YOUR MOST DURABLE AND STYLISH PACK EVER
Designed for the serious adventurer, our ultralight backpack is the ideal companion for those who want nothing less than the best on the trail. Whether you're an experienced thru-hiker or a weekend warrior, this pack offers the perfect balance of durability and lightweight design, making it the go-to choice for hikers who demand high performance without compromising on comfort.
Crafted for distance hikers, our backpacks have been rigorously tested over 6,000+ miles across varied terrains and all weather conditions, ensuring they remain intact, reliable, and comfortable every step of the way. Each pack is a testament to quality and innovation, with a carbon fiber frame that provides unparalleled strength while keeping the overall weight minimal.
We don’t believe in one-size-fits-all—each pack is meticulously fitted to your individual torso and waist measurements, ensuring a perfect fit for optimal comfort and support. Whether you're carrying light loads or preparing for long-haul treks, our packs are designed to fit you pefectly.
With 12 color options available, you can mix and match to create a combination that’s uniquely yours. Every backpack features a striking, dual-colored design that makes a big statement on the trail. Plus, all of our gear is proudly crafted in Michigan’s Upper Peninsula.
Available in both 40L and 50L sizes, our backpacks offer the same premium features, with the only difference being their capacity. Whether you need a sleek, compact pack for a lighter load or a larger option for extended trips, we’ve got you covered with a design that meets the demands of any adventure.
LOVE THIS PACK
“I absolutely love my CTUG 45-liter backpack. It's the only ultralight backpack that doesn't sacrifice comfort or durability in the name of saving ounces. Your collarbones will thank you. I put over 3000 miles on my CTUG pack in 2019 and I can't wait to take it back out again in 2020!”
Christopher B. 2022
QUEEN OF THE CDT
“This pack held up far better than any others I’ve used or seen on all my Thru-Hikes. Considering the ruggedness of the CDT I’d have expected more wear, but this bad b**** is ready to Triple Crown herself...”
Marlin S. 2022
FEATURES
- The hip belt is sewn with a 1" webbing daisy chain for attaching accessories like our Fanny Pack, SwitchPack, or Camera Bag
- Dual Hip Belt adjustments for a custom fit: Fine-tune the position of the straps and secure them using our "Ratchet-Strap" method for the perfect fit, every time
- The lower portion of our carbon fiber frame is securely connected right to the hip belt to ensure the weight is being transferred exactly where it needs to be, while the shoulder strap load lifters attach to the upper frame of the pack
- Our hip belt features breathable spacer mesh and an inner layer of foam for maximum comfort. We take your custom measurements into account, so you can be sure that the hip belt fits exactly how you need it to
- The fully adjustable load lifters are directly sewn into the upper frame using a custom 3-D printed carbon fiber frame joint. To reduce shoulder pressure, simply pull the straps to distribute the weight closer to your shoulders, or push the tension lock upwards to quickly loosen your load
- The metal slider on the upper portion of the shoulder strap can be moved up or down the strap to adjust the pack's pressure distribution and place it exactly where you want it to for maximum comfort
- The Sternum Strap is adjustable at three different points on the shoulder straps for ideal placement across your chest. The strap features a built-in whistle for your convenience
- Our shoulder straps are daisy-chained with 1" webbing for easy attachment of our shoulder strap accessories. Accessories can be placed as low or as high as you prefer. Reaching for your water bottle, energy bar, bear spray, or cell phone has never been easier!
- Our V-Strap is adjustable for additional storage and long enough to secure bear cans or other items right on top
- Roll-Top closure: Stuff your pack as full as you want to, then simply roll the top down to achieve the exact pack size you need for each hike
- Our roll-top closure stays closed flat with velcro, no need to worry about neatly rolling it down
- Both our V-Strap and roll top are secured with an easy to use buckle
- Easily grab your pack with the 1" webbing handle
- Shock cord for side compression helps reduce pack size and can be used to secure longer items placed in the side pockets such as hiking poles
- Our pack uses a removable sit-pad that doubles as a comfortable seat as you empty your pack, as well as a breathable layer of foam to separate your back from any hard items stored in your pack
- Side Pockets fit two 1 liter "Smart Water" Bottles
- Our main back pocket is large enough to hold all of your necessities for you to quickly grab without needing to open up your pack during every rest
- Durable diver-mesh material is long-lasting and easy to repair (Dental Floss works well), and it allows for easy visibility so you can grab exactly what you need without having to search for it
- Pockets are lined with diver-mesh and X-Pac fabric for visibility and durability, with tear-resistant X-Pac bottoms
- The top of each pocket can be cinched closed with shock cord to ensure nothing gets lost on the trail
- We've placed two shock-cord loops with barrell toggles that are perfect for carrying an ice axe, umbrella, or trekking poles
- Featured under our main back pocket are two static cord loops where you can carry larger lightweight items like an accordion style sleeping pad, camp chair, or your tent rainfly to air it out after a big storm
TECH SPECS
| Aspect | CTUG-40 Liter | CTUG-50 Liter |
|---|---|---|
| Made In | Hancock, Michigan | Hancock, Michigan |
| Materials | Xpac VX-21 | Xpac VX-21 |
| Carry Capacity | 35 lbs | 35 lbs |
| Weight | 28-31 oz | 31-34 oz |
| Volume | 40 Liters (Internal + External) | 50 Liters (Internal + External) |
| Width | 10 inches | 11 inches |
| Depth | 7 inches | 10 inches |
| Height (roll top fully closed) | 24 inches | 24 inches |
| Height (roll top fully open) | 29 inches | 29 inches |
| Roll Top Circumference | 34 inches | 39 inches |
| Frame System | Carbon fiber arrow shafts + 3D Printed Brackets | Carbon fiber arrow shafts + 3D Printed Brackets |
FEATURES
The hip belt features two lines of webbing that can be tightened individually. This allows you to adjust the tightness of the top and bottom of the hip belt separately for optimal comfort, and allows the hip belt to conform around your hip bones instead of riding directly on them.
SIZING
In order to fit the backpack to your body, we need two measurements. This works best using a flexible tape measure. In order to get an accurate measurement, we suggest having another person help take these measurements.
Waist Measurement:
This measurement is of the circumference of your waist at your iliac crest (hip shelf/top of hip bone). This is where your hip belt will sit on your body and most of the weight of the pack will be transferred to here. Simply locate where the top of your hip bone is, and measure all the way around your waist at that point. Be sure that the tape measure does not slip above your hip bone. We select which size hip belt to put onto your pack with this measurement.
Back Measurement:
This measurement is the distance between your iliac crest (hip shelf/top of hip bone) and your C7 vertebrae. The C7 Vertebrae is located at the base of your neck and can be found by touching your chin to your chest and feeling for the prominent bump that forms on the back of your neck. Take the measurement between these two points and we suggest that you repeat this one to two times to be sure you have an accurate measurement. We use this measurement to determine how much vertical distance to put between the hip belt and the shoulder strap attachment points.
CARE FOR YOUR PACK
We understand that our packs are major investments, and it is very important to care for them properly to ensure a long life. It is best to clean it after each overnight use. Here are some helpful tips to care for your pack:
- After Each use simply flip your pack upside down to shake out any loose sand and dirt. Gently whipe with a sponge or cloth dampened with mild, unscented soap and water. Dish soap or castile soap both work well.
- For a deeper clean, remove the internal frame system. Soak in a tub filled with mild unscented dish soap or castile soap and lukewarm water. Rinse with cool water, repeat as needed. Allow to fully air dry for several hours in a shaded area or indoors.
- For harder to clean areas, use a soft nylon bristled brush like a toothbrush. Scrub gently and sparingly.
- Never machine wash or dry your pack, this will break down the X-Pac fabric.
- Store your pack in a cool, dry, shaded area. UV light can degrade the fabric over time, and moisture can invite unwanted mildew.
We offer a Limited 1-Year Warranty on our framed packs. Returns allowed with gentle use only. Returns require a 10% restocking fee. Repairs are offered with a small shipping fee. Conditions apply.
