#9 on this list
Fast Kumo 36
Gossamer Gear
The Gossamer Gear Fast Kumo 36 is designed for fastpackers, peak baggers, and minimalist weekenders who move quickly and want their gear accessible without stopping. It combines the running-vest ergonomics of modern endurance packs with the proven durability of Gossamer Gear's classic chassis. Instead of conventional shoulder straps, the Fast Kumo uses an extended vest harness with dual chest pockets designed for hydration flasks, gels, and electronics. The pack body is built from 70D and 100D Robic nylon, keeping it light while offering sufficient tear strength for brushy singletrack. Gossamer Gear's removable SitLight foam back pad provides light structural padding while serving as a dry sit pad at rest stops, and the entire pack can be stripped down to roughly 15 ounces for speed-focused outings. With only 36 liters of total capacity, this pack leaves no room for non-essential gear. Bulky synthetic sleeping bags, four-season shelters, and standard bear canisters will not fit comfortably inside. Furthermore, while the harness prevents pack sway, it offers very little true weight transfer to the waist, making it uncomfortable for carries that exceed roughly 18 to 20 pounds. **Highlights** - Running vest harness provides chest-mounted storage and torso stability. - Strippable design drops down to around 15.2 ounces for ultra-minimalist trips. - Tough 70D and 100D Robic nylon construction resists abrasion. - Removable foam back pad adds comfort and doubles as a trail sit pad. - Compact 36-liter capacity keeps pack volume centered and stable. **Watch-outs** - Tight internal capacity cannot easily accommodate bear canisters or winter kits. - Minimal vertical load transfer limits comfortable weight capacity to light loads. - Lightweight fabrics require care around sharp equipment.
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#10 on this list
Focal 58
Gregory
The Gregory Focal 58 is targeted at hikers who want to cut weight without giving up the structured support, plush cushioning, and ventilated back panel of a traditional backpack. It is an ideal pack for hikers taking on week-long trips with 30-plus-pound starting weights, guided excursions, or those who find bare-bones ultralight packs too unforgiving. The Focal relies on Gregory's FreeFloat suspension, which combines an internal tubular aluminum perimeter frame with dynamic lower panels that pivot naturally with your walking motion. A suspended mesh back panel keeps the pack body off your spine, promoting constant airflow on warm days. The main pack body utilizes 100D and 210D recycled high-density nylon, giving it far greater puncture resistance than ultralight composite fabrics, while the oversized hipbelt pockets easily hold modern smartphones. Weighing around 2 pounds 13 ounces, the Focal sits at the heavy boundary of the ultralight category. The gap created by the suspended mesh back panel can also shift the load's center of gravity slightly away from your back, which can feel noticeable when leaning forward during steep, technical scrambles. **Highlights** - FreeFloat dynamic suspension system moves naturally with your stride. - Tubular aluminum frame comfortably supports loads up to 35 pounds. - Suspended mesh back panel provides high-performance back ventilation. - Durable 100D and 210D recycled nylon withstands rough handling. - Extra-large hipbelt pockets easily accommodate modern smartphones. **Watch-outs** - At nearly 3 pounds, it is heavy for a true ultralight pack. - Air-gap back panel positions internal pack weight slightly away from the spine. - Less compressible than minimalist roll-top alternatives.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Fast Kumo 36 | Focal 58 |
|---|---|---|
| Total Capacity | 36 Liters | — |
| Complete Weight | 1 lb 4.7 oz | — |
| Stripped Weight | 15.2 oz | — |
| Fabric | 70D and 100D Robic nylon | — |
| Harness Style | Running vest with dual chest pockets | — |
| Approximate Price | $190 | Around $270 |
| Base Weight | — | 2 lb. 12.8 oz. (Men's M) |
| Pack Capacity | — | 58 Liters |
| Frame Design | — | Tubular aluminum perimeter hoop |
| Suspension Type | — | FreeFloat dynamic suspended mesh |
| Primary Fabric | — | 100D & 210D recycled high-density nylon |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
Fast Kumo 36
- Vest harness keeps hydration, snacks, and phone accessible on the move
- Strippable design drops down to roughly 15.2 ounces for fast-and-light pushes
- Durable 70D and 100D Robic nylon resists trail abrasion well for its weight
- Removable SitLight back pad cushions the spine and doubles as a trail seat
- Lacks rigid framing, making loads over 18 to 20 pounds uncomfortable
- Compact 36-liter capacity cannot easily accommodate rigid bear canisters
- Vest harness wrap can feel restrictive for broad-chested hikers
Focal 58
- Suspended mesh back panel provides exceptional ventilation in hot conditions
- FreeFloat dynamic hipbelt comfortably manages loads up to 35 pounds
- Durable 100D and 210D recycled fabrics resist abrasive trail wear
- Large hipbelt pockets readily hold contemporary smartphones
- At nearly 2 pounds 13 ounces, it sits at the heavy edge of ultralight
- Suspended mesh gap pushes the center of gravity slightly rearward
- Perimeter wire frame limits flat pack compression when underfilled
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