Gossamer Gear Loris vs Mountainsmith Zerk 25

[@WorldWideWub]

Love your videos. No fluff, just straight to the meat of the review.

[@CaraHikes]

Thank you! I try to just get the info out there and keep it short. I really appreciate the positive comment!

[@rockyravine1155]

I bought the Loris in August and have used it for a number of trips: to Peru and many day hikes. I actually really like the straps, it is one of the first packs where I don't need to use the sternum strap keep the straps put. I also really like the removable pad, I use it both on trail breaks but also on airplanes. I guess it just depends.

[@CaraHikes]

Thanks for the info! I’m glad to hear it worked out for you!

[@frogturtle]

I literally am in the middle of making this decision right now. Thank you for this video

[@CaraHikes]

I’m glad it was helpful. It definitely doesn’t hurt to try out both, but if you’re leaning towards the Zerk it’s on sale for $150 right now. Mountainsmith’s sale goes until 9/8

[@jhonyermo]

I adore my Loris. Also, there is a loop at the top, just under the lid that I use shock cord and a cord-stop or one of GGs Lightrek Pack Bungee Attachments, $5, to attach my trekking poles (I think they could have done that a skosh better actually). I like the inner pocket setup and the little zipper compartment on the lid. Wish the strap pockets weren't quite so tight. Thanks for the great video, always trying to find out more about my gear. For me, shoulder straps are fine.

[@CaraHikes]

I read so many reviews about the Loris before I bought it. I’ve had a lot of trouble over the years with uncomfortable shoulder straps on different packs. It’s definitely a cool little pack and the colors are awesome. I’m bummed it didn’t work for me, but I’m glad to hear it works for you!

[@tomdevol1482]

Hi Cara, I had the same issue with the shoulder straps. I so wanted the pack to work for me because the overall design is great, but could not make the straps comfortable. I carried the Zerk 40 on a 500 mile trip and really loved the shoulder strap and side pockets. Don't know why other companies have not copied the side pocket design, they are great for on the go use.

[@CaraHikes]

I’m so glad I’m not the only one! The Zerk 25 is the closest thing to a perfect pack I’ve found. If they came up with a better lid design I think it would actually be perfect. Those double side pockets really are amazing!

[@korak8456]

Do you think adding an eyelet and a small amount of bungie would work to keep the lid down on the zerk 25? Also what do you think the max weight limit of the zerk is for a trail run? Was looking at it for fastpacking possibly.

[@CaraHikes]

That might work and I will definitely try it. I’ve carried probably about 10 pounds in it for my short trail runs. It carried really well for me and I’m pretty small. Even backpacking I don’t usually carry more than 18 pounds so I haven’t really overloaded it yet. I’m sure you could push 20 pounds with no problem using the hipbelt for extra stability. Hope this helps!

[@korak8456]

@@CaraHikes Thanks for the quick reply! My winter base weight is 11ish lbs and looking at knocking out the first 85 of the ozark highlands trail coming up. So it's that time to start planning how many days a pack can do before needing a resupply lol. This helps I was thinking 20-25 would be max.

[@Утконос-г5д]

of course it is more durable, but it weights 2 times more!!!

[@CaraHikes]

It does weigh quite a bit more, but it carries more comfortably and I don’t have to worry about it failing on me