LIGHTEST PACK THAT CAN CARRY 40lbs // Zpacks Arc Haul Review

CHECK IT OUT HERE ➡️ geni.us/ArcHaul
PACKWIZARD COMPARISON: bit.ly/3rvDUMD
Disclosure: This item was sent for free for review purposes. My conclusions in the video are my own and were not influenced by the company or external factors. You can read my full disclosure statement at gearpriority.com/disclosure/.
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[@GearPriority]

CHECK IT OUT HERE ➡ geni.us/ArcHaul PACKWIZARD COMPARISON: bit.ly/3rvDUMD

[@benmitchell2072]

I have this pack. Been using it for almost 2 years. It is expensive, yes. Especially adding in the belt pouches which are a must for me. I went a little nuts and bought most of the extras. Recommend the water bottle pouch for the shoulder strap. I usually carry 12-15kgs and have really given this pack a workout for almost 2 years. Not a single thing has gone wrong with it. The durability of the 100 material I have found to be perfectly good so wouldn't waste the weight on the 200 material. The best thing about this pack though is the comfort (and I got a lotta packs to choose from). All my other packs are just collecting dust now. Big fan - my favourite piece of gear (along with my mont tent).

[@Olan...]

Expensive but definitely worth the money if you can afford it. I am in the UK and i tried all 3 of the Atom Packs but i couldn't get on with having a sweaty back and the shoulder strap water bottles meant that the bottles were too close to my face but now i have All 3 of the Zpacks 40, 55 and 70 litre which are lighter than the Atom Packs and i absolutely love them. I use Way Mark shoulder pouches on mine which i purchased from Valley and Peak and they sit lower down so less obstructive. I mostly carry between 10 to 13kg and they ride like a dream and are an absolute pleasure to carry. Great review.

[@mikehunt5637]

I've been using the Arc Haul for five years now. I'm really happy with it. It's still going strong. I don't baby it, but I don't beat it up either. I have the 50L version, but I might buy the 40L just because the 50L is really kind of overkill for two-three day trips. I really like the mesh pocket for carrying things I want to access quickly (first aid kit, water filter, etc.) and the hip belt pockets are as capacious as an elephant's scrotum.

[@clarkgray4109]

You mentioned the Durston Kakwa as an alternative that is similar but with some different features. First I'd love to get a review of the Durston Kakwa and second I think it would be great to mention the Durston Kakwa is MUCH cheaper at $250 USD including hip belt pockets.

[@Fluffyxx]

Its also made in China where the zpacks is made in the USA. You're probably seeing the price difference there alone. At least it isnt as bad as HMG moving manufacturing to Mexico and still charging USA prices lol

[@user-ee9nh8jr1p]

I have a 70l version of this pack. Added lots of add-ons (side pocket, shoulder pockets, belt pockets, lumbar padding, water bottle pocket, V-strap), and so it is not so lightweight as advertized but yet I have a great possibility to add or remove those add-ons depending on my setup of the trip. I really love this pack. But there are few things one has to remember when coming from a traditional pack. First, the advertized 70L volume is not true. The inner usable volume is app. 40-45L (as you still need to make 2-3 rolls of the roll-top). And second, you have to be very carefully filling the pack, especially closer to the top. Otherwise the arc does not work as was designed and I feel myself uncomfortable. Also I carried 18kg inside the pack, and it was hitting the limits. So I would recommend to carry 12-15kg inside Arc Haul, not more. All in all still a great pack.

[@SummitSeeker546]

I had high expectations for this pack to replace my Exos 58L. Love the weight and fit but… its sweet spot is 30lbs or less, it does leak, and getting a BV500 bear canister to fit comfortably is challenging. Because our trips are usually 7+ days and the pack weight is 35+ lbs I find I’ve gone back to the Exos because it’s more comfortable and can easily handle more gear. I’ve carried upwards of 50lbs when we needed to haul additional water in the Grand Canyon. ZPacks is a terrific company and their customer service is outstanding but for the types of trips we do and the amount of gear we require the comfort and capacity of the Exos 58 wins out. IMO!

[@GenX_outdoors]

Solid review. I’ll just mention that the Arc Haul comes in a women’s specific design with the placement of shoulder straps a little closer together to better fit women’s bodies. I wanted to love the Kakwa, but the women’s Arc Haul fit me sooooo much better. Night and day. Also, the pack does come with hip belt, just not belt pockets. Not sure that was clear in your review. I think you kept saying it didn’t come with hip belt, but it does. I only use 1 pocket on my hip belt, so the ability to customize worked for me.

[@wanttogo1958]

He was referring to the hipbelt pockets as an add on item. I agree he did say hipbelt at least twice but meaning hipbelt pocket.

[@utopia.exploring]

I bought an Arc Haul Zip 64 in 2020 for 6d/5n in the Tetons. I def had some luxury items and my pack was 33lbs with everything. It carried amazingly well...I could have handled more weight if needed. And honestly, I could probably have gone down a size from the 64l After being a "traditional" backpacker cutting down things is challenging (mentally) but the Arc Haul wasn't disappointing in its comfort!

[@tlgrimmy]

I've definitely been curious about this pack, but the cost and hip belt pockets thing has really turned me off from it. One interesting thing to note is that the Kakwa packs I believe are rated based on the internal capacity only, so the main chamber of the Kakwa 40 is truly 40L. Even the Arc Haul 50L only has an internal volume of 37L, so I believe the Kakwa 40 would be the more direct comparison (and still a bit larger capacity). The Kakwa 40 also claims 15L additional capacity for their exterior pockets, where the Arc Haul 50L claims 13L for theirs, suggesting that the Kakwa 40 is the overall larger pack. The Arc Haul 70 has a 57L internal volume, so that would probably be the more direct comparison for the Kakwa 55. Just thought I'd throw that out there for anyone considering these packs because it seems like the Kakwa is a lot heavier when it's really not. I'm assuming that 695g weight Justin mentioned with another shoulder pouch added (so there are two shoulder strap pouches like the Kakwa) would put it around 713-732g depending on if that 695g weight included the 1st pouch Justin added or not. The Kakwa 40 is 775g, which is basically 1.5-2oz heavier for a slightly larger pack with a slightly more capable frame/carrying capacity and made from Ultra200 instead of Ultra100. Very comparable weights at that point. Looks like the Kakwa 40 is $250, and the Arc Haul 50L with two belt pockets and two shoulder strap pouches is $524. My hope is that if the backpacking community can point out this crazy discrepancy and put more pressure on Zpacks about it, maybe they will consider lowering their prices a bit. I certainly would love to try the Arc Haul, but over double the price for a similar spec pack with very comparable construction quality seems absurd. The trampoline back is certainly a cool addition and merits a bit of an extra charge (maybe $50?), but certainly shouldn't over double the price. Come on Zpacks, help us support you! Wonderful products, but that's just too much...

[@ManivanAdventures]

I was wondering about this… I knew the Kakwas were measuring internal volume, but haven’t looked into how Zpacks does it. I love my Kakwa, but I really wish it had more padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt. Though to be fair, I am very thin without much natural padding. Lol Otherwise, amazing pack at a more than fair price! As much as I want an Arc Haul, the price just isn’t worth it to me, especially when the Kakwa uses stronger fabric at a similar weight. Great info!

[@tlgrimmy]

@@ManivanAdventures Thanks, and I totally agree about the shoulder straps. Not bad at all, but noticeably less comfortable than my Gossamer Gear packs. I did add a 1oz lumbar support pad from Zpacks to my Kakwa pack and that made a surprising difference (heard about the idea on a forum). If I could put the Gossamer Gear hip belt padding and shoulder strap padding on my Kakwa, that would be one epically comfortable pack! I've tried on a friend's older Arc Haul pack and found the straps pretty comfortable, but the Gossamer Gear padding was still notably better for me. Really impressed by Durston's stuff and really appreciate how responsive he's been to consumer input.

[@ManivanAdventures]

@@tlgrimmy 100% agree about Durston. Huge fan! I also have the X Mid and I love that thing. It would be great to see Dan update the newer Kakwa models to a thicker padding, but most of the reviews I see don’t seem to talk about having the same issue, so we’ll see. Definitely going to look into that lumbar support! Thanks for that!

[@markcummings6856]

You are so correct in highlighting the true specs, and Justin is so missing the true comparison. Zpacks is crap in the long run and just takes your money away.

[@jpriddle]

I think it’s getting harder and harder for the US manufactured gear makers to compete with those manufacturing overseas. Look at Durston, Gossamer Gear, HMG ($200-350) compared to Zpacks, Waymark, SWD, LiteAF ($350-500). Zpacks is certainly on the high end of that, but probably due to the more complex suspension/frame design.

[@altavillaalexdumas3609]

hi thanks for you video, but i don’t see any attachment.strap to put a tente ? merci

[@semo7566]

Buying belt, pockets, etc. adds up even though its sort of mitigated as these are all transferable from one zpack to another, and sometimes to other packs. 0 issue with durability after 3 years with my Arc pack. Comfort is great and arc is essential for sweaty back - my main draw

[@kevinedward-jt2vs]

When hiking, are there squeaks from the fabric and frame?

[@user-xw7hg4jh9x]

Zは、日本ではULザックの現在の頂点頂点チャンピオンでありみんなが欲しがっています。

[@timlau31]

Thank you so much for your nice review, may I know when roll down the top what is the height for this backpack, because I want to get one UL pack for carry on luggage, thank you.

[@volodymyr8649]

It's lightest because the less durable, not worth it. For +100-200g you can get ultra 200, for +300-400g - ultra 400. This weight penalty is nothing in 25-30-35lbs+ weight world, but durability difference is HUGE.

[@Sugar_bug]

Can you please review REI flash 50? It is only 5 oz heavier than this pack but a lot cheaper

[@The_gear_review_channel]

Awesome review

[@user-tp1no2eh2k]

I'm trying to decide between this and the kakwa 40 . Love to see a review from you on the kakwa 40 or 55

[@Colby168]

I’m getting the Arc for Christmas. Just can’t decide between the 60 or 70. Dan Becker says to just go with the 70 because it’s only 2 oz more and you may need the room sometimes. I’m also getting the Flash 55 for my son for Christmas. Thanks for your review.

[@benberry3558]

I recently had the same dilemma and opted for the 70. The weight difference is even less, only 0.4 oz. I was definitely cinching the 70 down a lot on my trip and could have gotten away with the 60 or maybe even 50 but the weight savings is miniscule.

[@funnybeingme]

I love Zpacks but would only buy their tents, not their packs. Their packs are great short trips but for thru-hiking or if you want a pack that will last a long time, all the little straps are still the biggest weakness. After owning one for a year and a half doing long distance hikes, the pack started to break apart and tho customer service was great with fixing it, at some point another strap or two will break again. So I moved on to a different pack. After all, their backpacks costs a lot of money.

[@Uncle_Fred]

I'd like to see your thoughts on the Dan Durston pack.

[@Bravokilo17]

How does this compare with the outdoor vitals CS40? Similar weight, carbon fiber frame similar price point

[@wstewart5532]

Was that bag for your chair the factory bag or something else?

[@HikingWithTumTum]

I want a backpack that will carry me instead.

[@jadenm]

This pack seems to check everything off my list EXCEPT for the side pockets. I cant access my water by myself with the pack on. I love the Exos 55 Pro which is a great compromise on weight, durability, capacity, and price.

[@leeloooooooooo]

I hope you might review lite AF packs one day 😁

[@markheming3507]

I started using the Arc since 2017 & sold ALL my other packs. This is 100% my go to pack

[@piotrgorajek1289]

how about Soolite 50? Anyone tried/compared?

[@ericschwartz9982]

I have the Arc Haul Ultra at 60 liters. It's rated to carry up to 40 lbs/18 kg. I spent a week with it 2 weeks ago in the Sierra Nevada and my total weight on day 1 was 30 pounds. I was quite comfortable and I love that the pack is less than 25 oz.

[@bradcharlebois7258]

Hey Justin! I'D love to know what you think of the Durston Kakwa 55 in comparison

[@ManivanAdventures]

I love my Kakwa 40, like a lot, but this looks like the Kakwa on steroids. Lol The one small complaint I have with my Kakwa is the lack of padding on the hit belt/shoulder straps and the Arc Haul really seems to address that issue. Even so, the Kakwa is still quite comfortable and carries weight well. I am built like a stick figure without much “natural padding” and almost never take my pack off (working on getting better at this and actually taking breaks lol), so you may not have the same issue, but after those multi day longer milage trips, I start to wish I had a little more padding. I have no experience with the Arc Haul, but it looks VERY comfortable. You can’t beat the price of the Kakwa and it is still a great pack, but I’d be lying if I said I didn’t really want an Arc Haul… that price though! 😮 Justin is the GOAT when it comes to gear, but that has been my experience. Hope this helps! Cheers!

[@panhandlejake6200]

Can this fit a larger bear canister (BearVault 500)? Looking at the pack dimensions, it looks like it would be a tight fit at best. I did look at this pack 4 years ago but opted for the HMG Southwest which has performed well for me.

[@eitanpaster5692]

Fits in the top half of the pack. Not the bottom. I’m getting one and what I’m doing is putting the food in the pack in the morning and strapping the bear can to the top of the pack with the y strap and carrying the empty bear can on the top with the food in the pack.

[@e2dub]

@@eitanpaster5692 if the bear can fits inside the top half, why are you unloading the can and putting it empty on top? Is that because it's too tight a fit, even though it technically fits?

[@spinewalker_]

There has been a trend in the last year or two of thru hikers carrying a fanny pack instead of hip belt pouches. Maybe this is why it is an add on. Thanks for the video!

[@funnybeingme]

This has been the ZPacks way from the beginning, all accessories including hip belt pockets are add on and therefore costs extra. Fanny packs amongst thru hikers has been a trend for at least 5 years now esp since the introduction of frameless packs with no hipbelt. But having a fanny back with hipbelt pockets are the way to go.

[@spinewalker_]

@@funnybeingme Good point. I checked my Arc Haul order back from 2016 and you're right. So you keep a lot of snacks handy, huh? Lots of prime real estate with hip belt pockets and a fanny. Will try it out!

[@calebfeliciano2099]

Makes me want to return my Baltoro 65 and get this. But I’ve sworn off buying new gear until next season cause my wallet is screaming at me haha

[@hateflyy]

Can you possibly recommend a short range or hiking pack with a trampoline back? Been trying to find something smaller and having issues, lol.

[@GearPriority]

Osprey makes (or made) the syncro. It's one of my go-to day hiking packs.

[@hateflyy]

@@GearPriority Thanks! I'll try and find it. I need something with better air flow given the generally warm weather of California.

[@britttttt_]

4:58 *Superior Wilderness Designs

[@playnationtoday]

Purple pants

[@deansacramone6270]

How do Hilltop Packs compare?

[@jonsanford2515]

I don’t own a Hilltop backpack, but have some other things from them. Hilltop Packs makes good stuff, but they only make frameless packs. They don’t have a backpack that compares. You wouldn’t want to try to carry much more than 25 lbs in any frameless pack, and probably not more than 20lbs on the regular.

[@ddff5242]

Kakwa 55 is actually not the same material. It uses the newer ultra 200x which has increased durability with a thicker laminate and diagonal stitching for more thread cohesion in all directions.

[@ddff5242]

Also it's a fraction of the cost and once you add hipbelts and shoulder pockets the weight difference isn't very much.

[@GearPriority]

The newer Kakwas, ya. The newer Arc Hauls also use UltraX. Challenge discontinued the non-X version of Ultra.

[@ddff5242]

@@GearPriority nice! They must have just recently updated that.

[@Wondering_Fireball]

Justin, Get real! Have you ever used the LiteAF packs. I’ve used both. They are not even in the same category and price range.

[@robertbarnes2598]

1:12 you dropped something.

[@e2dub]

Looks like a he may have knocked a piece of bark off of the backside of that log.

[@tracykooken2606]

or, evmen tho he ant make anything , go LOOK at the ULA PACKS, LITE, CARYS WELL AND YES U GET HIP BELTS😅

[@hiddekoerts]

It does come with a hip belt, just not with hip belt pockets / pouches. Bit of a strange mistake to make for an experienced reviewer. Otherwise nice overview.

[@GearPriority]

sometimes your brain says one thing and your mouth says another

[@hiddekoerts]

Fair, and I think the intended meaning still came across well (especially with the visuals). It might be good to evaluate your publishing process at some point to catch minor slips like that in future. Keep up the good work :)

[@GearPriority]

@@hiddekoerts If the channel starts making more money, then I will hopefully be able to invest in things like that.

[@dougwarren612]

This pack is a piece of junk. Life lesson. When you are asked to buy a car without test driving there is a reason. Zpack does just that with their packs. We spent $1,000 for two packs that would not carry any weight. To add to the problem every time we called Zpack they came back with a different lie of the weight it will carry. The response was always in ratio to what weight we said we were carrying. When we said we had 25 lbs we were told it would carry 30. When we said 30 in a different call they said 35. This pack would be nothing more than a very expensive day pack. We hiked the whole AT and saw one other Zpack. When we saw that young land again, she had traded hers in for another pack. PLEASE DO NOT BE SUCKED IN BY THE FAKE VIDEOS THAT ZPACK PUTS ON KZbin. These not unbiased reviews. If you see a video that just praises this bag and sounds like an infomercial, I will guarantee that is exactly what it is.