OutdoorGearLab Releases The Best Ultralight Backpack Review

Stand out performers are awarded Editors' Choice, Top Pick and Best Buy awards.
 
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The top five scoring packs in our review all packed with the same load.
The top five scoring packs in our review all packed with the same load.
CHEYENNE, Wyo. - March 31, 2016 - PRLog -- OutdoorGearLab, a website renown for meticulous comparison reviews of outdoor equipment, has just released the testing results for top ultralight backpacks. This comprehensive resource focuses on lightweight and ultralight three-season packs, and also includes several specialized models, allowing each title-holder to fall into a specific weight capacity niche. Ten reputable contenders were carefully chosen to be tested over numerous measures including weight-to-volume ratio, carrying comfort, features and durability.

The analyzation period was stretched over a six-month span encompassing both winter and summer conditions. Lead tester, Brandon Lampley, logged miles and put products through the wringer on the Appalachian and Colorado Trails as well as the summits of multiple fourteeners. In order to complement the rigorous field testing, Lampley utilized an indoor lab space (to evaluate quantitative metrics) and gathered feedback from experienced thru hikers, providing well rounded and diversified data.

The winners are as follows:

Editors' Choice Award - Gossamer Gear Gorilla

The Gorilla earned this award because of its overall high performance. The construction of the pack is both simple and durable and it features pockets in all the right places. It boasts a burly aluminum frame which is removable for lighter loads and while it isn't the lightest pack tested, it has comfy weight bearing capabilities at varying load levels. Plush shoulder straps and functional hip transfer capabilities contribute to the uniform weight distribution. Favorites from the feature set include buckle top closures, a breathable back panel and an ultra stretchy exterior pocket. After six months of exhaustive testing, reviewer Brandon Lampley concludes, "The Gorilla is hands-down our favorite ultralight backpack, if we could only have one pack for all of our lightweight backpacking and thru-hiking adventures."

Best Buy Award - Osprey Exos 48

The Exos 48 earned the Best Buy award for finding an equilibrium between value and variability. This pack is made with utility in mind; cleverly designed re-routable compression straps allow internal pack volume reduction without blocking external side pocket access and the springy exterior pockets hold more volume than any other pack measured. Adaptable features, such as the floating lid and flapjack top combination, are desirable for those wanting the option of trimming weight to dabble in ultralight territory. With the Exos, you get what you pay for and according to Lampey, "If you're on a limited budget, commonly carry medium rather than very light loads, or just want a pack you can purchase easily and have right away, the Exos 48 is our top recommendation."

Top Pick - ZPacks Arc Blast 52

The Arc Blast 52 is the frontrunner for this distinction, especially in regards to its ultralight capabilities. Due to its complex five-piece frame, this pack is in its element when carrying smaller loads and can also hold its own with medium sized loads as well. Construction specifics such as the hybrid cuben fiber material and carbon frame make this a favorite for multi month thru hikers who are hyper conscientious of both pack weight and durability. This contender weighs in at a mere 21 ounces and Lampley believes, "If you are an experienced enthusiast scheming to shave another 8 ounces from your Big Four weight, this is the perfect pack."

Operating out of Cheyenne, Wyoming, OutdoorGearLab, LLC prides itself in offering informative gear reviews written and researched by expert outdoor enthusiasts. Side by side comparison reviews allow browsers to make informed purchasing decisions for gear within categories such as hiking, climbing, backpacking, cycling, and running. The site also features related articles and buying advice guides to complement the reviews and provide a comprehensive experience. Products are analyzed based on calculated metrics and then awarded based on their performance. Take a look at the site, outdoorgearlab.com, to learn more about this exhaustive resource.

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