This relatively new backpack, now superseded by the very similar UL Cruise, is truly a UL backpack rated to 40 lbs max. It's twin, extruded & corrugated aluminum stays support the bag on the ample hipbelt very well. The size large UL 60 is 3lbs., 4 oz.
The hipbelt has a small zippered pocket on the right, an open mesh pocket on the left and a provision for angling the web belt with Velcro belt adjusters beneath the webbing. This angles the front of the padded belt a small amount to fine tune the fit.
The pack is a single main compartment with a top lid which has 2 zippered compartments. The top front zipper is a "waterproof" type zip.
On the back are two vertical daisy chains and between a "shovel" flap with a flat, waterproof zippered compartment on the outside of the flap. Double-layer mesh pockets are at the bottom on each side.
Two innovations worth mentioning are the sliding continuous lower shoulder harness strap that passes thru a D ring just above the hip belt on each side. This setup permits you to reach without restrictions from the harness as the higher shoulder pulls the harness strap throught the D rings and up.
Another innovation is the use of two X'd compression cords, one in the front and one X'd in back of the main compartment. These compression cords pass through sewn-in tunnels inside the pack and are much lighter than compression straps, and at least as effective. A quick pull on either or both cinches up the pack around the load. Neat.
Also REI sells accessory side pockets that can be strapped on (with REI's accessory buckled straps) to provide about an additional 500 cu.in. of space for items you need to have handy. They also protect the pack's sides from tears. Just remember to keep the total pack weight under 40 lbs.
The new REI UL Cruise is made of tougher material then the UL 60's silnylon. I believe it is Dynema fabric.
Pack weight is about the same as the UL 60.
So, if you see a good UL 60 for sale and it fits you, snatch it up. It's well made but its silnylon fabric areas require care in use. Cordura it ain't. Light and comfortable it is.
© Beartooth Media Group Inc.
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