Photo gallery and verification image: https://imgur.com/a/VNDuM4X

This is a high volume but lightweight load hauler backpack with a modified Seek Outside frame and hanging hip belt design. The pack bag is unused other than a handful of 1-2hr test hikes with 45-50#. The shoulder straps and hip belt have seen a bit more use (a 4 day trip and a few more test hikes) but are in good condition except for a small nick in one of the mesh hip belt pockets. The frame is scratched from a fair bit of use but is still bomber. In my testing, I’ve found it to be extremely comfortable and it hauls weight like a champ. It’s ideally set up for packrafting with large side pockets and plenty of front-panel lash options for a PFD (shameless copy of SWD Big Wild). But obviously it can be used for any application involving a bulky or heavy load. 

I’ve built 9 packs using the Seek Outside frame and hanging hip belt design. About halfway through this process, I narrowed the frame by cutting 2” off the bottom width. I much prefer this as it allows the hip belt attachment spacing to be a bit narrower, allowing better wrap of the belt. It also makes the pack a bit narrower overall. The suspension is much simpler than an SO pack allowing for a lighter construction. There is no padding in the back panel, which saves weight but requires a bit of careful packing.

The main pack is constructed from Ecopak EPLX400. This is strong but reasonably light fabric that I really like (and it’s 100% recycled). All main pack seams are  double-stitched and bound with grosgrain. There is internal webbing backing behind the front lash points/daisy chains and behind the shoulder strap attachment.

Hip belt and shoulder straps are made from Ultragrid and 1/8” spacer mesh. The shoulder straps have stretch pockets that will fit a standard-sized smart phone. Shoulder straps are attached 20” from the bottom of the hip belt. I have a ~19” torso and this is a good fit for me. It should fit an 18-20” torso depending on how you like the pack to ride. Best bet is to measure this same distance on a pack that fits you (assuming it has load lifters). The belt is 30” long and should fit down to a 34” waist and up to a 38-40” waist. It includes the shown quad buckle or two 1” buckles – your preference. 

If you’re not using a bow bag while packrafting, all of the suspension components can be stripped off leaving a clean bag that can be strapped to your bow using the g hook compression straps.

I’ve built over a dozen load hauler backpacks, and have been using them exclusively for my personal packrafting and extended backpacking trips for around 3 years. I am an amateur MYOG enthusiast who occasionally sells packs to fund the next project. MYOG is an expensive hobby! I use an industrial sewing machine, 1/2” seam allowances, and heavy-duty, bonded poly V69 tex 70 thread. I am not a pro but I’ve used my packs enough to feel good about the construction. If something fails due to my workmanship, I’ll make it right up to and including a refund. You can see other packs I’ve made at https://www.instagram.com/sew_dreamy__designs/

Asking $275 shipped to the lower 48. Inquire about shipping to AK. Payment via PayPal, I’ll cover the G&S fee.

Details:

  • 2lbs 14oz with all components. Lightweight but durable.
  • Approximately 85L. Photos show pack full with four rolls of the top.
  • Top circumference: 45”, bottom: 40”, unrolled height: 42”.
  • Built on a 24” Seek Outside frame cut 2” narrower.
  • Pack body is Challenge Ecopack EPLX400 .
  • Side pockets are Challenge Ultragrid 210d and have replaceable bungee cords. They have generous pleats and hold 32oz and 48oz nalgenes – see photos. 
  • Horizontal front daisy chains with lash taps for attaching a PFD, etc.
  • Shoulder straps are Challenge Ultragrid 210d, 1/8” spacer mesh, 3/8” dual density 3# XLPE foam, Venom UL stretch mesh pockets. Shoulder straps are attached with gatekeeper buckles making them removable/replaceable. 
  • Conical hip belt is Challenge Ultragrid 210d, 1/8” spacer mesh, 1/2” 3# XLPE foam, heavy duty frame attachment grommets. The belt has a nice stiffness to it to assist with load distribution and fight sag.
  • Four side compression straps and single over the top strap, all removable with g-hook buckles.
  • Roll top has plastic stiffener.