#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
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#5 on this list
The Pulse EP50
Atom Packs
The Atom Packs The Pulse EP50 comes from a respected UK cottage workshop and is built for experienced lightweight hikers looking for refined ergonomic shaping. It fits backpackers carrying a base weight around 10 to 12 pounds who still want a reliable frame for five- to seven-day wilderness stretches. Weighing under 1.5 pounds, the Pulse EP50 achieves impressive load transfer through a lightweight carbon frame and an integrated lumbar system. It provides 54 liters of total volume (45 liters internal, 9 liters external), which offers plenty of breathing room for modern ultralight gear and food. The shoulder straps are thoughtfully sculpted to spread weight across the chest, and they come standard with integrated stretch pockets perfect for storing snacks, hydration flasks, or a satellite communicator within arm's reach. Because Atom Packs operates on a smaller production scale, availability is often constrained by batch runs, and international buyers may deal with shipping lead times. While the harness handles up to roughly 30 pounds with surprising stability, the lightweight construction offers narrow margins for error if you push beyond its intended load limits. **Highlights** - Exceptional warmth-to-weight ratio, tipping the scale at under 1.5 pounds. - Lightweight internal carbon frame provides direct load transfer to the hips. - Integrated shoulder strap pockets allow on-the-move access to flasks and electronics. - Balanced 54-liter capacity provides ample room for multi-day food carries. - Ergonomically sculpted harness reduces collarbone pressure. **Watch-outs** - Limited production availability can result in purchasing delays. - Minimal padding forgives little if overloaded past recommended weight limits.
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Specs side by side
| Spec | Mariposa 60 | The Pulse EP50 |
|---|---|---|
| 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 | — |
| Base Weight | — | 1 lb. 7.8 oz. (approx. 675 g) |
| Total Capacity | — | 54 L (45 L internal, 9 L external) |
| Frame Style | — | Carbon fiber internal frame with lumbar pad |
| Load Rating | — | Comfortable up to roughly 30 lbs |
| Country of Origin | — | Handmade in the United Kingdom |
| Approximate Price | — | $314 |
What our reviewers liked and didn't
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.
The Pulse EP50
- Sub-1.5-pound weight with an internal carbon frame
- Ergonomic shoulder straps with integrated stretch pockets
- Effective load transfer to the hips within recommended limits
- Meticulous cottage craftsmanship and clean tailoring
- Limited production batches can lead to ordering lead times
- Support degrades rapidly when loaded beyond 30 pounds
- Requires careful packing to avoid pressure points along back panel
Prices change constantly — the figure shown is the last verified catalog price, and the buy buttons always go to the current listing.