Just received my Shadowlight in time for a quick trip to the Big Island this week. After originally ordering a KOTA UL and with part-time care giving added into the mix of activities, the KOTA was just too small for my use as a regular travel pack and for backpacking/hiking needs. I would love to have a 50-65L version of the KOTA as it was by far one of the best packs that I have owned (even if briefly), but the Shadowlight will be more than adequate for my needs when traveling and backpacking/hiking. My torso falls in the reg range but being 5'11" and on the larger size at 260lbs I went with a 60L Tall and the largest hipbelt offered and the fit is nearly perfect and will be just right after losing more than a few pounds along the way. Of course, YMMV! Can't thank Nerissa enough for taking care of my concerns/needs in getting a pack that does the job on so many fronts for me - I love my Shadowlight!
This is a great pack, I would recommend to anyone. I have the 45 liter and it easily fits all my gear, even on winter camping trips. It’s comfortable to wear, the front pockets and extra space with the roll top are very useful. I would love to see more colors in the future.
Do you recommend this pack or the CS40 for a hike like the Uinta Highline trail? Is 40L big enough, and will it hold enough weight for gear for that long of a hike, or do you recommend the 65L of the Shadowlight?
It depends on your gear setup. Our team used the CS40 for the Uinta Highline trail with no problems. We completed the full trail in 5 days & carried all our gear & food for the trip from the start. If you don't feel like your gear is quite dialed in yet in terms of size & weight, then the 60L Shadowlight is a great option.
Really like my Shadowlight. The only change I would make is the hip belt pockets. If the zipper remained straight instead of turning down at the end, it would not get stuck as much for us big hikers. Otherwise, you have made a very good pack!!!
This is a new channel specifically about our gear. Our large channel has more about trips, adventures, advice, etc. Check it out here: th-cam.com/channels/A0hrAlLlRRw_RNlE6-Nnjg.html?view_as=subscriber
What is the capacity of the main compartment? Everyone counts the capacity of all the straps, exterior pockets, etc. making it difficult to compare. I've been borrowing a Gossamer Gear Mariposa and would like just a smidge more space since my sleep system is bulky (but worth it to me.)
From the specs on their website: 45L - (35L main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L) 60L - (50L Main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L, Stretch mesh is bonus as well) Gossamer Gear lists the main compartment of the Mariposa as 36L.
We use inseam and height because it's actually a much simpler and more accurate way to get your real torso size using human proportions. People can measure their torso size differently, or make errors doing so. To avoid that, we can take your inseam length (which everyone should know based on the pants they wear) and height (also which everyone should already know) to calculate the correct torso. However, if you would still like to use actual torso measurements, 18" and under should take a small size torso, 18" to 21" should take Regular, and 22" and up should take Tall.
Just received my Shadowlight in time for a quick trip to the Big Island this week. After originally ordering a KOTA UL and with part-time care giving added into the mix of activities, the KOTA was just too small for my use as a regular travel pack and for backpacking/hiking needs. I would love to have a 50-65L version of the KOTA as it was by far one of the best packs that I have owned (even if briefly), but the Shadowlight will be more than adequate for my needs when traveling and backpacking/hiking. My torso falls in the reg range but being 5'11" and on the larger size at 260lbs I went with a 60L Tall and the largest hipbelt offered and the fit is nearly perfect and will be just right after losing more than a few pounds along the way. Of course, YMMV!
Can't thank Nerissa enough for taking care of my concerns/needs in getting a pack that does the job on so many fronts for me - I love my Shadowlight!
This is a great pack, I would recommend to anyone. I have the 45 liter and it easily fits all my gear, even on winter camping trips. It’s comfortable to wear, the front pockets and extra space with the roll top are very useful. I would love to see more colors in the future.
Thanks for your feedback and support!
Got mine and I luv it fits great don't feel it on my shoulders at all. Thanks OV
We’re glad you enjoy it!
Do you recommend this pack or the CS40 for a hike like the Uinta Highline trail? Is 40L big enough, and will it hold enough weight for gear for that long of a hike, or do you recommend the 65L of the Shadowlight?
It depends on your gear setup. Our team used the CS40 for the Uinta Highline trail with no problems. We completed the full trail in 5 days & carried all our gear & food for the trip from the start.
If you don't feel like your gear is quite dialed in yet in terms of size & weight, then the 60L Shadowlight is a great option.
Very interesting back, that vertical zip along the body might make it a good ultralight solution as camera bag.
Really like my Shadowlight. The only change I would make is the hip belt pockets. If the zipper remained straight instead of turning down at the end, it would not get stuck as much for us big hikers. Otherwise, you have made a very good pack!!!
Cannot believe you only have 200 subscribers. I legit thought it was a big official store video!
This is a new channel specifically about our gear. Our large channel has more about trips, adventures, advice, etc. Check it out here: th-cam.com/channels/A0hrAlLlRRw_RNlE6-Nnjg.html?view_as=subscriber
Great tips guys. Thanks
Nate
Our pleasure!
What is the capacity of the main compartment? Everyone counts the capacity of all the straps, exterior pockets, etc. making it difficult to compare. I've been borrowing a Gossamer Gear Mariposa and would like just a smidge more space since my sleep system is bulky (but worth it to me.)
From the specs on their website:
45L - (35L main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L)
60L - (50L Main compartment, pockets are 10L, then the rolltop is bonus 10L, Stretch mesh is bonus as well)
Gossamer Gear lists the main compartment of the Mariposa as 36L.
I am 5’5 130Lb. Short and small 60L should be good right
You would need to refer to the sizing chart on the product page.
I've never measured for a proper torso length for a backpack. How do you guys recommend measuring so I don't order the wrong pack?
REI has a nice guide for this.
We use inseam and height because it's actually a much simpler and more accurate way to get your real torso size using human proportions. People can measure their torso size differently, or make errors doing so. To avoid that, we can take your inseam length (which everyone should know based on the pants they wear) and height (also which everyone should already know) to calculate the correct torso. However, if you would still like to use actual torso measurements, 18" and under should take a small size torso, 18" to 21" should take Regular, and 22" and up should take Tall.
Awesome! Thanks for the help!@@outdoorvitals
@@outdoorvitalswhat are the sizes based on inseam and height?
How can I get a replacement back pad for mine?
You can email support@outdoorvitals.com to see if we can help you out.
Doesn't the zipper require the use of a pack liner?
We would recommend dry bags.