Gossamer Gear G4-20 Ultralight 42 Backpack ?

[Stellamaris]

I am currently looking for a new backpack for my next camino and was wondering if anybody on the forum has triednwith the gossamer G4-20 UL 42 ?

 

[Peterexpatkiwi]

You might want to check this thread out!

I recently ordered a new Gossamer Gear G4-20 backpack with the intention of using it next Spring on the Camino. This was my first experience with an ultralight frameless backpack. I just returned from a week of backpacking in Yellowstone NP and I used the G4-20 exclusively. I ordered the "Feedbag" accessory that attaches to the pack straps and I used it for a bear spray canister. I also purchased the Lightrek Hiking Umbrella which I carried attached to the side of the pack.

When I received the pack I was immediately weirded out by the lack of structure. I played around with packing methods and found that by not compressing my down jacket and other soft items I was able to get the pack filled out a bit. I was very skeptical when I departed for the trip. I did several hikes including an 11 mile backcountry hike, often off-trail. I was carrying relatively light loads of around 10-14 pounds, using water bottles in the side pockets.

Conclusions? I love this pack. I literally forgot I was wearing one, which in my mind is the highest praise I can give a pack. It was so comfortable with the lighter loads I was carrying it just disappeared. I flew down trails dodging bison and bears and had a blast. I struggled a bit getting water bottles in and out of the side pockets while wearing the pack, but I can easily rectify this with a longer water bottle. It had more than enough volume for an extended day hike, swallowing down and rain jackets, water shoes, food, bear spray, first aid kits etc. I think it's going to be a perfect choice for the Camino for me.

I may try to stiffen the back a bit with a different back pad, but beyond that it's perfect. It looks like a lump when sitting on the ground, but comes through on my back and that's what matters.

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Edited to add: a quick check shows multiple other references, it would be worthwhile reading through them, not all are so positive

 

[Rick of Rick and Peg]

Maybe forum member @davebugg who reviews backpacking gear for manufacturers is familiar with this pack. Use the forum's search engine for Gossamer and use Dave's handle.

 

[Anhalter]

Too big and too heavy for my personal taste, but i like Gossamer packs. They are well built and beginner friendly. Also some nice features. Personally i regard the G4 as a weird in-between and not my favorite. If you want to go light, theres the Kumo (and Murmur, but i stand with the official reccomendation on that one), if you are heavier, the Gorilla or Mariposa might be worth the extra weight and offer lots more flexibility.