[pct-l] ULA backpacks: Circuit vs Catalyst

[Jim & Jane Moody]

Anne, 

I bought the Circuit last spring for my PCT section hike this summer.  I tried the Ohm, the Ohm2, and the Circuit.  I was looking for the lightest pack that would hold my gear AND be comfortable for my frame.  An Osprey ? (forgot the model) was identical in weight and capacity but not quite a s co mfortable for me. 



I was very pleased with the Circuit.  I was on the trail about 40 days, and it did its job well.  I had mailed ahead some of my bulkier gear (poles, fo am pad, etc.) so the Circuit would fit in the overhead bin on the plane.  No one challenged it as too big for "carry-on".   



One consideration may be the weather (cold or warm?) and the # of days you will be carrying food.  If you have winter gear and lots of food, you may need the greater capacity of the Catalyst. 



A note of caution.  I understand that the founder / owner of ULA has sold the company to a guy who is much less customer-friendly than his predecessor.  Several folks on th ePCT this year mentioned problems with customer service since the sale. 



Have a great hike! 

Mango 



----- Original Message -----


From: "Anne Estoppey" <anne_estoppey at yahoo.com> 
To: pct-l at backcountry.net 
Sent: Wednesday, August 29, 2012 7:18:47 PM 
Subject: [pct-l] ULA backpacks: Circuit vs Catalyst 

Hello all 

I am considering a ULA backpack for hiking in New Zealand + PCT in 2013. 

I have read on the ULA website the differences between Circuit and Catalyst backpacks. Circuit is a good deal lighter for instance, but Catalyst has no inner carbon material 'frame' which makes it less fragile for airplane transportation (I am located in Europe). 

Has somebody also been hesitant between the two packs? 

Which one did you choose at the end and why? 

Cheers 
Anne 

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