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-March 2010 Important Notice -
I currently have a waiting list for backpack and shelter orders stretching until At Least Mid-June. I will not be taking any more backpack or shelter orders until the waiting list gets shorter. If you made prior arrangements or need to modify an existing order you can still make a payment Here.

Accessory items are still shipping in a day or two as usual. Thanks for all the orders, I apologize for the long wait!  - Joe
ZPacks™ Zilch, Z1, and Z2 Ultralight Sil-Nylon Backpacks

Description:
These are the original ZPacks backpacks, constructed from a combination of 1.3 oz/sqyd silicone impregnated nylon, and 2.4 oz/sqyd coated nylon. These packs are reasonably durable, and comparatively inexpensive. In my experience they will last about 1,200 miles. They are a good choice for casual ultralight backpacking with loads up to 20 lbs.

Advantages of Silicone Impregnated Nylon:
  • The material is relatively inexpensive.
  • Sil-nylon has a high tensile strength for its weight, and is very lightweight.

Disadvantages:

  • Sil-nylon can be punctured or torn if care is not taken. The 2.4 oz material on the base and side pockets is more resistant.
  • Duct tape won't stick to sil-nylon unless you sew around the edges.
Standard Features on all ZPacks backpacks:
  • Draw cord-loop closure system keeps your pack closed and adds vertical compression. A cord lock secures through a loop near the base of the pack (much like a button through a button hole) and then can be cinched tight to shrink down the pack volume.
     
  • Shock cord circling the top of the pack keeps the center pocket closed, adds circumferential compression, allows you to stand tall items like trekking poles in the side pockets, and provides a convenient place to clip small items or wet clothes.
     
  • Side pockets are sized to fit 1 or 1.5 liter bottles, and are positioned low on the pack to make them easy to reach into without removing the pack. Tall side pockets for larger items are also an available option.
     
  • Large center pocket is great for quick access items. All pockets have grommets to drain rain water. Mesh pockets are also an available option.
     
  • Super light, frameless design allows you to use your foam sleeping pad as both padding and an internal frame. Just coil it inside the backpack and pack your gear into the center. Frameless backpacks like these are generally comfortable for loads up to 20 lbs / 9 kg. Carbon fiber stays are an available option that can boost the comfortable carry capacity.
Optional Features:
  • Additional features such as a padded hip belt, sternum strap, shoulder pouches and many others can be added from the Backpack Options page. Every pack is custom built right when you order it. Don't forget to look through the options!
Sizing Information:
  • The backpacks all have same general design other than the material and size. Packs are available in 2,000, 2,600, and 3,200 cubic inches. See the Sizing Information for dimensions and specifications.
Additional Information:
  • Reviews and testimonials can be found here.
     
  • All ZPacks gear has a one year warranty against defects in materials or workmanship. Returns or exchanges are welcome, even on custom gear.
     
  • See the Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.
Ordering:
Prices and weights shown here are for the base backpacks not including options. Options can be added to your cart separately.

This item is unavailable until June 1st

Size
Color
Pictured are Z1 2,600 c.i. backpacks, one with an optional webbing belt, the other with optional shock cord lashing.


Click for larger image

Joe says:
"I thru-hiked the Appalachian Trail in 2004 with the original version of this pack. Since then it has undergone several years of testing and refinements to become what it is today."

Shipping is always just $3.95 in the U.S. and $9.95 for Global Orders!