WhiteBlaze approved long distance backpacks:

[Kookork]

I am sure we have had countless threads about suggested backpacks for long distance hiking and especially thru hiking and we will have more of it in the future.

The purpose of this thread is to identify the backpacks most of us agree about their performance for thru hiking. At the end of the thread I am hoping that we have a list of backpacks that are WhiteBlaze members approved. So please take a few minutes of your time and enter your suggestions here in this thread and hopefully we have a unified vote for the top 10 favorite’s backpacks of all time. If you share your expertise and experience we can have a thread to refer to when one of the most frequent questions is asked for the thousandth time in this forum.

No need to mention that the backpack we suggest better to be light ( even better if ultra light), affordable , durable and trail tested. So what are your suggestions if you have to choose the most suitable backpack for your next long distance hiking? You can write down more than one choice also and a few words about why you chose this backpack(s) to others:

Here is mine:

Granite gear Crown V.C. 60 : 2 Ibs, 2 oz , affordable(199 dollars) durable, easy access, great suspension technology from an approved company with focus mostly on thru hike.

What about you?

[Rasty]

ULA Circuit. 2 pounds. $225.

[Chaco Taco]

ULA catalyst $250

[kayak karl]

golite pinnacle paid $90

WHY?the big text

[Chaco Taco]

golite pinnacle paid $90

WHY?the big text
I thruhiked with one in 08 and had to replace it twice, just sayin

[Lone Wolf]

Jansport D2 frame pack

[Kookork]

golite pinnacle paid $90

WHY?the big text

I don't know about you Karl but I dont like to search for my eyeglasses for reading a post. I am getting old you know.

[leaftye]

Anything by Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, Zpacks, ULA.

[MuddyWaters]

A pack is just a sack to carry your stuff .

The lighter the pack, the more of "just a sack" it is.

Ironic isnt it.


Its what you DONT put in your pack, that makes the difference.

With a 8-10 lb base weight, almost every pack out there would work great, as long as it was made halfway well.

[Kookork]

Anything by Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, Zpacks, ULA.

Thank you for your input but it is not a definite vote . name and model please

[leaftye]

Thank you for your input but it is not a definite vote . name and model please

A McHale leaftye.

[hikerboy57]

osprey atmos 50/65

[SCRUB HIKER]

Elemental Horizons Kalais plus the aluminum stay and some large hipbelt pockets. 33oz. Barely notice it's there when it's got 25lb in it. $190 stock, $246 with the add-ons. Won't be winning many votes because I'm not sure anyone besides me and SGT Rock own this thing, but I love it.

[Almost There]

Osprey Exos 58, although I am interested in the Granite Gear Crown VC. I've been loyal to the Screamin' Eagle for awhile now.

[Chaco Taco]

Elemental Horizons Kalais plus the aluminum stay and some large hipbelt pockets. 33oz. Barely notice it's there when it's got 25lb in it. $190 stock, $246 with the add-ons. Won't be winning many votes because I'm not sure anyone besides me and SGT Rock own this thing, but I love it.
Got my attention

[Praha4]

Deuter ACT Zero 50+15

~ 3 lbs. weight
durable, affordable ($159 on sale at some websites I've seen)
Award winning by several outdoor and backpacking magazines

[Kookork]

So far the Crown V.C 60 is the only backpack with two votes. I think it will be in the final 10 most favorite list

[Kookork]

Deuter ACT Zero 50+15

~ 3 lbs. weight
durable, affordable ($159 on sale at some websites I've seen)
Award winning by several outdoor and backpacking magazines

This is a nice vote with some description to back it up. Thank you

[Elder]

Jansport D2 frame pack
Damn Lone Wolf. How old are you?
I sold those in 1970's!

[Chaco Taco]

So far the Crown V.C 60 is the only backpack with two votes. I think it will be in the final 10 most favorite list
anything granite gear is a great choice in my opinion

[Lone Wolf]

Damn Lone Wolf. How old are you?
I sold those in 1970's!

i be 54 and it's the best pack i ever owned

[CrumbSnatcher]

kelty external super tioga

[CrumbSnatcher]

if Lone Wolf and Geek both stand by the jansport, thats good enough for me
i might have to try one

[mother goose]

Deuter women specific Act zero 55--10
3 lbs 3oz, excellent suspension easy to carry, plenty of room. And held up for over 7000 miles of backpacking.
So good i bought a second and did two 2000 mile seasons with it. It would probably go another year, but switching to a smaller pack this year just cause I have one laying around that needs to be used

[russb]

Gossamer Gear Mariposa, currently $205 and 27oz. Mine is an older model, a little lighter and a lot cheaper.

[Drybones]

So far the Crown V.C 60 is the only backpack with two votes. I think it will be in the final 10 most favorite list

Another Crown 60 here, it's by far my favorite but I also have a Deuter ACT lite 65+10, an REI Flash 65 and Flash 50 that all would work okay.

[winger]

Mystery Ranch Trance. ULA Catalyst and Ohm.

[Drybones]

if Lone Wolf and Geek both stand by the jansport, thats good enough for me
i might have to try one

I haven't tried them but I've heard from friends that Jansport has come a long way in developing good packs.

[Drybones]

i be 54 and it's the best pack i ever owned

I thought you was an old fart LW but you're just a whipper snapper.

[coheterojo]

Osprey Atmos 65. Two thruhikes. The most comfortable pack I've ever used.

[takethisbread]

Ula catalyst
And
Golite jam like both

[kidchill]

I originally bought an HMG pack. I think it was the Soutwest. It ended up being a little too small (couldn't fit my food bag in there) but it was great for 2-3day trips. Light weight and rugged. I did see some people on the trail sporting it. I ended up going with GG Mariposa (the new design). The stitching began coming undone where the right shoulder strap attaches to the bottom of the pack after only 100 miles...I noticed it when I hit Monson (going SOBO). The strap completely broke in North Adams Mass. I ghetto rigged it to work and contacted GG. They said I could send it in for repairs but it would take time. This isn't really possible when you're thru-hiking. I said screw it and figured I would just beat the hell outta the bag until it died. To my amazement it made it the 2200 miles and it's sitting in the closet now. A few more straps on it broke, but again, I just ghetto rigged it. It's got great volume for the weight, so I guess in the end I would recommend it.

[bfayer]

One more for the ULA Catalyst.

For me its the perfect balance between load carrying ability, space, weight, and comfort.

[Kookork]

So far the votes shows:

Granite gear Crown V.C. 60 = 4 votes

ULA catalyst = 3 votes

Deuter ACT Zero 50+15 = 2 votes

Osprey atmos 65 = 2 votes

ULA Circuit
Golite Pinnacle
Jansport D2 frame pack
Osprey atmos 50
Elemental Horizons Kalais
Osprey Exos 58
Screamin Eagle
Kelty External Super tioga
Gossamer gear Mariposa
Deuter ACT Lite 65+10
REI Flash 65
REI Flash 50
Mystery Ranch Trance
ULA ohm
Golite Jam

[Odd Man Out]

Elemental Horizons Kalais plus the aluminum stay and some large hipbelt pockets. 33oz. Barely notice it's there when it's got 25lb in it. $190 stock, $246 with the add-ons. Won't be winning many votes because I'm not sure anyone besides me and SGT Rock own this thing, but I love it.

I don't yet have this but plan to in the near future. I guess that means I can't vote.

[Kookork]

I don't yet have this but plan to in the near future. I guess that means I can't vote.

I don't have Crown 60 either but that is my choice and vote. so are you voting for Elemental Horizons now?

[bfayer]

How can someone honestly vote for a pack they have never used?

[hikerboy57]

How can someone honestly vote for a pack they have never used?
all the cool kids are doing it

[Kookork]

How can someone honestly vote for a pack they have never used?


I have used Crown in two week long trips . I have borrowed a lot of gears from my friends to test them. ( actually two of my friends bought Crown just because I recommended it). I don't need to test all the gears to know how good or bad they are. These days you can search YouTube and many other websites to find some honest and real customer review about what you are about to buy and decide for yourself. 10 years ago we did not have this tool . Now we have it.

[Hikerhead]

Archwood Flextreck 37,000,000 Whipsnake Edition.

[HikerMom58]

Gregory- DEVA 60

[poopsy]

I just checked, a Gregory DEVA is 2.6 kg. It may be a great pack but isn't it a bit tooooo heavy? Just askin..

[Chaco Taco]

How can someone honestly vote for a pack they have never used?
Uh its called cyber hiking:cool:

[HikerMom58]

I just checked, a Gregory DEVA is 2.6 kg. It may be a great pack but isn't it a bit tooooo heavy? Just askin..

Well, I'm sure I could go with a lighter one but I like the way it feels and the size works for me. Fully loaded with 4 days of food and water is about 30lbs. I love the hip belt and straps- makes it easy for adjusting. It has a great fit and feel.

[Chaco Taco]

30 pounds in a 5 pound 11 oz pack with 4 days worth of food and water?

[HikerMom58]

30 pounds in a 5 pound 11 oz pack with 4 days worth of food and water?

Sure, why not? I carry home-made dehydrated food very light.. I don't eat a ton of food, no maps, share water filter and cooking stuff. (no stove)
I don't hike alone... remember?

[Chaco Taco]

uh......sure.....I remember:rolleyes:


Sure, why not? I carry home-made dehydrated food very light.. I don't eat a ton of food, no maps, share water filter and cooking stuff. (no stove)
I don't hike alone... remember?

[burk]

you all make me fell silly with my camptrail wilderness

[HikerMom58]

uh......sure.....I remember:rolleyes:

I wouldn't expect you 2....:rolleyes:

[Pendragon]

Camp Trails McKinley external frame - around five pounds. Served me well in Denali in 86 and will again on the AT in April, and yes, I know it's heavy, but no "bag with shoulder straps" I've seen is half as versatile.

[rongallant]

Elemental Horizons Kalais plus the aluminum stay and some large hipbelt pockets. 33oz. Barely notice it's there when it's got 25lb in it. $190 stock, $246 with the add-ons. Won't be winning many votes because I'm not sure anyone besides me and SGT Rock own this thing, but I love it.

And me. And I line it. Won't win any beauty contests. This is a utilitarian dream. Love it.

[jeffmeh]

Tallying votes? Statistical significance? Subjective theory of value? :)

[Rasty]

you all make me fell silly with my camptrail wilderness

Had two camptrails packs. Loved them both.

[Astro]

I don't know about you Karl but I dont like to search for my eyeglasses for reading a post. I am getting old you know.

Getting Old? You are only 45! :confused:

[Astro]

ULA Catalyst

[snorz]

My beloved kelty red cloud carries my gear&Crown Royal.

[rocketsocks]

OK, I'll throw my pack in the ring, but only cause others (thru-hikers have told me they have used it) Osprey Exos 2lb 8 oz.

[BuckeyeBill]

Kelty Trekker 65

[joshgray]

I'd third the Osprey Exos 58, but I'll only truly test its mettle starting in about... 16 days. We'll see how it hold up.

[Kookork]

Osprey Exos 58 and ULA Catalyst are competing with Crown 60.

I would not be surprised to see one of them wins the challenge by the end of the vote.

[OzJacko]

ULA Catalyst/Circuit.
For what it's worth I consider them two sizings of the same pack.
I know there's a bit more to it than that but that's the way I look at them.

[Deacon]

I've got a zPacks Exo 50 Cuben pack. Weighs 14 oz., and has an external frame. Probably not the most durable pack in the world, but at 14 ounces, who cares? It's the best of both worlds, light and external framed

[Deacon]

I've got a zPacks Exo 50 Cuben pack. Weighs 14 oz., and has an external frame. Probably not the most durable pack in the world, but at 14 ounces, who cares? It's the best of both worlds, light and external framed.

[jgerres]

ULA Catalyst

[jrabbott]

Osprey Exos 58.................wish I could get down to the 46.....but not that much weight difference. I have a OLD '80 model Jansport ext frame pack thats still a keeper!! strap on a ten on top and sleeping bag on bottom - essentials in the middle - Old School!!

[Kerosene]

It's spelled Archwood Flextrek (http://www.avidh.com/view/3413/the-archwood-flextrek-37,000,000,000,000-whipsnake-edition-backpack/).

[flemdawg1]

Granite Gear Nimbus Ozone (unfort, no longer made)

Other packs I've owned but not voting for:
Camp Trails Catskill (just too big, heavy, carried OK though)
Golite Jam2 (just didn't carry well enough, but might have needed a Large instead of a medium size)
Backpacking Light Abasoroka (bad hipbelt design, kept falling off, finally glued to the pack)

[Meriadoc]

ULA Catalyst. Big enough for a party, light enough for speed.

[jrabbott]

ULA Catalyst. Big enough for a party, light enough for speed.

Did I read right that the ULA Catalyst id 48oz or 4 lbs??? The Osprey Exos is 2lbs 10 oz for the large................interesting!

[Coffee]

Did I read right that the ULA Catalyst id 48oz or 4 lbs??? The Osprey Exos is 2lbs 10 oz for the large................interesting!

My Catalyst weighs in at 44.7 ounces, or 2.8 pounds, after I removed the hydration sleeve, hand loops, and small pocket for stashing items.

I am very happy with the size of the pack when it contains my Bearikade canister which I'll need in the Sierra this summer but without the canister it is more space than I would ever really need. I'd say that if I wasn't hiking out west I would opt for the Circuit instead.

[capehiker]

ULA Catalyst. Big enough for a party, light enough for speed.

It's like the mullet of backpacks!:D

[Rightfoot]

I still carry a Mountainsmith Crestone ll. Huge pack, super suspension and yes it weighs in between 6 and 7 pounds empty. I once saw a post by Tipi where he redefined U/L as Ultra Large. This pack fits the bill.

[Kookork]

I still carry a Mountainsmith Crestone ll. Huge pack, super suspension and yes it weighs in between 6 and 7 pounds empty. I once saw a post by Tipi where he redefined U/L as Ultra Large. This pack fits the bill.

LOL

I guess Tipi Walter is the most prominent follower of Ultra Large in Whiteblaze .

[Bucketfoot]

I use a Kelty, Shadow 4500, about 7years old now I think. Weighs about3# and has a nice zipper about 1/4 of the way up from the bottom of the pack so I can pack a tent in the bottom and not have to take everything out of the top to get to it. Hiker Mom had a good point. Its not just the weight of the pack but how comfortable it is also.

[bfayer]

Did I read right that the ULA Catalyst id 48oz or 4 lbs??? The Osprey Exos is 2lbs 10 oz for the large................interesting!

16 oz in a pound. it's 3 pounds with all the accessories. That includes:



Hydration Sleeve (~1.4 oz)
Internal Mesh Pocket (~1.1 oz)
Water Bottle Holsters (~0.8 oz)
Handloops (~0.8 oz)


So that is 44 oz without, or 2 pounds 12 oz.

[Kookork]

I always thought that ULA catalyst is under 2 pounds backpack.Don't know why.

[Coffee]

I always thought that ULA catalyst is under 2 pounds backpack.Don't know why.

I think the circuit is very close to two pounds with all of the accessory items removed. Maybe under two pounds with some of the straps trimmed back: https://www.ula-equipment.com/circuit.asp

[bfayer]

I can say the Catalyst seams to be larger than they claim, it swallows all my gear, plus some of my kids gear and has room to spare. I have talked to people that returned the catalyst for the Circuit because the Catalyst was too big.

[Tinker]

Golite Dawn - frameless - 14 oz. Not made anymore

Granite Gear Virga - 21 oz. (if I remember correctly) - also frameless - also not made anymore.

[CAP N']

The North Face Terra 65. Great pack. Solid construction. But I'm a bit of a northface geek.

[1234]

REI flash 65 do not remember the cost, or the weight but I will say I was at a shelter last year and 3 thurs and me had the exact same pack. I have seen it multiple times while out. I do have a Jansport D2 frame pack and it is cool but I had a terrible time with it in the whites it was like a sail in the wind, also had to repair the pins and rings several times.

[Nasty Dog Virus]

Osprey Atmos 50 or Osprey Talon 44 (only 2685 cu.in., ya gotta be a minimalist)

[Nasty Dog Virus]

I have a large Atmos 50 which weighs 3lbs4oz. The Talon 44 weighs 2lbs7oz.

[Stir Fry]

I have been usuin a ULA Catalist. I just ordered a ULA Air-X made out of cuben fiber. I hope its the pack I use next year on my thru.

[Bronk]

A Whiteblaze representative will be posted at Springer to make sure every thuhiker is carrying a Whiteblaze approved pack. Anyone who doesn't have a pack meeting Whiteblaze standards will be turned away.

[daddytwosticks]

A Whiteblaze representative will be posted at Springer to make sure every thuhiker is carrying a Whiteblaze approved pack. Anyone who doesn't have a pack meeting Whiteblaze standards will be turned away....and permanently banned from Whiteblaze! :)

[Parkie Man]

AARN Natural Balance

with front pockets it brings your center of balance back where it should be thus allowing a more natural upright stride

[fredmugs]

This thread is completely worthless. I'm pretty sure everyone agrees that fit is the most important feature of any pack. What good does Whiteblaze Approved do for anyone?

[bfayer]

This thread is completely worthless. I'm pretty sure everyone agrees that fit is the most important feature of any pack. What good does Whiteblaze Approved do for anyone?

I don't think its worthless at all. I never knew about the elemental horizon pack, so it's got value just for that. I also like to hear other peoples view of their gear, and a general discussion of packs is a good way to do that.

Do I care if anyone else on Whiteblaze likes or approves of my pack, of course not. I believe the OPs title was just for fun.

[msupple]

Osprey Atmos 65....the most comfortable pack I've worn.

Cat in the Hat

[Different Socks]

Camptrails Omega

[Different Socks]

Camptrails Omega--used this on the Long Trail, Ice Age Trail, PCT, CDT. AT, Colorado Trail, and Ozark Highlands Trail. But now will use something alittle smaller and lighter cuz I'm getting older and nore worn out.

[Canam]

I wanted to get the Osprey Exos. I had the Atmos for the "other" kind of backpacking and absolutely loved it - super comfortable. The problem with the Exos was that the hip belt was almost already bordering on too big, and I lose weight quickly when hiking.

I went with the ULA Circuit, which let me get a small hip belt with a long torso bag. I don't find it quite as comfortable as the Osprey right now, but it should be worth it when I need to tighten the belt.

[Kookork]

This thread is completely worthless. I'm pretty sure everyone agrees that fit is the most important feature of any pack. What good does Whiteblaze Approved do for anyone?

Joining Whiteblaze has educated me in many ways ,one of the most important is that there is not such a thing like worthless thread or worthless opinion let alone completely worthless thread. The second is I cant be pretty sure about things that are controversial and open to discussions.

[swjohnsey]

Something not made in China.

[burk]

A Whiteblaze representative will be posted at Springer to make sure every thuhiker is carrying a Whiteblaze approved pack. Anyone who doesn't have a pack meeting Whiteblaze standards will be turned away.

Does that mean SB are exempt?

[Swordpen]

REI Flash 50, & only $99 on sale at REI-outlet.

2.5#, can be made lighter too (under 2# when the top cap is removed & the framesheet).

[Kookork]

I will sum up the votes when it reaches 100 posts.

[dawgwalk]

ULA Catalyst 2lb $250

[Tuckahoe]

Well dang, I dont want to be caught without a WB approved pack...

Kelty Trekker 3950 (I believe its now the Trekker 65 now)

[Maddog]

ULA CDT...modified to 17oz...3,200ci...$135 Maddog:D

[bear bag hanger]

Over the years I've gone thru about a dozen packs. Keep coming back to the ULA Circuit, about 2 lb, 7 oz and $225. But, I've added AARN Expedition pockets to the front for a little more capacity and to get some of the load in front of me.

[Carl Calson]

me - golite jam
wife - granite gear crown 60 (or is it 50?) not sure, it's the women's tho

[BeechNut]

My favorite- ULA Catalyst $250

[Swordpen]

Unfortunately, I cant edit my previous posts so heres a little more detail on my $99 REI flash 50 pack.
I have the REI Flash 50 in a large.
I took off the top cap (as many of the ultralight packs just roll up at the top, & this does too, & has a strap over the top of that too, just like the fancy UL packs).
Weights:
1. Top cap = 3 oz
2. Frame (which is removeable & I took out): 8 oz
3. Pack without frame or top cap = 1# 13 oz = 29 oz.

Then I put in a soft "exercise room flooring" from Home Depot for a frame. Cut it the same shape as the original frame = 4 oz. This flooring is very similar to the Gossamer gear SitLight frame material.

So, my total pack weight = 29 oz + 4 oz = 33 oz.

This is very comparable to the Hyperlight cuben hybrid Southwest 3400 which is 30 oz & $295.

Much lighter than the ULA catalyst which is at 48 oz, the ULA circuit at 39 oz for $225.

No, lol, I dont work for REI, but this pack has a lot of potential, is cheap, & I hate to see people spend so much money on a pack. I'm not handy or an expert, just seriously thinking about how to lighten what I carry (I have bad hips, arthritis (thumbs, back), & already have a hip replacement. I'm in my 50s. My pack weight is 25-30# with either 1-2 liters of water, 3.5 days of food. I could fit more, but I'm afraid to carry even a couple more pounds. This pack in its store state so to speak, carried 35#).

Thanks for reading. HTH.

[Kookork]

Unfortunately, I cant edit my previous posts so heres a little more detail on my $99 REI flash 50 pack.
I have the REI Flash 50 in a large.
I took off the top cap (as many of the ultralight packs just roll up at the top, & this does too, & has a strap over the top of that too, just like the fancy UL packs).
Weights:
1. Top cap = 3 oz
2. Frame (which is removeable & I took out): 8 oz
3. Pack without frame or top cap = 1# 13 oz = 29 oz.

Then I put in a soft "exercise room flooring" from Home Depot for a frame. Cut it the same shape as the original frame = 4 oz. This flooring is very similar to the Gossamer gear SitLight frame material.

So, my total pack weight = 29 oz + 4 oz = 33 oz.

This is very comparable to the Hyperlight cuben hybrid Southwest 3400 which is 30 oz & $295.

Much lighter than the ULA catalyst which is at 48 oz, the ULA circuit at 39 oz for $225.

No, lol, I dont work for REI, but this pack has a lot of potential, is cheap, & I hate to see people spend so much money on a pack. I'm not handy or an expert, just seriously thinking about how to lighten what I carry (I have bad hips, arthritis (thumbs, back), & already have a hip replacement. I'm in my 50s. My pack weight is 25-30# with either 1-2 liters of water, 3.5 days of food. I could fit more, but I'm afraid to carry even a couple more pounds. This pack in its store state so to speak, carried 35#).

Thanks for reading. HTH.

thank you for taking time to post the information. sounds like a value option in backpacks.

[broken arrow]

SMD swift 15oz $110

[richmondhokie]

While not a thru-hiker - I do extended section hikes - 4 days minimum - and I run with an Osprey Atmos 50 - very comfortable. I LOVE how it breathes between my back and the internal frame - keeping me cooler (I sweat a lot) and the breathing keeps me from getting my pack wet with my own sweat.

[max patch]

External.

Can't be choosy these days. Anyone will do.

[TheYoungOne]

REI Flash 50, & only $99 on sale at REI-outlet.

2.5#, can be made lighter too (under 2# when the top cap is removed & the framesheet).

Also if you are a member you get 20% off REI-Outlet stuff until April 7. I'm debating between a Flash 50 and 65. The consensus on this thread seems to be 50L or around 3000 to 3300 cubic inches. Is something 65L or 4000 Cubic inches too big?

[Another Kevin]

I'm just a clueless weekender, so I shouldn't weigh in on a 'long distance' thread, I suppose. But I will anyway, since it's still not near to kookork's 100-post benchmark.. :bse

I carry an ALPS Mountaineering Orizaba 64, that I picked up at the REI outlet for even cheaper than the store-branded packs. 3 lb 12 oz, so a trifle heavier than what the pundits here will recommend, but it fits me well. I'm long in the torso, and several of the packs recommended on this thread do not fit well,

The weight is slightly misleading, since it includes a pack cover. And the lid (which could be shed, but I usually don't) is pretty weighty, since it includes the strap for converting it to a butt-pack. That's actually a feature for me: I've done the trick of hanging my pack at a base camp and going for a peak with just a few essentials in the butt-pack.

It's not ideal, but it's great for the price. I'm certain that it lacks the WB seal of approval, and I'm cool with that.

I have a good deal of paring down of other gear to do before I move up to a better pack.

[SassyWindsor]

Currently using the Arcteryx Nozone 75 (womens). Tried and returned the Male version Arcteryx Altra 75, a great pack(waiting for female version). I used a Lowe Alpine when I hike the AT Used an REI evening star (lighter than the Lowe) when I hike the PCT.

[Lone Wolf]

External.

Can't be choosy these days. Anyone will do.

agree.......

[Kookork]

Here is the results after 113 comments :

I did not include backpacks with only one vote in the list:

ULA catalyst = 10 votes
=========================
Granite gear Crown V.C. 60 = 5 votes

Osprey Exos 58= 5 votes
=================


Osprey atmos 65 = 3 votes

ULA Circuit = 3 votes

Osprey atmos 50 = 3 votes
==========================

Elemental Horizons Kalais = 2 votes
Deuter ACT Zero 50+15 = 2 votes

Gossamer gear Mariposa = 2 votes
Camptrail= 2 votes

REI Flash 65= 2 votes

REI Flash 50= 2 votes

Golite Jam= 2 votes
===================================

[Swordpen]

Also if you are a member you get 20% off REI-Outlet stuff until April 7. I'm debating between a Flash 50 and 65. The consensus on this thread seems to be 50L or around 3000 to 3300 cubic inches. Is something 65L or 4000 Cubic inches too big?

The answer is, it depends on what you want to do (ie: are you a camper or a hiker. Campers seem to like lots of luxuries. Ie: carry a kindle, cheaper heavier sleeping bag, candles, heavier headlights etc). also it depends on how strong you are, how old you are, how much you want to carry. I have to save my joints as I have a lot of arthritis. Also, to me, it just makes sense to not carry so much, even if I didnt have arthritis. Yes, people carry a lot hiking, & they pay for it, it seems with taking lots of ibuprofen. If you can carry 35-40# without injury for a long time, great. IMHO tho from reading lots about this & what people have written, even a thru hiker is best at no more than 30#.

I have read of AT thru hikers who think the capacity of this REI Flash 50 pack is ample enough to do a thru hike. Harvey Williams was a thru hiker whose youtube videos encouraged me to get one. I also own a ULA Ohm 2 $200, they are very similar.

HTH

[Hiking Man]

Elemental Horizons Kalais plus the aluminum stay and some large hipbelt pockets. 33oz. Barely notice it's there when it's got 25lb in it. $190 stock, $246 with the add-ons. Won't be winning many votes because I'm not sure anyone besides me and SGT Rock own this thing, but I love it.

+1 I really like mine so far! Only had it a few weeks.

[Kookork]

+1 I really like mine so far! Only had it a few weeks.

could you say this is your dream backpack?

[Rayo]

ULA Ohm 2.0 ; $200 ; 29 oz.

[Nooga]

I used a ULA Catalyst last year from Harpers Ferry to K. I'm not as impressed as other posters. I just purchased an Osprey Exos 58 for my hike from Springer to Damascus.

[magic_game03]

Osprey, osprey, osprey.

I own 3, the Aether 60L (M) (2003 model) is my favorite. I really don't like the new Aether model. I keep sending in my 2003 model to be reconditioned and they keep reconditioning it so it's still alive after about 12,000 miles.



P.S. I use an Arcteryx for mountaineering.

[Namtrag]

I am new (2012) to backpacking, only having been on 2 weekend trips in the mountains. We are planning to backpack much more this year. I started with a Dick's Field & Stream 65, but just bought the Osprey Volt 60. I guess it's too new for any thru hikers to have feedback on it. I am just counting on the Osprey name, and the fact that it fit well and has every feature I wanted. It was between the Volt and the Kestrel, but I ended up choosing the Volt.

[Busky2]

http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/images/Eloquent/miscgreen/quote_icon.png Originally Posted by Lone Wolf http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/images/Eloquent/buttonsgreen/viewpost-right.png (http://www.whiteblaze.net/forum/showthread.php?p=1432947#post1432947)
Jansport D2 frame pack



Damn Lone Wolf. How old are you?
I sold those in 1970's!

I sill have and use mine but replacing it with a zimmerbuilt custom pack, As I type it is in the mail.

[russb]

So the big takeaway for anyone still reading, or stopping by is that almost all available packs out there by the major manufacturers and by cottage gear makers will be loved by some. Everyone has their favorite which is why they use it and there isn't a best pack or one that wont work. One can read and research all they want, but nothing short of personal experience will really provide meaningful info.

[Tuckahoe]

So the big takeaway for anyone still reading, or stopping by is that almost all available packs out there by the major manufacturers and by cottage gear makers will be loved by some. Everyone has their favorite which is why they use it and there isn't a best pack or one that wont work. One can read and research all they want, but nothing short of personal experience will really provide meaningful info.
+1 I think that sums it up pretty good!

[LDog]

ULA Circuit. 2 pounds. $225.

ULA Circuit for shoulder seasons with a bulky 15 degree bag and extra layers
4200 cu in
Carries up to 35 lbs
39 ozs before you strip out stuff

ULA Ohm2 for summer with a light quilt and little extra anything.
3960 cu in
Carries up to 30 lbs
29 ozs before stripping

[LDog]

Did I read right that the ULA Catalyst id 48oz or 4 lbs??? The Osprey Exos is 2lbs 10 oz for the large................interesting!

Must be new math

[lynn523]

I love my Gregory Deva 60. Not the lightest pack out there but without question the most comfortable one I've ever carried.

[LDog]

I certainly hope those of us carrying packs that made the cut will be getting "Whiteblaze Approved" tags or patches we can sew on them ...

[Astro]

I certainly hope those of us carrying packs that made the cut will be getting "Whiteblaze Approved" tags or patches we can sew on them ...

I am sure the UL's would pass on that due to the "extra weight".

[RCBear]

Section hiker only. I like the heavier but extremely comfortable and durable Gregory Baltoro 65. Have a smaller Gregory Z pack for dayhikes or light overnight. Nothing else I have tried seems to fit me as well or is as comfortable as a Gregory. I would like to try a mystery ranch however. Love the layout of that pack.

[LDog]

I certainly hope those of us carrying packs that made the cut will be getting "Whiteblaze Approved" tags or patches we can sew on them ...


I am sure the UL's would pass on that due to the "extra weight".

Shirley they'd be made of cuben! That would give them something to cut off later with their single-edge razor blade. Give them that sense of smug self-satisfaction they crave [snerk...]