How about a hybrid backpack, traditional and ultralight, is such a design arranged?

Question

Does such a compromise exist in designing some form of all packs that would comprise both the carrying capacity of traditional packs and also the light weight of the ultralight packs?

Answer 1

Indeed, there are hybrid backpacks which combine the features of ultralight and traditional packs. These hybrids however retain features typical of traditional ones such as thicker shoulder and hip belts and durability high denier fabric while distinctly possessing an ultralight pack style with few pockets and no brain. Though these packs are lighter than the traditional packs, they e not as light weight as the ultralight packs, and are thus a good option for the people looking to shed off weight but don’t want to sacrifice everything that a traditional pack offers.

Comments

Great content!
One area where traditional or hybrid packs have a definite advantage is ventilated back panel (not the gimmicky ribbed foam inserts but where there is a definite air gap between your back and the pack). I would rather carry the 200-400g weight penalty of a ventilated pack (like the Osprey Exos) any day over a lighter pack that sticks to my back.
Gábor from Hungary

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Excellent content! I've been transitioning from traditional packs to ultralight and love the change. Before changing my pack, had to change several other items (quilt and tent being the most expensive and biggest weight savings).
I think I'll still use the traditional pack in the winter sometimes (SO MUCH GEAR!) but most other times it will be the UL pack for me!

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REI Flash 55 is an awesome hybrid pack. It’s modular and can be between 2 and 2.5 lbs.

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Don't forget to take a look at the superb, if expensive, Osprey Aether Pro 70 (or 65 for women) packs. Stripped down to essentials and weighing 4 pounds or less, the suspension system also incorporates some advantages that external frame packs used to have. Very comfortable, even for heavier loads, I turn to mine once Osprey's Exos starts to be overloaded.

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Love your series; very informative in a no-nonsense presentation.
Just moved to AZ, and planning to get a pack for 2,3, 4 day trips R2R2R Grand Canyon each spring. Any
Advice on a pack which “might” work for 3 nights camping, but still light enough for a 2-day sprint where we aren’t carrying tent, stove, quilt, pad?
Hybrid ya think?
Final variable: 6’ 4” male…
Great series!
Thanks

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Or use a traditional pack with ultralight gear inside. Just because they are designed to comfortably carrying heavier loads doesn’t mean you have to. Once upon a time I went down the ultralight trail. Now I use a 5.5 lb hammock setup including insulation and carry a camp chair. I sleep better and sit better while resting my back against the chair. And while not a thru hiker I do go long distances, got an 8 day trip next week.

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traditional bag (against UL) usually have better form, frame, storage compartment and better support to the shoulder, back, waist...  end up after years of searching... i have taken up the hybrid, Granite Gear Crown 2 60L...