Another backpack post

imported
#1

Yes, yes, yes, another backpack post! I’m sorry, I know this topic is discussed and talked about and debated and discussed and …

So, for my PCT thru hike I’ve narrowed down my backpack selection to two:

  1. Granite Gear “Vapor Trail” which weighs 1 lb 14 oz and can carry up to 30lbs
  2. Granite Gear “Nimbus Ozone” which weighs 3lbs 0oz and can carry up to 40lbs.

So, I can’t seem to make up my mind.

I’ll be carrying about 14-17lbs of gear weight + food and water.

My natural thought is to purchase the Vapor Trail since it’s a little over a pound lighter then the Nimbus Ozone, however I’m not sure how it will hold up when I’m hiking thru the desert and forced to carry a large supply of water and/or heading out of town with full food. So 17lbs + full water + food weight could equal 40 or more pounds for a couple of days here and there…

Has anyone used the Vapor Trail and carried more then 30lbs? Did it hold up? Anyone have experience with the Nimbus Ozone? Thoughts ideas???

Oh, and one more thing … a friend showed me this website … www.sheddableshell.com … pretty cool stuff! Anyone try it?

Peace y’all!

Flowcefus

#2

Mark Verber review of the Vapor Trail:

http://www.verber.com/mark/outdoors/gear/reviews/vapor-trail.html

Keith

#3

Flowcefus

I’m going thru the same problem, trying to decide on a pack for this spring. I used the MS Ghost on the AT, and its still in good shape, but didnt work well carrying over 30. Its not a very comfy pack.

My base weight is around 12 lbs, so with full 5 day resupply and 6 liters of water in the desert i’d be around 35lbs, which I expect to carry with the long resupply in the Sierras.

I’ve eyed the vapor trail since the AT, and think its a good compromise of weight, price, carrying capacity. I try it on often (I work in an outfitter) but find its not very comfy. I may look at the Ozone, which I REALLY like, but its kinda pricy and making me feel like an un-lightweight backpacker.

I’m also intrigued by the ULA packs, but the new ones Brian designed are more expensive and the new P2 is like 225 bucks (yes I’m cheap). Basically i’m in a similar pickle as you and would love any insight people have.

A-Train