Super-light packs from Arc'teryx

[pepi]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

 

[trecile]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

Here's a 30 liter in the "outlet" section of the Arc'teryx website.

Alpha FL 30 Backpack

Streamlined, weather-resistant climbing pack in our light, durable Hadron™ LCP fabric.

outlet.arcteryx.com

 

[henrythedog]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

Have a look at this

Classic 32 Rucksack

OMM's 2020 Classic 32 Rucksack balances durability and weight surprisingly well. The updated fabrics on this version are clearly a lot more hard wearing and easily stand up to the challenges of the mountains. Despite being a fairly simple, stripped back design this pack has some great features...

www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk

I share your concern over ‘sweaty back’ - but at under GBP100 and under 600g it’s worth trying. It’s a good brand and seems solid. I’m going to try it at home for a few weeks before declaring victory.

 

[Robo]

It's a tough call, for me at least.

I love the comfort of the 'airspeed' back and frame on my Osprey pack.
But saving 600 gms in weight would be nice too.

I think in this case I'd go for comfort.
Though of course I haven't tried one of these Ultralite packs.

Have you @davebugg ?

 

[Anhalter]

From looking at the description, i have to say, they are by no way light. Sorry.
On the Pro side:

• sturdy
• water resistant
• Support and cushioning from the back panel (not a frame, but better than nothing)

On the Con side:

• no daisy chain on shoulder straps
• no side pockets
• no front mesh pocket, just some cords
• no belt pockets
• 635g for a 30L pack is lighter than most standard packs but compared to ultralight packs of comparable features about twice what they weigh in at

For example a Gossamergear Kumo will offer more features at slightly less weight at a comparable price.
I like Arcteryx quite some, and especially the two Atom Jackets i own (SL and LT). But with backpacks, they just seem to have their focus on something else than i do.

 

[Robo]

From looking at the description, i have to say, they are by no way light. Sorry.
On the Pro side:

• sturdy
• water resistant
• Support and cushioning from the back panel (not a frame, but better than nothing)

On the Con side:

• no daisy chain on shoulder straps
• no side pockets
• no front mesh pocket, just some cords
• no belt pockets
• 635g for a 30L pack is lighter than most standard packs but compared to ultralight packs of comparable features about twice what they weigh in at

For example a Gossamergear Kumo will offer more features at slightly less weight at a comparable price.
I like Arcteryx quite some, and especially the two Atom Jackets i own (SL and LT). But with backpacks, they just seem to have their focus on something else than i do.

Daisy Chain?

 

[Tincatinker]

Hmm; direct contact with loaded pack made from waterproof fabric and your cool & comfortable Merino top - guaranteed sweaty back. Though you could of course avoid this by not drinking any water (which will save another 1k of pack weight) but is not recommended...

 

[pepi]

@trecile: Awesome but to haul it over to Europe would eat up that fantastic saving

@henrythedog: Sounds very interesting, let us know the results of your testing, please.

@Anhalter: "...no way light"? All lighter ones that I tried tend to be flimsy and uncomfortable, with no back support; I really like the sturdy quality. You are right of course about certain lacking features, but I for one don't have a need for side pockets, hooking my water bottle to the shoulder strap...

 

[Anhalter]

Daisy Chain?

extra "straps" on the shoulder straps you can attach stuff to. Like bottle clips or pockets.
On the third picture of this thread (i just googled) you can see the black daisy chain: https://backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/first-myog-backpack-sul-3-8-oz-and-22l/

 

[Anhalter]

Hmm; direct contact with loaded pack made from waterproof fabric and your cool & comfortable Merino top - guaranteed sweaty back. Though you could of course avoid this by not drinking any water (which will save another 1k of pack weight) but is not recommended...

While sweaty back is a problem for sure, it usually is not that big of a problem as one might think. If it's cold, you don't sweat much. If it's warm you dry fast when you take the pack of. But yes, for some people it is more of an issue.

 

[Tincatinker]

While sweaty back is a problem for sure, it usually is not that big of a problem as one might think. If it's cold, you don't sweat much. If it's warm you dry fast when you take the pack of. But yes, for some people it is more of an issue.

Agreed, but in the days before Merino; Goretex and airflow frames it was always possible to end a vigorous hike in even cold climate situations with sweat soaked base layers and the threat of hyperthermia. We were taught to maintain a level of exertion such that we didn’t sweat. Sound but useless advice in most hiking situations. While I’ll cheerfully recognize that we now have the benefits of merino and Goretex those benefits are totally negated by capping them with an impermeable layer. So, save a few hundred grams of weight off your pack and carry it instead soaked into your Tshirt & trickling down your...

 

[Jarrad]

From looking at the description, i have to say, they are by no way light. Sorry.
On the Pro side:

• sturdy
• water resistant
• Support and cushioning from the back panel (not a frame, but better than nothing)

On the Con side:

• no daisy chain on shoulder straps
• no side pockets
• no front mesh pocket, just some cords
• no belt pockets
• 635g for a 30L pack is lighter than most standard packs but compared to ultralight packs of comparable features about twice what they weigh in at

For example a Gossamergear Kumo will offer more features at slightly less weight at a comparable price.
I like Arcteryx quite some, and especially the two Atom Jackets i own (SL and LT). But with backpacks, they just seem to have their focus on something else than i do.

I agree with Anhalter's comments re: pros and cons. On the Camino I have used a light 40L Montbell pack that is similar in weight to the 40L Arc'teryx. But it included all of the extra elements mentioned by Anhalter (side pockets, etc.) except for the daisy chain shoulder straps. Plus it has the top compartment over the main compartment -- very handy -- and cost about $80 less. Do I recommend it? Probably yes with some qualifiers, but that's a different post. I'm just saying that there are comparable packs out there at the same weight but with more features.

I had no problem using a pack without a frame, but I had to experiment with the weight distribution and then repack it consistently every morning. Sweaty back was not usually a problem with the Montbell. But I've been using an Osprey pack for the past five years and on a warm day that breeze blowing across my back is glorious and can't imagine not having that on my next Camino.

 

[Anhalter]

I had no problem using a pack without a frame, but I had to experiment with the weight distribution and then repack it consistently every morning.

OH, YES! This is a point i constantly keep forgetting to mention. The less structure the pack has, the more effort you have to put into packing it so the weight distributes nicely (and no edgy stuff pokes you). Once you figure it out, it is not much of an issue anymore.

 

[davebugg]

It's a tough call, for me at least.

I love the comfort of the 'airspeed' back and frame on my Osprey pack.
But saving 600 gms in weight would be nice too.

I think in this case I'd go for comfort.
Though of course I haven't tried one of these Ultralite packs.

Have you @davebugg ?

These styles of backpacks are designed as approach packs for mountaineering. Basically for short hauls to a base camp. I have also used them as haul bags to lift gear between pitches. Over the last 5 years, especially, they have developed a following with some thru hikers and hyperlight adherents.

I have used variations on this category of backpacks over the years, including some from Arcteryx, some being even lighter. Speaking for myself, I would never use one for backpacking as I do not find them comfortable for that application.

 

[davebugg]

Daisy Chain?

A daisy chain is a long ribbon of sturdy fabric sewn onto the backpack in a manner which creates 'loops' along its length.They were first used on mountaineering packs as a method of attaching hardware, like ice axes (with head loops) crampons (with patches to minimize the risk of damage to the pack's fabric.), ropes, etc. Nowadays you can find them on various styles of backpacks and from which folks dangle all manner of things.

Military packs use a variation to allow attachment of accessory pockets for things like rifle and handgun magazines, blow out kits, grenades, etc. I would discourage pilgrims who might be thinking of bringing grenades on Camino, though.

 

[Meggins]

Having a back issue & knee issue both on same side, I was advised by physio I must have a pack with proper waist belt. This even for small day packs. & back breathable. Last Camino walk (600km) I realised in Pamplona that I should send my big pack forward. Found the perfect little day pack for myself at the camino store just around the corner and a few steps down from Jesus and Mary! Element Terra - love this wee pack. Use it for groceries etc all the time.

 

[jonathan latoufredredw]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

Any idea of their prices... I've used Deuter for years now....

 

[John Gilliland]

These styles of backpacks are designed as approach packs for mountaineering. Basically for short hauls to a base camp. I have also used them as haul bags to lift gear between pitches. Over the last 5 years, especially, they have developed a following with some thru hikers and hyperlight adherents.

I have used variations on this category of backpacks over the years, including some from Arcteryx, some being even lighter. Speaking for myself, I would never use one for backpacking as I do not find them comfortable for that application.

Dear Dave,

Welcome back and I pray for your continuing recovery. I was thinking about getting the Gossamer Gear Murmur in place of my Osprey Talon 22, but your comment has given me pause. My wife and I hope to walk the Way of St. Francis in Italy this fall and every gram/ounce will count in the mountains. Thank you for all your advice and encouragement to your fellow pilgrims.

John

 

[Anhalter]

Dear Dave,

Welcome back and I pray for your continuing recovery. I was thinking about getting the Gossamer Gear Murmur in place of my Osprey Talon 22, but your comment has given me pause. My wife and I hope to walk the Way of St. Francis in Italy this fall and every gram/ounce will count in the mountains. Thank you for all your advice and encouragement to your fellow pilgrims.

John

Having walked the Camino Frances with a GG Murmur let me say this: If your stuff is comfortably below 4kg, you can consider it, if thats a problem, forget it. Less is better, but then you must invest some time on how to pack it (weight distribution). By itself, the Murmur is surprisingly sturdy and water resistant. I has most of the features i look for in a pack, except for my beloved daisy chain, which i improvised and that did not work that great. Only came to its limits on the days i carried a lot of water.
While the Arcteryx pack Dave talks about is an approach pack (read: you climb up a mountain) the Murmur is a trekking pack (read: you walk up a mountain). So not directly comparable.

 

[padre eric]

Have walked two Camino’s with this pack, and found it extraordinary for an ultra lite option: https://zpacks.com/products/nero-backpack

 

[trecile]

If I only cared about the weight of my pack I wouldn't hesitate to buy a Zpacks backpack, but I don't mind something a little heavier that has all the features that I want. Last year I treated myself to this 1030 gram Gregory Juno 36 backpack. It has everything I want - ventilated back, zippered opening, a couple of zippered pockets, stuff pockets, and within carryon size for most airlines. I can't wait until I can use it!

 

[sunwanderer]

... I don't mind something a little heavier ...

I agree, I don't bother counting the grams. After carefully packing, I just attach this to the daisy chain.

 

[gittiharre]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

Backpacks

Specifically designed for long-distance hikers, our ultralight backpacks are perfect for crushing miles on any trail. Our Dyneema®️ Composite Fabric is waterproof, comes with taped seams, and is the lightest option we carry. Our Robic®️ Fabric is a more rugged option with better abrasion resistance.

zpacks.com

Check these out. Just met 2 long distance hikers in their 70's, who specialize in ultra light hiking.They swear by these packs. Very comfortable. The 38 ltr only weighs 303 grams. They also do amazingly light sleeping bags.

 

[pepi]

Backpacks

Specifically designed for long-distance hikers, our ultralight backpacks are perfect for crushing miles on any trail. Our Dyneema®️ Composite Fabric is waterproof, comes with taped seams, and is the lightest option we carry. Our Robic®️ Fabric is a more rugged option with better abrasion resistance.

zpacks.com

Check these out. Just met 2 long distance hikers in their 70's, who specialize in ultra light hiking.They swear by these packs. Very comfortable. The 38 ltr only weighs 303 grams. They also do amazingly light sleeping bags.

Very interesting and useful information, thank you, @gittiharre. To overcome my skepticism regarding frameless on long distance, I'd need to try out these packs in real-life conditions, meaning I'd have to buy one and import it to my country (Europe), paying duty, tax, etc. Perhaps, somebody knowledgeable here can give me his/her views on the subject....you @davebugg???

 

[gittiharre]

Very interesting and useful information, thank you, @gittiharre. To overcome my skepticism regarding frameless on long distance, I'd need to try out these packs in real-life conditions, meaning I'd have to buy one and import it to my country (Europe), paying duty, tax, etc. Perhaps, somebody knowledgeable here can give me his/her views on the subject....you @davebugg???

Yes, I would need to try it out too...
Happy with my 1 kg 40 ltr Osprey Tempest. Very comfortable to carry.
My beloved Deuter Groeden tends to give me sore shoulders after 3 or so hours. Not a twinge with the Osprey. I do prefer the configuration of the Groeden, everything has its place in the multiple side, top etc pockets...but comfort is paramount.

 

[AlwynWellington]

Have walked two Camino’s with this pack, and found it extraordinary for an ultra lite option: https://zpacks.com/products/nero-backpack

I would go for the close cousin here https://zpacks.com/products/arc-air-50l-backpack with a frame that bows away from my back at nearly 600 grams (1 lb 4 oz).

I have used an earlier version for nigh on six years, including three seasons in Europe, and completed at least 8,000 km (5,000 miles) with it.

I have added their tent and accessories (all up about 900 grams, 2 lb) and sleeping bag. These have also done those same journeys.

And I have included zPack's dry sac with a handle - waterproof inside when walking - a carry bag for pack et al when in the hold etc.

My motivation for these choices was getting the lightest possible for the preferred features, so giving me more options in the contents. Local products for pack, tent and bag would, between them, almost have eclipse my preferred upper weight limit of 7 kg (including water, rolled oats and tech) for a pilgrimage.

I know they are at the expensive end. On the other hand, knowing I hoped to do more than just a one time ramble, I have got my money back, and no sweaty back nor weight over my shoulders.

Kia kaha koutou katoa (You all take care and be strong)

 

[trecile]

I would go for the close cousin here https://zpacks.com/products/arc-air-50l-backpack with a frame that bows away from my back at nearly 600 grams (1 lb 4 oz).

I bought (but returned) a Zpacks backpack - the 728 gram Arc Blast. I liked how it fit and it was comfortable to carry, but I just prefer more pockets, and the zippered opening really didn't function as well as I wanted. If I were to go lighter weight I would get the Arc Air, and forget about having a zippered backpack.

 

[ConnachtRambler]

Have a look at this

Classic 32 Rucksack

OMM's 2020 Classic 32 Rucksack balances durability and weight surprisingly well. The updated fabrics on this version are clearly a lot more hard wearing and easily stand up to the challenges of the mountains. Despite being a fairly simple, stripped back design this pack has some great features...

www.ultralightoutdoorgear.co.uk

I share your concern over ‘sweaty back’ - but at under GBP100 and under 600g it’s worth trying. It’s a good brand and seems solid. I’m going to try it at home for a few weeks before declaring victory.

I have been very happy with the OMM Classic 32 (Previous Generation) that I purchased some years ago. It served me well on the VDLP in 2014 and has been used on a number of shorter Caminos since then. Is is beginning to show some signs of wear but I hope to bring it on another Camino whenever it reopens. Ventilation is a problem but I was more concerned about reducing the weight on my back.

 

[henrythedog]

I have been very happy with the OMM Classic 32 (Previous Generation) that I purchased some years ago. It served me well on the VDLP in 2014 and has been used on a number of shorter Caminos since then. Is is beginning to show some signs of wear but I hope to bring it on another Camino whenever it reopens. Ventilation is a problem but I was more concerned about reducing the weight on my back.

I think you’ve nailed it. It’s a trade-off between weight and a structured frame.

I can handle a bit of sweaty back, I went through Sandhurst several decades ago so became accustomed to carrying unfeasible loads from A to B for no good reason. But on Camino I’m basically on vacation.

I’ve just put my new OMM into store - I have ten rucksacks at last count so she will not be lonely - and retrieved my ‘pruned’ Osprey Kestrel 38. The latter is double the weight, but even after a bit of a diet I’m 7-8Kg overweight, so the cheapest option is to focus on the skin-in weight not skin-out!

 

[davebugg]

Very interesting and useful information, thank you, @gittiharre. To overcome my skepticism regarding frameless on long distance, I'd need to try out these packs in real-life conditions, meaning I'd have to buy one and import it to my country (Europe), paying duty, tax, etc. Perhaps, somebody knowledgeable here can give me his/her views on the subject....you @davebugg???

When I was hired by zPacks to do a QA gear test for the Zpacks Arc series after it had been out for two model years, I could not dial in the pack to a comfort level due to the design of the harness system.

The frame and harness system never hurt or was overtly uncomfortable, it just always had my attention, like an annoying buzzing mosquito. It is a complaint that some others have made about that backpack series, however, a lot of folks do find it very comfortable. This is a case of getting it, loading to about 2/3rds of its recommended carry weight, and walk with it several times for long day hikes.

I recommend the 2/3rds weight level in order to accelerate the period of time it takes for you to get a good feel for the backpack. An expensive backpack - like the zPacks - would indicate to me that you might plan to use for a variety of different backpacking activities. and not just Camino. Testing it at a light Camino load weight may not give you a proper feel for the pack.

 

[davebugg]

I think you’ve nailed it. It’s a trade-off between weight and a structured frame.

I can handle a bit of sweaty back, I went through Sandhurst several decades ago so became accustomed to carrying unfeasible loads from A to B for no good reason. But on Camino I’m basically on vacation.

I’ve just put my new OMM into store - I have ten rucksacks at last count so she will not be lonely - and retrieved my ‘pruned’ Osprey Kestrel 38. The latter is double the weight, but even after a bit of a diet I’m 7-8Kg overweight, so the cheapest option is to focus on the skin-in weight not skin-out!

I agree.

It is difficult to deal with reducing the entire base load weight if a backpack weighs 4 to 6 pounds / 1.82 to 2.72kg. There is an ability to compensate for the weight of a backpack that weighs 2 to 3 pounds / 907gm to 1.36kg.

There are any number of good, moderately priced backpacks that weigh below 3 pounds/1.36kg. Many weigh under 2.5 pounds/1.13kg. Since it is the TOTAL base weight of ALL items that one wants to reduce, I would keep a heavier, but still lightweight backpack, and look to reduce the weight of other items IN the backpack.

Backpacks are one of the two most critical items used where discomfort can make walking miserable.

 

[Anhalter]

Had the opportunity to wear a Zpacks Arc Blast for a bit last summer, and i have to say, for me it felt extremely comfortable.
Big advantage in my opinion, is that due to the frame it is quite forgiving when you do not fill all the volume. A frameless pack usually needs to be filled completly to have enough structure to be carried comfortably.
This was actually one of the two issues i had with my GG Murmur. I just had not enough stuff with me on the camino to fill it out, so it tended to "sag". Not a problem most days, but ones i had to load up on water it became a bit uncomfortable. (To put it in perspective: this was on a 40km day through the Meseta at 32C. Likely not an issue on a shorter trip in a milder climate)

 

[Walton]

Military packs use a variation to allow attachment of accessory pockets for things like rifle and handgun magazines, blow out kits, grenades, etc. I would discourage pilgrims who might be thinking of bringing grenades on Camino, though.

Just thinking, wouldn't "blow out kits" be "blow up kits?"

Maybe military words have gone PC as well?

Quartermaster "What do you want to blow up son?"

Pilgrim Private "Noisy pilgrims in the alburgue sir"

Quatermaster "Well here is our latest noisy Pilgrim blow up kit. It blows them out and then up"

That would be perfect I recon.

Couldn't help myself.

Moderators feel free to delete

Cheers

Graham

 

[davebugg]

Just thinking, wouldn't "blow out kits" be "blow up kits?"

Maybe military words have gone PC as well?

Quartermaster "What do you want to blow up son?"

Pilgrim Private "Noisy pilgrims in the alburgue sir"

Quatermaster "Well here is our latest noisy Pilgrim blow up kit. It blows them out and then up"

That would be perfect I recon.

Couldn't help myself.

Moderators feel free to delete

Cheers

Graham

Blow out kits are the trauma-injury, immediate first aid kit that soldiers carry with them. Sometimes as the result of a Blow Up, so it is all related . I do not know if that is a common reference to other militaries in the English-speaking world, though.

 

[Canada Wanders]

. I would discourage pilgrims who might be thinking of bringing grenades on Camino, though.

Good point...no grenades, always need that reminder. Thanks Dave!

 

[camino.ninja]

Having discovered the new Arc'teryx backpacks ALPHA FL 30 lt. (615 grams) and 40 lt. (715 grams), I find them very comfortable, they are waterproof, roomy, solid built, and feature a reinforced back part that substitutes a frame. Both sizes would allow me to keep the total carrying weight (loaded) well below 5kg without any sacrifice.
Being Arc'teryx, they are pricy too, so I resisted a spontaneous purchase to ask first if anyone here has a walking experience with this pack. I am particularly concerned that said back part would generate sweat in summer.
Appreciate any comment.

I would worry more about the lack of a proper hip-belt. Even if you go below 5 kg.

 

[AlwynWellington]

I bought (but returned) a Zpacks backpack - the 728 gram Arc Blast. I liked how it fit and it was comfortable to carry, but I just prefer more pockets, and the zippered opening really didn't function as well as I wanted. If I were to go lighter weight I would get the Arc Air, and forget about having a zippered backpack.

Yes, I would also avoid a zippered closure/opening as if it were the plague.

With my Zpacks pack, I have always preferred the roll top closures, and the "laces" on the sides, as a way to tailor the interior volume to match the volume of the contents and so keep things under control when under way.

 

[trecile]

Yes, I would also avoid a zippered closure/opening as if it were the plague

I actually prefer a zippered opening, but with a light load the Z-packs zip didn't work very well.

 

[Anniesantiago]

I used an 30L Arcteryx top loader for YEARS and loved it so much.
After about 10 years, it began to smell like old socks and in a stupid fit of "never gonna walk the Camino again," I dumped it in a train station in Spain. I've always regretted that moment of insanity, since they no longer make that particular pack.