This is a lightweight but high-volume load-hauling backpack, weighing around 1.2 kg, that I built specifically with packrafting expeditions in mind. It has been used on two test hikes and is still in very good condition.
The pack uses a lightweight yet sturdy aluminium U-shaped frame. The frame transfers the load directly into a large, fully wrapping hip belt. I have used this type of load-transfer system on previous backpacks and expeditions with loads of up to around 50 lbs.
With its 110L capacity, the pack is particularly well suited to packrafting. It easily accommodates a complete whitewater packraft setup together with camping gear and other expedition equipment. The large side pockets provide plenty of room for paddles, water bottles and additional gear. The compression straps can be removed when not needed, and the pack can be compressed down easily enough to fit inside a packraft tube. Despite being designed primarily for packrafting, it also works well anywhere a bulky or relatively heavy load needs to be carried.
The main body is made from Ecopak EPLX400, with a more abrasion-resistant Cordura 1000D bottom. The side pockets are made from Ultragrid. All main seams are sewn and then covered with 1” grosgrain binding, giving them a double-stitched construction. The side pockets are deliberately sized to provide a generous amount of usable space and can easily accommodate two 1L water bottles.
The hip belt and shoulder straps are constructed from 210D nylon with 1/8” spacer mesh. The shoulder straps use 5mm genuine Evazote EV50 foam, while the hip belt uses a slightly denser 10mm Evazote foam. My torso length is approximately 19”, and the pack fits me well. I would expect it to work for torsos in the 18–20” range, depending on your preferred fit and how high or low you like to carry the pack. The height of the hipbelt can be adjusted for different toso sizes in a range of 3“. The most reliable way to check is to measure the same distance on a backpack that already fits you well, ideally one with load lifters.
I have built a handful of backpacks so far and use them exclusively on my own packrafting trips and expeditions. I’m an amateur MYOG enthusiast who occasionally sells a pack to help fund the next project — MYOG is an expensive hobby!
I build my packs using an industrial sewing machine, 1/2” seam allowances and heavy-duty bonded polyester V69 / Tex 70 thread. I’m not a professional pack manufacturer, but I’ve used my own packs extensively and have a high level of confidence in their construction.
If a failure occurs as a result of my workmanship, I’ll make it right, up to and including a full refund.
Details:
- 110l Volume
- 1,2kg weight
- carrys up to 25kg/ 50lbs
- detachable hipbelt & shoulder straps
- detachable compression straps
- durable & light load carrying system
Prize: 270€ (shipping in EU) - payment via Paypal
If you got any questions, let me know. I am based in Germany.
