Golite Jam Question

Like you I was worried about using a frameless pack, so I bought mine from REI. In the event that I didn't like it I certainly like the option of returning it if I needed too. I must admit this bag was more comfortable with 40lbs in it then my old bomber Gregory was with 55lb and a full suspension. It carried like a dream I did my first 20 mile day with it fully loaded (gear and water ~38lb). I took it off twice the entire day once for lunch and then at the end of the day when I reached camp, it was just that comfortable. I didn't have any of the sore hips or shoulders that I would have experienced in the past, and I didn't have to adjust anything or redistribute the load between my shoulders and hips throughout the day….There was none of that. I was skeptical at first but now I am a full on convert!

I think the Jam 2 has more padding in the shoulder straps but I could be wrong.

I own the original Golite Jam but not the Jam2. My Jam functions very well and was definitely worth the price I paid.

There was a long wait between the old and new model and I think Golite addressed and upgraded some key design issues. The aforementioned shoulder strap padding was one of the key redesigns.

If you are concerned about cost then I suggest getting the older model. It is a great pack as long as you keep your weight low. If money isn't the issue then get the newer model. I know I plan to get the Jam2 when the time comes.

For me the main factor in making a framless pack work is weight. If your weight is low enough then a frameless pack really makes sense and can be comfortable. Also a rolled sleeping pad adds a lot of structure and padding to a frameless pack. These topics have been discussed in excrutiating detail on this site!