An Update on my Zpacks Arc haul: A review of the pros and cons

[@OUTDOORS55]

Only complaints I've had with my arc blast is I wish the back mesh was stretchy. And the hip belt was more grippy ( they fixed that on the newer ones). Other than that it's the perfect backpack. I stopped looking at packs after I bought it haha.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Yea I haven't noticed any issue with the hip belt. I'm a big fan.

[@uptrail7169]

This would have been a great pack pros & cons video for my collaboration! My Exos once again did very good for me this weekend, but the Zpacks is still on my list. I've heard from others about a few minor fixes to the pack, but as is it's still one of the best. The mesh back on the Exos and Zpacks is what I like the most. My old pack was way too hot on my back. Thanks for the update review Tim!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

It would have been, although a bit late! lol. Finally getting back into the video making routine after a busy summer. Yea, I think the zpacks is a nice switch from the Osprey.

[@qasd48]

I bought this pack recently and took it loaded to the gills on a 9 day hike. It was loaded so full I couldn't even arc it at the start (somewhere between 38-42 lbs) and even without the arc it still sat comfortably, couldn't feel the frame digging in, no hot spots. The belt can really be cinched in for the perfect fit. The hip belt pockets are amazingly big (can fit my Anker 21000mah battery and cords and dual battery charger for my GoPro plus wall adapter and extra memory cards in one side). They are hard to open one handed though. The side pockets come tight and initially it was hard to put my 1L smart water bottle back in on the move but this issue vanished after they a few days. The front mesh held my duplex tent, my 8.5 square tarp, my goretex pants and jacket, my tent stakes and a few odds and ends like my SAK and fire steel in the gaps at the bottom (was pretty full at that point basically). The mesh is definitely a weaker spot but I baby my gear anyways and didn't have any problems. The side compression works, but I found you kind of have to pull it through from bottom up rather than just rip on the top to get it to full tightness. All in, this pack was amazing, handled 40 lbs decently and felt like it was barely there in the low 20s when i left the trail. Couldn't be happier, I did have a little water in the bottom after one night because I had to hang it empty out side in the rain (outside was soaked from hiking in the rain and didn't feel like bringing it in the tent or leaving it on the ground for mice) just flipped it upside down let the tiny bit of water out and wiped it out real quick and was good to go. I use a pack liner anyways because I'm paranoid and the West coast can rain a ton so I wanted to be prepared just in case. 10/10 recommend the pack.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Excellent. I think you summarized exactly how I feel and what I've said a few times.

[@jasonwish-]

Great review Tim. I love my arc haul as well. Haven't had the load lifter problem you mentioned yet, but time will tell....I can see how that could be an issue. I agree about the hip belt pouches being hard to open with one hand at times but really love the size of them. Definitely one of my best purchases as well.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

I agree. The sizing on the hip belt pockets is great. I don't miss my top lid any more because of it.

[@hikerx3660]

Here's a quick and easy modification you can do to the hip belt pouches that allows you to open and close with one hand and it only adds about .75 - .8 ounces. kzbin.info/www/bejne/h367f36qh6qUa5o

[@CatherineGregoryAdventures]

Nice review. I think my pack is something I might want to change out in the future. I've been keeping my eye on these. Thanks for the info!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

You're welcome! Wanted to update everyone about how it had done this year so far.

[@KentuckyWoodsman]

Great over time review. I can see why you like it. Thanks for sharing Tim.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks Chris!

[@RESTLESSOUTDOORS]

Agree 100% Other than my Duplex, this pack was TOTALLY worth the investment! A point on the load lifters, I emailed Zpacks about the same concerns you had... they sent me a "fix"... I received it after my LH trip... I still have NO IDEA how to install it!!! May have to make a video on the subject to get some help! LOL! Hopefully I can get some advise!

[@devinhedge]

RESTLESS OUTDOORS following. I'd really like to see what they came up with before I invest.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Hmmm, mine was more a minor annoyance. I just have to be more careful when pulling the load lifters. Curious to see what they came up with.

[@zpacksofficial]

Shoot us an email and we can walk you through any issue you may be having.

[@zpacksofficial]

We started adding a line of sticking closer to the buckle that prevented it from twisting. The eliminated any issued with the webbing working as intended.

[@RESTLESSOUTDOORS]

Thanks so much for responding! Sending email now!!!

[@JaxxDrinkwater]

Great review man. Zpacks is where it's at , no question!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Indeed! Love their stuff. It's well thought out.

[@BluecollarBackcountry]

Good job on your review Tim. Great pros and cons for those considering the Arc Haul.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

+Bluecollar Backcountry thanks!

[@tomwillard7251]

Great review and fair in the cons assessment. I also agree about the front mesh netting. I recently sewed a small hole up. I haven't had any issues with the load lifters yet *knock on wood*. An interesting observation I had on the AT this year was how many Arc owners didn't have the arc in the pack. It left me scratching my head a little. Lol.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Wha? I love my arc!

[@Reese842]

I'm going to still use the Arc Haul for the AT, but unsure if I continue afterwards. I might try a more simplistic design like an HMG or ULA.

[@What_If_We_Tried]

Another great review. I just got back into backpacking over the Summer, bought an Exos 38, your videos were instrumental, but will definitely keep my eye on this Arc Haul should I decide that I am capable of thru-hiking the AT. Thank-you...

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks, glad they were helpful. The Arc haul is an easy transition from the Exos. With the air flow system they have it makes sense

[@zr9115]

Love your content! Very helpful to new backpackers with your experience and insight.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

thanks!

[@vincevoyna4504]

Why did you choose arc-haul vs arc-blast? Looking back, do you think it was the right choice? Any thoughts on material difference between gridstop (arc-haul) and DCF (arc-blast)? Have you considered the zip version? arc-zip or arc-haul-zip? Thanks.

[@philc9472]

Tim, I'm curious to know if you use a rain cover or go without ? I thru-hiked the AT with this pack and opted to forego carrying a rain cover. I used Z-packs cuben dry bag liner instead. Good thing because unlike your pack, rain water did penetrate mine. And, it didn't appear to be caused by bad seam taping. It was always finger dry around the copious amounts of seam tape that Z-packs applies. The water came in mainly from the top and perhaps on the sides down inside the pockets. Not a lot, but enough to find its way to the bottom of the pack. The top was always properly rolled and secured so that wasn't the cause either. Towards the end of my 5 month thru-hike the pack seemed to wet-out quickly and get heavier when it rained. The leaking and wet-out both seemed to worsen over time. I asked a hiker with a ULA pack made with what appeared to be Gridstop (as Z-packs calls it) if he had any leakage issues, he answered no. I noticed the inside of his pack looked different from mine. His had an integrated liner, or perhaps a different type of Gridstop with a backing. The inside of his was solid black (if memory serves me well) whereas the inside of mine looks like the outside. On the trail I developed a theory about why my pack was leaking and wetting-out. If I held the pack fabric up to sunlight (or headlamp) I could see light coming through the weave. A tight weave would prevent light from passing through and also water. I also suspicioned that the inside of the ARC Haul was originally waterproofed with something (effectively filling-in the gaps) and was wearing out from use..........OK , I just googled Gridstop and found this link ripstopbytheroll.com/products/210d-dyneema-x-gridstop. Dyneema X Gridstop is a fabric that has a PU coating on the back and DWR finish on the front. It makes sense to me now. The fabric waterproofing wore out. Lesson learned: Carry a rain cover if you intend to use this pack a lot and you don't like a wet pack. Inside or out!!!

[@philc9472]

Update: Here's a link to the Z-packs website. Scroll to the bottom to read about the Gridstop fabric. They say on their website that the fabric has a waterproof urethane coating on the inside. I understand PU-coatings are difficult renew because you need the right product . Going ask Zpacks for their recommendation on how to solve my problem. www.zpacks.com/materials/waterproof-fabric.shtml

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Yup, right now I'm able to go without a raincover. I did notice what you did about the urethane coating on the zpacks website. You're probably right that the coating wore out from alot of use although I'm very surprised that one thru hike did it. Congrats on that accomplishment by the way!

[@MrDanAng1]

I have an Arc Blast, bought because I read almost exclusively good reviews about the Blast/Haul models. I have tried to tweak and adjust and readjust the mesh panel against my back, high, low and middle, tight, middle or low tension and it just doesn't feel very comfortable ON MY BACK! I have had some good use of it because I removed the frame and mesh back panel, but then it's basically the Nero. I congratulate all of you who love these packs, it just seem like they are not a perfect fit for all! Don't be afraid to try it out though, it's possible to exchange them or sell them on, and Zpacks make awesome stuff, I love every single Zpack item I own except the Arc Blast.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Bummer! I wish I could say that doesn't happen but you're absolutely right. Not every piece of gear is great for everyone. You definitely have to try it yourself to see if it works for you.

[@MrDanAng1]

Absolutely, try it out. It seem like 95% of buyers love them! Just me having a weird back, I guess! 😀

[@Macdivers1]

Add he LP Series Packnet for more room over the mesh. Keep soft stuff in the mesh or mix and match for best carry. I bought the Arc Haul Zip expressly because the Packet adds the extra room I want available. The mesh is 8 liters and the back zip is 10 and waterproof. You can still easily unzip either side for access to your stuff, most times without having to unclip any of the included caribiners. Can't use an inner liner though so keep dry stuff has to go into waterproof containers of some kind. I like using S2S Event sacks. They squeeze anything down to nothing. Check it out for any pack for extra room.

[@DonP_is_lostagain]

I presume you mean an inner liner on the outer zip pocket? I've been back and forth about the Arc Haul or Arc Haul Zip. May have to go with the Zip.

[@Macdivers1]

lostagain I hadn't thought of the front pocket. Most cause I keep soft stuff in it such as my Hammock, tarp when dry even clothes in bags. I guess having a liner or trash compacter bag wouldn't be a bad idea then you could really stuff it with your down jacket, socks,etc. The packet claims to add 80 liters of space. Get a handful of the very small caribiners and you can have a great time tying and hooking stuff to it. Mostly everything comes with an attachment point ya know. Small bungies help too. You'll have lots of room under and on the outside to dry plenty of stuff. Note that the center circle comes with even more caribner holes or for more bungie straps. The possibilities are endless.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Interesting, I don't need that much room but that's a neat product to keep in mind.

[@boardin12]

Thanks for the review. Helps a lot to decide which pack to get. Hope to get one soon!!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Awesome, glad it helped you decide. You won't regret it. Well worth it.

[@texashikeaholicsadventures]

Great review!! Thanks so much for the information!! We are currently looking at ways to cut our weight and we have tried several packs, but we keep going back to our Osprey anti-gravity packs. The Zpack may be worth a try for us. Thanks again!!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks and you're welcome. The zpacks makes a great transition from the Osprey I think. Especially if you like the air flow across your back.

[@4-SeasonNature]

Thanks for your review. I prefer my arc hual zip though. I can put stuff in the waterproof zip pocket instead of the mesh pocket.

[@Reese842]

The bottom strap of the arc webbing that is along your back, the strap over time gets worn out via rubbing and will snap eventually.

[@bobbriody]

Thanks for the vid. Would love to see pics, or even better video of a how your BV500 does in the pack (not just strapped on top). How's the fit? The ride? Does it impede the ability to arc? Can you even feel it in there at all aside from the extra weight?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Ha, you're in luck. Monday's video. :) To answer your questions it fits fine and rides well. In terms of the arc I usually arc first then put it in. It can get "hung up" on the arc depending on how much you arc the pack. I can feel it in there if I have it positioned too high because it can get top heavy of course. Other than that no difference between it and any other weight.

[@bobbriody]

Thank you very much both for the video and the heads up here.

[@meerkat1726]

Haha 1:03 "I like it alot" cracked me up

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

lol! Didn't even realize that. :)

[@BackpackerBrothers]

Great review update. Do you find that you're able to access the side pockets without taking the pack off? That's one difference we've found between some packs, and it ends up being a pretty important detail (especially if you keep water in them!) For example, very easy to do with the Exos, but just about impossible with the Osprey Kestrel. Thanks!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Yup, no problems accessing the side pockets at all.

[@spseale]

Hey Tim. I also own the Arc Blast and am largely a fan. I agree with your "cons" list, and would add one more. The lift strap/loop is too skinny to be of any use. That's another piece of webbing that should be increased in size. When the pack is weighted, you just can't comfortably lift it from the skinny webbing provided. Thanks for the gear reviews!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

I considered that but honestly the only times I've used that loop is hanging on bear cables in the Smokies or through a pack hanger around a tree. It's worked just about right for me so not a comfort issue except when lifting it. You're welcome, glad it was useful.

[@beanfrompa]

this may be a dumb question but Where should I invest my money first ? I need to upgrade my pack, tent and sleeping bag at some point. I am a “car camper” trying to get into backpacking . Where would you invest first.?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

If you're backpacking/hiking more I'd say your backpack. If you're camping more then I'd say your tent and sleeping bag. Also I'd examine which choices saves the most weight.

[@latitude918]

Excellent review. Nice to hear both pros and cons. Usually you only hear the pros. Just wish the price point wasn't so high. Oh well. Thanks again for the review.

[@gravitykillz924]

i had great trepidation about spending so much for a pack..But if you can..its well worth it...ill never need another pack. this is it.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks, that's why I made the video! The cons are usually pretty subjective which is why I think people hesitate to do them. I agree the price is at the higher end for backpacks BUT it is a central piece of gear. At least that's what I tell myself. :)

[@AnnieFarmerFarm]

Happy Labor Day weekend Tim! Thumbs Up!!!!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks Annie!

[@murph6730]

I have an exos 38...and was thinking of the Arc Blast. What do you think?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

I think you'll be pleased. The transition from the Exos series to the Zpacks packs is an easy one. My only concern with the Blast instead of the Haul is some durability issues others have reported. I haven't had problems first hand. The Haul has been perfect for me.

[@ShazBookOwl]

I recently bought an Osprey Exos 48 - as a Lighter Weight pack (1kg, is not bad considering the Osprey Ariel I was using is 2kg+ - I couldn't believe it when I weighed that thing... and yes, there are way too many bells and whistles... I just didn't use...) I just watched your video on why you don't use the Osprey Exos anymore, and was curious as to which pack you do use. When looking for a lighter pack - I did consider the Zpacks Arc series - but the cost conversion from AUD to USD is a killer - not to mention the postage... I'm really happy with my Exos, but I agree the 'weak' point on all these packs is the stretchy mesh. First time out with the Exos, I slid as I was climbing down a rock ledge and now the pack has holes in the mesh. Tried fixing with tenacious tape, but that didn't work so well because, well, it's mesh... so I guess I'm gonna have to get out the sewing kit after all. I probably should've taken the pack off, and sent it down on a rope; there's nothing quite like experience to teach us valuable lessons... Subbed your channel, really happy to see most of your videos are

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks! I like your thoughts, welcome! I've been pleased with how the mesh has hold up but I'll admit I am aware that I'm not putting it down on a sharp rock or anything.

[@TACHILL]

sorry im a lil late brother... been working on projects. looks like a great pack but definitely if the webbing twists it should be a more heavy duty but glad to hear you like it so much!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

ha, you're not late, the video is up for good! :) I'm a fan for sure. Thanks Rick.

[@TheNoobHiker]

I remember watching this video years ago and thought I have no idea what the hell Tim is talking about. In all honesty I was hiking with a 6-pound bag. I recently purchased an Arc Haul, and you nailed this review, even down to the zippers on the hip belt pockets. I wis I had purchased this years ago.

[@Surfingthe805]

Great channel Tim. Keep the vids rolling. Quick question - do you have any issues with the bottom frame of the Arc Haul digging into your lower back? I've got the lumbar pad and I can still feel that bottom horizontal stay. Drives me nuts.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks! I do not have that problem but I do notice (as with other packs) that my shirt usually has wear marks where my packs rests on my lower back.

[@wanderingaloudwithmark3057]

Tim the shoulder straps look pretty mediocre as well as the hip belt. Are they still comfortable?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Yup both still comfortable with no issues. It's more comfortable than the exos series if you have that comparison.

[@billderinbaja3883]

Excellent review. The mesh outer pocket seems to be a common complaint. I don't want the "Zip" model with the big closed pocket, I just want a larger and sturdier mesh on the back. Great note on the lifter setup... ZPack should change that immediately. For carrying comfort, this seems to be the #1 Go-To pack... watch these reviews and keep improving, ZPack!!! EDIT: Quick question... big hip belt pockets.. when you are walking and arms swinging, do your wrists hit the pockets?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks, no I haven't noticed problems hitting the pockets. Granted I usually have trekking poles.

[@billderinbaja3883]

Thanks Tim, good to hear. The next time you are on the trail, if you think about it, would you stow your hiking poles and walk with an arm-swing? It is something that would really be annoying for me, if the waist-belt pockets rubbed my wrists (or inner forearms).

[@SlonesWildernessExpeditions]

I'll tell ya what. I love the features of my Osprey, but I'm also regretting it. Most of my future adventures will only be myself and my son, and now I wish we had invested in these excellent UL packs.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

There's still time! I sold my exos 58 to help partially fund this one a while back. I'll hang onto the 38 though in case I have someone else come with me.

[@mpoisot]

Is there a good website to sell used backpacking gear? My girlfriend's Arc Haul is in the mail, and if she loves it I'll probably want to sell my Exos too.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Facebook groups are the number one place to sell fast I think (and no fees!). Backpacking gear flea market, Gearrat Outdoors and Hammock hangers flea market & trading post are the best ones.

[@BackpackingWithJason]

Great review. Thanks

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

thanks!

[@guns4funcajanajustin]

Great review Tim

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

thanks!

[@PREPFORIT]

Thorough review. & honest pros n cons.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Much appreciated. I wanted to do an updated video to give it a fair shake. Still love it!

[@fetchercity]

Is there a way to try one of these on before purchasing? Seems like a steep price without being able to test the fit and feel in person.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Unless you're close to Melbourne, FL (where zpacks is located) or have a friend with a pack I don't see how. They do have an awesome return policy within 30 days to make sure everything fits.

[@Arthur-Silva]

Thanks for the video, I've made a decision after watching your review. A couple of other hikers had concerns about the mesh as well, I went with the Arc Zip, I'm pretty sure that mesh would be destroyed within the first 100 miles.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

You do have to treat it with care since it is mesh. :) Mine has been fine but ya Josh's did tear.

[@floesh-408]

Hi from Holland. Which torzo size did you choose from Zpacks?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Went with a medium! My torso length was 21-22ish. And hi from Ohio. :)

[@scottburkhart6953]

Tim, I really enjoy the videos and they get my fever up to head out to the wilderness. I was looking at this video and then went to the Zpacks website. I found the Arc and the Arc Zip. Is this the "Zip"?

[@qasd48]

Scott Burkhart this is the regular arc haul, the zip doesn't have mesh on the front.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

+Scott Burkhart league is right, this is not the zip. This one has the mesh pocket

[@scottburkhart6953]

Thanks Tim. I have to confess that I hammock camped for the first time this weekend with my son and grandson. I have NEVER slept in a tent, on the ground as soundly as I slept in my new Chill Gorilla w/bug net, hammock. I also went with the 12x12 Chill Gorilla fly/tarp and set it up "porch style" as you recommended. The weather was beautiful and my son is now looking to get a Chill Gorilla tarp to go with his Hennessy set up. Keep the videos coming!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

I will keep them coming! People think I'm kidding when I mention how well I sleep in a hammock. Whenever I ground sleep I usually feel like death the next morning AND THEN have to hike. Forget that! lol. Porch mode is the bomb. I love the air flow and being able to see out. It's nice even in a gentle rain.

[@billyjoedenny]

thanks tim . great peace of gear.. ..bill

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

It is indeed!

[@SalineScott]

That was a great review, Tim.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks Scott!

[@jussa101]

Arcteryx bora ar (my opinion as this pack ends up costing more for us Canadians and some other countires), not disagreeing or saying ones better. It's pretty much waterproof, somewhat similar features, and I'm Canadian. Plus shipping is cheaper (can't speak for the rest of the world). If this was more accessible I'd like to give the cuben fibre a try looks like very amazing the fabrics and design. Maybe I'll pick up a second gen one of they modify it.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

They're always improving the model so I'd bet the 2018 version will keep incorporating changes. I'll have to look at the arcteryx bora, I know they make rock solid stuff.

[@expatadventureturkey9324]

Any reason to buy DCF vs Grid stop material on the pack? Thanks in advance....

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Durability is the benefit of the gridstop and the DCF saves a smidge of weight. That's pretty much it from what I've seen.

[@fireyourrocketts]

Great review. I have one without the mesh, with a big zippered pocket instead in its place and mine I chose the side upper pockets as well in mesh. Needless to say I love it but still think the optimal load for them is below 30 pounds; In my pack one of those buckles already broke and even Zpacks has a field fix video in my case it had to be sent out to them at my cost shipping for it to be repaired. I got to confess I was not happy to pay another $20.00 after the cost of that pack this is a very weak point on it. To me, I caught it at home when trying to load it for a trip realized it was broken probably form the last trip and I did not even noticed but if that happens on the field it would ruin your day big time. If it happens again seriously I will be considering asking for a refund and grab my Osprey AG65 that is a tank. I have never loaded that pack over 33 pounds total; used it first time at 27 pounds, then 29 pounds, then 31 pounds and last trip with the buckle repaired at 32 pounds.

[@gravitykillz924]

i have the Haul. Best pack ive owned.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

It's pretty phenomenal.

[@margaretclaypool]

You might try rubbing some wax (an unlit candle, for example) into the hip pocket zippers. The wax will lubricate the teeth a bit, and help it open and close more smoothly. It'll also help keep it water resistant :)

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Hmmm, I wonder how that would work on these "waterproof" zippers. I'm assuming the same but the teeth aren't as pronounced. I appreciate the tip though.

[@jonNH123]

Love your vids. Thanks!!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Thanks Jon!

[@easyprepper101]

Great video. Saving weight is key.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

thanks!

[@TanukiParis]

is it more durable than the arc blast?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Yes it should be more durable. Of course this is just based on what zpacks says and other arc blast users. I don't have the blast myself.

[@hrmIwonder]

I know nobody cares, but I, just now, was the 500th like!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

I care!

[@GAMESURF714]

can it hold a poop trowel

[@MrTmax74]

lol

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

😂😜

[@geech08]

Do you use a pack cover or just a pack liner with no cover? Thanks

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Pack liner with no cover. 👍

[@petersherman2552]

put longer pullcords on the pocket zips.

[@commonsensecamper]

Ohio here as well. What part?

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Northwest. South of Toledo.

[@Reese842]

It gets uncomfortable for me after 30 lbs. Only happens when I'm carrying 7+ days of food and 2 liters of water

[@TubaSolotheHiker]

Great video. I TOTALLY agree about the zippers on the hip belt pocket. I don't know what kind of wizardry is required to open and close those things but sheesh its been a pain. Seems like they do fine when they are fully stuffed but if they even have a smidgen of space in them they are dang near impossible to open without using both hands.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Lol, that describes my experience. Someone down below commented and say they switched out the pull strings with lash-it/zing-it that was 2-3 inches longer and it works better now.

[@TubaSolotheHiker]

Tim Watson Check out this from BPL. Matt from Lead Me Outdoors shared this little gem with me last night. backpackinglight.com/forums/topic/i-really-want-to-modify-my-zpacks-hipbelt-pockets/ if you go lower in the thread they use zip ties to reinforce the edges of the zipper for a much better overall result. I'm yet to try it but seems promising.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Interesting. Seems like an easy diy too. Those zip ties definitely will work to add some rigidity. Glad to know I'm not the only one who likes tweaking.

[@TubaSolotheHiker]

Ok so I added the zip ties and it's made a huge difference. We'll have to see about the long term durability but, all in all seems to work quite well.

[@myadventureoutdoors]

Sometimes I wonder if these companies actually get input from people who actually hike a lot like yourself. You pointed out some things that seem to me would be common problems with a simple cure. I think they should start sending you their stuff before going to production.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

+Adventure Outdoors ha! That would make me a very happy man BUT the arc haul is as good as it is because it's designed by hikers. Those guys have waaaay more experience than I do. I understand though decisions have to be made to decide between weight, comfort, cost and durability. I think you'll always have some cons no matter what they do.

[@titaniumquarrion9838]

Wow....speechless here. Maybe you should check the back grounds of the guys who have pioneered development of LW and UL gear. These businesses (like Zpacks, Sea 2 Summit, Hyperlight and Six Moon Designs) that started out as, or still are, cottage industry created by hikers, climbers and adventurers....

[@MetroOnTheMove]

Great video! The water test video was good too. I am in the market and think I will get the Arc Haul Zip. Check out some of my videos from the AT in Georgia as any comments would be appreciated

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Hard to go wrong with the zip. I'm a big fan of the pack. MY appreciation for it only goes up after every trip.

[@ngmui430]

Hyperlite Mountain Gear seems to be a better choice

[@watch-Dominion-2018]

it's heavier tho

[@rohnieb]

The trampoline back digs into my shoulder blades and is not very comfortable. Zpacks should put a cat cut in the trampoline arc. Also the rods poke thru the sleeve after 900 miles on pct hike. Not durable at all.

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Huh those are probably the first major complaints I've seen. What did zpacks say when you emailed them?

[@philc9472]

Hi Cuong, I thru-hiked the AT this year with this pack and had the same discomfort issue that you described so well here. It seemed to come and go , some days worse than others. I tried adjusting the net higher and lower but it didn't help. I chalked the problem up to differences in the load; ie. amount of food and water on hand. My pack was never more than 28 lbs when fully loaded. Regarding the rods poking thru the sleeve, this problem was reported by others in 2016. Zpacks said they've addressed it beginning with late 2016 production by strengthening the sleeves. I didn't have this issue with my late summer vintage 2016 pack, but maybe I mitigated the problem by rounding the rod ends with a very fine 'swedish file'. The chamfered edges seemed slightly sharp so I rounded them blunt.

[@rohnieb]

Tim Watson, zpacks apologized and said they will fix it for free, which they did after I sent the pack back to them. Main issue was failure happened on a long thru hike so I was out of a pack and had to buy a new one. The claim they have addressed this issue but on inspection of the repair I can't see any improvements to how they strengthened the rod sleve pocket, it looks like the same design as before. So now when I use my arc haul I don't tension the arc at all for fear of failure. I would think if they pot a metal grommet where you steak out a tent and have the rods designed like typical tent poles, this would fix the issue permanently. As designed, I would not recommend this pack.

[@mjavor]

The hipbelt on the Exos is horrible. The Arc Haul is great!

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

Horrible is a little harsh but compared to the Arc Haul you'd be correct. :)

[@samsmith8870]

I don't think I'm allowed to watch yer channel anymore Tim :( My wife caught me watching this and yelled "Forget it!" lol Anyone want to buy a ULA circuit when a get my tax return? Apparently she expects to eat EVERYDAY. So spoiled...

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

lol!

[@philc9472]

Hi Sam, Have you had any water leak problems with your ULA pack ? See my comment below this video regarding the problem I had with my ARC Haul. Also, what does the inside of your ULA Circuit look like? Is there an integrated liner or some kind of membrane?

[@samsmith8870]

No Phil, it's the same on the inside. Can't find your comment so I'm not sure what you mean by "water leak" but it's by no means waterproof. It will get damp inside in steady rain like most packs. I just line it with a contractor bag and use a poncho instead of a pack cover most times (keeps more of it dry). I can't speak for their other packs.

[@billprice6458]

Great review Freddie Mercury.

[@TheWeekendHiker]

First!!!

[@TheWeekendHiker]

I am loving my Arcblast. I have had a little snag on my netting. Like you said it is a little fragile. The pack itself has no sign of ware. One tip, on the belt pouches change out the string, for the zipper pulls with guy line and make it 2-3 inches overall longer. It helps a lot with 2 handed opening. Take care and God bless Tim. -ATB Adam 🐢

[@Reese842]

Zippers suck for sure, two hands ...

[@arcana1973]

Their packs are still ugly. Only reason why I would even think of using one is so people who pass me would be like "oh he must be rich he has a zpacks"

[@TimWatsonOutdoors]

ha! We're going to have to agree to disagree there. I think it's gorgeous, especially the all black.