Just a 2022 update for everyone coming across this video now, Its seems like 3f UL has discontinued this pack and it has been replaced the comparable Qidian Pro model at about $100 but I also see they have new framed pack called the Yue that seems like a highly capable pack at about $200 and only half a pound heavier.
I went to look up more details of the three versions of the 3F bag materials and DCF ofcourse: X-Pac - This laminated fabric that has multiple layers. It has a standard nylon face, a polyester grid (for anti-stretch), and PET plastic layer (for waterproofness), and a nylon backing to protect the plastic layer. Compared to ripstop nylon, it's main benefit is the waterproofness. The most common Xpac variant is called VX07, and it's roughly the same weight as ripstop nylon. (To be more precise, it's about 20% lighter than 210D Nylon, but many packs also use thinner nylons, to be fair.) But VX07 is definitely less abrasion resistant because it uses a lower denier face fabric, so it's more prone to developing small holes after several hundred miles. VX07 is the most common weight at 4.8 oz/sqyd, and there are heavier weights like VX21 (6.0 oz/sqyd) and VX42 (8.4 oz/sqyd). These are thicker, heavier, and more abrasion resistant. Typically found in packs. LiteSkin - This laminated fabric that has two layers. It has a polyester face that is coated in poly resin (for waterproofness), and a 70D nylon backing. It is a relatively new fabric so I won't say much, but it has similar properties to all the rest - it's a synthetic hybrid fabric that is made to be durable. It's really hard to rip and it doesn't stretch much. LS07 is the most common weight at 3.4 oz/sqyd, and there are heavier weights like LS21 (4.8 oz/sqyd) and LS42 (6.9 oz/sqyd). Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), formerly called cuben fiber. This is a fabric made out of UHMWPE* fibers. It is highly abrasion resistant, waterproof, and it is the lightest fabric on the list. (But of course there's a wide array of weights to choose from such as 0.34 oz/sqyd, 0.51 oz, 0.8 oz, 1.0 oz, and 1.43 oz.) The catch is that it's the most expensive. Also, it's more akin to a flexible plastic than a traditional fabric, so it has a tendency to form folds/ridges that can become the weak point over time. But if you aren't doing thru hike lengths, it will last a long time. Typically found in packs and tents. *UHMWPE - Ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene, basically it's a plastic. It has high tension resistance/breaking strength, high abrasion resistance, and it's not permeable to water. You can find this in rope form (branded as Amsteel, Spectra, or Dyneema), webbing form (branded as Spider, Venom), or in fabric form (branded as DCF/Dyneema). If you're wondering what Dyneema is exactly, it's a company that manufacturers UHMWPE products, but they happen own the right to making UHMWPE into a fabric, which is why cuben fiber was renamed to DCF. UHMWPE on it's own is just a material that has many applications, but many people closely associate the two.
Great review! Very fair minded. It's too bad you didn't get 3F UL's dyneema version, I would have liked to see that. But it does look like the XPAC version performed well. I think 3F UL is a good company. I've got their Lanshan 2 tent which I think is great. I lived in China for 10 years and have seen great changes in the amount of interest in outdoor sports and the availability of good outdoor equipment. There are companies there that are serious about developing a quality product line. One is Kailas, which manufactures all kinds of outdoor gear, clothing and climbing equipment. I've had and still have some of their things and I think it's a great and innovative company that is serious about promoting not only outdoor gear, but outdoor sports as well. I've been to several of their climbing festivals and they do a bang-up job. I want to add that I've seen a lot of changes regarding Chinese attitudes toward the environment. I've seen wetlands being developed in the middle of cities. Where previously urban ponds and lakes had just rock walls and walkways around them, now they have added wetlands around the lake, providing habitat for resident and migratory birds. China plants trees like crazy and is also adding many more parks and nature preserves. Another positive change is that young people are much more environmentally conscious. One thing I've seen is that the younger generations are much less likely to litter, which is a huge improvement. There is a lot of negative press these days, with a lot of it justified. But there are also many good things going on in China.
I have not been back to China in over 20 years but I did have the opportunity to visit it a few years back...I cannot describe in words how much it has changed, for the first time in a long time I genuinely felt that the US and Europe will definitely fall behind to China in the near future. So much of China blew me away but one that totally awe struck me was Shenzhen..just wow :)
Great info. The older I get, even though I can’t afford it, I’ll pay more for gear made locally. It’s not that I think foreign-made gear isn’t as good (I know some is better), but many of the domestic companies actively support public land and wildlife conservation here. I try to reward them for that and I feel like I’m getting more bang for my bucks.
I sympathize with your sentiment, but buying the more economical option means you can contribute to the causes you think are worthwhile. It's tough enough for a company to make a good product, so I'm happy for them to focus on that! Happy trails :)
I'm getting old as well (at 65) so I buy the LIGHTEST pack in the the size I need just to be able to go backpacking. Lighter packs, tents and sleeping bags are EXPENSIVE as in $1,500.00 just for those three items that together weigh only 4.5 pounds. All three are Zpacks and you can send things back to them for repairs with free shipping
I save money on my gear and put the difference in to local trail maintenance organizations myself directly as well as charities that support exposing youth to the outdoors. Imagine you buy a $150 3F pack but cut a $300 check to your local trail club. You’ll feel better and have the same experience in the woods.
Hi Dixi, crikey - absolutely struggling not to say what a great pack the 3F UL Gear XPAC is - 500 miles trial - super light weight (830g), excellent volume uplift (35 up to 45 litres), comfortable, very useable outside pockets and huge mesh back for immediate use rain gear etc, useable hip belt zipped pockets - stiching, fabric, design all ticking (checking) 'Good' boxes - and get this - all for a very affordable price! 3F UL as a gear company need to be praised for coming up with a fantastic pack - for all of us with more dash than cash - a well deserved recommend! Note: seam sealer available from good tent suppliers - squeeze out like tooth paste from the tube, dilute with white spirit (or similar) to the consistency of runny honey and carefully apply with small paint brush - look up seam sealer videos on UA-cam for a demo - it's no biggie. Lastly - shoulder straps have no torso length adjustment - for best fit select Small, Medium or Large at time of purchase - there is also a choice of White or Black fabric colours at no extra cost. Thanks Dixi for your review!
There is 3 version of the 3F bag made with 3 different materials, each with different characteristic 1. Xpa made with VX21 it is a balanced material for strength , anti-tear and waterproof, 2. is UHMwPE the strongest material of all 3. 3. LS21 has the strongest waterproof due to the multi layer treatment. All 3 fabrics are made from a US/German company called Dimension-Polyant mainly manufacture boat sails.
Just to add some info, there are several types of X-Pac fabric. X-21=210 denier, lightest weight X-Pac/X-42=420 denier, a but heavier but tough fabric./ X-50=500 denier, really tough fabric but weighs a bit more then the others. Although all the X-Pac material is advertised as waterproof, you do have to seam seal it.
Excellent review and comparison. I'm a fan of 3F. I work very hard for the money I'm allowed to keep after the gov takes their chunk. I will always choose a deal when I can. American made. Canadian made. English made. China made...I do not care. As long as I get a good product and save some dough. I own three packs from 3F UL gear. All of them are great ultralight packs. The 40+16 pack they make is 59.00 to my door. You can not beat that. Another thing to consider is that when I buy a 59.00 pack I'm less concerned about trimming straps and modifying the gear to suit my mission. I would be a bit more likely not to do those mods if the pack was 300.00-350.00.
Great review - thanks Dixie. I’m waiting for my UHMWPE version being delivered (ordered it in the Black Friday sale). I’ll seam seal it when received and change the ribbon if it hasn’t already been upgraded. I spotted how easy the X-PAC could be confused with the UHMWPE version in the ordering process (although both have their pros and cons). In addition, the 35 litre pack with no side pockets but all round mesh could easily be ordered by mistake too on some listings (someone had done this in the reviews). Care is needed when clicking on the thumb nails as each has a different colour, size, version and model. I couldn’t see the hip belt selection option though. The UK is starting to get a few DCF (cuben fibre) cottage manufacturers now who I am happily supporting, including having custom made equipment. Hopefully the UK cottage manufacturers will be able to produce larger items too before long, but at present, it’s mainly smaller accessories and stuff sacks etc. I think that a few will do other materials as well. Import taxes are horrendous in the UK for equipment coming in from the US thanks to the trade war!
Lots of the cottage company packs come not seam taped. It is incredibly labourous to tape the seams. I've taped several. Also the X-Pac is actually more waterproof that the dyneema gridstop material. Also I have used both. Loved the comparison. Great stuff. You are awesome.
Thank you Dixie! I love these "cheaper alternative" videos. Betcha those mainstream equipment companies watch these also. Your voice carries a lot of weight ( lol ) in the hiking community and keeps prices reasonable as possible.
Kevin Reed It’s tough making something for the same price here in the US with labor laws, etc. probably being quite different. I prefer to buy local and from cottage companies, but I know not everyone can afford them especially when you’re starting out. Happy to be the guinea pig!
Nice review, and a fun head-to-head comparison. The one point that you mention but that should be emphasized is that the HMG SW is a framed pack, while the 3F is frameless. While there's probably some pack-to-pack variation, most people say that you can't comfortably carry more than 20-25 lbs total in a frameless pack, where framed packs can carry comfortably in the 30+ lb range. I'm sure this is obvious to you and most experienced backpackers but something to keep in mind for beginners who are just starting out and may not have an ultralight kit yet. What was your base weight for the Camino? (I'm guessing lighter than the average thru hike base weight given the availability of food and lodging along the Camino. So I do wonder how things would have shaken out if you'd had a head-to-head comparison with heavier loads
The 3F UL pack reviewed here from my experience is an excellent pack. For the price difference of over 175 bucks and weight difference of barely none...both from my experience are very comfortable in use and equally functional for thru hiking. It is amazing how fast Chinese manufactures are catching up in quality..just a few years back the first series of their packs were definitely sub par to a point the price difference was not worth it. But in less then two years it is mind blowing that they can offer packs and tents (their tents are pretty good as well now at fraction of the cost) of pretty much equal quality at over half the price. I guess it makes sense since 98% of all the large outdoor equipment suppliers all have their products manufactured from China.
Thanks Dixie. I bought the nylon version of this pack as an extra pack to my Osprey which is heavier but very comfortable. I also have mixed feeling about buying from China but the 3F UL stuff is a great value for the cost.
Since the chest strap didn't self-destruct after 500+ miles, maybe it's super duper ribbon? Even if, I'd still be more comfortable with something a little more solid.
The other issue is that the HMG pack is made here in New England by neighbors, as opposed to being shipped from China. I like to support small local businesses when necessary. Nice comparison though.
I just got my pack in the mail yesterday. It took a little over a month to arrive. I like it a lot so far. I noticed the closure on mine is different from yours. The back support also has a pocket and velcro closure for the butt pad to be secured in. I must have a slightly different model. Everything seems solid. It was nice that they included the buttpad/backpad . I bought a nylofume pack liner from Garage Grown Gear as well.
Great review 👍 I have made packs out of Cuben Fabric and I appreciate the padding the 3f uses, breathability is awesome for long approaches. One note to add is that X-Pac and gridstop etc uses a dyneema weave in combination of ripstop nylon.
Awesome Dixie! Thank you for doing this on your own dime. My wife and I were looking for packs like these for the Camino de Santiago del Norte 🤘👍. Very helpful to us! Awesome channel!
Thank you for the review! I would like to note that there is no Xpac backpack on the market that I am aware of that is seam-taped/sealed from the vendor. I believe there is a reason why they can't use seam tape on Xpac (although I'm not sure exactly why). But none of the vendors do it- SWD, Waymark, etc... I'm sure you can seam seal it, but it's probably a messy process. Even for a pack that is supposedly 100% waterproof, I'm still using my nylofume bag! I don't want my insulation wet at all!
i have the cheaper version then then 3f ul xpac. it's usually 65 to 77 bucks model 3f ul 40L+16L(i got mine for 53 usd on the 11.11 sale, it was 56 during black friday). this one is the more updated version of that model because the first version had problems with how the hip pack belt attaches to the backpack. the site doesn't list which version of the model it is, i just looked at old videos on the pack and choose a colorway that the original pack never came in) my hipbelt is very well attached. also i just checked the chest strap and mine isn't a straight up hair ribbon, it's a real strap. i don't think it is seam sealed either, but then again, i wasn't going to trust that it was and just line the backpack. if i got seriously into backpacking i think i'd seam seal it. i'm overweight and this has to be the best pack i could have chosen, i tried on some framed backpacks at a local sporting good store and just strapping in was pushing my back out of alignment and causing me a great deal of pain. but this pack, no pain so far. i'm still in the middle of buying my gear. but, i suspect the xpac would also be a truly awesome backpack for over weight people too.
I’ve read that some folks will cut out the Velcro on the HMG. I’m not ready to hack up my bag so I just “covered” the Velcro with more Velcro. I’m OCD like Montana. I feel better now. 😉
Nice comparison, thanks. I have this 3F X-pack backpack bought last year. In 3F they changed the closing method because they added stripes from the sides. Now it's exactly the same as Hyperlite Mountain Gear. In general, the backpack is great, it only annoys me that with a greater load, the straps from the shoulders loosen
I prefer the backpack to be water repellent but not waterproof and use a roll top waterproof liner for the things that have to stay dry. This way I can put the wet or sweaty clothes on top inside the pack and they ventilate.
If you hate velcro closures like me just get a piece of the loop side that is the same length and attach it to the hook side of the bag. Then the velcro wont stick together and you only have the loop side exposed (so the hook side doesn't snag on anything)
Thank you! I've been waiting for your review of the 3F UL pack! I've been going back & forth on getting one & have seen several reviews, one in which I noticed a torn hip belt that the UA-camr who reviewed it had missed, which made me have second thoughts on the pack's reliability. Once I knew you were using it, I figured if Dixie carries this across Spain, she'll give a reliable & informed opinion on it.
I bought a 3f UL XPAC about a month ago. Was also confused over the ordering process but after researching the differences of UHWIPE and XPAC I selected XPAC because it's the most durable and has better abrasion resistance. I always use a pack liner so waterproofing isn't an issue. Was also disappointed/irritated about the "ribbon sternum strap" and will be changing that. Overall I found the XPAC to be a great backpack and more comfortable than my Osprey Levity.
Really appreciate the open minded review. From purchasing many items the past few months there are simply too many reviewers putting politics and their own opinions about foreign countries first and leaving the quality and practicality of the item second. I watch a video for the product not the politics behind it. Just bought myself the pack from 3F UL and hopefully it will be amazing!
I just found your channel, and I'm loving it! So much awesome information. 😊 Side note: do you happen to be from Alabama or around here? Our accents sound similar haha.
Homemade Wanderlust That's awesome! I'm from Decatur. It was the way you pronounce your "i"s haha. My husband and I are day hikers, but would love to do a thru hike one day. Glad I found your channel! 😊
I took this UL 3F pack on the A.T. this year (aka: Great Scot!) and I'd agree with everything you said, but for a few small points. I didn't use a back pad as everything I put in my bag was soft and it was always full, so structure was not a problem. My pack had straps on the side to connect to the roll top, something I didn't see on your bag clearly, although there appeared to be some sort of strap material in the same location, so perhaps that was a manufacturing defect on yours. I used a pack cover to protect items kept in the outside mesh pocket (couldn't get everything into the pack). I noticed that the seams were not waterproof before I started, which is another reason for using a cover. However, there are openings in the bag the bottom for the hip belt strap to pass through, which could let water in, and any rain falling into the side pockets would be directed there also. The main failure I found was with the hip belt buckle (the one towards the bag end on the hip belt, not the main waist belt buckle), which connects the two hip pads together. This came loose a couple of times on the trail. The first time, the hip belt fell off completely and I thought it was broken! Rainy weather appeared to lubricate it mostly, so I checked it every few days. When loose, only the two small straps on the hip belt connected to the bag were taking the full weight of the pack and this stress caused the bag-side seam to open up on the one side. I didn't see anyone else with this pack within my northbound bubble, nor by any southbounders, so I couldn't tell if this was a common problem or not. Did you encounter this buckle coming loose at all?
Cool hearing of others who have used it. Would you recommend it, and did it last the entire AT? I'm attempting the PCT in 2020 and would love to try a UL pack. With the exchange rate the American made packs are VERY expensive so this seems like a good alternative.
@@Monmylove Yes, it went all the way. I'm doing the PCT myself in 2021 with friends and already bought the newer version of this pack on AliExpress. The hip belt is attached in a different way so that main flaw is gone. The other major difference is that it has aluminum stays and it's also a few inches longer and the side pockets are now mesh. I was making my own review video about my gear and one specifically on the same pack post-hike, but unfortunately haven't gotten around to finishing it. You'll be able to see it on 'Canadian Thruhiker' channel soon.
@@Monmylove Sure. www.aliexpress.com/item/32993433937.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.30004c4dMHFy9U I paid $210 CAD on sale so look around to see if someone's selling it for less now that the sale is over. Might have a better price nearer Christmas or the Chinese New Year in January.
Great comparison and review. My wife and I just loved the Camino trip you two did, ahh two sisters bonding bless their harts (my wife is from NC) and she really means bless your harts not that other meaning. We love your channel and look forward to Wednesday. Just think how many people you have inspired since you put them hiking shoes a few years ago and took that first step, you are amazing girl.
That "bless your/his/her, their," etc. saying - I am a Yankee who lived down South for a while, and have heard the same saying spoken with different voice inflections, serious and complimentary, and sarcastic and biting, the second usually accompanied by a roll of the eyes or a wink, meaning that the person tried (whatever) but didn't really have the wherewithal upstairs to accomplish the intended task. Btw: a hart is a real thing, but the muscle in one's chest which pumps blood through the circulatory system is spelled heart. ☺
You really could have a future with "Consumer Reports". You give a level unbiased report with the good, bad and indifferent, and then allow for the fact that others may use the item differently than yourself. I believe the bruises you received on the PCT is the result of your torso configuration....not poor pack design. As much as we might think everyone is built basically the same, we aren't....and with the near epidemic poor posture of today, many if not most folks don't fit the notional torso shape that manufactures design to. While you seem to have had good luck ordering such items without trying them on first, when it comes to packs anyone planning on living out of one for weeks or longer really should make sure it fits well under a load. Packs are like shoes, one type/style cannot and will not fit all.
Thanks for rolling the dice on these packs. I've got my old frameless North Face. I'll spray it down with some water repellant and throw on a poncho but yeah it wouldn't make a river crossing which your packs would be great for without the added weight. Time to upgrade? Hmmm.
Interesting - I was planning to DIY a similar pack for next year, but for the price it’s hard to justify the work. The website is confusing, but the two fabrics I believe are dyneema gridstop, which is really just 210 denier nylon with dyneema grid fibers, not a dyneema laminate (like is used in the straps and waist belt on your pack), and the X Pac you bought. X Pac is a better fabric, so I think you did good!
Hello Dixie, thank you for sharing another fine review. You are to be commended for your, always honest, reviews. The very best of good things to you, your Mom, Montana and Fancy. 🤗
Great review! I plan to do the Camino (French Way) after my elderly (almost 16) dog passes on. I am currently 62. Can you tell me when you actually began your hike?
It would be great if you could seam seal the 3F UL pack and then stuff it with newspaper of the like and put it in the shower. Their tent is a slam dunk (Slam Dunk. I wish they made a 3 person as I'm a dog owner) and I was hoping for the same from their pack. If all we need to do is use up the rest of the seam sealer we bought for our LanShan tents to make this a truly waterproof bag I'm sold. Otherwise Zpacks has my money for my next bag.
Hi Dixie, did you use a foam pad for a frame as suggested on the 3ful page? I didn't notice one in your video. If not was it just really not needed? Thanks! > Tips: you need a foam mat or a inflatable fram section as the frame. such as Therm-a-Rest (inflatable fram section included; foam mat not included)
I'm kinda OCD and I manage to get the Velcro lined up perfect on the first try on my Arc Haul. If it does not have one, use a marker to mark the center after getting them lined up
I just found your channel and I’ve been binge watching your videos. I am an older overweight guy and I’m trying to get back into backpacking and camping to help with staying in shape. The backpack is the only piece of gear I’m missing and I don’t have all sorts of extra money to buy a really nice high end one now. Do you still feel the same about the 3FUL backpack? I’ve looked at them and should be able to afford one soon. Just curious if anything has changed your mind about the pack since your review. Thanks!
I'm a tall person and cannot find any information on sizing. Does this pack fit people up to 23" torso? My guess is no, but just wanted to confirm. If I ever wanted to drop serious money down on a backpack I'd probably go for the hyperlite, but am enjoying my osprey exos right now.
“Water (life) will always find a way.” so, not seem sealed means not waterproof to me as it is only matter time until things get wet inside. Thanks for the great idea of those very cheap bags inside. Lately I have been wearing a five dollar poncho over myself and backpack, and that keeps everything very dry. Happy trails!
Great video! Thxs. As an owner of a SW 4400 and an owner of 3f ULs Lanshan 2 (duplex knockoff as u know) I’m in the mkt for a 35 liter pack for day trips, mostly backcountry skiing. (Read-more gear needed than day hiking). From the AliExpress site, it does look like the roll top can be secured down the sides like an hmg? Thoughts? Also, does the Xpac have a top y-strap? Looks like it does. Great review, thxs again.
i Just got the 3F UL 55-70L framed pack for my birthday. The $165 one. Havent taken it out yet but it looks and feels great. I also have the Lanshan 2P. The value is unbeatable. The 2019 version has some upgrades. They came out with a new tent called Shanjing, also $130. You should test it!
Hi Dixie! I just got the 3f UL backpack that you mentioned in the video. I am having an issue with the hip belt slipping off the buckles and being loose taking off all the weight of the backpack...did you experience any of this? Thanks
One issue with packs is longevity. The chinese pack needs the test of time and what effect the amount of weight carried has on the pack. The warranty comparison between the packs speaks for itself. I suppose there are those who might say that if the Chinese pack fails and warranty period has expired, it would still be less expensive to buy a second Chinese pack than to buy one hyperlite. Packs are generally easily repaired. In fact I think they feel like a real pack after you repair them yourself. You can regale your hiking buddies around the campfire as to what caused the failure. Perhaps you fell into a ravine or caught the pack on a sharp rock. For those of you who want to save a lot of money and weight buy a pillowcase and use a liner. Grandma Gatewood was successful with just the pillowcase and a shower curtain. The cheaper pack is probably a good choice for the entry level hiker. Time will tell.
Are you sure it was the HMG that gave you those rubs or the combination of shorts, underwear and backpack? I noticed my shorts had side mesh panels that my Osprey hipbelt chafed me through. Blamed the shorts but then I tried another pair of longer underwear under and it worked just fine. So if you ever try the HMG again, maybe try another combo of shorts and underwear where the hipbelt chafed :)
Can you help me decide chosing a material? Why did you want to order the UHMWPE over the XPAC? What are the differences? thank you for your video's!!! greetings from Belgium
Yes! They got colder than I liked. Would not bring down in the future though after dealing with bed bugs. Need something you can throw in the washer and dryer with regular detergent.
I just received mine a few days ago. I did not get the ex pack. I got the DYN mom in blue. Looks slightly different but the same pack. Love the style in it looks and feels fantastic. The options on it are outstanding. I do not like that they have belts go into the main compartment, which can cause water entry, and I do not like the holes on the water bottle pouches on the sides because small things can fall through. Besides that it is fantastic. I took it out in the rain the other night and everything inside got soaked. Another rookie mistake. I will have to seal on my own. Does anyone have recommendations? I was told mineral spirits and 100% silicone from Home Depot mixed together and then painted on. I was also going to get the premade spray from Walmart and spray the whole inside just in case. Would love to hear what others have done. Just like Dixie’s, the main inside seams have a thick black fabric over them. I do not think they can be taped seemed because of their thickness.
I ordered the UHMWPE version just after you finished the Camino. i was wondering if your version had the hipbelt seperate when it arrived and did you have any trouble with it coming loose on the huke if so? Ps, keep up the good work and it would be nice to see you visit the UK, maybe the TGO in Scotland.
Thanks so much Dixie, I am pretty much set on using the 3F UL pack for my PCT 2020 thruhike, and this review gives me more confidence. Might seam seal it and replace the "ribbon" chest strap though!
I love my hmg pack, but the velcro is annoying. I forget about and my clothes/sleeves get stuck reaching in. So you have to roll it to avoid that. But it's annoying!
I ordered one of these and thought the hip belt would be removable but it is actually sewn it. It looks the same as the one you have in this video? Is the hip belt on yours actually removable?
I have a question, when walking the AT, or PCT, i have noticed for example that people are constantly replacing worn or broken gear, , i can see replacing shoes, but when you pay 200 + dollar for shoes and there done in 30 to 60 days of hiking, thats crazy, also heard of people replacing broken backpacks?? crazy, would like to see you do a video discussing about this subject.
Did you make use of the air bladder frame at all? Something that put me off are the slits for the removable hip belt. Even if you seam seal the bag this is still an every point for water
Thanks for your Review! It seems that 3F has FINALLY made it big when it comes to competing at a lower price, at least in this backpack. Their Lanshan tent, a copy of an SMD tent, still has a long way to go.
Thanx . I am already looking into the 3Fs but found it equally difficult to find the right option for me as I’m German and google translater isn’t really doing the trick for me on a Chinese website. Cheers
You ordered correct backpack from 3f. White material is xpack and black is something with dyneema filaments, it is not a completly dyneema just chineese marketing.
Excellent review, it is a shame about not being able to test it's waterproofness accurately. There aren't many high milage, long term reviews for these budget packs yet. 3F UL also makes the 55L trajectory, and a smaller 35L version. The is a wider choice of fabrics with this pack also. I use Aliexpress com, you can translate their page into quite a few languages. There is also OneTigris, and while there lightweight pack is 38oz, it's 55+5L and has a removable frame. They can and will make custom orders. While also a Chinese company they have a great warranty policy and excellent customer service.
I bought One Tigris 55+5 L. Frame is not removable on my pack. You can remove it permanent by tearing the seam on top of the bag and then make a new seam with machine. If you don't like squeking and noise from the frame I wouldn't recommend it. Alu frame rubs against the nylon fabric. I took out my frame (removed seam) wrapped it with a homemade thin textile "tube" and put litium grease at some joints. And then fixed new seam. Now completely silent and I like the pack.
Dixie, how did you manage to get your trekking poles thru airport security and did you find they were needed, especially on the last 120 miles of the trail?
@@HomemadeWanderlust Yey! Finally you're home safe. Please make a video summary of your Camino hike like how much did it all cost and what recommendations can you give for everyone interested. Looking forward to more of your international adventures. ¡Buen camino!
You would think HMG would realize a difference of $170 might be a big determining factor for a purchase. Really how many times with this difference show up in quality for the casual hiker
Having a wide variety of ponchos in the market that solves the problem of the rain for yourself and the pack itself , is it really a subject to consider or a priority to keep an eye on if the backpack it´s waterproof or not...? Shouln´t we focus in comfort, packability, durability... etc, instead ? I mean : In all weather conditions are ponchos useful, or in some like strong wind they aren´t...? isn´t "ponchos" a good subject for next video. Thanks
Anyone know if the HM makes a squeaking noise when you walk? especially down or uphill. My osprey does and it’s driving me nuts. Also heard the Zpacks arc haul make the same noise in a video but haven’t seen anyone have that issue with the arc blast. Anybody have any insight?
Hi Dixie from down under Australia. Thanks for all you great videos. Could you possibly review the Aarn backpack/ body pack and give your thoughts and opinion? Stay safe. Happy travels.
Just a 2022 update for everyone coming across this video now, Its seems like 3f UL has discontinued this pack and it has been replaced the comparable Qidian Pro model at about $100 but I also see they have new framed pack called the Yue that seems like a highly capable pack at about $200 and only half a pound heavier.
I went to look up more details of the three versions of the 3F bag materials and DCF ofcourse:
X-Pac - This laminated fabric that has multiple layers. It has a standard nylon face, a polyester grid (for anti-stretch), and PET plastic layer (for waterproofness), and a nylon backing to protect the plastic layer. Compared to ripstop nylon, it's main benefit is the waterproofness. The most common Xpac variant is called VX07, and it's roughly the same weight as ripstop nylon. (To be more precise, it's about 20% lighter than 210D Nylon, but many packs also use thinner nylons, to be fair.) But VX07 is definitely less abrasion resistant because it uses a lower denier face fabric, so it's more prone to developing small holes after several hundred miles. VX07 is the most common weight at 4.8 oz/sqyd, and there are heavier weights like VX21 (6.0 oz/sqyd) and VX42 (8.4 oz/sqyd). These are thicker, heavier, and more abrasion resistant. Typically found in packs.
LiteSkin - This laminated fabric that has two layers. It has a polyester face that is coated in poly resin (for waterproofness), and a 70D nylon backing. It is a relatively new fabric so I won't say much, but it has similar properties to all the rest - it's a synthetic hybrid fabric that is made to be durable. It's really hard to rip and it doesn't stretch much. LS07 is the most common weight at 3.4 oz/sqyd, and there are heavier weights like LS21 (4.8 oz/sqyd) and LS42 (6.9 oz/sqyd).
Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF), formerly called cuben fiber. This is a fabric made out of UHMWPE* fibers. It is highly abrasion resistant, waterproof, and it is the lightest fabric on the list. (But of course there's a wide array of weights to choose from such as 0.34 oz/sqyd, 0.51 oz, 0.8 oz, 1.0 oz, and 1.43 oz.) The catch is that it's the most expensive. Also, it's more akin to a flexible plastic than a traditional fabric, so it has a tendency to form folds/ridges that can become the weak point over time. But if you aren't doing thru hike lengths, it will last a long time. Typically found in packs and tents.
*UHMWPE - Ultra-high-molecular-weight-polyethylene, basically it's a plastic. It has high tension resistance/breaking strength, high abrasion resistance, and it's not permeable to water. You can find this in rope form (branded as Amsteel, Spectra, or Dyneema), webbing form (branded as Spider, Venom), or in fabric form (branded as DCF/Dyneema). If you're wondering what Dyneema is exactly, it's a company that manufacturers UHMWPE products, but they happen own the right to making UHMWPE into a fabric, which is why cuben fiber was renamed to DCF. UHMWPE on it's own is just a material that has many applications, but many people closely associate the two.
In China，ULer MYOG pure weave UHMWPE fabric backpacks，its a monster but weight only like 300g，even sharp knife cannot。。。
Great review! Very fair minded. It's too bad you didn't get 3F UL's dyneema version, I would have liked to see that. But it does look like the XPAC version performed well. I think 3F UL is a good company. I've got their Lanshan 2 tent which I think is great. I lived in China for 10 years and have seen great changes in the amount of interest in outdoor sports and the availability of good outdoor equipment. There are companies there that are serious about developing a quality product line. One is Kailas, which manufactures all kinds of outdoor gear, clothing and climbing equipment. I've had and still have some of their things and I think it's a great and innovative company that is serious about promoting not only outdoor gear, but outdoor sports as well. I've been to several of their climbing festivals and they do a bang-up job.
I want to add that I've seen a lot of changes regarding Chinese attitudes toward the environment. I've seen wetlands being developed in the middle of cities. Where previously urban ponds and lakes had just rock walls and walkways around them, now they have added wetlands around the lake, providing habitat for resident and migratory birds. China plants trees like crazy and is also adding many more parks and nature preserves. Another positive change is that young people are much more environmentally conscious. One thing I've seen is that the younger generations are much less likely to litter, which is a huge improvement.
There is a lot of negative press these days, with a lot of it justified. But there are also many good things going on in China.
I have not been back to China in over 20 years but I did have the opportunity to visit it a few years back...I cannot describe in words how much it has changed, for the first time in a long time I genuinely felt that the US and Europe will definitely fall behind to China in the near future. So much of China blew me away but one that totally awe struck me was Shenzhen..just wow :)
Great info. The older I get, even though I can’t afford it, I’ll pay more for gear made locally. It’s not that I think foreign-made gear isn’t as good (I know some is better), but many of the domestic companies actively support public land and wildlife conservation here. I try to reward them for that and I feel like I’m getting more bang for my bucks.
Clarkansas I often do the same :)
I sympathize with your sentiment, but buying the more economical option means you can contribute to the causes you think are worthwhile. It's tough enough for a company to make a good product, so I'm happy for them to focus on that!
Happy trails :)
I'm getting old as well (at 65) so I buy the LIGHTEST pack in the the size I need just to be able to go backpacking. Lighter packs, tents and sleeping bags are EXPENSIVE as in $1,500.00 just for those three items that together weigh only 4.5 pounds. All three are Zpacks and you can send things back to them for repairs with free shipping
I save money on my gear and put the difference in to local trail maintenance organizations myself directly as well as charities that support exposing youth to the outdoors. Imagine you buy a $150 3F pack but cut a $300 check to your local trail club. You’ll feel better and have the same experience in the woods.
Good on ya man!!!!! I sold a kidney for a Zpacks tent.. It wasn't mine I ruffied a tourist so win win....
Hi Dixi, crikey - absolutely struggling not to say what a great pack the 3F UL Gear XPAC is - 500 miles trial - super light weight (830g), excellent volume uplift (35 up to 45 litres), comfortable, very useable outside pockets and huge mesh back for immediate use rain gear etc, useable hip belt zipped pockets - stiching, fabric, design all ticking (checking) 'Good' boxes - and get this - all for a very affordable price! 3F UL as a gear company need to be praised for coming up with a fantastic pack - for all of us with more dash than cash - a well deserved recommend! Note: seam sealer available from good tent suppliers - squeeze out like tooth paste from the tube, dilute with white spirit (or similar) to the consistency of runny honey and carefully apply with small paint brush - look up seam sealer videos on UA-cam for a demo - it's no biggie. Lastly - shoulder straps have no torso length adjustment - for best fit select Small, Medium or Large at time of purchase - there is also a choice of White or Black fabric colours at no extra cost. Thanks Dixi for your review!
Thanks for the great comparison. The multiple camera angles was a nice touch. Keep up the great work!
There is 3 version of the 3F bag made with 3 different materials, each with different characteristic 1. Xpa made with VX21 it is a balanced material for strength , anti-tear and waterproof, 2. is UHMwPE the strongest material of all 3. 3. LS21 has the strongest waterproof due to the multi layer treatment. All 3 fabrics are made from a US/German company called Dimension-Polyant mainly manufacture boat sails.
Just to add some info, there are several types of X-Pac fabric.
X-21=210 denier, lightest weight X-Pac/X-42=420 denier, a but heavier but tough fabric./
X-50=500 denier, really tough fabric but weighs a bit more then the others.
Although all the X-Pac material is advertised as waterproof, you do have to seam seal it.
Excellent review and comparison. I'm a fan of 3F. I work very hard for the money I'm allowed to keep after the gov takes their chunk. I will always choose a deal when I can. American made. Canadian made. English made. China made...I do not care. As long as I get a good product and save some dough. I own three packs from 3F UL gear. All of them are great ultralight packs. The 40+16 pack they make is 59.00 to my door. You can not beat that. Another thing to consider is that when I buy a 59.00 pack I'm less concerned about trimming straps and modifying the gear to suit my mission. I would be a bit more likely not to do those mods if the pack was 300.00-350.00.
I love my 3F 2P Lanshan. Now you've pretty much convinced me to get their pack.
do you use the regular or pro version?
Great review - thanks Dixie. I’m waiting for my UHMWPE version being delivered (ordered it in the Black Friday sale). I’ll seam seal it when received and change the ribbon if it hasn’t already been upgraded. I spotted how easy the X-PAC could be confused with the UHMWPE version in the ordering process (although both have their pros and cons). In addition, the 35 litre pack with no side pockets but all round mesh could easily be ordered by mistake too on some listings (someone had done this in the reviews). Care is needed when clicking on the thumb nails as each has a different colour, size, version and model. I couldn’t see the hip belt selection option though. The UK is starting to get a few DCF (cuben fibre) cottage manufacturers now who I am happily supporting, including having custom made equipment. Hopefully the UK cottage manufacturers will be able to produce larger items too before long, but at present, it’s mainly smaller accessories and stuff sacks etc. I think that a few will do other materials as well. Import taxes are horrendous in the UK for equipment coming in from the US thanks to the trade war!
Hey. How was your pack?
Lots of the cottage company packs come not seam taped. It is incredibly labourous to tape the seams. I've taped several. Also the X-Pac is actually more waterproof that the dyneema gridstop material. Also I have used both. Loved the comparison. Great stuff. You are awesome.
Thank you Dixie! I love these "cheaper alternative" videos. Betcha those mainstream equipment companies watch these also. Your voice carries a lot of weight ( lol ) in the hiking community and keeps prices reasonable as possible.
Kevin Reed It’s tough making something for the same price here in the US with labor laws, etc. probably being quite different. I prefer to buy local and from cottage companies, but I know not everyone can afford them especially when you’re starting out. Happy to be the guinea pig!
Nice review, and a fun head-to-head comparison. The one point that you mention but that should be emphasized is that the HMG SW is a framed pack, while the 3F is frameless. While there's probably some pack-to-pack variation, most people say that you can't comfortably carry more than 20-25 lbs total in a frameless pack, where framed packs can carry comfortably in the 30+ lb range. I'm sure this is obvious to you and most experienced backpackers but something to keep in mind for beginners who are just starting out and may not have an ultralight kit yet.
What was your base weight for the Camino? (I'm guessing lighter than the average thru hike base weight given the availability of food and lodging along the Camino. So I do wonder how things would have shaken out if you'd had a head-to-head comparison with heavier loads
The 3F UL pack reviewed here from my experience is an excellent pack. For the price difference of over 175 bucks and weight difference of barely none...both from my experience are very comfortable in use and equally functional for thru hiking. It is amazing how fast Chinese manufactures are catching up in quality..just a few years back the first series of their packs were definitely sub par to a point the price difference was not worth it. But in less then two years it is mind blowing that they can offer packs and tents (their tents are pretty good as well now at fraction of the cost) of pretty much equal quality at over half the price. I guess it makes sense since 98% of all the large outdoor equipment suppliers all have their products manufactured from China.
Thanks Dixie. I bought the nylon version of this pack as an extra pack to my Osprey which is heavier but very comfortable. I also have mixed feeling about buying from China but the 3F UL stuff is a great value for the cost.
Since the chest strap didn't self-destruct after 500+ miles, maybe it's super duper ribbon? Even if, I'd still be more comfortable with something a little more solid.
and lighter!!
The other issue is that the HMG pack is made here in New England by neighbors, as opposed to being shipped from China. I like to support small local businesses when necessary. Nice comparison though.
I just got my pack in the mail yesterday. It took a little over a month to arrive. I like it a lot so far. I noticed the closure on mine is different from yours. The back support also has a pocket and velcro closure for the butt pad to be secured in. I must have a slightly different model. Everything seems solid. It was nice that they included the buttpad/backpad . I bought a nylofume pack liner from Garage Grown Gear as well.
Thanks for helping narrow down the choices. Let's face it over the years the choices have been multiplying.
Great review 👍 I have made packs out of Cuben Fabric and I appreciate the padding the 3f uses, breathability is awesome for long approaches. One note to add is that X-Pac and gridstop etc uses a dyneema weave in combination of ripstop nylon.
Love your channel. I am doing the Camino next year and purchased the Guthook App. Have you thought about doing a video demonstrating the App?
Awesome Dixie! Thank you for doing this on your own dime. My wife and I were looking for packs like these for the Camino de Santiago del Norte 🤘👍. Very helpful to us! Awesome channel!
Thank you for the review! I would like to note that there is no Xpac backpack on the market that I am aware of that is seam-taped/sealed from the vendor. I believe there is a reason why they can't use seam tape on Xpac (although I'm not sure exactly why). But none of the vendors do it- SWD, Waymark, etc... I'm sure you can seam seal it, but it's probably a messy process. Even for a pack that is supposedly 100% waterproof, I'm still using my nylofume bag! I don't want my insulation wet at all!
When I did my review won the Waymark Mile, I was told the same thing by the VP. XPAC cannot be seam sealed or at least not well.
i have the cheaper version then then 3f ul xpac. it's usually 65 to 77 bucks model 3f ul 40L+16L(i got mine for 53 usd on the 11.11 sale, it was 56 during black friday). this one is the more updated version of that model because the first version had problems with how the hip pack belt attaches to the backpack. the site doesn't list which version of the model it is, i just looked at old videos on the pack and choose a colorway that the original pack never came in) my hipbelt is very well attached. also i just checked the chest strap and mine isn't a straight up hair ribbon, it's a real strap. i don't think it is seam sealed either, but then again, i wasn't going to trust that it was and just line the backpack. if i got seriously into backpacking i think i'd seam seal it. i'm overweight and this has to be the best pack i could have chosen, i tried on some framed backpacks at a local sporting good store and just strapping in was pushing my back out of alignment and causing me a great deal of pain. but this pack, no pain so far. i'm still in the middle of buying my gear. but, i suspect the xpac would also be a truly awesome backpack for over weight people too.
I’ve read that some folks will cut out the Velcro on the HMG. I’m not ready to hack up my bag so I just “covered” the Velcro with more Velcro. I’m OCD like Montana. I feel better now. 😉
Nice comparison, thanks. I have this 3F X-pack backpack bought last year. In 3F they changed the closing method because they added stripes from the sides. Now it's exactly the same as Hyperlite Mountain Gear. In general, the backpack is great, it only annoys me that with a greater load, the straps from the shoulders loosen
I prefer the backpack to be water repellent but not waterproof and use a roll top waterproof liner for the things that have to stay dry. This way I can put the wet or sweaty clothes on top inside the pack and they ventilate.
If you hate velcro closures like me just get a piece of the loop side that is the same length and attach it to the hook side of the bag. Then the velcro wont stick together and you only have the loop side exposed (so the hook side doesn't snag on anything)
Thank you! I've been waiting for your review of the 3F UL pack! I've been going back & forth on getting one & have seen several reviews, one in which I noticed a torn hip belt that the UA-camr who reviewed it had missed, which made me have second thoughts on the pack's reliability. Once I knew you were using it, I figured if Dixie carries this across Spain, she'll give a reliable & informed opinion on it.
The pack with torn hip belt was other cheaper model from 3F UL. But I think he was unlucky with a bad seam from production.
I bought a 3f UL XPAC about a month ago. Was also confused over the ordering process but after researching the differences of UHWIPE and XPAC I selected XPAC because it's the most durable and has better abrasion resistance. I always use a pack liner so waterproofing isn't an issue. Was also disappointed/irritated about the "ribbon sternum strap" and will be changing that. Overall I found the XPAC to be a great backpack and more comfortable than my Osprey Levity.
i just got the cheaper version call the 3f ul 40L+16L. interestingly enough it came with a real strap for the chest, not a hair ribbon.
Really appreciate the open minded review. From purchasing many items the past few months there are simply too many reviewers putting politics and their own opinions about foreign countries first and leaving the quality and practicality of the item second. I watch a video for the product not the politics behind it. Just bought myself the pack from 3F UL and hopefully it will be amazing!
I just found your channel, and I'm loving it! So much awesome information. 😊
Side note: do you happen to be from Alabama or around here? Our accents sound similar haha.
Elle's Reptiles Yup! I’m from Opelika! How about you?
Homemade Wanderlust That's awesome! I'm from Decatur. It was the way you pronounce your "i"s haha. My husband and I are day hikers, but would love to do a thru hike one day. Glad I found your channel! 😊
I took this UL 3F pack on the A.T. this year (aka: Great Scot!) and I'd agree with everything you said, but for a few small points. I didn't use a back pad as everything I put in my bag was soft and it was always full, so structure was not a problem. My pack had straps on the side to connect to the roll top, something I didn't see on your bag clearly, although there appeared to be some sort of strap material in the same location, so perhaps that was a manufacturing defect on yours. I used a pack cover to protect items kept in the outside mesh pocket (couldn't get everything into the pack). I noticed that the seams were not waterproof before I started, which is another reason for using a cover. However, there are openings in the bag the bottom for the hip belt strap to pass through, which could let water in, and any rain falling into the side pockets would be directed there also. The main failure I found was with the hip belt buckle (the one towards the bag end on the hip belt, not the main waist belt buckle), which connects the two hip pads together. This came loose a couple of times on the trail. The first time, the hip belt fell off completely and I thought it was broken! Rainy weather appeared to lubricate it mostly, so I checked it every few days. When loose, only the two small straps on the hip belt connected to the bag were taking the full weight of the pack and this stress caused the bag-side seam to open up on the one side. I didn't see anyone else with this pack within my northbound bubble, nor by any southbounders, so I couldn't tell if this was a common problem or not. Did you encounter this buckle coming loose at all?
Cool hearing of others who have used it. Would you recommend it, and did it last the entire AT? I'm attempting the PCT in 2020 and would love to try a UL pack. With the exchange rate the American made packs are VERY expensive so this seems like a good alternative.
@@Monmylove Yes, it went all the way. I'm doing the PCT myself in 2021 with friends and already bought the newer version of this pack on AliExpress. The hip belt is attached in a different way so that main flaw is gone. The other major difference is that it has aluminum stays and it's also a few inches longer and the side pockets are now mesh. I was making my own review video about my gear and one specifically on the same pack post-hike, but unfortunately haven't gotten around to finishing it. You'll be able to see it on 'Canadian Thruhiker' channel soon.
@@mcolynuck Nice, thanks so much! I'll keep an eye out for your review. I'm pretty sold on this one already :)
@@mcolynuck Do you have a link to the newer one?
@@Monmylove Sure. www.aliexpress.com/item/32993433937.html?spm=a2g0s.9042311.0.0.30004c4dMHFy9U I paid $210 CAD on sale so look around to see if someone's selling it for less now that the sale is over. Might have a better price nearer Christmas or the Chinese New Year in January.
Great comparison and review. My wife and I just loved the Camino trip you two did, ahh two sisters bonding bless their harts (my wife is from NC) and she really means bless your harts not that other meaning. We love your channel and look forward to Wednesday. Just think how many people you have inspired since you put them hiking shoes a few years ago and took that first step, you are amazing girl.
That "bless your/his/her, their," etc. saying - I am a Yankee who lived down South for a while, and have heard the same saying spoken with different voice inflections, serious and complimentary, and sarcastic and biting, the second usually accompanied by a roll of the eyes or a wink, meaning that the person tried (whatever) but didn't really have the wherewithal upstairs to accomplish the intended task. Btw: a hart is a real thing, but the muscle in one's chest which pumps blood through the circulatory system is spelled heart. ☺
@@danielkutcher5704 Bless your heart
Nice video, 3F has a smaller frameless pack called "mentor", UHWIPE, 38L for 550g.
You really could have a future with "Consumer Reports". You give a level unbiased report with the good, bad and indifferent, and then allow for the fact that others may use the item differently than yourself. I believe the bruises you received on the PCT is the result of your torso configuration....not poor pack design. As much as we might think everyone is built basically the same, we aren't....and with the near epidemic poor posture of today, many if not most folks don't fit the notional torso shape that manufactures design to. While you seem to have had good luck ordering such items without trying them on first, when it comes to packs anyone planning on living out of one for weeks or longer really should make sure it fits well under a load. Packs are like shoes, one type/style cannot and will not fit all.
Thanks for rolling the dice on these packs. I've got my old frameless North Face. I'll spray it down with some water repellant and throw on a poncho but yeah it wouldn't make a river crossing which your packs would be great for without the added weight. Time to upgrade? Hmmm.
Interesting - I was planning to DIY a similar pack for next year, but for the price it’s hard to justify the work. The website is confusing, but the two fabrics I believe are dyneema gridstop, which is really just 210 denier nylon with dyneema grid fibers, not a dyneema laminate (like is used in the straps and waist belt on your pack), and the X Pac you bought. X Pac is a better fabric, so I think you did good!
thanks Dixie for the honest reviews you do.
Hello Dixie, thank you for sharing another fine review. You are to be commended for your, always honest, reviews. The very best of good things to you, your Mom, Montana and Fancy. 🤗
Great review! I plan to do the Camino (French Way) after my elderly (almost 16) dog passes on. I am currently 62. Can you tell me when you actually began your hike?
Bless you for caring for an elderly dog.
Dixie started on Sept. 9 .
It would be great if you could seam seal the 3F UL pack and then stuff it with newspaper of the like and put it in the shower. Their tent is a slam dunk (Slam Dunk. I wish they made a 3 person as I'm a dog owner) and I was hoping for the same from their pack. If all we need to do is use up the rest of the seam sealer we bought for our LanShan tents to make this a truly waterproof bag I'm sold. Otherwise Zpacks has my money for my next bag.
Hi Dixie, did you use a foam pad for a frame as suggested on the 3ful page? I didn't notice one in your video. If not was it just really not needed? Thanks!
> Tips: you need a foam mat or a inflatable fram section as the frame. such as Therm-a-Rest
(inflatable fram section included; foam mat not included)
Thank you Jess! for my part I chose the 2400 SO to make the AT 2020! Pickleball 👍
I love all of my 3ful gear 😎
Is that a 4 lb. bag of Great Value sugar in the outer pocket? That's how I train too.
How much weight are each of these packs rated to carry?
I'm kinda OCD and I manage to get the Velcro lined up perfect on the first try on my Arc Haul. If it does not have one, use a marker to mark the center after getting them lined up
I just found your channel and I’ve been binge watching your videos. I am an older overweight guy and I’m trying to get back into backpacking and camping to help with staying in shape. The backpack is the only piece of gear I’m missing and I don’t have all sorts of extra money to buy a really nice high end one now. Do you still feel the same about the 3FUL backpack? I’ve looked at them and should be able to afford one soon. Just curious if anything has changed your mind about the pack since your review. Thanks!
I'm a tall person and cannot find any information on sizing. Does this pack fit people up to 23" torso? My guess is no, but just wanted to confirm. If I ever wanted to drop serious money down on a backpack I'd probably go for the hyperlite, but am enjoying my osprey exos right now.
“Water (life) will always find a way.” so, not seem sealed means not waterproof to me as it is only matter time until things get wet inside. Thanks for the great idea of those very cheap bags inside. Lately I have been wearing a five dollar poncho over myself and backpack, and that keeps everything very dry. Happy trails!
Great video! Thxs. As an owner of a SW 4400 and an owner of 3f ULs Lanshan 2 (duplex knockoff as u know) I’m in the mkt for a 35 liter pack for day trips, mostly backcountry skiing. (Read-more gear needed than day hiking). From the AliExpress site, it does look like the roll top can be secured down the sides like an hmg? Thoughts? Also, does the Xpac have a top y-strap? Looks like it does. Great review, thxs again.
i Just got the 3F UL 55-70L framed pack for my birthday. The $165 one. Havent taken it out yet but it looks and feels great. I also have the Lanshan 2P. The value is unbeatable. The 2019 version has some upgrades. They came out with a new tent called Shanjing, also $130. You should test it!
Buy it for her and she will.
@@williambranham6249 If I were gunna buy it I'd test it myself.
@@Smokey0284 Bingo!
Hi Dixie! I just got the 3f UL backpack that you mentioned in the video. I am having an issue with the hip belt slipping off the buckles and being loose taking off all the weight of the backpack...did you experience any of this? Thanks
One issue with packs is longevity. The chinese pack needs the test of time and what effect the amount of weight carried has on the pack. The warranty comparison between the packs speaks for itself. I suppose there are those who might say that if the Chinese pack fails and warranty period has expired, it would still be less expensive to buy a second Chinese pack than to buy one hyperlite. Packs are generally easily repaired. In fact I think they feel like a real pack after you repair them yourself. You can regale your hiking buddies around the campfire as to what caused the failure. Perhaps you fell into a ravine or caught the pack on a sharp rock. For those of you who want to save a lot of money and weight buy a pillowcase and use a liner. Grandma Gatewood was successful with just the pillowcase and a shower curtain. The cheaper pack is probably a good choice for the entry level hiker. Time will tell.
Some repairs can be made at home with sewing machine.
@@stonehill27 Absolutely, but in the field a hand stitcher is useful. Many backpacker stores sell them. Good for backpacks, clothing, shoes.
Thanks for all of the great info. What is your favorite pack that you have used so far?
I have XPac VX21 Backpack 38L from brand called Pinnacle. They performed well 👍
Seem seal it, add your seat pad and bulk up the chest strap still cheaper than the price of the HLM pack. JMHO
Are you sure it was the HMG that gave you those rubs or the combination of shorts, underwear and backpack?
I noticed my shorts had side mesh panels that my Osprey hipbelt chafed me through. Blamed the shorts but then I tried another pair of longer underwear under and it worked just fine.
So if you ever try the HMG again, maybe try another combo of shorts and underwear where the hipbelt chafed :)
Can you help me decide chosing a material? Why did you want to order the UHMWPE over the XPAC? What are the differences?
thank you for your video's!!! greetings from Belgium
Just saw you already anwered this question in the video, thank you
Dixie, I was actually wondering, did you find it worth it to bring your quilt along? Did the auberges get cold at night?
Yes! They got colder than I liked. Would not bring down in the future though after dealing with bed bugs. Need something you can throw in the washer and dryer with regular detergent.
I just received mine a few days ago. I did not get the ex pack. I got the DYN mom in blue. Looks slightly different but the same pack. Love the style in it looks and feels fantastic. The options on it are outstanding. I do not like that they have belts go into the main compartment, which can cause water entry, and I do not like the holes on the water bottle pouches on the sides because small things can fall through. Besides that it is fantastic. I took it out in the rain the other night and everything inside got soaked. Another rookie mistake. I will have to seal on my own. Does anyone have recommendations? I was told mineral spirits and 100% silicone from Home Depot mixed together and then painted on. I was also going to get the premade spray from Walmart and spray the whole inside just in case. Would love to hear what others have done. Just like Dixie’s, the main inside seams have a thick black fabric over them. I do not think they can be taped seemed because of their thickness.
I ordered the UHMWPE version just after you finished the Camino. i was wondering if your version had the hipbelt seperate when it arrived and did you have any trouble with it coming loose on the huke if so? Ps, keep up the good work and it would be nice to see you visit the UK, maybe the TGO in Scotland.
I do have one question: how comfortable the 3ful pack is in comparison with the hmg pack?
Ribbon, you know.. like the one you wear in your hair at a football game.... I am cracking up!
Lisa Maurer
That’s the most southern thing I’ve heard in years. Sent back to age 15 in one sentence.
@@truepeacenik LOL! Same here! ❤ her!
Thanks so much Dixie, I am pretty much set on using the 3F UL pack for my PCT 2020 thruhike, and this review gives me more confidence. Might seam seal it and replace the "ribbon" chest strap though!
I love my hmg pack, but the velcro is annoying. I forget about and my clothes/sleeves get stuck reaching in. So you have to roll it to avoid that. But it's annoying!
I ordered one of these and thought the hip belt would be removable but it is actually sewn it. It looks the same as the one you have in this video? Is the hip belt on yours actually removable?
I have a question, when walking the AT, or PCT, i have noticed for example that people are constantly replacing worn or broken gear, , i can see replacing shoes, but when you pay 200 + dollar for shoes and there done in 30 to 60 days of hiking, thats crazy, also heard of people replacing broken backpacks?? crazy, would like to see you do a video discussing about this subject.
Did you make use of the air bladder frame at all?
Something that put me off are the slits for the removable hip belt. Even if you seam seal the bag this is still an every point for water
Love your creativity on your Logo water mark. Not only here but on your other vids.
Kenneth Hieke That’s all Aaron. I love finding them, too 😂
I like to hike but I can't figure out how to get wilderness pernit? So I can do the PCT
Would you use the 3F UL on the PCT in the Sierras with a bear canister? Thanks.
A more similar pack is the 3f ul Trajectory 35.
I own both the trajectory 35 and 55, they're wonderful packs with minimal internal frame. But there's no hydration port.
Channel "Melon Bites" reviewed it. Spanish with english subtitle.
Thanks for your Review!
It seems that 3F has FINALLY made it big when it comes to competing at a lower price, at least in this backpack.
Their Lanshan tent, a copy of an SMD tent, still has a long way to go.
i was looking at buying the lanshan, why does it have a long way to go may i ask?
Thanx . I am already looking into the 3Fs but found it equally difficult to find the right option for me as I’m German and google translater isn’t really doing the trick for me on a Chinese website. Cheers
You ordered correct backpack from 3f. White material is xpack and black is something with dyneema filaments, it is not a completly dyneema just chineese marketing.
Than you so much for explaining all of this! I'm considering getting a very lightweight pack and its so helpful to have your guidance.
Excellent unbiased review and entertaining to boot.
Excellent review, it is a shame about not being able to test it's waterproofness accurately. There aren't many high milage, long term reviews for these budget packs yet.
3F UL also makes the 55L trajectory, and a smaller 35L version. The is a wider choice of fabrics with this pack also. I use Aliexpress com, you can translate their page into quite a few languages. There is also OneTigris, and while there lightweight pack is 38oz, it's 55+5L and has a removable frame. They can and will make custom orders. While also a Chinese company they have a great warranty policy and excellent customer service.
I bought One Tigris 55+5 L. Frame is not removable on my pack. You can remove it permanent by tearing the seam on top of the bag and then make a new seam with machine.
If you don't like squeking and noise from the frame I wouldn't recommend it. Alu frame rubs against the nylon fabric. I took out my frame (removed seam) wrapped it with a homemade thin textile "tube" and put litium grease at some joints. And then fixed new seam. Now completely silent and I like the pack.
@@stonehill27 how odd, on their website they clearly show someone simply removing it from the backpack. They don't say that it's stitched in place.
Thanks for the review I've been waiting to hear about your pack.
Dixie, how did you manage to get your trekking poles thru airport security and did you find they were needed, especially on the last 120 miles of the trail?
It looks like they changed the chest strap. The buckle looks bigger and it now shows two straps on each side of the buckle.
Are you back home Dixie? I will miss your Camino videos. One of your best hiking series so far.
Genepool Yep! Thank you. I’m glad you enjoyed them :)
@@HomemadeWanderlust Yey! Finally you're home safe. Please make a video summary of your Camino hike like how much did it all cost and what recommendations can you give for everyone interested. Looking forward to more of your international adventures. ¡Buen camino!
Cool content.
fyi Santiago is a reference to St. James, the brother of the Apostle John. St. Francis would be San Francisco.
Hey Dixy..... how did you like the camino ... I did it early this year.
What is the significance of the shells?
You would think HMG would realize a difference of $170 might be a big determining factor for a purchase. Really how many times with this difference show up in quality for the casual hiker
Does anybody know where I could buy a HMG pack in the EU? I live in France. Thanks.
For really durable pack liners use veterinary cadaver bags, you can buy them on Amazon.
Having a wide variety of ponchos in the market that solves the problem of the rain for yourself and the pack itself , is it really a subject to consider or a priority to keep an eye on if the backpack it´s waterproof or not...? Shouln´t we focus in comfort, packability, durability... etc, instead ? I mean : In all weather conditions are ponchos useful, or in some like strong wind they aren´t...? isn´t "ponchos" a good subject for next video. Thanks
Thank you Jess, helped me work out the pack to get :) Great crack listening to u!
Did the GG pack-liner survive the PCT sections AND the Camino, or did you go through two or three of them?
real fake hiker The PCT one became a make shift poncho for Fancy Mae 😂 They won’t hold up as well as a thick compactor bag, though.
Anyone know if the HM makes a squeaking noise when you walk? especially down or uphill. My osprey does and it’s driving me nuts. Also heard the Zpacks arc haul make the same noise in a video but haven’t seen anyone have that issue with the arc blast. Anybody have any insight?
Hello from USA! thank you for your review! ❤️
Hello Dixie, would like to hnow why you do not wear Goretex jacket? Thanks again for the Compostel videos and all the experience you share.
Thanks for the info. Happy Holidays. Good Luck, Rick
thank you Dixie for this great review I'm really considering purchasing this for my next LASH
Hi Dixie from down under Australia. Thanks for all you great videos.
Could you possibly review the Aarn backpack/ body pack and give your thoughts and opinion?
Stay safe. Happy travels.