Lightweight Pack Advice for Tall Hikers

Just something I noticed…
Backpacker magazine editor, Jon Dorn, is also a big guy, at 6'6" I believe, and he's wearing the REI Flash 65 here:
http://www.backpacker.com/editors_choice_awards_2009/gear/13021?page=1
http://www.backpacker.com/editors_choice_2009_rei_flash_backpack/gear/13033

perrito

Granite Gear Vapor Trail for more more comfort and versatility for a pound more.

Brett,

I was looking at the Vapor Trail, especially since they have fairly long torso ranges and it's a pretty light pack. I was concerned whether the frame structure would carry well in the 25 lb range. I've seen good reviews of this pack though in this range.

Are your thoughts are that it's more comfortable than the ULA Circuit?

Thanks,
-Skip

Never used a circuit, but have 2 vapor packs. They carry fantastic to 20, great to 25, fine to 28, and terrible beyond.

ULA! I have a 21.5" torso and my Catalyst fits like a dream. The Circuit or Ohm would also work, probably.

The folks at REI told me not to get a Flash 65 with my 21-inch torso. Will have to look to see how Dorn did it…

Just wanted to post a final update to this thread in the event that others wind up having the same dilemma I had.

After trying on a number of packs at REI and another local outdoor store, I just wasn't happy with the fit and comfort of any the 50-60L packs from Osprey, Gregory and REI. For the most part the primary issue with those packs was the torso length being too small and not getting a good weight transfer to the waist as a result.

So after reading a lot of reviews I went with the ULA Circuit. I ordered one from Mt Rogers Outfitters in VA and they it showed up the next day. Great service BTW!!! I must say that the fit is fantastic. The torso length is spot on and the position of the load lifters is right at a 30 deg angle.

I was concerned with whether a pack in the weight class (36 oz) would have the comfort of more traditional packs like my Aether. I quickly loaded up the pack with my gear, including 2L of water for a total weight of 22lbs. The comfort was absolutely incredible. I'd very much compare the comfort to my Osprey Aether 70, probably better than that because of the weight reduction of over 2lbs.

I'm very much looking forward to getting out on the trail to give it a real test. I'll post an updated review on the Reader Reviews Forum once I do.

Thanks for the help folks! It was much appreciated.

-Skip

Though he's a whopping 6'6", but he's all legs. His torso is only 19.5 inches, so the Flash 65 fit him fine. But my guess is that anyone who's torso is much over 20" won't get get any support from the hipbelt. Hope this helps.

On thing to look for in the frameless packs when you load them up to the max is how far down the bag sags to hang over your butt or below the top of the hip belt.

I have never used a frameles pack that rode peoperly with 30 lbs in them.

My advice to framless pack makers is to make them for a SPECIFIC mattress with a DEDICATED POCKET for that folded mattress/"frame" so it really works as it should. Then they should divide the pack main body into two large vertical tubular compartments so, when stuffed, they help the mattress "frame" support the load.

OR…just buy a good lightweight pack with an internal frame. Osprey's philosophy that the energy saved by the (slightly) lighter weight of framless packs is lost in the discomfort of their inherently poor suspension is right on the money.

Eric

I agree Eric – I just wish Osprey would stop with the Airspeed suspension gimmick – those fit me like garbage.

Vapor Trail, Vapor Trail, Vapor Trail. Stay away from the light weight Osprey packs.

I am 6 feet 4.5 inches tall with a 22.5 inch torso. The Vapor Trail is made for tall people just make sure to get the right size hip belt because the Large is too big for me so I went with a Medium. I have found that I can comfortably carry up to 29 pounds for all day comfort, but with 25 pounds I feel as though I am carrying a cloud on my back.

Another benefit of this pack is that it can be purchased for REI and REI has an excellent return policy.