS for instance) and getting sized for a pack and try on a few different types and brands to get a feel for them.
My favorite pack is the pack I have.
It never changes. I always like the pack I have.
This time, I have a 40-liter Timbuk2 Tres Especial 2014 for anticipated steady rain.
swisscross
12-29-2014, 10:45
I like my Circuit too.
ULA Ohm 2. Perfect size for me, very comfortable. If you need larger, the Circuit or Catalyst have great reputations. I've been using ULA packs for many years now, still use my original P2 when I need a larger pack.
Also have a CDT which is discontinued now, and a bit too small for me for multi-day overnights. Great for one night or a large day pack.
takethisbread
12-29-2014, 11:13
I liked my golite dawn the best. I usually hate my packs tho.
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SteelCut
12-29-2014, 11:13
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider Pack.
I have two the first is a "Mountain Hardwear Dirrettsima 46" i bought it in 2011 and used it on my 2012 AT thru-hike and loved it it felt like i was carrying a pillow and i still use it today it's still just as comfortable as it was the day i bought it.
the second is a "Gossemer Gear Mariposa, large" i just got this one this past summer and used it several times and i love it too for a UL pack it holds weight a lot better than i thought it would.
atmilkman
12-29-2014, 11:20
Another Circuit here.
No Directions
12-29-2014, 12:36
I use the REI Flash 62. I have found it to be comfortable and sturdy. I would like it better if it had more smaller outer pockets to store things that I might need to get to during the day but regardless I'm still happy with it.
blue indian
12-29-2014, 12:55
Elemental Horizons kalais
Kelty Cache Hauler Frame and Backpack.
Probably, not ideal for a threw hike or extended section hikes, but it works for me in all other applications. So I will start my section hikes with it in 2015. If I have to get a new pack I will.
RUNT ''13''
Turk6177
12-29-2014, 14:27
ULA Catalyst and I could not be happier
I started with the ULA Circuit but changed out to the ULA CDT. The Circuit was too big for what I was carrying. The CDT is a great pack but can be a little on the small side sometimes. I just finished packing it for a four night trip and I had to get creative to carry the extra colder weather gear that I will need.
Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider Pack.
Same here, carries great, doesn't absorb water, easily expands/contracts for larger/smaller loads
daddytwosticks
12-29-2014, 16:24
Newer model Osprey Exos 48. Love it to death. :)
Speakeasy TN
12-29-2014, 16:32
ULA Catalyst........given that most of their catalog is listed here, that should tell you something!
yerbyray
12-31-2014, 21:37
Well I guess that I am old school but the thread does say what is your "favorite pack." Mine is a Lowe Alpine Countour IV. I have worn out two in the previous 25 years and still have one that is in pristine condition. I just took it out of the plastic about a year ago.
Yes it is heavy but that pack is so comfortable for me that I prefer to carry it unless I am trying a light load.
Six Moons Swift for now but I'm getting a Zpacks 52L Arc Blast and I expect that will be my new favorite.
CrumbSnatcher
01-01-2015, 01:45
Kelty Super Tioga
Osprey Exos 58
Life is full of ups and downs! Hike on!
Internal frame: ULA Camino (old version)
External frame: Vargo Ti-Arc
Zpacks arc blast.
Music to my ears.
I have been using Gossamer Gear for a few years.
ULA Catalyst........given that most of their catalog is listed here, that should tell you something!
Another catalyst here. I own 8 different packs and can buy pretty well what I want and this is my go to.
Just got a deuter ACT & a deuter traveler that look promising for plane travel though AND backpacking. Heavier but damn well made!
rolex
saltysack
01-02-2015, 08:00
Circuit+++++
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bigcranky
01-02-2015, 09:18
Circuit. We own three of them for two hikers :) I'm sure I could use the smaller Ohm for much of my hiking, but if I could only have one, it would be the Circuit.
Another devoted fan of the ULA Circuit.
HMG windrider 2400. Fits me like a glove and carries weight like a champ.
I placed the order for HMG Summit w/accessory pocket, my new favorite?
RainbowDash
01-03-2015, 21:56
I usually have a cheap Jan Sport for day (or two) hikes and will be getting an Osprey Kyte for my first Thru.
Connie, I was going to buy a zero for a new day and sul pack but HMG packs just fit to good. I'll be buying a summit also in the near future.
soumodeler
01-04-2015, 09:33
Zpacks ArcBlast has been my favorite pack so far.
Thinspace
01-08-2015, 13:47
I'm not seeing any love here for the Granite gear Crown which doesn't give me a good feeling. i just ordered one from REI and it hasn't even arrived yet. I bought it with the idea of a thru hike of the LT or a section hike of the AT of equivalent distance in mind. I have an 25+ year old Gregory pack that weighs about 5 or 6 lbs I'm guessing. Loved it but looking to lighten my base weight. Seems like the ULA Circuit and a couple of the Osprey packs are pretty popular
I know someone who has that particular back panel pack. His pack-love convinced me to get a back panel pack like that. It is so comfortable. It is a different experience carrying a backpack with that back panel.
I like it so much I am backpacking my JetBoil, previously relegated to Rest Stops on cross-country driving trips or enroute to trailheads.
Thinspace
01-08-2015, 15:39
I know someone who has that particular back panel pack. His pack-love convinced me to get a back panel pack like that. It is so comfortable. It is a different experience carrying a backpack with that back panel.
I like it so much I am backpacking my JetBoil, previously relegated to Rest Stops on cross-country driving trips or enroute to trailheads.
What pack are you referring to Connie?
ULA Catalyst / or Circuit for me
I'm not seeing any love here for the Granite gear Crown which doesn't give me a good feeling. i just ordered one from REI and it hasn't even arrived yet.
Oh man, you didn't really order that pack did you?
Kidding. =D
He had the prototype before it was called the Crown.
He was a REI expert.
I needed a waterproof backpack. The Timbuk2 Tres Especial 2014 backpack has a formed back panel. I tried it. I am happy I did. It easily carries lumpy items, like the JetBoil. I will use that waterproof backpack for section hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail.
Fireonwindcsr
01-09-2015, 04:58
He had the prototype before it was called the Crown.
He was a REI expert.
I needed a waterproof backpack. The Timbuk2 Tres Especial 2014 backpack has a formed back panel. I tried it. I am happy I did. It easily carries lumpy items, like the JetBoil. I will use that waterproof backpack for section hiking the Pacific Northwest Trail.
Mine: Osprey Men's Aether 70 Backpack - $215.84 on Amazon Nov 2014
I've been rocking a green 2014 jam50 I got off their site for about half off, last spring. I like it quite a lot thus far, though I added a stiffer frame sheet after my first section hike w/it (~81 miles/4 days). I've loaded it with five days of food & requirements for just over a hundred mile hike, and it worked well w/that too. When I put my high wind, cold-cold (single digit to sub-zero) weather stuff in it, it does start getting small. And gear plus five days of food/snacks was about all I'd want to carry in it also I think.
I've been eyeballing the ULAs, GGs, & ArcBlasts a bit lately. I'm imagining better carrying (maybe), slightly more capacity (more food! or COLD weather gear), with a negligible weight penalty... We'll see, lol. For now though, it's my green JamFiddy! I've got hundreds of miles on it and it works well for me.
u.w.
mankind117
01-09-2015, 13:04
The new Seekoutside unaweep has quickly become my favorite pack.
http://seekoutside.com/lightweight-backpacks/
It is a 3 pound pack that can compress for day loads or carry an expedition amount of gear with no functional limitation on what weight it can carry but still be as comfortable as any internal frame pack with 20 pounds in it.
Just Bill
01-09-2015, 13:36
The one I just made, until I walk with it for a bit and come up with another design improvement and make another.
Sometimes I wish I didn't make gear.
handlebar
01-10-2015, 19:20
I've got several thousand miles on my Granite Gear Crown VC60. This pack carried very well with the volume of water I needed last fall for 600 miles sobo on the AZT where carrying capacity is an issue due to the need to carry as much as 2 gallons (16 pounds) of water along with other gear. It's pretty comfortable up to about 35 pounds.
Thinspace
01-12-2015, 13:39
I've got several thousand miles on my Granite Gear Crown VC60. This pack carried very well with the volume of water I needed last fall for 600 miles sobo on the AZT where carrying capacity is an issue due to the need to carry as much as 2 gallons (16 pounds) of water along with other gear. It's pretty comfortable up to about 35 pounds.
That's reassuring to me. I received my pack and loaded it up with some weight, adjusted everthing and it seems very comfortable. Can't wait to try it out on the trail!
strogiyogi
01-30-2015, 14:07
ULA circuit! My husband and I both used them on our thru and they are still in great shape!
12TH Man
01-31-2015, 09:28
Aarn Natural Balance. Love it so far.
Christmastree
01-31-2015, 09:33
I have been using a Granite Gear Vapor Trail for the pat few years, While I have been using it for 3 or 4 day trips, I am planning on using it on my long awaited thru in 2016. I am also concerned why GG seems almost absent from this discussion. It's making me question my choice.
I have been using a Granite Gear Vapor Trail for the pat few years, While I have been using it for 3 or 4 day trips, I am planning on using it on my long awaited thru in 2016. I am also concerned why GG seems almost absent from this discussion. It's making me question my choice.
Don't be silly. Granite Gear has been mentioned in this very thread! Since the Vapor Trail isn't made anymore, you won't find too many people recommending it to folks looking for a new pack. Also, GG put out a number of different packs with the "Vapor Trail" name, so it takes a sentence or two to describe exactly which pack you are discussing. If the pack has been working for you, do what others suggest: take a trip as long as your longest re-supply interval. Try to approximate the mix of terrain and weather you will encounter on the big trip. If the pack works for you on that test trip, it will probably work nicely on the big trip.
I have 2 GG packs, a Vapor Trail Latitude with the dual front zipper and stretchy panel, and a front-load/top-load Stratus FZ5500. I love them both, and would recommend either for the right application.
The Gossamer Gear Crown VC is of Hossamer Gear Vapor Trail heritage.
If you look hard (forum Search isn't great) there is Gossamer Gear Vapor Trail and Gossamer Gear Crown VC love in this forum.
Connie, I promise you that you won't find any 'Gossamer Gear Crown VC love' on this forum.
Don't worry though, the 'GG' confused me also for a minute. I don't really use Granite Gear so it's easy for me to forget about em.
Osprey atmos 65 - bought 2009 for my SOBO, has about 5000 miles on it. Only replaced the buckle once and a few patches with gorilla tape. It's a beast, and I want a new one so bad - but can't gather the strength to retire this one. Best pack i've ever had. Army gear included.
Right! I was tired.
Granite Gear has new packs. Anyone have a favorite?
I like the Granite Gear Crown VC. I have been thinking I will have that one.
Wanderingventurer
02-18-2015, 00:39
My SeekOutside's Paradox Unaweep 3 lbs pack is my absolute favorite pack.
http://SeekOutside.com/lightweight-backpacks/