OHUB Evaluation: Gossamer Mariposa 60 Backpack

Introduction

I’ve been placing the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 by its paces for the previous few months, from day hikes to a severe 14-mile trek by Southeast Louisiana’s brutal swamps. Residing down right here, shopping for gear on-line is of venture since we don’t have native outlets to check issues out, so I made a decision to order the Mariposa on-line, strictly going by a number of the newest evaluations and discussion board feedback.

As somebody who’s cycled by numerous packs through the years, I took an opportunity on the up to date 2024 Mariposa 60 primarily based on its robust fame with thru-hikers. At 34.5 ounces with the curved hipbelt, this 60-liter pack regarded like an ultralight with performance.

Construct High quality & Supplies

The Mariposa is constructed with 100D and 210D Recycled Robic Ripstop nylon, and after plowing by thorns and tough Louisiana terrain, the material has held up nice. No tears, no extreme put on, and the fabric sheds water higher than anticipated. The aluminum body stick with PVT system feels stable and gives the spine for the pack’s 60-liter capability (cut up between 36L primary compartment and 24L exterior pockets). At 34.5 ounces for the small dimension with curved hipbelt, it’s impressively gentle for what you get. All of the zippers function easily even after getting soiled and moist, and the stitching appears clear all through with correctly strengthened stress factors. After I bought dwelling, I sprayed it with Scotch Guard, and that ought to deal with our loopy climate even higher. The one weak level I can see is that it’s not absolutely waterproof, however that’s typical for this weight class.

Ranking: 8.5/10

Consolation & Carry

That is the place the Mariposa actually shines. The Curved PVT Hipbelt was definitely worth the improve. The pivot system lets the pack transfer with you rather than combating your pure gait. The froth again panel creates a great buffer between you and your gear, so that you don’t really feel each merchandise urgent into your again. Throughout my 14-mile mission to a hidden pond, carrying about 20 kilos and pushing onerous to get there, I solely took one break and had zero again ache. The burden transfers to your hips nicely, making the load really feel lighter than it really is. Even when transferring quick by thick terrain, the pack stays balanced and doesn’t bounce round.

Ranking: 9/10

The detachable foam again panel retains you snug on the path and doubles as a sit-pad whenever you attain camp

Group & Format

The 60-liter capability is cut up between a 36L primary compartment and 24L throughout a number of exterior pockets. I appreciated that the setup has one lengthy facet pocket that’s good for tents and two shorter pockets on the opposite facet for water bottles and smaller gear. There are additionally zippered pockets and a big entrance mesh pocket. I used to be in a position to pack all my gear, together with a small battery lantern, with room to spare. The format helps you to arrange by perform or frequency of use while not having further stuff sacks. My solely criticism is that the asymmetrical pocket design appears odd at first, however it’s really actually useful when you get used to it.

Ranking: 9/10

The zippered facet pocket retains your small gear safe and inside simple attain whilst you’re on the transfer

Performance

For backpacking and outside use, this pack dealt with the whole lot I threw at it. The principle compartment simply matches a sleeping bag, garments, and meals, whereas the facet pockets preserve steadily used objects inside attain. The detachable foam again panel doubles as a sit-pad at camp. The pack works nice for day hikes too, although at 60 liters it may be overkill for some individuals. One other characteristic I appreciated was the exterior pockets that make it simple to seize water or snacks with out stopping to dig by the primary compartment. Bear canisters additionally match nicely both vertically or horizontally, relying on the mannequin.

Ranking: 9/10

Seems & Discretion

The Mariposa has a clear, useful look that doesn’t scream tactical or overly technical. I bought the inexperienced model, which blends nicely in outside settings. The design is extra about perform than trend, however it’s not ugly by any means. The asymmetrical pocket format provides it a novel look that some individuals love and others assume appears bizarre. Restricted coloration choices (inexperienced and grey) preserve it pretty low-key. It’s clearly a severe backpacking pack, so it received’t mix in city settings, however that’s not what it’s designed for.

Ranking: 9/10

The Mariposa 60 carried the whole lot I wanted for the day, together with a lantern. The pack carried out flawlessly, getting me to the pond

Worth & Last Ideas

At $315, it’s not low-cost, however for a totally featured, framed ultralight pack underneath 35 ounces, the value is truthful in comparison with comparable choices. When you think about that many comparable packs are both heavier or costlier, the Mariposa 60 hits a great candy spot. The 2024 updates with the brand new body system justify the price, and the consolation enhancements make it definitely worth the funding for severe hikers. I’d suggest it to anybody searching for a pack that bridges ultralight and luxury, particularly should you’re shopping for on-line and want one thing with a confirmed observe file.

Ranking: 8/10

General Ranking

It is a well-built, snug pack that proves ultralight doesn’t must imply uncomfortable. Its good group and glorious weight distribution make it perfect for severe backpacking.

General Ranking: 9/10

Keith Lusher

Keith Lusher is an award-winning outside journalist who resides in Covington, Louisiana. He owns and operates NorthshoreFishingReport.com and writes a weekly outside column for the Slidell Impartial Newspaper. He additionally writes for the St.Tammany Parish Tourism Fee’s VisitTheNorthshore.com. He’s the previous host of The Northshore Fishing Report Radio Present and is on the board of the Louisiana Outside Writers Affiliation. Keith contributes to quite a few publications each on-line and in print and prides himself on selling South Louisiana’s distinctive fishery. To contact Keith e-mail: keithlusherjr@gmail.com