Originally Posted by
MuddyWaters
Yes there is a definite tradeoff
But UL packs, with reasonable care, should last several thousand miles.
Just dont drag them across concrete, or throw down and sit on them, or overload them, cram pointy things in them, etc.
My 16.7 oz cuben arcblast has about 700 miles on it, no wear issues except I rubbed a few small holes in it with bear cannister, easily repaired with cuben tape on inside. The dyneema is tougher.
Not sure what you plan to do that would destroy a pack before a thru hike.
No experience with the arc haul, or the new arc blast with adjustable suspension, heavier belt, and round stays and bottom stay to handle more wt
When Joe made mine it was a UL pack, custom torso length
And its perfect
After 700 miles, for 17-25 lbs, I still cant envision a pack being any better .
Im considering getting rid of my last circuit (had 3) and getting a larger new one for winter.
Like other said. Get all your gear first. Then get a pack to handle it comfortably with at least 5 days days food and 2L water.