Choosing a backpack--reviews and advice?

imported
#1

I’m looking for a lightweight (<2.5 lbs) pack for my upcoming AT thru-hike and am looking for suggestions on brands/styles to consider.

Factors that I must consider…I have a bad back, so I’m looking for something that is comfortable, with good support and decent load transfer/stays so that the weight is not all on my shoulders…I’m hoping to keep my loads no more than 25 lbs total…Right now I’m using a 6lb Dana Design that fits me like a glove…I’d use it in a heartbeat if it wasn’t 6lbs! Thanks for your help!

Auntie

#2

FWIW - I used a Dana Teraplane for years during unsupported 17-day solo treks in the Sierra. Then tried a 6-Moons pack (can’t remember the name but it was their largest). Six moons was ok - but finally decided the unmatched comfort of the Dana was worth the extra weight - been using the Dana again for the past 5 years. Initial load is higher than you’ll encounter - 45-50 lbs.

booger

#3

Ospry Atmos 50

Salty Dog

#4

I love my GoLite Jam pack, which transfers weight beautifully and is incredibly comfortable. I hear great things about ULA.

cece

#5

I love my GoLite Jam pack, which transfers weight beautifully and is incredibly comfortable. I hear great things about ULA.

cece

#6

Try : ula-equipment.com and check out the S-straps (for women or slight shouldered gents) and look at the Circuit. Probably the single most popular pack for the 2lb pack range – I’ve held 30lbs very comfortably in it. Also could try a Gregory Jade 50 or look at the Deuter ACT Lite series.

AT Thru Hiker 2011

#7

Second the Osprey Atmos 50

Subman

#8

I say if the Dana Design fits you to a T then stay with that pack and not hurt your back anymore then you have 2.
You can find other ways to reduce your weight.
Go through all your gear and you will come up with ways of reducing weight.

ez-does-it

#9

ULA. Love my CDT version. Just pack it carefully is all.

marti /Swannee

#10

Thanks for all of the great suggestions, everyone! Although I do love my Dana Terraplane, I don’t think I’ll use it unless I can’t find anything else (I think it really will be too big). I also have heard good things about ULA…Does anybody know the difference b/t the Osprey Atmos and the Exos? Keep the suggestions coming–thanks!

Auntie

#11

I tried several light packs and found them all slightly uncomfortable ( I also have a bad back) until I purchased a ULA several years ago. I couldn’t imagine a more comfortable pack until I purchased an Osprey Atmos.

Big B

#12

I bought a Osprey Atoms 50 a couple weeks ago. Been using a GranitGear Vapor trail Pack. Whats nice about the Osprey is it STAYS PUT. I have always had trouble cause I have very small hips and have neaded a beafy waist belt. The Osprey has a waist belt that stays. Also the shoulder straps don’t slip off. I also don’t have broad shoulders so that important. Hiking the Approach trail today so testing it again but going over Blood mountain yesterday convinces me that the Pack is Awesome. Paid 179 but it retails for 199. Find an Outfitter that will let you load it with your stuff and put in on and walk around there shop.

Sub

Subman

#13

I love my Osprey Exos 46.

Low Life

#14

I have both packs and the only difference I can see is that the Exos has cut down the hip belt, shoulder straps and various other belts/straps/buckles to achieve the weight differential.
The material in the pack body “seems” to be the same from their looks, but I’m no expert on fabric.

Charlie Dunn

#15

I wanted to follow up on my original question…I went to my local outfitter and REI yesterday…Tried on 2 ULA’s, a bunch of Ospreys incl. the Atmos and Exos, a Deuter, a Gregory, an REI flash, and a couple of Granite Gear packs. None of them were very comfortable except for the Granite Gear, so I think I’ll end up with one of those. I think it has to do with the hipbelt and shape of the foam where it hits my lower back. I was most impressed with the design of the ULA’s and the Granite Gears–these were also the lightest of the bunch. But first I have to get all my gear together so I know it will all fit. Thanks for your help. I would love to try a GoLite Jam but they’re sold out on the website.

Auntie

#16

I started out with a Granite Gear pack and loved it. My husband surprised me one day with a Deuter. It replaced my GG immediately! I love it. I am 5’5 and 115 pds. It fits me like a glove and the comfort level is superb! I usually carry around 18 pds for a multi day trip. My husband still carries his GG. I also checked out the Golite Jam - sold out. Wish I could have gotten a hold of one for the unbelievable price of $50,

BlueBlaze