Zpacks
Zpacks Nero Classic 40
The Nero is Zpacks' frameless pack and at 9.9 oz the lightest framed-or-otherwise hiking pack in this catalog. Ultra 100X with taped seams makes it genuinely waterproof at a weight where most packs are barely water-resistant.
Specifications
Sizes Available
| Capacity | Price | Weight |
|---|---|---|
| 30 L | $239 | — |
| 40 Lthis pack | $239 | 0.62 lbs |
| 50 L | $239 | — |
Features
Pros
- ✓9.9 oz is the lightest hiking pack in this entire catalog, lighter even than the Cotopaxi Batac.
- ✓Ultra 100X with taped seams is genuinely waterproof, not merely treated.
- ✓Three volumes from 30 to 50 L on the same frameless design.
- ✓$239 is reasonable for a laminate pack from an established maker.
- ✓Zpacks has one of the longest DCF and Ultra track records in the segment.
- ✓Nothing rigid to break, bend or rattle.
- ✓40 L is workable for a genuinely light multi-day kit.
- ✓Hipbelt pockets included despite the minimal design.
Cons
- ✗Frameless at 40 L demands a very low base weight to carry tolerably.
- ✗No published maximum load figure.
- ✗Ultra 100X is the thinnest of the Ultra family and abrades at fold lines.
- ✗No adjustable torso.
- ✗Difficult and expensive to repair in the field.
- ✗Sub-10 oz construction leaves no margin for rough handling.
- ✗Bear canisters do not fit sensibly in a frameless 40 L pack.
- ✗Warranty terms are not published in the way major brands publish them.
Compare the Zpacks Nero Classic 40
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