Description
The Zpacks Arc Haul 40 is an astounding design based on the fact that it has a full external frame and still weighs only 20 oz thanks to the magic of carbon fiber and Challenge ULTRA fabric. It has the best weight transfer of any pack in its weight/size class. Weight: 21.8* oz Price : $465* Materials: Challenge Ultra 100X Frame: External Carbon Fiber Frame, lycra back panel. Load Capacity: 40 lbs Internal Volume: 25L External Volume : 13L Pros: Ultralight. Full-frame weight transfer. Great external storage. Best-in-class waterproof durable fabric. Wide Shoulder Straps. Load lifters. Adjustable torso height. Cons: Frame could be more durable. Hip belt pockets sold separately. Expensive. *Price and weight account for addition of two hip belt pockets Features What stands out the most about Zpacks Arc Haul 40 is the exposed “external” curved carbon fiber air stay frame and taught lycra back panel. This mechanically transfers weight to the hips while also holding the lycra in place to create an air gap between you and the inside of the pack. This reducing heat build up and prevents lumps from jabbing you. Lastly, the frame includes a patented torso height adjustment mechanism. Another very notable feature is the best-in-class Challenge ULTRA 100X fabric used in the main body. It’s waterproof, seam-taped ultralight, and preposterously durable relative to its weight; even better than Dyneema. Thirdly, we just adore the full size mesh front pocket with slack pleats for extra storage space. Arc Haul 40 also comes with two full size side pockets, and a nice wide hip belt with pockets sold separately. It’s finished off with various external straps on the top, bottom, and upper sides. Notably, the Arc Haul series is also available in 50L , 60L and 70L capacity. The 40L is a great fastpacking backpack for trips in the 2-3 day range, with size increase to 50L being preferable 3-5 days or for adding in cold weather puffy wear. The 60L a better sized for standard (non fastpacking) backpacking trips, and the 70L for expedition scenarios. Verdict The Zpacks Arc Haul 40 has best-in-class weight transfer, waterproof/hyper-durable Challenge ULTRA fabric, and excellent pockets. It is the perfect fastpacking backpack for high mile trips that require heavy food bags.
