DAA
Member
- Joined
- Jun 14, 2012
- Messages
- 715
If I were doing that trip again, I'd probably use my Osprey. I'd be carrying enough food and fuel etc., along with fishing gear, and I always carry camp shoes in the Uintas, that my starting weight would justify the "heavy hauler". That big Osprey really is a very, very comfortable pack. My ULA is fine when it's not loaded too heavy, but even then, I still wish it had the trampoline back for airflow. And of course, the full features of the Osprey, like front loading zippers etc., are nice in actual use, too. And that hip belt is just plain significantly more comfortable than the ULA hip belt, period, no matter what the weight. So, faced with carrying 5 or 6 nights worth of consumables, along with the usual "extra stuff" I like to have in the Uintas, I'd take the Osprey without having to think about it too hard.
All that said, I use my Circuit most of the time. As almost all of my trips are only 2 or 3 nights and often in canyon country where I'm not packing fishing gear. I've got my base weight down a little bit more, to where I'm usually starting at about 22 lbs or less and coming off the trail closer to 15 lbs.
Giving serious consideration to trying a Zpacks Arc Haul next year. Trampoline back (a feature some hate, but I love), about 12 oz. lighter than my Circuit and looks like it should handle loads of 20 - 22 pounds well. If I do, and can also swing a new lighter shelter, I'll be down to 20 pounds starting weight for a typical 3 night canyon trip and coming off the trail at around 13 pounds. May not happen though, have to see how the budget looks over the coming winter.
- DAA