Leaning, but need a final push.

[Hiking Viking]

Hey all, hoping for some feedback on three different packs I'm considering. Maybe some of you own one or more of these or have had some experience with them in the past good or bad, or maybe you just have an educated opinion, it all helps. I'm leaning towards one fairly heavily but won't say which.

Of the 3, which would you choose and why?
(In no particular order)
1.) Go Lite Pinnacle
32 oz, 4392 ci
$175 (could use 40% off cupon)

2.) ULA Circuit
36 oz, 4,200 ci
$200

3.) Gossamer Gear G4
18 oz., 4,000 ci
$125
Thank you for your time.

[Joey]

My opinions here....

I have no faith in Golite packs. Had one rip and leave me carrying it in my arms with minimal use.

G4 has a great rep. amonstly Ultra-light backpackers. I've heard of folks having to redo the stitching after awhile. Not too big a deal, but worth noting. Brian Robinson, aka Flyin' Brian, thru hike AT, CDT, PCT in one calendar year carrying a G4 pack.

ULA packs have awesome reputations. Never heard a bad word about them. Many folks on this site have a ULA pack. Don't think you'd go wrong here.

Just to toss in another for your consideration. 6 moon designs Swift! Great UL pack. Starlight if you go a bit closer to 30lb loads. My son and I have used these packs without fail the past 3 years. Comfortable, durable, lightweight, well built, carrys large volume... all what I look for in a pack!

[dragon360]

I like the ULA's personally. Looking for one myself.

[OutandBack]

2.) ULA Circuit
36 oz, 4,200 ci
$200

Would be the one I'd select. Esp now that they've toughened up the pack bottom with cordura and replaced the net side pockets with ripstop.

[Cranky Bear]

Depends on what you are going to use it for???

The Circuit is the only one you listed that has a suspension, also it has the largest hipbelt pockets, and in addition to the internal suspension it also has a back pad! But it weighs the most!

The G4 is the lightest, and your gear "Must" be appropriate for this type of pack, as well as how it's packed plays an important role in how it feels/rides/and overall functions!

The Pinnacle runs the medium between these two, it like the G4 has no suspension and all the mentioned for the G4 applies, but this pack has a nice front pocket and can hold a very good amount with the added security of a zipper, which neither the G4 or ULA have!

As a side note, all these packs have served many LDH's (long distance hikers) very, very well for many, many years! It's all a matter of detail, and personal choice on design and function!

I know I didn't help all that much, but, good luck! I own the new Circuit and a OHM and the quality is top notch!!!

[GOLFER]

I have the circuit and it works remarkably well when loaded. I am real glad I went with the circuit the fabric is durable and the sticking is top notch.

[texron]

I have the Circuit and Golite Jam (2010 model) they both are great packs. You can't go wrong with either, and the Golite coupon is hard to resist.

[Quoddy]

Without knowing what weight you plan on carrying I'd automatically say the Circuit. If your gear is not too bulky and under 20 pounds then the G4 would also be a good choice. I've owned 3 ULA packs over the years and like them a lot. I haven't mentioned the GoLite since, IMO, it isn't in the same league.

[Hiking Viking]

ULA Circuit it is! I just wanted to make sure at the value of the other two, I wasn't missing anything. Ordered.

[WV]

How old are you? Do you expect to live past 40? Do you plan to backpack until you're 80? Get an Aarn pack.

On the other hand, do you hunt? Do you work in the woods? Do you gather wood for campfires? Do you carry things besides camping gear (like tools)? Do you sometimes need to carry heavy loads? Get a MollyMacPack.