Gossamer Gear G4-20

So close to a perfect pack. Capacity, functionality of pockets, straps, hip belt etc. are ideal for a lightweight setup, but lack of a suspension seriously dings it.

I've now used this pack on a number of one- to three-night trips, at least 20 nights total. Pack weight has never exceeded 26 lbs, even with water and food. I'll get my only criticism out of the way now which is the poor way this thing carries  even moderate loads. The website states it can carry comfortably up to 30 lbs—that's what they all say, right? I've tinkered with add-on components to provide some rigidity to the back panel (see below), but so far things have improved only a little bit. I'd be most appreciative if any of you have discovered a reproducible strategy to stiffen this up.

For comparison, I've been using a 2nd generation Osprey Exos 48 for years on longer trips. Granted, it has a suspension, but it can carry over 30 lbs with relative comfort. My only other frameless pack was a Golite Jam 2 which was far less sophisticated than the G4-20, but carried 25 lbs remarkably well. The perfect setup would be the G4-20 mated with the Exos suspension.

The pack is made from recycled Robic fabric, and so far, so good. No abrasions or wear spots, but I take care to not abuse my gear. Capacity of the pack is 30L up to the base of the extension collar. With the collar and pockets, capacity tops out at 42 L—so says the product specs. With my current summer kit, and three days worth of food, the pack is full but not overstuffed.

I love every thing about this pack, except for its tendency to sag off my backside and too much weight hanging on my shoulders. If I cinch the hip belt really really tight, the pack will sort of stay put on my hips, but at the expense of pushing my intestines up under my diaphragm. There has to be better way. 

Background

20+ nights on trail with this pack. 40+ years with over 20 different packs.