Gossamer Gear Scale 38 Review

TO Basic frameless backpack for ultralight enthusiasts, the Gauze Gear Scale 38 is a carefully designed and readily available solution that can be used for everything from overnight stays to large-scale hikes with the right hiking and resupply skills.

Gauze Gear Scale 38 At a glance

• Recommended RRP: $225
• Total weight: 20.4 ounces/ 578 g
• Maximum capacity/load: 38L/ 25lbs
• Color: Glacier

Intended use

Gossamer Gear believes this pack is best for overnight backpacking trips or shorter multi-day trips into the backcountry. Because this backpack offers many of the same features as larger volume backpacks, it can work as a lightweight alternative for those on longer hikes if they can keep the weight and volume of the backpack down.

Since it’s only 2 liters lighter than my usual hiking backpack, the Skala may see more time on the trails next season. With careful packaging and a little trimming, the Gossamer Gear Skala reduces my base weight by 698 grams out of the box.

Review circumstances

I tested the Gossamer Gear Skala 38 on several overnight trail rides on Vancouver Island, British Columbia, in a variety of conditions, from sunny to very humid. I used it to carry a small bear canister and a full size sleeping bag and pad without much trouble in rainy and cold conditions. While this latest packing list stretched his maximums, the hassle didn’t turn that hike into a sufferfest.

Key Features

Durable fabrics: Constructed with Riptide Ripstop, 100D recycled Robic nylon, and UHMWPE stretch mesh.

Volume settings: Roll-top closure with side compression straps mounted vertically and anchored to the side pockets.

Security pocket: A zippered “safety” pocket that is large enough for permits, wallet, power bank, and passport.

Ultralight details: Small lightweight buckles and tie down points.

Detachable belt with pockets: Removing them saves 3.6 ounces.

Integrated Shoulder Harness: Comfortable without being overbuilt.

Hydration compatible: Integration and routing of interior water tanks.

Integrated drain hole on the floor of the main compartment for quick drying.

Common to Gossamer Gear’s line of backpacks is the integrated backrest padding/sitting pad (seat light). The bag’s external back pocket is generous and stretchy, useful for those who tend to pack too much or when they need to dry things off after a spell of rain or snow. The side pockets are deep; You may not be able to easily retrieve a water bottle with your backpack on, but things won’t fall out if you bend over.

Other thoughtful design features include an ice tool loop and an integrated trekking pole attachment.

Comfort

Especially for frameless backpacks, comfort varies from person to person and depends largely on how you pack. The first time I hiked long distances with a frameless backpack I used a GoLite Jam2. Unfortunately, that backpack has seen better days. The foam padding that once helped cushion my back from the load has compressed to the point that it no longer serves its purpose.

The Skala 38 has easily replaceable foam, which protects my kidneys from the pot I accidentally filled against them. In ten years, it should be possible to change this foam without needing to rebuild or replace the entire bag.

Cost

Because it is not overly designed and does not use high-cost materials, the Skala 38’s cost-to-function ratio is exceptional.

This pack looks like a scaled-down version of Gossamer Gear’s Mariposa 60, but Gossamer Gear only hints at this reality in its literature. It’s made for someone who knows how to travel light and fast and doesn’t want to go broke buying Dyneema.

This is a perfect backpack for an experienced ultralight backpacker who doesn’t have tons of money for a new backpack. It fits well over the shoulders and the belt is removable. Could be an exceptional choice for a fast JMT or CT package.

Keep in mind that as soon as you start adding excess weight or volume, you will quickly max out this bag.

Gossamer 38 Pros Gear Scale

Availability: Unlike many other ultralight gear, this backpack is not made to order and does not rely on hard-to-find materials. If this is the type of package you’re looking for, there’s probably one in store for you.

Heavy Duty Construction: Gossamer Gear could have cut corners on this package, but they didn’t. You’ll find the same rugged construction in the Skala 38 that you’d expect to find in their larger volume packs.

Carrying it on your shoulder is good enough for its intended purpose: Most of the time I spent with this backpack last summer and fall, the weight was solely on my shoulders. Even with a heavy load (~23 pounds), it didn’t strain my shoulders or leave me wishing I had brought another bag.

Gossamer Gear Skala 38 Cons

Not forgiving: This bag is not for beginner ultralight backpackers. The necessary weight and volume restrictions mean you will need to make informed decisions about the conditions you expect to encounter.

Color: There is only one color option, so if you don’t like “Glacier”, this is probably not the bag for you. Respect the drip!

Hip harness: It never really helped place the load on my hips. It is easily removable. and unless you want extra pocket space for snacks or a small camera, I’d leave them at home.

It’s worth it?

The Skala 38 from Gossamer Gear is a great option for the experienced ultralight backpacker or the fast backpacker on a budget or for someone who wants to use it on shorter day hikes. Gram for gram, it is a huge value when compared to similar packs. I like the way he carried the weight he had. Gossamer Gear’s attention to design and construction details is obvious.

If you’re looking for a frameless backpack, take a closer look at the Skala 38.

Buy Gossamer Gear Skala 38

Comparable packages

Ultralight Pa’lante

• Recommended RRP: $347
• Weight: Gridstop 14.7 oz/ 416 g (without belt option)
• Maximum capacity/load: 26L/ ~20 lbs

Bonfus Iterus 38L

• Recommended RRP: $371
• Weight: 14.64 oz/ 415 g (Ultra 200X fabric)
• Maximum capacity/load: 38L/ ~20 lbs

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Contour 35 (Low Volume, Frameless)

• Recommended RRP: $358 (with removable hip belt)
• Weight: 16.2 ounces/ 459 g
• Maximum capacity/load: 35 L+ 6.5 L (external)/ ~25 lbs

The Gossamer Gear Skala 38 was donated for review purposes

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