[pct-l] Ultralight backpack pros and cons

[David Grayson]

Russell,
   My pack strategy is a hybrid - a New Zeeland AARN BODY PACK. The unit
weighs about 4.2lbs and will carry 4500ci including forward BALANCE POCKETS.
It is bulletproof and can anything you can get into it.  I don't want to
carry a pack - I plan to WEAR my pack like my shirt.  It is literally that
comfortable to use.
Dave Grayson

Message: 14
Date: Sat, 17 Dec 2011 16:14:57 -0700
From: Russell Mease <measerp at gmail.com>
Subject: [pct-l] Ultra Light Backpack Pros and Cons
To: pct-l at backcountry.net
Message-ID:
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Here's my question:  Is it worth having a lightweight pack if you have to
suffer carrying 25-30 lbs with in-adequate support and a pack that will
have to be replaced every 500-1000 miles (at $150-$250 a pop), sore
shoulders, sweaty back because of no ventilation, etc....  Or, is it wiser
to go with a more traditional pack like the Aether, sacrifice some weight
(but stick to light weight gear for the rest) and be able to carry your
pack in comfort and the pack will last the entire thru-hike and most likely
many more years of use?
Thanks for your reply!
Russ Mease