Just got back from mt leconte in the smokies. Let me tell u....every one in the shelter was talking about your videos. You are quite the celebrity out on the trails. A lot of people love u.
I love my Ohm 2.0, I’ve done about 600 miles with the max load weight pushed up to 33 pounds with a .75 LT water bottle pouch on one strap and a camera/phone pouch on the other. It’s a great, comfortable, sturdy, well built pack with a great number of adjustments that help to dial in the perfect fit. It balances perfectly well on my hips with a very comfortable and adjustable hip belt. I too agree with Dixie’s concern about the strap that goes over the top and clips to the front of the pack. When I tighten it down (not excessively) I can see the stitches that secure it to pack visibly stretch. And as Dixie said being able to tie my shelter on the bottom of the pack would be perfect. Thank you for this excellent and thorough review, happy trails 🌹👣!
Last year, I replaced my beloved antiquated Peak1 external frame pack with a Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear 45L. I've long been ambivalent about internal frame packs because I hate that sweaty-back feeling, but I absolutely love the CTUG pack. I've only got a few weeks' worth of hiking into it, and it's my first ultralight pack, so I cannot offer comparisons to other packs folks mention. But I highly recommend it. Each pack is made to order so it's going to fit you. Their customer service is amazing. Within minutes of placing my order I was in a FB messenger conversation with one of the owners. We went over my order, and he helped me make some choices that resulted in me getting a better-for-me pack. The pack weighs just 900 gm, and I've comfortable carried loads ranging from about twelve pounds to over 30. (I've not had occasion to carry more than that, but I've read other owners have carried in excess of 40 pounds comfortably.) The downside is that they're a very small business and they're swamped. The lead time right now is months. But if you're willing to wait, you're going to get an amazing piece of gear.
Sorry to bring up Dollar General but in the last year I've used a couple of their store brand flavored water 1 liter bottles to carry water. They are wider and thus shorter and ride in my pack pocket better. They are also more stable on bare ground.
Your reviews are always the most thorough and informative of any of the hiking channels I watch, and I really appreciate that. It's just another reason why you are my favorite hiking personality on UA-cam. Keep up the great work and I'll be here to watch it! Have you ever considered hiking any in Canada or doing trails like the Ice Age Trail or the North Country Trail in the northern US? I bet those are beautiful.
So helpful because it’s not just a pack review but also a tutorial on all the ways one interacts with a pack. P.S. I was in Red Meadows last week glamping in Mammoth, saw thru hikers, and knew to offer them trail magic, all because of watching these videos. Good stuff.
I believe they will make the pack with deeper/taller side pockets (for a small additional fee) if you ask them, but you may have to wait until they catch up with all of their current orders.
I have a Catalyst and they made me a 2XL hip belt (because I'm girthy and yes I still hike). I also have the now discontinued ULA Everyday that I literally use for everything (travel, day pack). I adore it. They are a top-notch company. I've tried other packs and none carried as well as any of my ULA packs.
I love my ULA Catalyst. Stripped down to its essentials it’s still only 2.75 lbs and has just a ton of room. I love that you can carry a bear can horizontally in it.
I have a circuit! Just a little bigger than the ohm. I got straps added too, and an additional compression strap inside. Thanks so much for the tip about the hip belt adjustment, that was an issue for me too and I had no idea what was wrong until I saw this.
I would love to see you try the Shadowlight pack by Outdoor Vitals. I just ordered one myself. I am super excited for it! The pack itself is sub 2ibs and has an internal frame. It comes in a 45L and 60L. It has a roll-top and a zipper down the main compartment for quick access to gear. That may solve the carrying the tent on the outside of the bag. However there is a divided mesh pocket that supposedly can hold a 2P tent in one side of the mesh pocket. Would love to hear your thoughts!
Hey Dixie! Got an idea for ya! Y'all have been hiking forever and tested endless backpacking items. You are, by trade an engineer. YOU have the knowledge and background to help the backpacking community of the makers of the products that they market. Become a consultant for these companies! You have the experience. You have the knowledge. You have an engineering degree. When you have fulfilled your life as a hiker/backpacker/film maker/UA-cam celeb. .Be a consultant/product manager! You have all you need under your belt already! You would be a perfect match for ANY company, worldwide. Who else has a Triple Crowner on the payroll?? Just saying girl...YOU got this! Thanks for all you ( and your editor) do for giving us something every week to look forward to. You guys are awesome!
Not sure if ULA still offers this, but when I bought my Catalyst a number of years ago, you could choose which mesh type for the outside pocket. The one I went with is see through and appears to be looser than what yours looks to be in the video here. Makes it pretty easy to get things in and out, and really easy to find what you want without fishing around. Just a thought for anybody considering a ULA pack. I'm totally sold on my Catalyst. I may also buy a smaller pack from them some day, but for now, the Catalyst has become the only pack I use unless I need to carry 50+ lbs (which never happens anymore). Maybe it's finally time to donate a few packs... somebody will want to use them.
Dixie, I would suggest you try the ULA Circuit. I have one and it’s great. The Circuit has a bigger mesh pocket and a 35 pound carry capacity. It also has grosgrain loops and bungee outside the mesh pocket which can be used to strap a tent on with a little mod. The fit and comfort are just like the Ohm, I would imagine. The roll top even has variations on closing.
I added bottom loops for my tent by purchasing pack mod straps from REI. I just fed the behind the hip belt. A different pack though can’t say for sure if it would work with this one
I contacted ULA and ordered the OHM 2.0 after watching you talk about it. The owner was awesome and added the straps on the bottom. We even talked about you and he said you purchased your pack just like you said. I love my pack thank you for your videos and honest opinion.
Take a look at the Outdoor Vitals Shadow Light = 40 or 60. I got the 60. I live in No. Az and have to carry all my water. Pack for typical trip hits 35 lbs. and that is what this pack is rated at. Weights less than 2lbs. I put six 1 gallon water jugs in the pack. 2 wide, 3 high. Then added two, 1 liter bottles in the side pockets. So 58 lbs of water. Walking around my house I felt I could easily carry that load on a shot trip. Due to an injury I have not been able to filed test it yet. It does have more pockets on the outside. I really like their pillow too and their puffy is really nice. My big dislike is that I am small guy at 5"4", and the frame extends past my shoulders to just below the top of my head. Hope I get used to that. Check it out and let us know what you think.
Agree, excellent review. Personally I'd never get an Ohm 2, but that just make the review more interesting as the opinions are well founded and the presentation is really good.
@@AquaTech225 I'm interested in packs and pack design. Always look for the one that'll do everything. The Ohm 2 looks like a good pack, but not for me. I'd want taller bottle holders and a top lid. Another outside (mesh) pocket would also be nice. I'm aware lots of people like roll tops, but I find a top lid with a roomy pocket to be essential. Much faster to open/close compared to roll top and I use the top pocket for my camera. It's easy to get to the camera while it's a lot more protected than using a PD Capture clip or similar.
ULA is an outstanding company. A very popular pack they have for thru-hikers is the ULA CDT. It's a frameless pack with smaller capacity, but an outstanding pack. "KyleHatesHiking" is a CDT guy. Personally I love my ULA Circuit. It's the next size up from the Ohm. As a weekend warrior, I like the extra space with minimal weight penalty over the Ohm. Great vid, Dixie.
Back in the day ( late seventies to mid - 80s ) many of us made our own modifications with left over nylon from other packs , rivets , apoxy , and later Velcro.. interesting that you can now custom order ... I just love your posts. I love your personality , humor , and your determination ...happy hiking ...
Amazing review as always🤩. I think you forgot the most comprehensive customization. If you choose "make to order", and add-on the customizer package, you can change the fabric to X-pac as well as choose amongst a large set of colors. You can pick a color for each separate area of the pack. Meaning, you can get almost any design you like.
Thanks so much for your thoughts and this video ! 😀I have the same roll top ohm 2.0 , I exchanged the first small torso one after sending ULA pics of me wearing it, they suggested a medium and I went with the “s” straps. Very GREAT company to deal with in my experience. But I’m not gonna lie …I have the osprey EXOS 58 and also a Gregory Optic 58 with the ventilated trampoline suspension and that is something I really really miss. I was pleasantly surprised though and felt like the OHM was pretty comfortable at 22 lbs , but I have not worn it in hot weather yet. I went with ULA for the customizable reasons you mentioned. I have a medium torso in the Gregory and Osprey packs but now the hip belts won’t go small on me enough to carry comfortably. AND now I carry my tiger wall UL2 tent on top of my pack also…Thanks to the great tip from You ! 🤗 😃
Chris stands behind his packs. After my AT Thru Hike, I sent it back for tears and repairs. It was returned almost good as new; yet love the battle scars left but made functional again. I agree that straps on the bottom would be a great feature. I usually carry in the mid 30 lbs full load out, so I actually wished I had a Circuit to compare it too. Thanks for your videos!
I have a Catalyst that I love, mine is made out of XPac for a little more durability and waterproofness. The stash pocket I also switched out for one I made from DCF (Ripstop by the Roll kit). Great packs and the owner will email you back pretty quickly if you have question. I was really hesitant to buy a pack I could not try on first and ULA has not disappointed me. The only thing I wish they would do is tape the seams on XPac fabric. The company that makes XPac has a seam tape and the would make a pack made with XPac pretty waterproof.
I *liked the video. I am enjoyed this video and have a better appreciation of ULA packs. Those hip adjustment straps are really old school and missing from UL pack designs in the last decade. My bod needs sculptured belts and frames.
Great review of the pack. My son uses the ULA Circuit and loves it. He rigged some straps on the bottom for carrying and it works for him. I'm loving my new Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight pack. The extra side pockets on top are different but so far haven't been a negative. Thanks for another great pack review!
There’s something weird about their sizing video. The model in that sizing video measures from the vertebral prominence down to the waistband of her pants, which is definitely several inches below her actual iliac crests. Maybe she should’ve been wearing those high waisted 1980s jeans. That’s the iliac crest right there! That’s not what’s shown in the sizing video. I found it confusing.
I found the shoulder straps lacking in padding most of the times I used mine when carrying more than 3 liters of water. It carried well with lower weight loads though. The hip belt pockets were of little use to me and when I had my custom SWD pack built to replace the Ohm I had them left off. I also wasn’t a fan of the taper of the rear mesh pocket. Aesthetically it reminds be of the back end of a VW Bug and I hated the look. Overall the Ohm was a good intro into the lightweight cottage brand packs but I think there are better options out there once you know what you want. For me it’s Superior Wilderness Designs.
Have you tried a McHale pack? I have one on order and I have the demo while I am waiting. It's not ultralight and not cheap but there is 0 weight on the shoulders and you can customize almost everything! With other packs, I would get neck pains after a few miles. With the McHale, I can go all day with no fatigue.
Great video: (what is now your go to pack?) The bottom straps might be a $20 option here in 2022. Yep, great service. They called me right back about my 2014 Epic's sternum strap & sent one right out. Answered all of my questions & said they could add an extra comp strap to the Epic. I am thinking of ordering an X-pac Circuit, but hard choice. That Camino sure is interesting, like for travel, or if you get on some bigger wildlife shoots or big-time camera expeditions. I saw the dog pack (I think) and I am looking for stuff for cameras (that mount thing looked great)...and for my adventure bicycle too....thanks...great videos.
@@conniedenney8201 you can google it but essentially a multi-ply waterproof fabric that comes in diff weights. I like it because it doesn’t absorb water when soaked by the rain. Similar to a DCF tent vs traditional syl nylon. That said I love the Ohm.
I noticed on the Elk Hunter Clay Hayes, from this season of Alone and UA-cam Channel, uses the ultralight Seek Outside packs. He carries gear and packs out Elk meat. Looks crazy strong and super light weight, a Seek Outside pack is on my gear wish list now. They have a meat shelf that could be used for a tent. Etc.
Omg...loved your review. I agree 100% about have some type of strap system at the bottom. I just did 80 miles out a Philmont (boy scouts) w my son and that was my only complaint as well. I have the catalyst, in purple 💜, love the pack worked put well for me.
Thanks, Dixie; an informative, useful vid as always, especially for a “pre-noob” (not even a newbie, just planning on getting into hiking). The one things that surprised me was to see you carrying and using an umbrella! Haven’t seen those in use by hikers around here (NC/VA areas of the AT).
I hope some time you will test the Superior Wilderness Designs pack. I chose this over a ULA pack because it was an option to get extra-thick X-pac material, but it was hard to decide. It would be very useful to know how these two very similar packs work for you
I already have the ULA Ohm 2.0 and bought some cheap straps to attach them to the button of the Rucksack So I am able to carry a Pad or even my Tent under the Rucksack. Thanks from Germany ..
I appreciate the thoroughness and attention to detail of your review. Very useful and thanks for posting. My backpack doesn't have a breakup-closure feature, either.
Deeper side pockets, bottom pad straps, and just a tad cushier shoulder straps would make it the perfect pack. I love mine, beyond longing for those things. Thinking about trying the Osprey Eja or Gregory Octal out, since they offer those things. I will have to get a fanny pack with the Eja.
Very helpful. We are two 60+ who are walking the camino in 2022. We plan to carry 10lbs base weight. I like the hip belt and shoulder strap comments. I see that others have used it for smaller base weights. Do you think we need to go to a different smaller pack or would this still carry well. I like all the other features you describe.
I love the ohm. I did take the foam pad out of mine, but didn’t think about putting something else in it’s place. That’s a good idea. Great video on a great product!
Why don’t you use the side Z-compression strap to hold the water bottle (with Sawyer filter attached) in place? Elemental Horizons makes a good lightweight pack. The Kalais is comparable to the ULA Circuit in size and weight but carries more weight (40 pounds or so). I have a Elemental Horizons Kalais and also a ULA Circuit. I am still debating which one I prefer. The Circuit seems to sag on my back just like your Ohm did. Maybe I need to adjust that side hip belt. The extra 5 L of capacity of the Circuit would allow you to stuff your tent inside. It also fits a bear canister.
These long hikes are great. Another Option: I am vacationing in Taos, NM. I am doing day hikes ever day. I would be great to see videos of all the different day hikes (What the entrances look like, what the trail is like, etc). Find a City and spend a week doing ALL the day hikes in the area. IT may be something different.
I don't know if it's still available, but there is an ultralight pack made by Drop with Dan Durston. It's a mid priced pack at like, ~$150. The Granite Gear Crown2 60 is still the versatility/weight ratio king from what I've seen.
@@landrover4444 I've found it to be consistent throughout all the videos I've seen. You just need to learn a few rules, to never have a problem understanding. It's funny. I watch smarter every day. You'd never know Destin was from Alabama till he gets around some "good ol' boys". Then code switching occurs. Dixie doesn't do code switching. ☺️
@@tamie341 I do! I use it for everything from overnights up to 4 days. The pockets are great. I do have a water bottle holder I attached to the hip belt. Other than that, it’s perfect for me. It’s tougher than you’d expect.
@@dayhikemike Great thanks for the info! I have a bigger exos but I think the DD40L would be perfect when I don't need to carry a big load. Also priced very fairly compared to similar packs
an aluminum g-hook on the top versus a buckle would give in more longevity and loops on he bottom would give it more versatility. no such thing as perfect in this endeavor, always tinkering with gear because every trip is different and expectations and experience even further complicate selection. thanks for talking through this pack.
I really want a Pack Arc until your review about shoulder pain, Long White Gypsy also reviewed shoulder pain, saying she thought the stitches were asymmetrical. Now I wonder if this is a random issue with certain bags having this flaw.
If you need a bigger pack for future hikes, the ULA Catalyst is nice. I carried it on both of my walks across America. In one section over the Rockies I had it up to almost 50 pounds with snowshoes strapped on the back. I'd say that's the limit of comfort but up to about 40 lbs. is what I'd say is really its comfort limit.
I love the catalyst as most my hikes are a week + with no resupply so the bear can fits well. You can just stuff it and go in the morning without stuffing all your stuff into constricting stuff sacks. And it’s not a huge weight penalty.
Hello Dixie, thank you for the recommendation on the backpack. I think I will order me one soon. I’m a beginner backpacker but hiked most my life.. Have you thought about taking a few beginners out on the trail for a few days for a fee? I would really be interested if you ever thought about that. Maybe the students could bring their own equipment but spend the time with you for experience?
I have and like very much, my ULA Circuit ......except when it rains (cover or not) it sucks it up. I use a trash compactor bag so things stay dry enough inside it but, I like to have my pack in my tent so I keep another bag to put my empty pack in ;-) Cheers
Just got back from mt leconte in the smokies. Let me tell u....every one in the shelter was talking about your videos. You are quite the celebrity out on the trails. A lot of people love u.
Yes! You don’t know how many newbies have started hiking bc of Dixie!
All hail the princess of the trail! 👸🦉🌲🦌🌃❤️
Haha. U agree I am here in NZ, not even ON a trail yet and I love watching this woman's videos. So glad I found them.
I love my Ohm 2.0, I’ve done about 600 miles with the max load weight pushed up to 33 pounds with a .75 LT water bottle pouch on one strap and a camera/phone pouch on the other. It’s a great, comfortable, sturdy, well built pack with a great number of adjustments that help to dial in the perfect fit. It balances perfectly well on my hips with a very comfortable and adjustable hip belt. I too agree with Dixie’s concern about the strap that goes over the top and clips to the front of the pack. When I tighten it down (not excessively) I can see the stitches that secure it to pack visibly stretch. And as Dixie said being able to tie my shelter on the bottom of the pack would be perfect. Thank you for this excellent and thorough review, happy trails 🌹👣!
Last year, I replaced my beloved antiquated Peak1 external frame pack with a Chicken Tramper Ultralight Gear 45L. I've long been ambivalent about internal frame packs because I hate that sweaty-back feeling, but I absolutely love the CTUG pack. I've only got a few weeks' worth of hiking into it, and it's my first ultralight pack, so I cannot offer comparisons to other packs folks mention. But I highly recommend it.
Each pack is made to order so it's going to fit you. Their customer service is amazing. Within minutes of placing my order I was in a FB messenger conversation with one of the owners. We went over my order, and he helped me make some choices that resulted in me getting a better-for-me pack. The pack weighs just 900 gm, and I've comfortable carried loads ranging from about twelve pounds to over 30. (I've not had occasion to carry more than that, but I've read other owners have carried in excess of 40 pounds comfortably.)
The downside is that they're a very small business and they're swamped. The lead time right now is months. But if you're willing to wait, you're going to get an amazing piece of gear.
Sorry to bring up Dollar General but in the last year I've used a couple of their store brand flavored water 1 liter bottles to carry water. They are wider and thus shorter and ride in my pack pocket better. They are also more stable on bare ground.
Your reviews are always the most thorough and informative of any of the hiking channels I watch, and I really appreciate that. It's just another reason why you are my favorite hiking personality on UA-cam. Keep up the great work and I'll be here to watch it!
Have you ever considered hiking any in Canada or doing trails like the Ice Age Trail or the North Country Trail in the northern US? I bet those are beautiful.
LOL at the subtitled text. As a southern girl with a thick accent, I feel that!
Too funny
So helpful because it’s not just a pack review but also a tutorial on all the ways one interacts with a pack. P.S. I was in Red Meadows last week glamping in Mammoth, saw thru hikers, and knew to offer them trail magic, all because of watching these videos. Good stuff.
Loved the ula ohm 2.0, started the AT in February with it, pushed it to the limit I carried 35 lbs. Got mine in xpac material.
Just an update: most of ULAs packs now come with the roll top as a standard, no longer an extra charge. 👍
Jessica, I have the 65 L Lite AF it meets all the requirements your looking for.
I believe they will make the pack with deeper/taller side pockets (for a small additional fee) if you ask them, but you may have to wait until they catch up with all of their current orders.
I had straps added to the bottom of my Custom ULA Circuit Xpac and also a Y strap on top. These were game-changers.
I have a Catalyst and they made me a 2XL hip belt (because I'm girthy and yes I still hike). I also have the now discontinued ULA Everyday that I literally use for everything (travel, day pack). I adore it. They are a top-notch company. I've tried other packs and none carried as well as any of my ULA packs.
I love my ULA Catalyst. Stripped down to its essentials it’s still only 2.75 lbs and has just a ton of room. I love that you can carry a bear can horizontally in it.
I have a circuit! Just a little bigger than the ohm. I got straps added too, and an additional compression strap inside. Thanks so much for the tip about the hip belt adjustment, that was an issue for me too and I had no idea what was wrong until I saw this.
I would love to see you try the Shadowlight pack by Outdoor Vitals. I just ordered one myself. I am super excited for it! The pack itself is sub 2ibs and has an internal frame. It comes in a 45L and 60L. It has a roll-top and a zipper down the main compartment for quick access to gear. That may solve the carrying the tent on the outside of the bag. However there is a divided mesh pocket that supposedly can hold a 2P tent in one side of the mesh pocket. Would love to hear your thoughts!
Bought 1 used it for 275 miles in uk Pennines way good bit kit so far but when u import owe u get whacked on tax . Generally worked well for 4 weeks.
whether its waymark, or ULA, my homestate of Utah is killing it. I love to see it so much!
Hey Dixie! Got an idea for ya! Y'all have been hiking forever and tested endless backpacking items. You are, by trade an engineer. YOU have the knowledge and background to help the backpacking community of the makers of the products that they market. Become a consultant for these companies! You have the experience. You have the knowledge. You have an engineering degree. When you have fulfilled your life as a hiker/backpacker/film maker/UA-cam celeb. .Be a consultant/product manager! You have all you need under your belt already! You would be a perfect match for ANY company, worldwide. Who else has a Triple Crowner on the payroll??
Just saying girl...YOU got this!
Thanks for all you ( and your editor) do for giving us something every week to look forward to. You guys are awesome!
Honestly, I thought the same thing when watching this video! I say make some calls!!!
@@elm1275 INDEED! Save your body all that wear and tear and GO FOR IT!
Happy Holidays y’all!
Not sure if ULA still offers this, but when I bought my Catalyst a number of years ago, you could choose which mesh type for the outside pocket. The one I went with is see through and appears to be looser than what yours looks to be in the video here. Makes it pretty easy to get things in and out, and really easy to find what you want without fishing around. Just a thought for anybody considering a ULA pack. I'm totally sold on my Catalyst. I may also buy a smaller pack from them some day, but for now, the Catalyst has become the only pack I use unless I need to carry 50+ lbs (which never happens anymore). Maybe it's finally time to donate a few packs... somebody will want to use them.
Dixie, I would suggest you try the ULA Circuit. I have one and it’s great. The Circuit has a bigger mesh pocket and a 35 pound carry capacity. It also has grosgrain loops and bungee outside the mesh pocket which can be used to strap a tent on with a little mod. The fit and comfort are just like the Ohm, I would imagine. The roll top even has variations on closing.
Will a bear can fit horizontally in this pack?
@@jaymontgomery3330 yes
I added bottom loops for my tent by purchasing pack mod straps from REI. I just fed the behind the hip belt. A different pack though can’t say for sure if it would work with this one
I contacted ULA and ordered the OHM 2.0 after watching you talk about it. The owner was awesome and added the straps on the bottom. We even talked about you and he said you purchased your pack just like you said. I love my pack thank you for your videos and honest opinion.
Take a look at the Outdoor Vitals Shadow Light = 40 or 60. I got the 60. I live in No. Az and have to carry all my water. Pack for typical trip hits 35 lbs. and that is what this pack is rated at. Weights less than 2lbs. I put six 1 gallon water jugs in the pack. 2 wide, 3 high. Then added two, 1 liter bottles in the side pockets. So 58 lbs of water. Walking around my house I felt I could easily carry that load on a shot trip. Due to an injury I have not been able to filed test it yet. It does have more pockets on the outside. I really like their pillow too and their puffy is really nice. My big dislike is that I am small guy at 5"4", and the frame extends past my shoulders to just below the top of my head. Hope I get used to that. Check it out and let us know what you think.
A thorough review packed with great advice, will have to give an Ohm a try. Thanks Dixie. Cheers!
Agree, excellent review. Personally I'd never get an Ohm 2, but that just make the review more interesting as the opinions are well founded and the presentation is really good.
@@frstesiste7670 why would u never. I gotta ask
@@AquaTech225 I'm interested in packs and pack design. Always look for the one that'll do everything.
The Ohm 2 looks like a good pack, but not for me. I'd want taller bottle holders and a top lid. Another outside (mesh) pocket would also be nice.
I'm aware lots of people like roll tops, but I find a top lid with a roomy pocket to be essential. Much faster to open/close compared to roll top and I use the top pocket for my camera.
It's easy to get to the camera while it's a lot more protected than using a PD Capture clip or similar.
ULA is an outstanding company. A very popular pack they have for thru-hikers is the ULA CDT. It's a frameless pack with smaller capacity, but an outstanding pack. "KyleHatesHiking" is a CDT guy. Personally I love my ULA Circuit. It's the next size up from the Ohm. As a weekend warrior, I like the extra space with minimal weight penalty over the Ohm. Great vid, Dixie.
Back in the day ( late seventies to mid - 80s ) many of us made our own modifications with left over nylon from other packs , rivets , apoxy , and later Velcro.. interesting that you can now custom order ... I just love your posts. I love your personality , humor , and your determination ...happy hiking ...
Amazing review as always🤩. I think you forgot the most comprehensive customization. If you choose "make to order", and add-on the customizer package, you can change the fabric to X-pac as well as choose amongst a large set of colors. You can pick a color for each separate area of the pack. Meaning, you can get almost any design you like.
Thanks so much for your thoughts and this video ! 😀I have the same roll top ohm 2.0 , I exchanged the first small torso one after sending ULA pics of me wearing it, they suggested a medium and I went with the “s” straps. Very GREAT company to deal with in my experience. But I’m not gonna lie …I have the osprey EXOS 58 and also a Gregory Optic 58 with the ventilated trampoline suspension and that is something I really really miss. I was pleasantly surprised though and felt like the OHM was pretty comfortable at 22 lbs , but I have not worn it in hot weather yet.
I went with ULA for the customizable reasons you mentioned. I have a medium torso in the Gregory and Osprey packs but now the hip belts won’t go small on me enough to carry comfortably.
AND now I carry my tiger wall UL2 tent on top of my pack also…Thanks to the great tip from You ! 🤗 😃
Chris stands behind his packs. After my AT Thru Hike, I sent it back for tears and repairs. It was returned almost good as new; yet love the battle scars left but made functional again. I agree that straps on the bottom would be a great feature. I usually carry in the mid 30 lbs full load out, so I actually wished I had a Circuit to compare it too. Thanks for your videos!
Has anyone ever consider..... sewing straps on after purchase?!? 🤯😱🤔
I have a Catalyst that I love, mine is made out of XPac for a little more durability and waterproofness. The stash pocket I also switched out for one I made from DCF (Ripstop by the Roll kit). Great packs and the owner will email you back pretty quickly if you have question. I was really hesitant to buy a pack I could not try on first and ULA has not disappointed me. The only thing I wish they would do is tape the seams on XPac fabric. The company that makes XPac has a seam tape and the would make a pack made with XPac pretty waterproof.
I *liked the video. I am enjoyed this video and have a better appreciation of ULA packs. Those hip adjustment straps are really old school and missing from UL pack designs in the last decade. My bod needs sculptured belts and frames.
Great review of the pack. My son uses the ULA Circuit and loves it. He rigged some straps on the bottom for carrying and it works for him. I'm loving my new Outdoor Vitals Shadowlight pack. The extra side pockets on top are different but so far haven't been a negative. Thanks for another great pack review!
There’s something weird about their sizing video. The model in that sizing video measures from the vertebral prominence down to the waistband of her pants, which is definitely several inches below her actual iliac crests. Maybe she should’ve been wearing those high waisted 1980s jeans. That’s the iliac crest right there! That’s not what’s shown in the sizing video. I found it confusing.
I found the shoulder straps lacking in padding most of the times I used mine when carrying more than 3 liters of water. It carried well with lower weight loads though. The hip belt pockets were of little use to me and when I had my custom SWD pack built to replace the Ohm I had them left off. I also wasn’t a fan of the taper of the rear mesh pocket. Aesthetically it reminds be of the back end of a VW Bug and I hated the look. Overall the Ohm was a good intro into the lightweight cottage brand packs but I think there are better options out there once you know what you want. For me it’s Superior Wilderness Designs.
Superior Wilderness Designs....nice.
Have you tried a McHale pack? I have one on order and I have the demo while I am waiting. It's not ultralight and not cheap but there is 0 weight on the shoulders and you can customize almost everything!
With other packs, I would get neck pains after a few miles. With the McHale, I can go all day with no fatigue.
Try the Outdoors Vital Shadowlight Pack & let us know what you think, seems to check all the boxes you mentioned
Great video: (what is now your go to pack?) The bottom straps might be a $20 option here in 2022. Yep, great service. They called me right back about my 2014 Epic's sternum strap & sent one right out. Answered all of my questions & said they could add an extra comp strap to the Epic. I am thinking of ordering an X-pac Circuit, but hard choice.
That Camino sure is interesting, like for travel, or if you get on some bigger wildlife shoots or big-time camera expeditions. I saw the dog pack (I think) and I am looking for stuff for cameras (that mount thing looked great)...and for my adventure bicycle too....thanks...great videos.
I buy a new pack every year but always go back to my Ohm. Would love to try this in Xpac though.
What is xpac?
@@conniedenney8201 you can google it but essentially a multi-ply waterproof fabric that comes in diff weights. I like it because it doesn’t absorb water when soaked by the rain. Similar to a DCF tent vs traditional syl nylon.
That said I love the Ohm.
What makes this pack perfect is to replace the belt with a Hill People Gear prairie belt. zits amazing.
Have you thought about the LiteAF packs? Very customisable, and seem quite similar to this one 😊
I'm interested in this one as well!
I noticed on the Elk Hunter Clay Hayes, from this season of Alone and UA-cam Channel, uses the ultralight Seek Outside packs. He carries gear and packs out Elk meat. Looks crazy strong and super light weight, a Seek Outside pack is on my gear wish list now. They have a meat shelf that could be used for a tent. Etc.
My current pack is an old used Marine rucksack purchased from Ebay. It is a little on the heavy as sin side but very non-destructible.
I too would like to see you try the LiteAF 40L curve suspension.
Cup holders for Raymen water.
Omg...loved your review. I agree 100% about have some type of strap system at the bottom. I just did 80 miles out a Philmont (boy scouts) w my son and that was my only complaint as well. I have the catalyst, in purple 💜, love the pack worked put well for me.
I love ULA. I have a CDT for lightweight overnights, and a circuit for multi day and winter camping. I strongly recommend the xpac upgrade.
I through hiked the Colorado Trail with my Ohm 2.0. Worked well. I will be adding 2 straps to the bottom to hold my tent. Otherwise excellent pack!
Thanks, Dixie; an informative, useful vid as always, especially for a “pre-noob” (not even a newbie, just planning on getting into hiking). The one things that surprised me was to see you carrying and using an umbrella! Haven’t seen those in use by hikers around here (NC/VA areas of the AT).
I would love for you to try one of the Lite AF packs.
I hope some time you will test the Superior Wilderness Designs pack. I chose this over a ULA pack because it was an option to get extra-thick X-pac material, but it was hard to decide. It would be very useful to know how these two very similar packs work for you
I’m also curious. I’ve been looking at the long haul or wendigo from SWD since they seem like a good hybrid between ultralight and traditional
I already have the ULA Ohm 2.0 and bought some cheap straps to attach them to the button of the Rucksack So I am able to carry a Pad or even my Tent under the Rucksack. Thanks from Germany ..
I have always wondered how you carry your camera like that.... I’m sure you’ve talked about it but I just now caught it... LOVE that clip
Fabulous review! Nobody's better! I'm still using the Gossamer Mariposa that you recommended a while back! Thank you again very much for everything!
So if you had to choose, wood you pick the Ohm or the Mariposa?
Went with the roll top Catalyst in 2008 for all the reasons cited in this video about the Ohm and I haven't looked back.
Good thoughts. Thanks, Dixie!
I 🖤 my ULA Ohm!
Reviews are great , very helpful. I bought Topo Terraventure 2 based upon you assessment and I have no regrets, love the color too😉
Super informational, thank you! I always appreciate your detailed reviews, Dixie!
Your channel is my favorite. You offer the best material/content.
Thank you, Dixie!! ❤️
ULA makes the best packs. 30 pounds in my ULA circuit feels more comfortable than 20 pounds in a frameless pack. ULA for life.
I appreciate the thoroughness and attention to detail of your review. Very useful and thanks for posting. My backpack doesn't have a breakup-closure feature, either.
I noticed that you have the Aveno sun screen in your pack. There has been a major recall on that and the Nutragena sun screen. love your videos!
Maybe Look at the ULA fast pack for a day pack or a short 1-2 night hike. Lots of similar features to the ohm but more compacted
Would you recommend this brand pack (the photon) for the Camino Frances?
Deeper side pockets, bottom pad straps, and just a tad cushier shoulder straps would make it the perfect pack. I love mine, beyond longing for those things. Thinking about trying the Osprey Eja or Gregory Octal out, since they offer those things. I will have to get a fanny pack with the Eja.
Very helpful. We are two 60+ who are walking the camino in 2022. We plan to carry 10lbs base weight. I like the hip belt and shoulder strap comments. I see that others have used it for smaller base weights. Do you think we need to go to a different smaller pack or would this still carry well. I like all the other features you describe.
Would be nice to see a review of Six Moon Design's Swift V or X backpack :)
Exactly...even going into a park a out cup can collect water quickly and youre away.
I love the ohm. I did take the foam pad out of mine, but didn’t think about putting something else in it’s place. That’s a good idea. Great video on a great product!
Hi Dixie - off topic - but what is frightening to me on backpacking for a long duration is Lice. I mean, is that a concern? Ugh!!!!! 😵💫
Love your channel! Did it feel more comfortable than Gossamer gear Mariposa? How do you decide between the two?
Thanks again for another factual first hand review with opinions qualified up front. I always trust and value your gear reviews!!
Why don’t you use the side Z-compression strap to hold the water bottle (with Sawyer filter attached) in place?
Elemental Horizons makes a good lightweight pack. The Kalais is comparable to the ULA Circuit in size and weight but carries more weight (40 pounds or so). I have a Elemental Horizons Kalais and also a ULA Circuit. I am still debating which one I prefer. The Circuit seems to sag on my back just like your Ohm did. Maybe I need to adjust that side hip belt. The extra 5 L of capacity of the Circuit would allow you to stuff your tent inside. It also fits a bear canister.
These long hikes are great. Another Option: I am vacationing in Taos, NM. I am doing day hikes ever day. I would be great to see videos of all the different day hikes (What the entrances look like, what the trail is like, etc). Find a City and spend a week doing ALL the day hikes in the area. IT may be something different.
Dixie I love my Granite Gear Crown 2 60 L. Has a lot of the features you like and can carry 35+ lbs comfortably
What camera do you use the most these days? Looks very good
I don't know if it's still available, but there is an ultralight pack made by Drop with Dan Durston. It's a mid priced pack at like, ~$150.
The Granite Gear Crown2 60 is still the versatility/weight ratio king from what I've seen.
I’m looking for a backpack. The Drop 40L looks awesome. Thanks for the suggestion.
I glad you specified "liked" and I thought you said lacked. Great video per usual.
Alabama homonym. 😁
Yeah the accent is pretty thick at times.
@@landrover4444 I've found it to be consistent throughout all the videos I've seen. You just need to learn a few rules, to never have a problem understanding. It's funny. I watch smarter every day. You'd never know Destin was from Alabama till he gets around some "good ol' boys". Then code switching occurs.
Dixie doesn't do code switching. ☺️
Would you try the LiteAF Multiday 35?
I’d love to hear your thought on the Durston 40L pack. I’ve been using it for anything around 4 days.
Thats my next pack! You like it so far?
@@tamie341 I do! I use it for everything from overnights up to 4 days. The pockets are great. I do have a water bottle holder I attached to the hip belt. Other than that, it’s perfect for me. It’s tougher than you’d expect.
@@dayhikemike Great thanks for the info! I have a bigger exos but I think the DD40L would be perfect when I don't need to carry a big load. Also priced very fairly compared to similar packs
an aluminum g-hook on the top versus a buckle would give in more longevity and loops on he bottom would give it more versatility. no such thing as perfect in this endeavor, always tinkering with gear because every trip is different and expectations and experience even further complicate selection. thanks for talking through this pack.
I really want a Pack Arc until your review about shoulder pain, Long White Gypsy also reviewed shoulder pain, saying she thought the stitches were asymmetrical. Now I wonder if this is a random issue with certain bags having this flaw.
I hope you try the ULA Circuit. I think it may work better for you. I have one and I really like it.
👍 for having stuff on the outside of a pack. Nothing worse than having to dig in your pack for everything 🤗🥰
If you need a bigger pack for future hikes, the ULA Catalyst is nice. I carried it on both of my walks across America. In one section over the Rockies I had it up to almost 50 pounds with snowshoes strapped on the back. I'd say that's the limit of comfort but up to about 40 lbs. is what I'd say is really its comfort limit.
I love the catalyst as most my hikes are a week + with no resupply so the bear can fits well. You can just stuff it and go in the morning without stuffing all your stuff into constricting stuff sacks. And it’s not a huge weight penalty.
Is Mariposa 60 Backpack causes bruising for bonny hips, or only ULA Ohm 2.0 doesn't cause ?
Great info, thanks Dixie!
Always love your videos, I think if you’d got the Circuit it would have been nearly perfect.
Thanks for including kg in the weights :)
Hello Dixie, thank you for the recommendation on the backpack. I think I will order me one soon.
I’m a beginner backpacker but hiked most my life.. Have you thought about taking a few beginners out on the trail for a few days for a fee? I would really be interested if you ever thought about that. Maybe the students could bring their own equipment but spend the time with you for experience?
Love it. Looks great pack. I’m planning on doing the whole AP trail next month
Thanks Dixie. another great review.
Have you tried the SWD backpacks?
Great review, the closure comment cracked me up. LOL
Thank you for sharing! That was absolutely amazing 😍
When i spoke with ULA they would add custom things like the loos on the bottom, You can send it back to be fixed
Thanks, Dixie. That was super helpful
Hi Dixie, on a side note have you looked at the Cotton Carrier camera system?
If you had to pick one which would it be this or the Mariposa?
I have and like very much, my ULA Circuit ......except when it rains (cover or not) it sucks it up. I use a trash compactor bag so things stay dry enough inside it but, I like to have my pack in my tent so I keep another bag to put my empty pack in ;-) Cheers
It’s well worth it to upgrade to xpac and avoid this issue.
Dixie can u do a video on how to size ur pack ? How to measure etc