I forgot to comment a few videos before when they first appeared, that the new "table of contents" graphics shown at the beginning of the videos are a good addition (the tests are still good, my other favorite is the "competiton" sections at the end). Thank you and keep up the good work!
Great video showcasing this pack. I appreciate all the useful information. It is so helpful seeing these type of videos, especially for cottage gear you can't really see in person without purchasing. Thanks!
I have a Kakwa 40, exos 58 and the subNero 30 (robic fabric). I like my sub Nero a lot and going to make a real go at being my two night pack in 40 plus low environments. I use it as a day pack too. It packs down small and easy to bring with you even when you have a bigger pack. I have the v strap and the shoulder bottle holder.
I have this same pack, but I added some shock cord to the loops in a zigzag pattern on the outer pocket with an adjustable clip which help to secure loose items in the pack when it's not very full. This works reasonably well, but does have the side effect of bunching the pack up when the main compartment is not full. I also have the hip belt on mine, and because this is a frameless pack it does little to transfer the weight. I do however find it helpful when I have a heavy water carry to prevent the pack from shifting around as much. Just my added two cents worth.
I’m always looking up reviews on things and a lot of times it just seems like a promo and not so much like a real review. So thank you, I appreciate your honesty! You give me the opportunity to provide myself with a better and safer experience as a hiker 🏆
Thank you! Appreciate it - I get offers for free stuff all the time these days but would rather not be beholden to anyone. Happy to see it's appreciated!
Thank you for sharing this information. I will be purchasing one soon. I struggle with shoulder & neck issues so heavy packs kill me. I usually strap all I need to a hip pack. Looking forward to trying this as another option.
Always appreciate your gear reviews! I'm primarily a backpacker, but was looking for a day pack with a bit larger internal volume than my cheap Teton day pack (18L). That one has been surprisingly good for the price, but it's 2 lbs, and half of its available volume is in the form of a separate hydration bladder area. This review was very helpful in narrowing down on the pack type I'm after. I was just about to pull the trigger on the Zpacks Sub-Nero, but then discovered the Waymark Gear Mile 28L pack (22L main compartment volume, weighs 16oz). It's only around $150, which seems like a great deal for the quality of the pack. Thought it might make a great day pack for family outings and would be fun to try out for ultralight fair-weather overnighters. Thought I'd post this for any backpackers out there that might be interested in a great crossover pack option.
I tried the Waymark but my back really got sweaty with the flat pad on the back. Didn't try swapping out the pad for something more vented but maybe worth a try. Def a good pack if the sweat isn't an issue for you.
I have the Deuter Speed Lite 20 and find it perfect for day hikes. Zpacks are great but for day hikes way too expensive. I would spend the higher priced ultralight packs if I was looking for a pack for multiple-day or thru hikes.
In the past you’ve been reluctant to *not get something with a trampoline system (to avoid sweat). I’m wondering how this one fairs in that department (considering the sit pad). I’m glad you mentioned the “bagger” I’ve been eyeing it for travel!
In this lightweight category I couldn't find anything with a trampoline. When I was testing the Osprey Hikelite (with trampoline) was off the market but just is trickling back now - I also tried a Z-Packs Arc Haul (with trampoline) but it's way to big for a day hike. So this was the best on balance of the other options. Wish Zpacks would make a "arc haul" day pack. Lots of the ultralight guys seem to not value back venting much
Great review! The Gossamer Gear Minimalist 19 is a great option too, especially for the price (under $50 when on sale). Made of durable robic nylon, mesh pockets, water bladder sleeve quick draw sting opening and zip pocket for wallet and keys. Really light at only 10oz and the Z-seat sit pad folded in half fits perfectly in the back panel for back venting. Can cinch tight against you back for a running vest feel. I have lots of high end day packs but this has been my go to pack.
I went from a 28L pack to a 13L pack, for day hikes, a few years ago. One of the best decisions that I've made. It's surprising how much can fit into a 13L pack. Now, I'd never go back to a bigger pack again.
Yea, it's interesting, and maybe I didn't stress it enough, but this is really a 17L pack with some external pockets. And the roll-top means I can get the size down pretty small as well. Even this spring when I was in the snow, the size of this worked well.
Zpacks is hard to get in Europe. I can recommend the Forclaz foldable waterproof backpack 25l from Decathlon it's not the most comfortable but it is super lightweight at 300g and cost only 25 Euro.
Do you think this pack would be comfortable for taller people? I'm 6'2" with a long torso. I find most packs that are an appropriate capacity for day hikes are too small in the harness, feel restrictive and don't ride comfortably. I've checked out the Osprey Stratos 24 and it's extended height is nice but I really want to go ultralight. Enjoy your work. Thanks!
I'm 6" and it works well for me, but I usually don't have too many problems with pack fit. There's no frame so it's a different type of fit than the Stratos. ZPacks has a 30 day return policy, so you could give it a try.
I really find it distasteful for brands to use the number that indicates a certain volume for the main compartment but then it‘s just a combined volume. Makes you think it‘s a bigger pack and you would compare it to the wrong backpacks from other manufacturers
?? Error?? Well, if you would have asked me nicely if I had tried the Minimalist 19, I would have told you that I used it for a month last fall, and while good, the flat pad on the back is not great for venting. When it's wet you also need a liner or cover, unlinke the SubNero. Glad it worked for you in the Sierras but on a humid hike on the AT or a hot day on the PCT, I'd take the ZPacks.
I just got the Zpacks Bagger Ultra 25L backpack. Yes, the pocket for the sit cushion causes my back to sweat a lot.
I forgot to comment a few videos before when they first appeared, that the new "table of contents" graphics shown at the beginning of the videos are a good addition (the tests are still good, my other favorite is the "competiton" sections at the end). Thank you and keep up the good work!
Great video showcasing this pack. I appreciate all the useful information. It is so helpful seeing these type of videos, especially for cottage gear you can't really see in person without purchasing. Thanks!
I have a Kakwa 40, exos 58 and the subNero 30 (robic fabric).
I like my sub Nero a lot and going to make a real go at being my two night pack in 40 plus low environments.
I use it as a day pack too. It packs down small and easy to bring with you even when you have a bigger pack.
I have the v strap and the shoulder bottle holder.
I have this same pack, but I added some shock cord to the loops in a zigzag pattern on the outer pocket with an adjustable clip which help to secure loose items in the pack when it's not very full. This works reasonably well, but does have the side effect of bunching the pack up when the main compartment is not full. I also have the hip belt on mine, and because this is a frameless pack it does little to transfer the weight. I do however find it helpful when I have a heavy water carry to prevent the pack from shifting around as much. Just my added two cents worth.
Thanks for posting, might try the belt for heavier water carries.
Yet another detailed review HG. Still going strong with my Osprey Hike-lite.
I’m always looking up reviews on things and a lot of times it just seems like a promo and not so much like a real review. So thank you, I appreciate your honesty! You give me the opportunity to provide myself with a better and safer experience as a hiker 🏆
Thank you! Appreciate it - I get offers for free stuff all the time these days but would rather not be beholden to anyone. Happy to see it's appreciated!
Thank you for sharing this information. I will be purchasing one soon. I struggle with shoulder & neck issues so heavy packs kill me. I usually strap all I need to a hip pack. Looking forward to trying this as another option.
I got a gossamer gear minimalist 19 pack. The sternum strap was too short and a longer one is available but I just removed it. $79, it's a winner
Always appreciate your gear reviews! I'm primarily a backpacker, but was looking for a day pack with a bit larger internal volume than my cheap Teton day pack (18L). That one has been surprisingly good for the price, but it's 2 lbs, and half of its available volume is in the form of a separate hydration bladder area. This review was very helpful in narrowing down on the pack type I'm after. I was just about to pull the trigger on the Zpacks Sub-Nero, but then discovered the Waymark Gear Mile 28L pack (22L main compartment volume, weighs 16oz). It's only around $150, which seems like a great deal for the quality of the pack. Thought it might make a great day pack for family outings and would be fun to try out for ultralight fair-weather overnighters. Thought I'd post this for any backpackers out there that might be interested in a great crossover pack option.
I tried the Waymark but my back really got sweaty with the flat pad on the back. Didn't try swapping out the pad for something more vented but maybe worth a try. Def a good pack if the sweat isn't an issue for you.
@@Hikingguy Would definitely be nice if they offered a ventilated option for the Waymark packs.
I have the Deuter Speed Lite 20 and find it perfect for day hikes. Zpacks are great but for day hikes way too expensive. I would spend the higher priced ultralight packs if I was looking for a pack for multiple-day or thru hikes.
In the past you’ve been reluctant to *not get something with a trampoline system (to avoid sweat). I’m wondering how this one fairs in that department (considering the sit pad). I’m glad you mentioned the “bagger” I’ve been eyeing it for travel!
In this lightweight category I couldn't find anything with a trampoline. When I was testing the Osprey Hikelite (with trampoline) was off the market but just is trickling back now - I also tried a Z-Packs Arc Haul (with trampoline) but it's way to big for a day hike. So this was the best on balance of the other options. Wish Zpacks would make a "arc haul" day pack. Lots of the ultralight guys seem to not value back venting much
Thanks for your hard work. Not a weight weenie, but like to save weight were I can so I can bring luxury items.
Great review! The Gossamer Gear Minimalist 19 is a great option too, especially for the price (under $50 when on sale). Made of durable robic nylon, mesh pockets, water bladder sleeve quick draw sting opening and zip pocket for wallet and keys. Really light at only 10oz and the Z-seat sit pad folded in half fits perfectly in the back panel for back venting. Can cinch tight against you back for a running vest feel. I have lots of high end day packs but this has been my go to pack.
I went from a 28L pack to a 13L pack, for day hikes, a few years ago. One of the best decisions that I've made. It's surprising how much can fit into a 13L pack. Now, I'd never go back to a bigger pack again.
I’m in the same boat as you. I carry a 14L pack and it holds everything I need.
@@lukepaulson3428 Exactly!
Yea, it's interesting, and maybe I didn't stress it enough, but this is really a 17L pack with some external pockets. And the roll-top means I can get the size down pretty small as well. Even this spring when I was in the snow, the size of this worked well.
@@Hikingguy Good point! That definitely allows some flexibility. The best pack is always the one that suits the needs of whoever is using it.
These look like great packs but the pricing is ridiculous. Thanks for a good review all the same.
Zpacks is hard to get in Europe. I can recommend the Forclaz foldable waterproof backpack 25l from Decathlon it's not the most comfortable but it is super lightweight at 300g and cost only 25 Euro.
Why thank you sir 🤝
I also use Sub-Nero Ultra
from Japan.
How do u like it? There is a lot of ultra light daypacks in japan. Why did u choose this?
I chose Ultra because the fabric looked cool. It's very comfortable to use.
Curious to hear your thoughts about ultimate direction fastpack. It’s my fav
Do you think this pack would be comfortable for taller people? I'm 6'2" with a long torso. I find most packs that are an appropriate capacity for day hikes are too small in the harness, feel restrictive and don't ride comfortably. I've checked out the Osprey Stratos 24 and it's extended height is nice but I really want to go ultralight. Enjoy your work. Thanks!
I'm 6" and it works well for me, but I usually don't have too many problems with pack fit. There's no frame so it's a different type of fit than the Stratos. ZPacks has a 30 day return policy, so you could give it a try.
I just bought a Gregory Paragon 68 for about the same price. Am I a sucker?
Gregory Paragon 68 is a great pack for long backpacking trips - this is more of a lightweight day hike / overnight pack for me
Sub-Nero is good except for the lack of small pockets to organize.
Khm khm or you can buy aonijie 28l with all of those add-ons on it for 70$
I really find it distasteful for brands to use the number that indicates a certain volume for the main compartment but then it‘s just a combined volume. Makes you think it‘s a bigger pack and you would compare it to the wrong backpacks from other manufacturers
Enjoy the videos. Have you ever run into a mountain lion? It would be great to have a a video on safe practices for wildlife encounters while hiking.
Thanks for the suggestion - have something like that in the works - and no, mountain lions are pretty rare to see in CA, but I've seen tracks
欲しいけどそもそも日本では売り切れしまくりで手に入らない。。お値段高いけど日本では需要は確実にあります。
Error!!! You didn’t review Gossamer Gear ultralight backpacks. Way way superior. As a Sierra Guide and having done JMT in 8 days at age 62 they rule.
?? Error?? Well, if you would have asked me nicely if I had tried the Minimalist 19, I would have told you that I used it for a month last fall, and while good, the flat pad on the back is not great for venting. When it's wet you also need a liner or cover, unlinke the SubNero. Glad it worked for you in the Sierras but on a humid hike on the AT or a hot day on the PCT, I'd take the ZPacks.
Sorry, text is not a great way to communicate. Never intended anything negative. I love your work my apology.
@@evanshaw17 appreciate it & thank you, all good