As pointed out in my earlier posts about Appalachian Trail thru-hiker backpacks (Part 1) , (Part 2), there’s a definite trend toward smaller, lighter backpacks among the thru-hiker crowd. After thinking about my own progression of backpacks purchased over the last 20 years, I realized I’ve fallen right in line with that trend. At this point, I don’t own ANY packs that have a frame, and each one seems to get smaller and smaller.
Frameless packs aren’t for everyone. Carry more than 20-25 pounds in one for too long and you’ll wish for something else. If you can live with their limitations, I think they’re great. I hiked 2,150 miles down the Appalachian Trail with a frameless pack, and would choose to go that route again.
Advantages of Frameless Backpacks
- Cheaper: many packs in this category can be found under $100
- Lighter: frameless packs rarely weigh more than 20 ounces!
- Smaller: less room to cram stuff means (usually) you’ll carry less overall weight. It also means more room in your gear closet.
- Supports small companies: many frameless packs are made by small operations with great customer service.
- Easier to construct: simple pack designs are much easier to sew if you are making your own gear.
- Easier to wash: I routinely just toss mine in a front-loading washer to get the funk out. Try that with a big internal frame pack!
Manufacturers of Frameless Backpacks
- Gossamer Gear
- Six Moons Design
- Golite
- ULA Equipment
- Granite Gear
- Osprey
- Fanatic Fringe
- Mountain Laurel Designs
- Moonbow Gear
Examples
Granite Gear Virga
Six Moon Designs Starlite
Golite Jam2
Recent Comments