Outdoor Vitals, the Utah-based performance outdoor brand, released its ultralight backpacking pack, the CS40 Ultra, with a carbon fiber frame.
“With the CS40 Ultra, we set out to find a solution to a problem,” said Tayson Whittaker, founder of Outdoor Vitals. “How do we make an ultra-light backpacking pack that is comfortable while carrying heavy loads? The crux of the development was the frame. Our team worked with industry-leading carbon fiber specialists to perfect and tune a proprietary two-ounce carbon frame that allows for lateral movement while providing support and structure. The result is an ultralight pack that allows hikers to carry enough supplies for multi-day trips without destroying their back and shoulders.”
The carbon frame provides load support and stability while conforming to the body’s natural movements, enabling the pack to manage weight “dynamically” during long days on the trail. An integrated strap system works with the frame to provide functional load-lifting capabilities, keeping excess weight off the shoulders.
Weighing 27oz, the CS40 Ultra is “one of the lightest backpacking packs on the market,” made possible because of Challenge UltraWeave 200 fabric, a waterproof material “three times lighter than 500D Cordura but twice as durable.” This fabric is waterproof and “performs in the harshest environments, and at 3.5oz/yd², it “far exceeds the technical properties of any similar-weight material available.”
The backpack also features a padded, load-bearing hip belt with targeted cutouts for breathability and weight reduction. The profile of the main compartment is curved to prevent load sagging, helping to keep weight higher and closer to the body.
The CS40 Ultra is available in three frame sizes with a listed volume of 40 liters but can hold up to 49 liters when including external pockets.
For more product information, go here.
Photo courtesy Outdoor Vitals
