BEST Ultralight Backpack?

[@janetmillard6869]

I'm tough on packs, but not the way you normally use them. I'm a field biologist and the best pack I've found so far is the Osprey Kyte. Here's why I like it (and maybe things you can think about for your next design). I need multiple compartments. When I need my notebook and pencil I don't want to be pawing through all my other gear. When I need an energy bar, same. The Kyte has 7 weather/debris enclosed compartments and 3 semi open external pockets. I can segregate my energy bars & bamboo cutlery in one compartment and my hat/gloves/sunscreen in another. In the bottom of the main compartment I can store my rain gear and puffy layers (separate zipper access). In the main compartment I can fit all my field gear, water, and food for 8 hours in the field, or even an overnight trip with a sleeping bag and bivy sack. In the lid there are 3 separate compartments: 2 on top, 1 on the underside of the lid. I can keep my writing instruments separate from my personal hygeine from my small emergency items. On the outside there are 2 mesh water bottle pockets that I normally use to stuff trash into that I find in the woods. Outside the main body is a giant mesh pouch that I keep a gardening pad in so that I don't have to get a wet, dirty, sappy butt. And then there are the straps outside and below to hold tent/sleeping pad/whatever. I'm also 5'4" so I need a pack whose frame won't hit me in the back of my head (like my Trango crag pack does). It looks like your pack will be great for backpacking, but it's not really versatile for other needs. I'll wait for the next product. P.s. I love your puffy hoody! I swapped it with my partner on belays on a long alpine climb the same week I got it. Pit zips and hood are great. Adjustable cuffs and a chest pocket would make it perfect.

[@aaalllen]

Please show some footage w/ a BV450 or BV500

[@briantalbert]

Love the extra frame height and load lifters. I wish my Mariposa was constructed similarly ... the load lifters on the Mariposa are of little value because of the smaller frame height, as you mention. I am not loving the zipper though. I would probably jump on this pack if it were not for the zipper. I really don't need to go rummaging through my pack when I pack it properly and it just creates a failure point and an ingress point for water. Kill the zipper (which I think would also lower weight a little and simplify he construction) and I'm in.

[@jadenm]

I agree with this comment with one additional request: add exterior bottom straps where a tent would get strapped.

[@nathanaelkolb4024]

I agree 100% about the frame height and load lifters. I line my bag with a trash compactor bag so the zipper wouldnt be useful to me. Great looking backpack!

[@navelaviator18]

You can buy zipper strips that are made for plastic sheeting for construction. Just cut a slit in the compactor bag and the zipper strip sticks to the slit using adhesive. Then just line up the zipper on the plastic bag with the one on the backpack.. It adds a little weight but still allows you to use the zipper down the middle of the backpack.

[@melindaadams6520]

I'm looking into ordering one, but confused about the sizing chart. Why the inseam measurement instead of torso?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

We find that using height and inseam most accurately helps you calculate the correct torso size in the easiest way. Most people already know their inseam length and height, and using those measurements we can use human proportions to calculate torso length. Another bonus with this system is that it eliminates errors from people measuring their own torsos differently and risking not matching up with the size chart they way they should.

[@rablakli]

Can you show the 45L and the 60L side by side. How much “stuff” can I put inside. Do I have to put my things vertical or can I put them horizontally...... do you have a pack liner for these packs?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Each of our Shadowlight Backpacks comes with a Nylofume pack liner. Please message us at [e-mail] for the different pack dimensions!

[@escapetherace1943]

it depends on your gear.... how large is your sleep setup and your sleeping bag, then can you add your cookset, clothes, AND food? List some of your gear and how big they are

[@teddzik7843]

Like the zipper on back of the shadow backpack. However, given its not waterproof and likely you would use a full pack liner, how do you access gear through the liner when unzipped ?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Dry bags for anything you don't want to get wet.

[@wanderingpanda6556]

I’ve researched the hell out of UL backpacks for months. From online to what friends are using. I settled on the 60L Shadowlight. Features vs price was the main thing for me. You had an informative podcast on it and I appreciate you guys explaining why you chose the weaves that you did. Currently it’s in the mail and can’t wait to give it a good workout when it arrives.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

We are excited for you to get your new backpack!

[@glendabaghian1145]

Does the 45L capacity include the volume of the external pockets or does it only measure the main pack capacity?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

45L or 60L is just the capacity of the main compartment. All external pockets are in addition to that.

[@thunderpuppyart]

I'm sorry I missed out on being able to preorder this Shadowlight! I agree that too many UL packs are nothing more than an empty tube and I cant imagine not having a decent waistband. I really like the full access zipper but am wondering about the placement and just how rain proof it is where its located. Anyone out there have any feedback about that?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

There is a water proof coating on the bag. We do recommend pack liners, or dry bags when heavy rain is expected.

[@vickitatum540]

Just tested my new ShadowLight on a one night backpack. I really love it! No sore shoulders, it handled all my gear, and seemed light as a feather!

[@texmexia49]

I asked your customer service a question 9 days ago and haven’t received an answer, maybe someone here can help. Will a BV 475 fit in the 45L horizontally?

[@gigihenderson7668]

@2:07 - THAT’S why I didn’t recognize your new logo! I was looking for the OVo Owl logo... I like the new one, don’t get me wrong, but the one you designed was fine too, IMO. I am taking mine to Philmont this summer, if they let us go.

[@itshotinhouston]

I keep my tent inside my pack if rain is possible. Can you post a video showing a sleeping bag in the bottom, a BV500, and a tent inside then show zipping it up.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

We'll be releasing a video soon showing everything you need for a trip fitting inside the pack!

[@matthewschenck8784]

I gave my son my Atmos when I got this pack. He was super happy until we hit the trail and he saw how awesome the Shadowlight was. So far so great.

[@bermo61]

I have a granite gear crown 2 which is not bad but I really like the looks and features of the shadow light. I have had nothing but great experiences with OV products and I’m sure I will be adding a shadow light to my gear. Keep up the great work Tayson!

[@trephisen]

Question, what are the weights for the different sizes of packs? The websight only states the Shadowlight is under 2 lbs. There is not a breakdown as far as the different sizes for the different liter capacities. I am looking at the 45 liter in a size medium with a medium size hip belt.

[@jfifield20]

How does your Robic Nylon compare to Ultra 200?

[@trephisen]

What is the max load carry for this pack? Most Ultralight packs can't carry more than 30 - 40 lbs.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

30 to 40 lbs is the recommended weight if you want the pack to be comfortable. It's not like the pack will fall apart if you go over that, but it will start to feel less comfortable.

[@riskmandel1]

I’d love to see you compare and contrast the Shadowlight and the KotaUL.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Great idea! Thanks!

[@riskmandel1]

@@TaysonWhittaker Awesome! I look forward to it. I bought the KotaUL as part of the kickstarter but then started wondering if I should have bought the Shadowlight. I’m sure they are both great, but I look forward to seeing them side by side.

[@Retrofilms]

Just ordered the shadow light 45L!!!! So excited to get it!!!

[@SoggyTreks]

I love my HMG Windrider 3400 and 4400

[@jonahcousins6578]

I love mine! I am a member and it’s totally worth it!

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Thanks for being a Live Ultralight Member!

[@bermo61]

If the pack is made from Dyneema, is it waterproof? The reason I ask is that the guys who use pack liners might not find it necessary and get more use out of the zipper than they think.

[@rumblechick73]

Why no grab loop on the top? I like to hang my pack from a tree limb whenever I can. Is the vertical zipper waterproof? Is the torso length adjustable?

[@BeauTempsMauvaisTemps]

There is a grab loop

[@rumblechick73]

@@BeauTempsMauvaisTemps Thanks, I couldn't see it in any of the pics even on the web site.

[@celestesuter1148]

I’m so excited for this pack! How soon will you be offering other colors? Some of us like something a bit more colorful! Love all the features!

[@kattidee]

The only hesitation I had in buying mine was the lack of a more neutral beige or army green color (and the absence of ability to tie anything to the bottom if needed)

[@illyadmark3223]

I love the 45 L, I don't see external hardpoints for things like snowshoes. Am I missing them, or how would you carry snowshoes / X county skis?

[@lynx7906]

I've been waiting for this release! I ordered mine already and just waiting for it to come in! I can't wait. My trail buddy also purchased one.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@chubi167]

You know osprey has lifetime warranties on all their bags. Big reason why I went with my Exos 48.

[@bcloetta]

Great looking pack and nice review. I love your stuff--own mostly hammock pods and quilts. I bought the Mariposa last year, so not in the market, but I am short so that short frame works really well. Also, one thing it has that your shadow light does not is that zip top in the brain. Most reviewers say it is useless, but it is where I put my map and electronics--works well for quick access. I will also say that it is extremely comfortable-but I rarely load more than 24lbs.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Thanks for watching and for your feedback!

[@jodirose4561]

Side question,,, what is a good all around repair tape? Sleep airpad, sleeping bag, tent?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Tenacious Tape works really well for all those things! outdoorvitals.com/collections/gear-care/products/seam-grip-field-repair-kit

[@alexpeebles]

What’s the width of the nylon on the hip belt straps?

[@alexjohnson668]

How does it match up with the atmos 50 Ag. What would you say to someone that is looking at this pack coming from a atmos. I know the weight is amazing just curious how it matches up for someone that is looking to lighten their load but not going for ultralight necessarily.

[@johnchaney9932]

Looks like a great pack and a very good price with love to give your gear a try but I am one of those old guys that will not do banking on the internet

[@reachtrevor]

I preordered one months ago, unfortunately they ran out of 60L Tall for pre-orders... not sure how that happened...

[@DoocesWild]

So far just been using this backpack on my treadmill to train for an upcoming trip. My only complaint is that the chest strap is far too big. I'm a big guy and bought the medium and even pulled all the way tight it's still loose. I may have to figure out a way to rig this differently, or maybe it's by design. It's kind of a big issue for me. Other than this, I love the bag.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Hey Shawn, please check out this video on fitting the Shadowlight to you in order to get the most out of it. I think that may help: kzbin.info/www/bejne/r2ekpXyGmNWoo7c

[@DoocesWild]

@@TaysonWhittaker thanks for the link. I didn’t realize there was a fitting video and it was very helpful to watch. I’ll adjust some stuff based on the tips over the weekend and make sure I’m wearing it properly. I am confident that I’m not.

[@lucasriley.3840]

This pack is great! Never felt or used a pack quite like it especially at the super light weight. The Shadowlight is just another reason why OV is the best!

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Thanks for your support! Glad you like your pack!

[@TropicTekkers]

This pack is amazing I do think it’s the best! I’ve used it on a backpacking trip already and it’s 1000% better than my other ones.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Glad you are already putting the Shadowlight to good use!

[@circuitriderfpv5956]

I wish I could get the Rhyolite. If the style/look of the Rhyolite had the weight, frame, fabric, updated pockets of the Shadowlite, and took out that center zipper (useless with the pack liner?)...I’d grab it up.

[@ryderbearnson4253]

I used the osprey that Tayson uses in this video...I don't mean the same model. I mean he let me borrow THAT exact backpack. and I love the center zipper of the Shadowlight

[@TaysonWhittaker]

That you did...that you did

[@aranhalvorsen6465]

Does the 60L have space to fit a bear canister horizontally ... If so which ones? Also is the zipper weather proof? What kind of zipper is it?

[@RussOnAdventure]

I took my 60L out last weekend. I haven't used the zipper because I used a pack liner but have same question about how weatherproof the zipper would be. Love the pack.

[@chipkk7868]

The Shadowlight is absolutely a great pack from first impressions. I have worn my 60L on a short trip fully loaded out and found it very comfortable. I ha e loaded it and unloaded it several times looking at just how I want to use each pocket for what gear. So far there is a place for everything that would allow you to hike all day without having to open up the main portion of the pack. And if you have to the center zipper make it easy to do so. Listen to Tayson and Brigham describe all of the features and design steps in how this pack came to the market. No other manufacture I know of describes not only their features, but more importantly, how they came to be better than Outdoor Vitals.

[@Dreoilin]

I'm a member, I want a rain fly when I order one, when where how?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

We don't have a rain fly for this backpack. The fabric of the Shadowlight is waterproof. The seams and zipper are not, but this problem is solved when you used the Nylofume pack liner that is included with every backpack!

[@jonathanswayer2884]

How much weight is the 60L Tall rated to carry?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

It can carry 35 or 40 lbs. comfortably.

[@jonathanswayer2884]

@@TaysonWhittaker Thanks!

[@matthewhull9607]

Love the full length zipper! I would love to see a separate video on the "heavy hauler" packs that you use/like. Do you have any intentions on building a pack that can handle 80# to 100# "comfortably"?

[@joevanderkooi816]

Does it have staps on the bottom to carry a tent? Is it waterproof?

[@RussOnAdventure]

I strapped my tent on top of my 60L last week. I wasn't sure how secure it would be with just the center strap but it was fine for 27 miles. Love the pack.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

The fabric is waterproof. It's possible that a little water may come through the seams or center zipper, but each pack also comes with a Nylofume pack liner.

[@rickg7235]

Is it stain resistant and how easy is it to clean once it does get dirty?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

The fabric is waterproof, and if it gets dirty you can easily hose it down or throw it in the tub!

[@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker]

Thanks for your video Tayson. At least I am thinking. By the way I received my Dragonwool Hoodie yesterday and I love the fabric and the size is perfect. While I purchased a XXXL Loftek I purchased an XXL Dragonwool and it is perfect. I will put something out on FB.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Thanks for watching! Glad you enjoyed. Enjoy your DragonWool!

[@happy_outdoors3483]

I would love to see the 45L and 60L side by side to see how they differ. Is the 60L wider in the main bag or just taller at the top? Would be great to see the specs and the bags side by side. Thanks!

[@rage7891]

The Shadow light pack that you use on your video looks like you have a hole on the bottom of the pack. When you talk about the bottom being extra durable fabric and you pull on the side pocket you can see a nickel size blue spot through the black bottom between the seam of the side pocket and bottom. May want to edit that or exchange the pack so it doesn't look like the bottom is not durable. Looking forward to getting a Shadow light pack.

[@TaysonWhittaker]

That's not an accidental hole. That triangle shaped opening you saw actually acts as a drain in case those side pockets fill with water during rain or if your bottle is leaking. The fabric is water proof, so rather than your pockets filling with water (and extra weight), it will drain right out.

[@MrBalas3]

On your website the 60 liter is the same price as the 45 liter. That doesn’t seem right. Also, is it because it’s considered an “ultra light backpack” that your pack as well as some others don’t want to offer straps or really the ability to strap say a tent or something similar to the bottom? I’m aware you mentioned the ability to put a 2 person tent on one side of the outside mesh pockets, but that’s maybe not always feasible pending the size of one’s 2 person tent. Thanks. Otherwise looks quite good.

[@IamGadgetcom]

thank you for the video...Since you asked....my comments are that you really did not show the bag properly. How well does a Nalgene bottle fit it those water pockets? will it fit without fighting the inner contents of the bag? will it fit in deep enough to feel confident that it will stay there? I feel that you should use two compression straps that would hold the bag together if the zipper fails. If you did use two compression straps then it would also allow you to slide a rain jacket or pad under the straps. Colors....I do not like the clash/contrast of the Black or Dark Navy on this color bag. It looks like that was a fabric you had left over from another project and did not want to waste it. I did not notice.....did it have a way to tie on a pair of trekking poles. Are there tabs on the bottom to put straps through if I wanted to tie something on the bottom Personally I would like a light pack. I was looking for something in the 35-40L for a good BOB bag and or camp and hike....Just a size that works for different situations including air travel. I hope you don't think I am slamming you...I like much of what you do and how you do it....But.....my background removes me from being a normal consumer...I had been a buyer for a chain of 300 stores, and I had my own retail operation as well as being a manufacturer that writes articles on various products. I certainly appreciate the way you are growing your business....I wish you the best of good luck....

[@escapetherace1943]

Honestly compares directly with the Granite Gear, which regularly sell for 50-60 less and in more colors... weigh difference is marginal at a few ounces.... Honestly because of the zipper I'd probably gravitate to the GG... These look promising though, get some natural colors without the white threads and some zipperless versions, maybe those lower side pockets could blow out a pinch more to fit 2 1 liter water bottles on each side (I wouldn't carry that way but it would fit a canteen + something else if needed)

[@jimjones8268]

Great price too.

[@LGSkywalker82]

Will be ordering.. is the color in this video the dark blue?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Yes, this video shows the dark blue!

[@LGSkywalker82]

@@TaysonWhittaker thank you!

[@Prtg1]

I've been looking for a new pack I might just pick one up

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Now is a great time to do it! We are also giving away free bonuses with each Shadowlight purchase this week! outdoorvitals.com/pages/shadowlightbackpacklaunch

[@dracphelan]

I wish I could trade in my old OV pack for this new one.

[@mitchholder99]

Love the pack but the zipper kills it for me, just gonna be a fail point for water

[@Joe-fi4hv]

How does it function in the rain?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Very well! The fabric itself is waterproof, and the backpack comes with a pack liner. The seams are not sealed, but the pack liner combined with the fabrics of the pack should give you complete peace of mind.

[@codyscoggins3489]

@@TaysonWhittaker This is probably the only thing keeping me from getting the pack. I seem only to find DCF bags with seams sealed, is it not possible or impractical to do so in the different fabrics? The reason I ask is because I hate using pack liners, prefer a "waterproof" pack with dcf packing cubes and such. PNW keeps me anxious about a wet sleeping bag. I'm super hyped about this pack otherwise, it checks 99% of the boxes.

[@johnc2242]

@@codyscoggins3489 Dan Durston addresses this with the pack that he made. To summarize what he says - even if you seam seal an irregular shape, such as a backpack, that has wear points that are constantly moving and shifting, you run this risk of 1) the seam sealing not being perfect and it still leaking and 2) the seam sealing degrading much faster than it normally would in non-stress areas. Dan also mentions how much more expensive seam sealing a pack would make it (and with negligible to 0 benefits, along with likely quality issues)

[@laowu830]

Dude I looooooove that logo!

[@peteware5551]

Ordered mine yesterday as soon as I saw it available on the website. Stoked for it to ship and arrive!

[@jpriddle]

Well, you lost me right at your premise of “the best”. There is no best anything in outdoor equipment. It is all preference, condition and scenario specific. I believe Outdoor Vitals are genuinely designing good products, but your marketing hyperbole always makes me question the actual effectiveness of the product. As to the design of your pack, I do appreciate the option of zippered access to the main compartment for people who prefer carrying multiple sacks/bags that they access throughout the day. Of course, the trade off is an additional failure and moisture entry point, which for some people is unnecessary because they have packing systems that make other, simpler packs “the best” for them. The frame is another design that is better for some situations but completely unnecessary and overbuilt in others. The rest of the features look pretty standard for ultralight packs. Anyway, not trying to put down your products in anyway, but it’s not doing any potential customers any favors to market like this.

[@wallacemcnish]

Where is this manufactured? China or USA?

[@johnc2242]

I believe this is manufactured in China. I got one through the pre-order and I would say it’s quality. If you are worried about supporting business and manufacturing in the US, completely fair. If you’re worried about quality from Chinese manufacturers, know there are very high quality Chinese manufacturers, these packs seems to be made by one of those manufacturers. I’ve also gotten very low quality items from Chinese manufacturers, so I understand that hesitancy.

[@wallacemcnish]

@@johnc2242 I am Canadian and I want to support Canadian & American manufacturing. Enough jobs have been lost to China.

[@johnc2242]

@@wallacemcnish like I said above, I have no problem with people wanting to source locally to support manufacturing in their own country (although, there is quite a bit of nuance to that discussion). What I don’t support is the blanket statement “Chinese manufacturing is bad”. It is not true and I don’t think that idea should be the driving factor behind buying a product.

[@wallacemcnish]

@@johnc2242 I will agree that not all Chinese manufacturing is bad

[@richardc6269]

I'm gonna have to wait 4 the nxt batch.

[@eddydubois4411]

You sold me...I want one

[@ChopperOutdoors]

I got one its really comfortable

[@guybrooks1035]

make a 35L pack and I am sold

[@Gamerhog2022]

Can I buy this pack without signing up for your membership?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

You will be able to next week!

[@loraprickett3586]

This pack makes me happy! 😁😁😁

[@EndOfTrail]

I love everything about this pack - except the giant zipper down the front. That just killed it for me.

[@evanhammond7305]

If Dan Becker appoves im getting one.

[@lucasriley.3840]

I don’t know how he couldn’t approve! The pack is fantastic.

[@tamiboelter2833]

ha! Love Dan Becker...He loves the Hyperlite though

[@lakorai2]

Dixie, Darwin on the Trail....

[@evanhammond7305]

@@lakorai2 I'm not a through hiker. I'm a weekend warriors.

[@NealBenson]

He had this in his last video...

[@fatguyhisbackpack5755]

feel free to send me some backpacking gear for big guys and I will show it on my videos on "Fat Guy and his Backpack youtube channel. love your gear keep up the good work

[@navelaviator18]

On your site it says this bag can handle 35+ lbs Max weight. Can anyone attest to what weight this pack starts getting uncomfortable? I usually start my trips with about 37lbs of food, water, and gear (not counting the weight of my current bag) Thank you to anyone willing to give their opinion!

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Our team has heavily tested the pack on trips @40lbs. With no problems. Hope this helps.

[@navelaviator18]

@@TaysonWhittaker Actually, it does! Thanks for taking the time to answer my question! Keep up the great work!

[@irfanfirmansyah_]

Anjir lurus banget tu jenggot

[@dakotaescher1]

It's the best pack ever, not because we sell it..... Lol. Okay.

[@MrJarred78]

Ultralight is 10lbs or less base weight. You don't need a stiff heavy frame for an ultralight load and that zipper will be nothing but problems.

[@IncreaseLearning]

I like most of the quality of your products, but ... please, no seriously PLEASE ... improve the aesthetics, help me feel like I can use your products without feeling discouraged and ugly. This pack looks like a huge soggy diaper bag. The fabrics and styling can keep all the awesome utility but with a little bit of work, these will look less juvenile. I know it's a bit of a shallow comment, but I sincerely want to love your products, share your products, boast about your products, and fully endorse your products, they just look like they haven't been designed very well. I'm happy to give more specific feedback if you want it. I don't want to rant, I want you to be wildly successful and help outdoors people have a lot of fun doing what they love. Especially the lightweight zealots.

[@teddzik7843]

Like the zipper on back of the shadow backpack. However, given its not waterproof and likely you would use a full pack liner, how do you access gear through the liner when unzipped ?

[@TaysonWhittaker]

Dry bags.