Thanks to everybody for the super-useful input on packs. ?After reading reviews, hearing opinions of users, and watching youtube videos, I was on the way to ordering a ULA Circuit Ultra (new for 2024). ?Really glad I did not.
?
There is a small store, Down Works, in Santa Cruz that carries ULA backpacks among other really neat camping/backpacking items, and everything down-related. ?I just went there today -- they had both the ULA Circuit and the ULA Circuit Ultra. ?I tried the Circuit in various torso and hip-belt combinations, found a great fit, and then checked out the Ultra. ?For me, the ULA Circuit Ultra did not cut it because it seemed to plastic-y and was very noisy. ?So, I am glad I did not order it. ?In fact, I walked out of the store with both a ULA Circuit, and a pair of boots that I had given up looking for. ?The store happened to keep the brand and type of boot that had served me so well for 30 years, until it completely gave up. ?
?
Now, the only item left is the tent. ?I was strongly leaning towards the single-wall, Dyneema (DCF), ?Durston "Pro" tents. ?However, after seeing the plastic-y nature of the Circuit Ultra, I am wondering if I will like the Dyneema fabric of the tent. ?I do like the weight savings, though. ?I saw that one of the local REI stores carries a DCF Stuff Pack. ?I will go over to check it out to see if it is something I can live with. ?If anybody has suggestions on any non-cottage DCF tents that I could find at a store, please let me know, so I can check them out before splurging on the Durston Pro and having to return it.
?
With a new pack and tent I will have shaved off 6-7 lbs of base weight. ?The Bearikade will knock off another 0.5 lbs. ?Ready for the next backpacking trip!
?
CJ
