Kelty Ultra Tioga

Review Date
September 19, 2003

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: Chuck Niblack(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from Lake Tahoe, CA

Price Paid:  $105.00 at Ebay

Summary:
An absolutely great pack. I got mine used (excellent condition) through ebay and immediately used it on a multi-night trip into alpine lakes wilderness in Washington state. I was able to take my 3 person boat, fishing gear, and camping gear which it handled with ease and comfort. I also have a Super Tioga which I'm very pleased with but it can't handle quite the load that my Ultra Tioga can. Overall very satisfied with my pack.

Similar Products Used:
Super Tioga

Review Date
July 14, 2001

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 4 of 5

Reviewed by: NYCHiker(Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from NYC, NY, USA

Price Paid:  $250.00 at Local Store

Summary:
This pack is a cut above my previous pack. I had originally followed the advice of the outfitter who set me up with a Gregory Reality (internal framed) pack. While that pack performs admirably I decided it was time to try an external frame pack and see which is better suited to my body. The Kelty Ultra Tioga has got to be hands down the most comfortable pack I have worn out of the 5 or 6 external packs I tried on. The 6000cu.in. of storage allows me to stuff anything and everything I need into it and still have room to spare. The fabric, stiching and general quality of the work on this pack is remarkable. I still have yet to fill the pack to the brim, but even with 40+ pounds it sits much more comfortbaly than any internal framed pack I've ever hauled. I suppose I realize now why my hiking partner was always so relaxed and ready to go another mile or two when I was ready to die. Walking with the raised center of gravity takes a bit of getting used to, but once your balance is attained it is far easier to walk under a heav load with this pack and be comfortable and efficient than it ever was with my internal.

The added benefit of a cooler back in the summer heat is another bonus. If you're looking for a flawless execution of an old idea, this pack is for you.

Kelty has yet to disappoint me with any of their products. 5 coniferous trees for this one!

Similar Products Used:
None

Review Date
February 22, 2000

Overall Rating
 5 of 5

Value Rating
 5 of 5

Reviewed by: Nick (Unregistered User) ,  Backpacker , from Vienna VA

Summary:
WOW!!!! I've had my eye on this for a month or so now just looking for a reason to buy one and I finally did. My son has grown out of his pack and what the hey... Any way after getting it fitted we hit the road for a little trial. With about 35 lbs barely making a dent on the space, it carried so comfortably, I felt that the straps on my Super Tioga were made of barbed wire. Son and I fought over who would hump what pack for the rest of the day. Features I love: Huge lower compartment zipper that is really up to the job, neat organizer pockets for this and that on the inside of an external pocket, suspension is really comfortable, great fabric, quality construction.
I would like 1 mesh water bottle pocket, but son goes for hydration bags and plumbing, so since it's his... This really seems to be a great pack, I paid 209.50 for it at a local independent outfitter. At this price what a steal!

Customer Service:
A lock pin on the frame broke, 2 minutes on the toll free phone, zero time on hold btw, and one was in the mail. Can't beat that.

Similar Products Used:
Kelty Yukon, Trekker, Super Tioga