Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra 62L

An amazing pack in so many ways.

First off, I want to say that overall, the design is brilliant in so many ways. I have used many packs over my lifetime and while this one is minimalist, it's more functional than many packs I have used. Just the fact you can use the zippers to get to any part of the pack you need without unpacking it is a game changer for me.

The material on this feels like a heavy duty fabric and I have to admit it’s a little weird given how light the pack is. It makes your mind do a small doubletake sometimes.

Connections in the rights spots and the ability to expand to accommodate bear proof containers is well thought out. Inside are a series of connectors that span one side of the other to help draw the pack in once packed and also take stress off the zippers.

All this, but the one thing that truly has blown my mind is how well the belt strap fits. It has two adjustments for each side up front that I have never seen or had on any other pack. In combination this provides a custom fit to the wearer. I can make it fit like it was designed for me. I’ve never had anything like it. Now that I have used it on the trail I can say I've not had better. 

The price is what it is. It’s a hard pill to swallow but with all the things mentioned above it makes me think its actually a good non-extravagant buy.

Note, I have not put this through extended use yet. Time will tell since this is a new fabric how long it will last.

Background

I have used many other backpacks over my lifetime. Previously Osprey was my go-to pack of choice. I simply had not found a better one. This pack however surpasses those in weight, comfort and use. That's actually saying a lot. Osprey makes excellent packs. Top of the pack in packs. :)