Really a gear thread: New backpack you g otta see!

“I've been playing with this new backpack for a couple of months now. And I have totally fallen in love with the thing. It's by a little company called Moonbow and the name of it is the Gearskin.

It isn't a normal backpack, it is more of a load carrying system, but it does the job of a backpack without needing a frame or stays. Mine is only 28 ounces (using the heaviest options), but they make them as light as about 1 pound depending on your options.

If you follow the links above, you'll see he packs it with the tent as a part of the system, but I have found a way to pack it so the only thing exposed is the gearskin and a sleeping pad - probably as much as is already exposed on most of your packs anyway. I was concerned about tearing up my shelter.

I have tried to use or make some ultralight framelss packs to get my pack weight down, but they were never been as comfortable as an internal frame pack if you go over a 20 pound load. But this one has a great suspension system and a unique way of loading compared to the other ultralight packs. Yesterday I actually did 8 miles with a 50 pound load just to see if it could handel it, and it did - just as well as any internal frame backpack I've ever tried.

If your trying to lighten up your pack but haven't hit that magigc 20 pound level, or have gotten below 20 but like the option of going over 20 pounds for longer trips or trips in colder weather, then the Gearskin may be the answer.

Every pack is custom made, and it is only $125. Probably one of the cheapest custom backpacks you'll find.

If you want a very thurogh review, I have one on my site: http://hikinghq.net/gear/moonbow_gearskin.html”

“that looks pretty cool sgt. did you take it on your trip to the quachita mtns?


btw, i don't think i told you but i really like your website. very creative”

“Thanks for the comments about my site, I like to play around with it.

Yes, I took it on my hike on the Eagle Rock Loop. It was like wearing a pillow on my back most of the time.”

“*fingers in ears and hands covering eyes*

(can't buy anymore gear for awhile...)”

“You must see...

You must try...

You must buy...

Anoying ain't it.”

“Kewel. I gotta have one. MOM...!”

“I've barely used my GVP G4 - can't be tempted by another lightweight pack now. Gear restriction. Sgt. Rock's site is a good one.”