I bought one for my son last year. The 60L. He used it on our 250 mile NOBO thru hike of the JMT in July 21. It carries a heavy load (at the pack weight limit) nicely and comfortably. Its outside pockets allow for great gear organization and it is very durable. The only thing that happened was some wear on the belt (both sides) where the shoulder strap crosses the belt on its way to connect to the bottom of the pack. This isn't overly problematic and is minor. This pack will still last for 100's of miles longer... and the good new is.. if the belt does wear to the point that it needs to be replaced.. it is removable so you can just get a new belt from OV. No squeaking from his pack
It's the only ultralight bag that has that zipper in the front. It might not be for everyone but I really think they should keep it. It sets it apart and is super useful for people who are organized like this.
I have the 45L and love it. I have not used the zipper either but I think it is a good feature. 5 stars for this pack. Maybe I'll see you on the PMT someday.
I just picked this up and your review has confirmed I made good decision! Thank you! New subscriber, look forward to checking out all your content! Happy trails!
I recently bought the 60L..absolute dream of a pack. I use the zipper constantly whether loading the pack up or taking things out...no issues with quality whatsoever and friends were quite jealous of the easy access the zipper provides. I also bought a rain cover from Outdoor vitals for around 7 dollars.
I really like my Shadowlight. The only change I would make is the zipper on the hip pockets would be MUCH better for me if it was straight and not turn down at the ends. I cut the stitching on one shoulder strap to put on my water bottle holder. The clips are so small that the strap will not come off without cutting the stitches at the end. Have had no problems.
I have this pack and love love it! It change my backpacking enjoyment! It carries the load very well my shoulders and hips never hurt. I did carry Osprey which is a wonderful pack also but my shoulders would be hurting at the end of a long day backpacking. I have done some 20 mile days with this pack and it works wonderful!
Good thorough review! Always appreciate knowing the potential downsides, in addition to the positive features... Glad you're happy with the pack, overall 👍
I agree with you about the zipper, I use a pack liner so it wouldn't be useful for me and adds a potential point of failure. I would also prefer an un-divided back mesh pocket but that isn't a big deal either way
Nothing better than a great piece of gear for a decent price. I've had great luck with Six Moons for value packs, but I would love to try a new brand for sure. Thanks, ya'll!
Nice review Taylor. I didn't realize it wasn't a waterproof pack. I figured with the zipper you wouldn't use a pack liner so you could access your gear. Good to know.
Nice review! I've wondered about the zipper down the middle of the pack. It always seemed unnecessary to me as well, but I'm sure there are people who love it! Looking forward to seeing what the new pack is!
I recently completed a thru hike of the Pinhoti Trail and I own the 40 and the 60L packs. I did not think I would like the zipper, but I am fond of that feature. With that said the zipper is not waterproof and it leaks and the hydration port is poorly designed. The top pockets do not have a drain hole and they hold water. The top Y Strap is too short to hold a bear canister up top. My biggest pro is how comfortable this pack is on me. It fits like a glove and it carries less than 20 pounds like a dream. The sit pad on the front of the pack is a great touch especially if you want to remove the frame and make it a frameless pack. You cannot beat this pack for the money. My InReach does fit on the top left shoulder strap for me just fine. I usually like to carry a water bottle on my shoulder strap, but gaining access to those big side pockets are not an issue for me. Happy Hiking
Great review Taylor I have the 60 L and really like it even though I am still dialing it in. I do love the split for mesh pocket and have not used the zipper. Only change I would like to see is a couple of daisy chains on the shoulder straps, even one on each strap would be great if placed properly. Take Care
Honestly that’s something I would really like too! Tayson and his designer said they didn’t like them because they didn’t believe in adding weight to the straps which is crazy to me.
@@SouthernHike for the CT I bought a GroundBird Gear custom one but SUPER expensive and the harness actually doesn’t fit too well because of his chest plate. It did have removable saddle bags and you can customize the size which is why I got it. The one I used most was a MountainSmith K-9 pack and liked it. I did order the Alpha Pak 2 piece and will test it out this year since it has the removable saddle bags.
@@SouthernHike the thing I don’t like about the Ruffwear packs is that the bag sizes get larger with size of harness. Remy has a big girth so I usually need a larger harness, but don’t need the huge saddle bags nor should anyone be packing that much into their dog’s pack! I’m actually surprised Ruffwear doesn’t make a 2 piece yet. Maybe soon…they just started selling booties by pairs instead of 4 ct since most dogs’ front and back paws are different sizes.
Good review, appreciate you taking the time to make this. 400-500 miles is probably more than most people in a year. One thing I think you underrated is that the load lifters don’t work, that is a pretty big deal if you were to take it on a thru hike. Still great content!
Appreciate your comment Drew! As I said in the video I’m not sure if that is a “me” problem and I ordered the wrong size. Once I finally get them set right they work well.
awesome video on this pack Taylor, great details, I have been looking for a lighter pack...wondering, does the 60 fit a BV450? I have to carry one in the Sierra, CA.
I use a BV500 and it fits inside vertically in the 40L Shadowlight well. However, if you want to carry it up top your BV450 will not fit due to the Y Strap being too short. Happy Hiking
Thanks for the review. I got interested in this pack because it is one of the few lightweight packs that actually has a good number of pockets rather than just one big bag. I never expected any pack to be waterproof, just too many stitches and seams. I wonder if the frame stays were chopped down like 1/2" if it would stop the squeaking? I wish they would do away with the zipper and just have one large mesh stuff pocket for wet gear while on the move. Zippers are a weak point, I prefer stuff loading on the main compartment. I also wish they would make one in a dark (not mint) green. I agree on the price.
That is a problem with canisters and many 40L packs. It’s usually best to find a way to strap it on the outside. I wish they would make the Y strap larger on top for that.
The zipper is def the worst point of the bag, i know it’s controversial so some people rlly like it but it is the one reason I didnt buy it. It sucks for rain, makes pack liners useless if you did use it
I bought one for my son last year. The 60L. He used it on our 250 mile NOBO thru hike of the JMT in July 21. It carries a heavy load (at the pack weight limit) nicely and comfortably. Its outside pockets allow for great gear organization and it is very durable. The only thing that happened was some wear on the belt (both sides) where the shoulder strap crosses the belt on its way to connect to the bottom of the pack. This isn't overly problematic and is minor. This pack will still last for 100's of miles longer... and the good new is.. if the belt does wear to the point that it needs to be replaced.. it is removable so you can just get a new belt from OV. No squeaking from his pack
Thanks for sharing the info Juan!
My buddy has that pack and used it when we did our 60-60-60. He loves it. Great review. Crow✌️
Thanks Crow! It’s been solid!
I ALOMOST got one of these, glad to see your review. :)
It's the only ultralight bag that has that zipper in the front. It might not be for everyone but I really think they should keep it. It sets it apart and is super useful for people who are organized like this.
I have the 45L and love it. I have not used the zipper either but I think it is a good feature. 5 stars for this pack. Maybe I'll see you on the PMT someday.
💪🏻💪🏻
I’ve seen a few people with that pack. Everyone seems happy with it. I really enjoyed your review of the pack. Really cool Taylor 👍🏻👍🏻
Thanks Jason. Appreciate you stopping by man!
I just picked this up and your review has confirmed I made good decision! Thank you! New subscriber, look forward to checking out all your content! Happy trails!
I recently bought the 60L..absolute dream of a pack. I use the zipper constantly whether loading the pack up or taking things out...no issues with quality whatsoever and friends were quite jealous of the easy access the zipper provides. I also bought a rain cover from Outdoor vitals for around 7 dollars.
I really like my Shadowlight. The only change I would make is the zipper on the hip pockets would be MUCH better for me if it was straight and not turn down at the ends. I cut the stitching on one shoulder strap to put on my water bottle holder. The clips are so small that the strap will not come off without cutting the stitches at the end. Have had no problems.
I’ve gotten pretty good at the zipper. And yeah I’ve heard a few people do that, I’m just not a fan of messing with stitching.
Another awesome review for those thinking about purchasing this pack.
Thank you!! Love your new logo!
I have this pack and love love it! It change my backpacking enjoyment! It carries the load very well my shoulders and hips never hurt. I did carry Osprey which is a wonderful pack also but my shoulders would be hurting at the end of a long day backpacking. I have done some 20 mile days with this pack and it works wonderful!
That’s awesome! It’s a solid pack.
Good thorough review! Always appreciate knowing the potential downsides, in addition to the positive features... Glad you're happy with the pack, overall 👍
Thanks dude! It did a great job.
I agree with you about the zipper, I use a pack liner so it wouldn't be useful for me and adds a potential point of failure. I would also prefer an un-divided back mesh pocket but that isn't a big deal either way
I actually like the divided pockets. Gives me more organizational room.
Nothing better than a great piece of gear for a decent price. I've had great luck with Six Moons for value packs, but I would love to try a new brand for sure. Thanks, ya'll!
Of course! Thanks for watching!
Nice review Taylor. I didn't realize it wasn't a waterproof pack. I figured with the zipper you wouldn't use a pack liner so you could access your gear. Good to know.
Most packs are not waterproof, only water resistant. The best practice is to always use a pack liner. It is a great pack for me.
Thanks Greg! Yeah that was a huge detail that confused everyone.
Nice review! I've wondered about the zipper down the middle of the pack. It always seemed unnecessary to me as well, but I'm sure there are people who love it!
Looking forward to seeing what the new pack is!
I have yet to find someone who thought the zipper was needed but it hasn’t bothered me. Lol thanks for watching man!
Hey, great new video my friend :) We like that review of the year, good idea. We wish you a nice week. ADM Team !
Thanks!
I recently completed a thru hike of the Pinhoti Trail and I own the 40 and the 60L packs. I did not think I would like the zipper, but I am fond of that feature. With that said the zipper is not waterproof and it leaks and the hydration port is poorly designed. The top pockets do not have a drain hole and they hold water. The top Y Strap is too short to hold a bear canister up top. My biggest pro is how comfortable this pack is on me. It fits like a glove and it carries less than 20 pounds like a dream. The sit pad on the front of the pack is a great touch especially if you want to remove the frame and make it a frameless pack. You cannot beat this pack for the money. My InReach does fit on the top left shoulder strap for me just fine. I usually like to carry a water bottle on my shoulder strap, but gaining access to those big side pockets are not an issue for me. Happy Hiking
Thank you for sharing!
Great review Taylor I have the 60 L and really like it even though I am still dialing it in. I do love the split for mesh pocket and have not used the zipper. Only change I would like to see is a couple of daisy chains on the shoulder straps, even one on each strap would be great if placed properly. Take Care
Honestly that’s something I would really like too! Tayson and his designer said they didn’t like them because they didn’t believe in adding weight to the straps which is crazy to me.
@@SouthernHike It would be Grams even if they added 2 on each side.
@@davidson_oldbull_sectionhiker I think it's more of the things you would add if you had the loops. Like bottle holders, pockets, etc.
@@SouthernHike yes, this 79 year old arm doesn’t reach back easily to grab a water bottle. Lol
How would you feel about the 45l?
Well done man. Honest and thorough. I like your pack but my old ass needs those load lifters and daisy chains!
😂🤣 right on dude!
I notice you guys having a snack at Rocky Point on the PMT. lol
We love to stop there for breaks and snack time lol
Thanks for the thorough review. Just ordered mine today.
That’s awesome! Appreciate you watching.
@@SouthernHike no, thank YOU. Because of your video, I felt comfortable spending the money and ordering the backpack.
I’m with you on the zipper. I would rather have one big front Lycra pocket than the two smaller one. Otherwise I love this pack.
Have that same CTUG Shoulder Pocket on the HMG pack! Love the extra tallboy pockets at the top of the pack!
Absolutely man! I won’t go without one now!
The custom pack I ordered for Remy for the CT also had the Robics fabric and held up nicely against rock scrapes.
We got to buy Duke a pack. What brand is yours??
@@SouthernHike for the CT I bought a GroundBird Gear custom one but SUPER expensive and the harness actually doesn’t fit too well because of his chest plate. It did have removable saddle bags and you can customize the size which is why I got it. The one I used most was a MountainSmith K-9 pack and liked it. I did order the Alpha Pak 2 piece and will test it out this year since it has the removable saddle bags.
We been using the ruff ware harness for a year now and wondered if their packs were any good. The harness fits duke great.
@@SouthernHike the thing I don’t like about the Ruffwear packs is that the bag sizes get larger with size of harness. Remy has a big girth so I usually need a larger harness, but don’t need the huge saddle bags nor should anyone be packing that much into their dog’s pack! I’m actually surprised Ruffwear doesn’t make a 2 piece yet. Maybe soon…they just started selling booties by pairs instead of 4 ct since most dogs’ front and back paws are different sizes.
Thank, enjoyed this and your honest review, I subbed on the strength of it.
Appreciate that Bobby! Thank you for your support!
Good review, appreciate you taking the time to make this. 400-500 miles is probably more than most people in a year. One thing I think you underrated is that the load lifters don’t work, that is a pretty big deal if you were to take it on a thru hike. Still great content!
Appreciate your comment Drew! As I said in the video I’m not sure if that is a “me” problem and I ordered the wrong size. Once I finally get them set right they work well.
Just got mine today, can't wait to get out!
Heck yes! That’s awesome!
Thanks for the review of the pack!
Ofcourse!
Very good review. Thanks for providing this review.
Thanks!
awesome video on this pack Taylor, great details, I have been looking for a lighter pack...wondering, does the 60 fit a BV450? I have to carry one in the Sierra, CA.
It does! I have that canister myself. It’s a solid pack for the price!
I use a BV500 and it fits inside vertically in the 40L Shadowlight well. However, if you want to carry it up top your BV450 will not fit due to the Y Strap being too short. Happy Hiking
@@cottontalesfromthetrail5474 I ordered the 60 l and it fits great 👍😊
@@NicoleHikesalot it is a very comfortable pack and that sit pad on the front really protects your back from getting jabbed. Happy Hiking
Great review, Taylor!
Thanks man!
Nice comprehensive review Taylor! Always great to see the good and not so good things about gear. How was the overall comfortability of this pack?
Appreciate it man. Surprisingly very well. That’s what I enjoyed most about the pack. Comfort.
Thanks for the review. I got interested in this pack because it is one of the few lightweight packs that actually has a good number of pockets rather than just one big bag. I never expected any pack to be waterproof, just too many stitches and seams. I wonder if the frame stays were chopped down like 1/2" if it would stop the squeaking? I wish they would do away with the zipper and just have one large mesh stuff pocket for wet gear while on the move. Zippers are a weak point, I prefer stuff loading on the main compartment. I also wish they would make one in a dark (not mint) green. I agree on the price.
Yeah I don’t get the zipper! And I would love a black one! Thanks for watching!!
Thanks for the honest review, new to your channel. How do you think it compares to the Durston pack?
Thank you for being here. To be 100% with you I don’t know anything about the new Durston pack. I need to check it out!
Nice new gear.
Actually had this pack a year 👍🏻 thanks for watching.
Great review thanks
Thanks for watching!
I have the 45L. My main issue is that it's incredibly small for a Bear Canister. :,( I love it other than that
That is a problem with canisters and many 40L packs. It’s usually best to find a way to strap it on the outside. I wish they would make the Y strap larger on top for that.
Great video!
Thanks stranger!
@@SouthernHike I'm editing UA-cam videos as we speak haha Coming back baby!
Nice hoodie. Any details on this if possible?
Details of what?
Did you find that the top outside pockets fill up with water if it rained. If you poke a hole inbthose top 2 pockets with the hole fray?
Not really to be honest. As far as the fabric I would reach out to OV. I don’t plan to cut mine.
Is that the 45?
60
I talk about it in the video.
I didn’t catch it.
Is it true that this pack does not have exterior straps at the bottom of the pack for tent/sleeping bag?
Correct.
Is that zipper waterfproof (rain)... nevermind, just got to that point.
👍🏻
Using a pack liner negates the mid zipper imo
👌🏻
The zipper is def the worst point of the bag, i know it’s controversial so some people rlly like it but it is the one reason I didnt buy it. It sucks for rain, makes pack liners useless if you did use it
I didn’t use it but it never was really a bother for me.
OV can suck it!!!
But your my boy Blue!!! Your my boy!!! Also love that jacket, just don't tell Buckley I said that lmbo!!!!
😂🤣 exactly what I thought after I posted! It’s super warm and I like how it looks.
Yeah dude its Nice
another ov failure..
Huh?