LiteAF ECOPAK 30L Curve vs Zpacks Nero Classic 40
Quick take: The LiteAF ECOPAK 30L Curve costs $4 less; the LiteAF ECOPAK 30L Curve carries more (45 vs 40 liters); the Zpacks Nero Classic 40 is lighter (0.62 vs 0.81 lbs).
| Spec | LiteAF ECOPAK 30L Curve | Zpacks Nero Classic 40 |
|---|---|---|
| Price | $235 | $239 |
| Rating | — | — |
| Type | Ultralight Pack | Ultralight Pack |
| Frame Type | Frameless | Frameless |
| Capacity | 45 L | 40 L |
| Weight | 0.81 lbs | 0.62 lbs |
| Max Load | Not specified by the manufacturer | Not specified by the manufacturer |
| Torso Fit | See manufacturer sizing | See manufacturer sizing |
| Material | ECOPAK EPLX200 recycled laminate | Ultra 100X with waterproof taped seams |
| Back Panel | Frameless | Frameless |
| Adjustable torso | No | No |
| Ventilated back | No | No |
| Raincover included | No | No |
| Hipbelt pockets | Yes | Yes |
| Removable lid | No | No |
| Hydration sleeve | No | No |
| Fits BV500 bear can | No | No |
| Warranty | Manufacturer warranty; terms not published | Manufacturer warranty; terms not published |
Pros & cons
LiteAF ECOPAK 30L Curve
- ✓13 oz is exceptionally light, second only to the Cotopaxi Batac among packs here.
- ✓ECOPAK EPLX200 is waterproof and made from post-consumer recycled polyester.
- ✓Custom-built to the buyer's torso and belt measurements at no extra cost.
- ✓45 L of total volume is generous for the weight.
- ✓$235 is reasonable for a made-to-order pack in a premium laminate.
- ✓Colour and layout options are extensive compared with off-the-shelf packs.
- ✓Hipbelt pockets included.
- ✓A genuinely small maker, so buyers deal directly with the people building the pack.
- ✗Frameless at 45 L is a demanding combination that punishes careless packing.
- ✗No published maximum load figure.
- ✗Made-to-order means lead times measured in weeks.
- ✗Laminate fabrics are difficult to field-repair.
- ✗No adjustable torso, though custom sizing partly compensates.
- ✗Warranty and support depend on a very small operation continuing to trade.
- ✗Negligible resale market compared with the better-known cottage brands.
- ✗No retail presence at all for trying one on.
Zpacks Nero Classic 40
- ✓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.
- ✗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.