Lightweight Adventure Awaits: Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack Review

For backpackers and adventure-seekers who value weight savings without sacrificing comfort and functionality, the Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack is an attractive option. This highly-regarded pack has been designed to be a lightweight, versatile, and feature-rich companion for long-distance hiking, thru-hiking, and international travel.

Design and Materials

The Kumo 36L Backpack boasts a sleek and streamlined design, constructed from high-quality Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF). DCF is renowned for its exceptional durability, water resistance, and lightweight properties. The pack’s main compartment features a U-shaped zipper, allowing for easy access to your gear.

One of the standout features of the Kumo 36L is its innovative suspension system. Gossamer Gear has incorporated a proprietary back panel design, which provides excellent load distribution and comfort. The pack also includes a removable hip belt with built-in pockets for storing small items like snacks or a phone.

Capacity and Organization

The Kumo 36L offers an impressive capacity of 36 liters, making it suitable for multi-day backpacking trips or extended excursions. Inside the main compartment, you’ll find multiple organizational features, including:

  • A dedicated hydration sleeve with a built-in tube clip
  • A zippered pocket for storing small electronics and accessories
  • Several mesh pockets for stashing gear like gloves, hats, or extra clothing

Features and Details

The Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack includes several notable features that enhance its usability:

  • Integrated ice axe loops for secure storage of trekking poles or ice axes
  • A zippered side pocket with a dedicated key clip
  • Reflective strips on the back panel for increased visibility in low-light conditions
  • A removable rain cover with a built-in stuff sack

Weight and Durability

One of the primary advantages of the Kumo 36L is its exceptional weight savings. Weighing in at just 1 pound 12 ounces (730g) for the base model, this pack is an excellent choice for ultralight enthusiasts. Gossamer Gear has also designed the Kumo 36L to withstand harsh environmental conditions, including rain, snow, and extreme temperatures.

Conclusion

The Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack offers a winning combination of weight savings, comfort, and features that make it an excellent choice for backpackers, thru-hikers, and international travelers. Its innovative suspension system, DCF construction, and thoughtful organizational features set it apart from other packs in its class.

Whether you’re tackling the Appalachian Trail or exploring the remote wilderness, the Kumo 36L is a reliable and versatile companion that will keep up with your adventures.

Technical Specifications:

  • Capacity: 36 liters
  • Weight: 1 pound 12 ounces (730g)
  • Materials: Dyneema Composite Fabric (DCF) and nylon mesh pockets
  • Dimensions: 24″ x 13″ x 10″ (61cm x 33cm x 25cm)
  • Suspension system: Gossamer Gear proprietary back panel design with removable hip belt
  • Features:
    • U-shaped zipper main compartment
    • Hydration sleeve and tube clip
    • Zippered pocket for small electronics
    • Multiple mesh pockets for gear storage
    • Integrated ice axe loops
    • Reflective strips on the back panel

Comparison to Competitors:

The Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack stands out from other packs in its class due to its exceptional weight savings and innovative suspension system. While it may not offer as many bells and whistles as some of its competitors, its focus on simplicity and efficiency make it an excellent choice for backpackers who value lightweight gear.

Some notable comparisons include:

  • Osprey Talon 33L: A popular ultralight pack with a similar capacity to the Kumo 36L, but slightly heavier.
  • Arc’teryx Beta AR 35L: A premium pack with a more comprehensive feature set and better durability, but at a significantly higher price point.

Ultimately, the Gossamer Gear Kumo 36L Backpack is an excellent choice for backpackers who want a lightweight, versatile, and reliable companion for their adventures.