ULA Catalyst

Mike, I purchased a P-1 in 1/2005. I had a similar experience — the pack came in at 39.5 oz. The website said 30.5 oz. for a L size P-1 with L & R hipbelt pockets and a lid.

Still, I’m very pleased with the pack. It’s extremely comfortable. I really like the P-1 for a winter load.

Phil

Mike-

The ~4 oz weight discrepency is due to the fact you ordered a LG Pack and a LG Hipbelt. The 43 oz advertised weight is for a MD Pack / SM belt. I suppose that could be more clear on the website. You can lose a bit of weight by trimming the straps up as they all come VERY long. At least 2 oz is my guess. Just make sure you account for cold weather layers before wackin’ away…

ULA

Thanks for the update Brian.

Overall, it looks good, well made, trying to figure out how to pack it compared to my external frame.
I really like the stiffness of the dual framestay, and the water bottle holders.

It might be a little more accurate on the website to have lines added to compensate for the wt. difference in pack sizes for a more accurate weight estimate.

One question: Do I really need a pack cover for rainy hiking if the top is rolled up? It otherwise appears to be very water repellent.

Thanks,
Mike

Mike, Can’t speak for the ULA packs, but I’ve read and am just passing on the following info: many (not all) packs have fairly water resistant material and could survive some rain IF any seams present on a pack were sealed.

I do know first hand that, If I don’t think the rain is heavy enough to done a poncho or cape, I have found water entry it seems (no pun intended) along any seams in the pack.

That said, I have never tried to seam seal a pack. I usually just don the poncho or cape or if the rain is light just hope that the WildThings Epic fabric windshirt and often LLBean Epic fabric trail cargo pants) I often wear will be sufficient.

Please note that this Post is just intended to be a general FYI and is definitely NOT a criticism of ULA and by all knowledgeable accounts its superb looking and immaculately crafted packs or any other Mfr’s packs

Most packs are coated for some degree of water resistance. ULA packs are certainly no exception. Take note that water resistant IS NOT waterproof. If you are in wet conditions, I recommend either a packcover, pack liner (BPL ones are nice), or if you use a poncho/tarp. Most nylon/polyester materials are urethane coated which does have a tendency to dry out and flake off after heavy use.