#3 on this list
Circuit
ULA Equipment
The ULA Equipment Circuit is a legendary workhorse that bridges the gap between delicate ultralight sacks and traditional backpacking haulers. It suits long-distance hikers who carry heavier base weights, tackle extended waterless stretches, or frequently hike through areas requiring a bear canister. The Circuit's strength lies in its suspension. It combines a carbon fiber and fiberglass loop frame with a central aluminum stay, funneling weight cleanly to the hips and comfortably supporting loads up to 35 pounds. The pack body is sewn from tough 400D Robic nylon, providing substantial puncture resistance that withstands years of trail abuse. ULA also offers extensive fit customization, including multiple torso lengths, separate hipbelt sizes, and both J-shaped and contoured S-shaped shoulder straps to fit diverse body types. At roughly 2 pounds 6.5 ounces, the Circuit is heavier than minimalist sub-two-pound competitors. Robic nylon is tough and treated with water-resistant coatings, but it is not waterproof; you will still need a trash bag liner or pack cover in sustained rainfall. The roll-top and top strap arrangement is functional, but the pack lacks the sleek, modern styling found on newer technical offerings. **Highlights** - Hybrid carbon fiber loop and aluminum stay carry up to 35 pounds reliably. - Tough 400D Robic nylon fabric offers high tear and scuff resistance. - Extensive sizing options including distinct torso sizes and S-curve harness options. - Massive hipbelt pockets easily fit modern smartphones and multiple snacks. - Interior volume easily fits full-sized bear canisters horizontally or vertically. **Watch-outs** - Heavier than minimalist composite-fabric packs. - Requires an internal pack liner during sustained storms. - Aesthetic and design feel utilitarian compared to modern race-inspired packs.
- Price
- $450 MSRP
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
#4 on this list
Mariposa 60
Gossamer Gear
The Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 is aimed at backpackers who want the weight savings of an ultralight setup without sacrificing plush padding or external organization. It is a favored choice on the Appalachian Trail and for weekend backpackers who find stiff minimalist harnesses uncomfortable over long days. Support comes from a lightweight internal aluminum wireframe that slots directly into an interchangeable, cushioned hipbelt, providing genuine load relief to your lower body. The exterior layout is one of the most practical on the market, featuring seven individual pockets. This includes a full-length side pocket designed to hold tent poles or a compact shelter, keeping dirty gear separate from your dry sleep system. The back panel houses Gossamer Gear's signature SitLight foam pad, which cushions your spine while hiking and pulls out instantly to serve as a camp seat. The Mariposa uses 100D and 210D recycled Robic nylon, which strikes a decent balance between weight and strength but will not withstand aggressive bushwhacking or sharp canyon rock as well as heavier fabrics. Because the seams are not taped, internal dry bags are mandatory in wet weather. With 60 liters of total capacity, it can also tempt hikers into overpacking beyond the frame's comfortable 30-to-35-pound ceiling. **Highlights** - Seven exterior pockets offer exceptional trail organization. - Removable SitLight back pad doubles as a camp chair cushion. - Full-length side pocket cleanly stashes shelters or tent poles. - Soft, well-padded shoulder straps and hipbelt cushion sensitive pressure points. - Internal wireframe stay transfers weight efficiently to the lumbar area. **Watch-outs** - Lower-denier nylon fabrics require caution around sharp rock and brush. - Unsealed seams require a pack liner in rain. - Generous capacity makes it easy to overload past comfortable carry limits.
- Price
- $450 MSRP
- Reader rating
- No reader votes yet
- How we assessed it
- Specification researched
Specs side by side
| Spec | Circuit | Mariposa 60 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Weight | 2 lb 6.5 oz (1,090 g) | — |
| Primary Material | 400D Robic nylon | — |
| Frame Structure | Carbon fiber loop with aluminum stay | — |
| Load Rating | Up to 35 lb (16 kg) | — |
| Shoulder Harness | Contoured S-straps or standard J-straps | — |
| Approximate Price | $300 | — |
| Total Weight | — | 2 lb. 2.2 oz. (medium frame and belt) |
| Total Volume | — | 60 liters (36L internal, 24L external) |
| Primary Fabrics | — | 100D and 210D Recycled Robic Nylon |
| Frame Type | — | Removable aluminum stay with foam pad |
| Load Limit | — | 30 to 35 lbs comfortable maximum |
| MSRP | — | Approximately $315 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Circuit
- Handles loads up to 35 pounds cleanly thanks to hybrid carbon-aluminum frame
- Extensive harness customization including torso sizes, hipbelt sizes, and S-straps
- Burly 400D Robic nylon resists heavy abrasion and trail punctures
- Oversized hipbelt pockets comfortably house large phones and daily rations
- Heavier than minimalist sub-two-pound competitors at over 2 pounds 6 ounces
- Non-taped seams require an internal liner bag for full waterproof protection
- Body-contact backpanel provides less airflow than tensioned trampoline frames
Mariposa 60
- Plush shoulder straps and hipbelt cushion sensitive pressure points.
- Seven exterior pockets provide outstanding on-trail gear organization.
- Dedicated tall side pocket neatly isolates shelters from dry internal gear.
- Removable SitLight back pad doubles as an instant camp seat cushion.
- Interchangeable hipbelts allow precise customization across body shapes.
- Unsealed seams require an internal waterproof liner in wet conditions.
- 100D nylon fabric requires caution around sharp desert rock and thick brush.
- Generous volume makes it easy to overload beyond the 35-pound comfort limit.
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.