Field Report: Gossamer Gear Mariposa Ultalight Backpack
Date: Feb 2, 2005 Manufacturer Information Name: Gossamer Gear Website: http://www.gossamergear.com	Product Information Manufacturer: Gossamer Gear Model: Mariposa Ultralight Backpack Year of Manufacture: 2004 Color: Blue & Black Size: Medium Volume: 4,200 c.i. (68.8 l) 2,900 c.i. (48 l) main body 800 c.i. (13 l) extension collar 500 c.i. (8 l) pockets) MSRP: $129.95(US) Listed Weight: 14.8 oz - 17.4 oz (420 g - 494 g) depending on accessories   Measured Individual Component Weights Description Weight Main Pack Body (Sternum Strap & Compression Lacing)  15.7oz (445 g) Foam Shoulder Pads (2)  0.4 oz (11 g) Foam Waist Pads (2)  0.4 oz (11 g) Carbon stays (2)  0.8 oz (23 g)

Field Test Results

First let me say that since I posted my Initial Review, I've received a number of inquires requesting additional information on the pack's field performance.  Additionally a couple of them decided to purchase the pack and were kind enough to reply back with how well the pack performed for them.  I'll have to concur, as I'm completely satisfied with my test results thus far.

This is one big pack, and thus far I've been unable to utilize its full volume, especially when considering that 4200 c.i. (69 l) does  not include the sleeping pad.  My trips thus far have been short weekend trips, but did include cool weather clothing and sleeping bag.  Again the required sleeping pad volume is irrelevant, as in my case a 1.5 in (3.8 cm) 3/4 length winter weight Thermarest®.  I don't own a full length inflatable pad, thus I'm unable to determine if the integrated pocket is large enough to support the extra bulk of a full length winter weight pad.

My last trip, a ski trip as pictured above, was between Yurts and included a set of snowshoes.  During the trip in, I strapped the snowshoes to the back of the pack and found that the pack's center of gravity was uncomfortable.  The pack tended to fall back away from my body and pulled heavily upon my shoulder.  For the return trip I stuffed the snowshoes inside the pack (as pictured above) and pack rode perfectly while I bushwhacked/telemarked back to the parking lot.

The pack has a total of 12 tie points, 3 on each side next to the back and 3 on each side next to the front of the pack.  These are very handy for securing items such as the snowshoes mentioned previously.  Additionally I have used them to cinch/compress the pack when using it as a day pack.

The side pockets are great.  They are generously sized and aren't pulled taut when the pack is loaded, a common problem I have with another ultra-light pack.  The shoulder straps are a little on the wide side, at 3.5 in (9 cm), yet they are comfortable.  The sternum strap has 3 in (8 cm) of vertical adjustment, and is attached to webbing that is bar-stitched to the shoulder straps.  I have some concern by the stress that is exhibited on bar-stitches, as it may eventually tear the light-weight shoulder strap fabric.  I found the sternum strap to be a little on the long side, because it can not be cinched beyond the straps elastic relief.  Additionally, I wore the sternum strap as low as possible, and for some users it may not be sufficient.

The roll top throat and Y strap that secures it are of good design and function well.  It allows plenty of vertical length/volume in which to stuff items, the ability to cinch the top closed, and then roll it down and secure with the Y strap.  As for the elastic bungee cord arrangement, I find it rather useless.  It does little to compress/cinch the pack, I would be reluctant to rely on it to secure anything, and it constricts the throat opening when trying to fill the pack. 

The integrated sleeping pad compartment performed well, and makes for a comfortable pack frame.  I suspect that the pad will become a hot/sweaty insulator during summer months.  When not using a sleeping pad as per my yurt trip, the carbon stays have to be removed, otherwise they are directly against the back and uncomfortable.  I always inserted the sleeping pad prior to pack loading.  If done after packing, loading it may prove difficult.

I have yet to use the pack in rain, but the construction appears adequate for light rain protection.  The silnylon fabric is waterproof, the role top protects the upper contents, thus the only means of water entry is through the seams.

Summary

Pros:

• Light weight

• Large volume

• Comfortable

Cons:

• Sternum strap

Test Plan

• At least three more Nordic ski trips through March, and will use as a day pack.  Pack is over sized, but will be about half full when adding my wife's day gear.

• Late February/early March two weekend snow camping trips into Sawtooth Wilderness, Idaho.

• April and May will start hitting the lower/southern elevations.  Also planning a trip through Grand Canyon

Tester Information & Background

Name: Andy Rad

Gender: Male

Age: 47

Height: 6 ft (1.83 m)

Weight: 165 lb (75 kg)

Email: aisrad@cableone.net

I started backpacking 21 years ago, mostly 3 day trips with at least one 7 day trip per year.  By backpacking, I’m referring to summer, winter camping, and fall hunting.  About half my trips are light weight solo and the other half with my family.  I own a llama that was purchased when my 3^rd child was 2, some 10 years ago.  This allowed me to continue backpacking as a family activity.  When I’m not with the family/llama I tend to take less-traveled trails or bushwhack the hard mountainous terrain in and around Idaho.  In recent years I’ve begun substituting a collie for the llama.  The majority of my trips are in central Idaho, with a few into northern Idaho, eastern Idaho, and eastern Oregon.