ULA Circuit.
39oz with 68L capacity and J-curve frame.
The Verdict.
Gavler Meta-Score
“The cottage pack thru-hikers reach for after their first UL kit refinement — the J-curve frame transfers a 35-pound carry better than any frameless option in the category. Skip it if base weight is above 15 pounds or wait time matters: ULA's custom-build queue runs 4 to 6 weeks in trail season.”
The Gavler Verdict
Precision Engineering
J-Curve Aluminum Frame
Curved sidebars rest higher on the hips than a straight aluminum stay, transferring a 35-pound carry to the hip belt the way frame packs twice the weight do.
68L Capacity, Custom Torso Sizing
Generous capacity for 7-plus-day thru-hike food carries, with hand-built torso sizing dialed to the hiker's measurement at order — not stocked off the shelf.
39 oz Trail Weight
Sub-2.5-pound framed pack with genuine load-carrying capability, hand-built in Logan, Utah, with a 25 to 35 pound comfort range.
Technical Specifications
The Scoreboard
Thru-hiker community adores it. Base-weight minimalists choose it over even lighter frameless options due to superior load transfer. Primary criticism: cottage build queue and dated aesthetic.
Cast Your Vote
Do you think ULA Circuit deserves the #9 spot in Best Hiking Backpacks?
Best Price Availability.
Prices checked regularly
Price History
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$275
30-Day High
$275
Current
$275
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Global Critique
“The J-curve frame is genius. Excellent weight transfer for an ultralight pack.”
“ULA builds quality that lasts thousands of miles. The Circuit is the proven choice for long trails.”
“39 ounces with actual comfort. This is ultralight done right.”
“Thru-hikers swear by this pack. The cottage-build fit is genuinely better than off-the-shelf alternatives.”
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