kyletak
12-11-2012, 16:10
Long time stalker on the WB forums, yet first time poster.
I have been a hiker for quite some time. I have done several section hikes of the AT and have since learned to reduce my pack weight considerably. I originally started out hiking with an Osprey Aether 70, and with all of the room decided to pack everything and then some. My first trip resulted in packing about 55 lbs of gear (including food/water), which included but certainly not limited to, a 2 lb knife, 3 books, and a rubix cube... I have since reduced my weight considerably, and depending on the season my base weight is around 10-14 lbs. Not necessarily super ultra light, but definitely a step up (down?) from my first outing on the trail. I have been looking into different backpacks to purchase as my Aether is quite heavy. I believe on the REI website it is listed at either 4-5 lbs. Not sure if this is completely accurate though because it most certainly doesn't feel like 4-5 lbs when empty.
I have recently been purchasing several items that are made of this relatively new wonder material, cuben fiber. While it does seem rather durable, I am wondering if anyone has any experience with cuben fiber backpacks, more specifically the Arc Blast. Do they have the potential for the long haul (thru hike) if properly cared for and maintained. IE no throwing on pavement etc. I am very interested in the Zpacks Arc Blast backpack as it is unbelievably light weight and seems to be made by a rather reputable backpacker. If anyone has an Arc Blast and would be willing to shed some light on its durability and functionality (most specifically the mesh in the back and the durability of the frame) I would be eternally grateful. I would really like to hear some feedback before spending 300+ on a backpack.
Thank you in advance!
-Kyle
I have been a hiker for quite some time. I have done several section hikes of the AT and have since learned to reduce my pack weight considerably. I originally started out hiking with an Osprey Aether 70, and with all of the room decided to pack everything and then some. My first trip resulted in packing about 55 lbs of gear (including food/water), which included but certainly not limited to, a 2 lb knife, 3 books, and a rubix cube... I have since reduced my weight considerably, and depending on the season my base weight is around 10-14 lbs. Not necessarily super ultra light, but definitely a step up (down?) from my first outing on the trail. I have been looking into different backpacks to purchase as my Aether is quite heavy. I believe on the REI website it is listed at either 4-5 lbs. Not sure if this is completely accurate though because it most certainly doesn't feel like 4-5 lbs when empty.
I have recently been purchasing several items that are made of this relatively new wonder material, cuben fiber. While it does seem rather durable, I am wondering if anyone has any experience with cuben fiber backpacks, more specifically the Arc Blast. Do they have the potential for the long haul (thru hike) if properly cared for and maintained. IE no throwing on pavement etc. I am very interested in the Zpacks Arc Blast backpack as it is unbelievably light weight and seems to be made by a rather reputable backpacker. If anyone has an Arc Blast and would be willing to shed some light on its durability and functionality (most specifically the mesh in the back and the durability of the frame) I would be eternally grateful. I would really like to hear some feedback before spending 300+ on a backpack.
Thank you in advance!
-Kyle