GG Mariposa

Warning: No direct experience with the GG Mariposa — but I figure I'll chime in my two cents anyway — while you're waiting for actual users…

If your 2,300 ci Jam is too big for carrying just 2-3 days of gear in a stable manner, why are you looking at the much bigger Mariposa (2,900 ci) — a pack that's designed for longer hikes? If your load is a lot smaller than what this pack is designed for… then vertically, there is only so much you can compact down to before the shoulder straps start getting awkard… and the pack also lacks side compression straps for compacting down horizontally (depth).

It may be helpful to look at smaller UL packs — say something in the 2,000 range — or less. If you haven't already, take a look at the smaller ULA models (great user feedbacks) as well as the ultralight Zpack — 2,000 ci and weighing just 5 ounces (zpack.com). But depending on your gear weight and volume, even the Zpack may be a tad big…

Good point, but the smaller Ula packs are still not any lighter than my modified jam (exception=amp). I'm trying to get a better fit with a lighter pack, while also getting the feature I don't find in smaller packs.

Question: If you are happy with your Jam's pack weight when going on longer trips — wouldn't you be happy with the same Jam pack that's carrying a lighter load on shorter trips — if it could be made to carry that load in a more stable manner?

If a smaller ULA pack can handle your 2-3 days' load superbly, but happens to weigh about the same as your modified Jam — why are you suddenly dissatisfied? If the lighter weight is already delightfully light enough for you — then maybe the ULA's pack features (eg hip belt pockets) and durability (same beloved Dyneema as your Jam) are excellent trade off's for the weight??? Just food for thought, of course, and not saying that a ULA pack is the only way to go.

Another food for thought. The new Jam 2 has a supposedly very simple yet very effective way of shrinking itself significantly — by way of a small cord near the bottom secton of the pack. Before shelling out money on a new pack, why not go to your nearest REI, give it a look, and see if you can mimic this nifty feature in your own modified Jam? This might just be the simplest and most effective option yet!?! Again, just thinking out loud on my part…

Where are all the actual Mariposa users anyway???

How much does your modified Jam weigh? The MLD prophet and GG Whisper are great 2-3 day packs and they weigh in the 4-5 oz range. I own both. If you order from MLD… there will be a backorder delay. I also own the Mariposa. Beautiful pack… but it's too big for most of my trips.

I would agree with others that the mariposa will be too big for you. We are getting close to the time that gossamer gear (if they are still on schedule) should be releasing the Miniposa might might meet your needs. I have no personal experience with the packs from MLD… but one of them might work well for you as well.

–Mark

If you're asking about the stability of the load within the pack, the Mariposa works well. I frequently use it for small volume loads. The way the compression straps come stock from GG needs to be adjusted for carrying small loads. This is something like tying ones shoe and takes about 1 minute and you can carry whatever you need and your gear will snugly fit inside. I've had my Mariposa for a year or so and I can recommend it without reservations.

If you're looking for a comparison of the way the Mariposa rides on you as opposed to the Jam, I never used the GoLite Jam and can't help you there.

I use the GG Mariposa extensively and exclusively. I have done some "basecamp" hiking with it where I'll pack in a weeks supply of gear (food is the heaviest item) and then dayhike carrying a much smaller load… ropes, cams, harnesses etc. I have found the Mariposa to be excellent for this application. I think the reason for this is although the pack is large, the carbon fiber stays that support the pack can be removed. The compression system works well to suck in the excess when you do this. It's just one more reason why I love this pack. I have toyed with trying out the Jam2 over my Mariposa Plus because I am told the Jam2 is more rugged. I haven't made the switch largely because the Mariposa Plus has held up so well and I have grown accustomed to it's many well-designed features. Basically… if it ain't broke don't fix it. :)

I also have a jam and use it for bigger loads. When using it for smaller loads I stuff the sleeping bag into a large plastic bag instead of the tiny stuff sack, that way it takes up more volume in the pack and thus keeps the weight of the other items up high where you want it. When I want to hike UL then I use my GG Whisper Uberlight and shave off more than a pound just by switching packs! REI has a new pack – the UL Jet – an interesting 1830 c. in., 1 lb 6 oz, $55 pack that has more whistles and bells than the Jam; you might want to check it out.