#6 on this list
Exos 58
Osprey
The Osprey Exos 58 is geared toward hikers stepping away from heavy traditional packs who want superior back ventilation and a proven suspension system. It is an excellent choice for backpackers tackling hot summer trails or high-humidity regions where solid-panel ultralight packs cause excessive back sweat. Osprey's AirSpeed suspension is the centerpiece of the Exos, using a tensioned mesh back panel that keeps the pack body completely off your spine, maximizing airflow. Its perimeter alloy frame provides rigid support that carries 30 to 35 pounds without sagging. Constructed from durable 100D and 400D high-tenacity nylon, the pack easily handles standard trail wear. The floating lid can be removed to shed weight, with an integrated FlapJacket cover stepping in to seal the top opening. The major drawback is its weight: at nearly 2 pounds 14 ounces, the Exos sits at the heaviest edge of the ultralight spectrum. Additionally, the curved frame that creates the ventilation gap bows the interior space inward, which can make packing rigid objects like bear canisters or square tents awkward and inefficient. **Highlights** - AirSpeed tensioned mesh suspension delivers market-leading back ventilation. - Perimeter alloy frame carries 30-to-35-pound loads with traditional stability. - Removable top lid with integrated FlapJacket cover allows modular weight savings. - Durable 100D and 400D nylon withstands heavy trail scrapes. - Widely available across retail networks with Osprey's lifetime repair support. **Watch-outs** - Heavy compared to true sub-two-pound ultralight packs. - Curved frame makes loading rigid bear canisters awkward. - Fixed, non-removable hipbelt wings can feel bulky when packing away.
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#7 on this list
The Cutaway 40
Nashville Pack
The Nashville Pack The Cutaway 40 is built for fastpackers, endurance hikers, and ultra-minimalists who prioritize movement speed and quick access above all else. It is purpose-built for hikers whose base weights sit well under 10 pounds and who want a pack that behaves like a running vest. By discarding the conventional rigid frame and traditional hipbelt, The Cutaway utilizes a wide, vest-style harness that secures the load across your chest and ribs. This system eliminates pack bounce while running flats or descending steep technical trails. The vest straps are equipped with layered pockets, putting food, soft flasks, navigation devices, and headlamps directly on your chest. An open bottom pocket lets you grab snacks and trash on the go without breaking your stride. Because this is an entirely frameless pack, your upper body carries the full weight. If your gear and food push total pack weight past roughly 20 to 22 pounds, your shoulders will feel significant strain. It also demands careful, disciplined packing; hard or sharp items packed poorly against the back panel will press directly into your spine. **Highlights** - Running vest harness system eliminates bounce and stabilizes dynamic movement. - Multiple harness pockets keep water, nutrition, and gear instantly accessible. - Ultralight frameless design weighs barely over one pound. - Functional bottom pocket allows fast on-trail storage without taking the pack off. - Highly customizable torso and harness sizing accommodates diverse runners. **Watch-outs** - Lacks a rigid frame, transferring all weight directly to the shoulders and torso. - Discomfort increases rapidly with total pack loads over 20 pounds. - Requires careful packing technique to prevent gear from poking your back.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Exos 58 | The Cutaway 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Base Weight | 2 lb. 13.4 oz. (men's) / 2 lb. 11.5 oz. (women's) | 1 lb 0.5 oz (18-inch torso) |
| Capacity | 58 liters | 39 to 47 L (torso dependent) |
| Frame Style | Perimeter LightWire alloy frame | — |
| Suspension | AirSpeed tensioned mesh backpanel | — |
| Main Fabric | 100D high-tenacity nylon | — |
| Accent Fabric | 400D high-tenacity nylon | — |
| MSRP | Around $285 | — |
| Suspension Type | — | Frameless vest harness |
| Load Capacity | — | Optimal under 20–22 lbs |
| Closure Style | — | Roll-top with side compression |
| Typical Price | — | Around $335 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Exos 58
- Market-leading back ventilation via the suspended AirSpeed mesh panel
- Carries 30-to-35-pound loads with rigid perimeter frame stability
- Removable floating lid allows modular weight reduction via FlapJacket
- Tough 100D and 400D nylon resists trail abrasion better than typical UL fabrics
- At nearly 2 pounds 14 ounces, it sits at the heavy end of ultralight
- Curved frame cavity makes packing rigid bear canisters awkward
- Fixed, non-removable hipbelt wings add bulk during transport
The Cutaway 40
- Vest-style harness eliminates pack bounce during dynamic trail running
- Generous chest and bottom pockets allow non-stop access to gear and food
- Extremely light carrying profile weighing just over one pound
- Customizable harness-to-torso attachment ensures a secure, tailored fit
- Carrying comfort drops significantly with total weights exceeding 20 pounds
- Lack of back padding requires rigid, meticulous packing discipline
- Premium price point for a specialized, frameless carrying system
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.