ULA Equipment Catalyst Pack Discussions | Drop

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Jan 17, 2017

I have one of these. It replaced my Osprey Aether 70. I would agree with a couple folks in saying it's not ULTRA light gear, but it's certainly a very light weight for the volume it is. It carries nicely. I've had roughly 30 lbs in this and the weight just disappeared once I got every thing snugged up . Excellent pack and this price is a very good deal. If you're an ultra light hiker doing long trails, I'd say this pack would still qualify as an ultra light pack given the amount of supplies you could carry for a week or more long trip. If you do shorter trips, look at a smaller pack like the OHM 2.0. For me, this pack a great blend of light weight and pack mule volume.

ElectronicVices

2937

Jan 19, 2017

wanderdonkeyAs someone who has looked at the Aether 70 in the past and considered it again during their end of year clearance. Can I ask three questions: 1) Did you have the latest generation of the Aether with the external hydration sleeve and hip belt pockets? 2)What made you switch? 3) Is there anything you preferred on the Aether?
Thanks in advance!

wanderdonkey

Jan 21, 2017

ElectronicVicesHello! I didn't have the newer Osprey with the external bladder. Mine was an older model. It's a great pack, but as I switched from tent camping to hammocks and most of my sleeping bags are now lighter down quilts, I started checking out what else was out there. I discovered ULA through some friends. I was impressed by the light weight and a few of the features my Osprey doesn't have. Hip belt pockets, hand loops and those fancy water bottle holders on the straps appealed to me so I gave it a try. After 1 trip, my Osprey was shelved. The ULA carries better for me and is more comfortable. I really like those big side pockets on the Catalyst as well. They're just easier to use and more convenient than the pockets on the Osprey. The catalyst is a fantastic pack. The Osprey can be found year end for a better price, but for me, the catalyst is worth the extra dollars.

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ElectronicVices

2937

Jan 21, 2017

wanderdonkeyMuch appreciated and informative response! I switched to hammocks about 18 months ago and have been fine with my 35/50 liter Kelty for 3 season but I enjoy winter camping quite a bit. My sub freezing kit is a bit bulky (down so not heavy) and I plan to take an extended trip in late summer where I could use just a tad more volume. I'm not an ultralight guy by any means but I do try to strip weight where I can.

wanderdonkey

Jan 21, 2017

ElectronicVicesSame here. Not an ultra lighter but shave weight where I can. With the catalyst I shave almost 2 lbs in pack weight alone. My winter kit is a hammock gear set of 0 degree quilts. Light but bulky. A dream hammock sparrow hammock. I can get all of it in the catalyst with plenty of room for other essentials.

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