Backpacker puts a Bear Vault Bear Canister into a ULA CDT Backpack

The Nexus: 40 Liter Ultralight Backpack

Dec 11, 2024 | Mixed Bag

Our newest 40-liter ultralight backpack, the Nexus, is our first scratch build pack in nearly a decade. In this article we break down all the new features of this innovative pack.

For ultralight hikers striving for peak performance, the frameless Nexus is a 40-liter ultralight backpack that redefines what’s possible. Designed for those who carry total pack weights of 20-25 pounds, the Nexus combines unparalleled functionality, innovative design, and durability. At just 18.8 ounces (excluding removable components), this minimalist pack is the perfect companion for hikers looking to go farther, faster. 

This is our first scratch build pack in nearly a decade and it is the result of internal needs and wants as well as countless years of making custom packs for our customers and getting real user feedback.

Built for Ultralight Performance

We’re proud to offer a frameless construction and a comfort rating up to 25 pounds, making it ideal for long-distance hikers who prioritize efficiency and speed. Its ultralight build, coupled with cutting-edge materials like Challenge ULTRA X™ 200 fabric, provides exceptional tear and abrasion resistance without compromising on weight.

Key Specifications:

  • Weight: 18.8 – 22.3 oz (533 – 632.2 gm) – weight variable due to removables.
  • Volume: 2,441 cu in (40 L)
  • Max Load: 25 lbs (11.3 kg)
  • Materials: Challenge ULTRA X™ 200, UltraGrid, UltraStretch Mesh
  • Colors: Silverado/Black(Ultra X), Tangerine, Black Beauty, Dark Chili (UltraGrid)

Innovative Organization on the Trail

Staying organized has never been easier with the Nexus’s new pocket designs :

  • Dual Side Utility Pockets: Made of UltraStretch mesh, these pockets securely hold essentials like trowels, tent stakes, or water bottles. The snug fit prevents items from slipping out, even during dynamic movement. These have an asymmetrical design meant to better hold onto tent stakes than a standard square.
  • Spacious Front Stretch Pocket: Perfect for stowing rain or wind gear, this pocket ensures quick access to weather-related essentials without needing to open the main compartment. Our dorsal pocket on the Nexus is the largest by volume of any other pack in our line-up. Just like the utility pockets, the front mesh pocket is made of UltraStretch mesh from Challenge Sailcloth.
  • Bear Canister Ready: Thoughtful dimensions of the pack body enable you to fit bear canisters as large as the BV500 vertically inside of the pack. A clip-top closure system and sewn-in Y-strap with G-hook attachment means you’re also able to store the bear can up top if your pack is full.

For the newly redesigned side pockets, the Nexus features a new pleated pattern developed by the design team (Owen and Jeremy) to snugly hold two 1-liter SmartWater bottles. Our new and innovative design ensures that your bottles are not only secure but also easily accessible. With the fabric’s precise contouring, water bottles get hugged more directly preventing them from falling out. Whether you’re pausing to collect trail trash or moving through uneven terrain, you can count on these pockets to keep all your stuff right where it needs to be.

Backpacker sitting on a BearVault. The BearVault also makes an excellent chair.
A BearVault being opened by a hiker. The BearVault also keeps your snacks from getting crushed.
A Bear Vault Next to a ULA pack

Next-Level Comfort: Redesigned Straps and Hip-belt

With this pack we introduced re-engineered shoulder straps and hipbelt pockets that cater to both comfort and functionality.:

  • Hybrid Shoulder Straps: A perfect blend of S-style and J-style designs, these straps provide ergonomic support for all body types. Equipped with daisy chain compatibility, they work seamlessly with all ULA shoulder strap accessories. 
  • Enhanced Hipbelt Pockets: Designed with a smaller surface area but greater volume, these pockets accommodate modern cell phones, snacks, and more. Featuring a side zipper design, they’re easy to access with one hand—ideal for on-the-go hikers.
  • Sewn In Hipbelt: In order to save weight, the hip-belt is sewn into the pack.

Hipbelt Sizing:

  • Small: Fits waists 30”-34”
  • Medium/Large: Fits waists 34”-42”

Looking to cut even more weight? Grab a Nexus without hipbelt and save up to 3.7 ounces and $20.

A black bear sits in a meadow. Photo by Danika Perkinson on UnSplash.
A Grizzly Bear walks through the forest. Photo by Zdeněk Macháček on UnSplash<br />
Backpacker reaches for his bear spray from the ULA Deploy Bear Canister Holder on his shoulder strap.

Advanced Materials for Ultimate Durability

The Nexus is built using Challenge ULTRA X™ 200 fabric, a material that’s 15 times stronger than steel by weight, twice as abrasion-resistant as 420D nylon, and waterproof up to 200 psi. 

Complementing this is UltraGrid fabric, which not only reduces the pack’s weight but also offers environmental benefits:

  • Made from 210D recycled nylon yarn, UltraGrid diverts materials from landfills.
  • Bluesign® Approved for reduced carbon emissions.
  • Coated with C0 DWR, free from harmful PFCs, for a cleaner environmental footprint.

This is the first pack in our line-up that utilizes UltraGrid and it’s offered in 3 distinct colorways: Tangerine, Black Beauty, and Dark Chili.

Using UltraGrid instead of our standard 400D Ripstop Robic Nylon saves a total of 2 ounces on the pack.

A black bear sits in a meadow. Photo by Danika Perkinson on UnSplash.
A Grizzly Bear walks through the forest. Photo by Zdeněk Macháček on UnSplash<br />
Backpacker reaches for his bear spray from the ULA Deploy Bear Canister Holder on his shoulder strap.

 

Features That Set the Nexus Apart

This ultralight backpack is bursting with thoughtful details to enhance your trail experience:

  • Ice Axe and Trekking Pole Loops
  • Specialized Pleated Side Pockets
  • Dual Utility Pockets
  • Adjustable and Removable Sternum Strap: 0.8 oz
  • Removable Shock Cord System: 0.7 oz
  • Removable Foam Back Panel: 2.2 oz
  • Removable Upper Ice Axe Loop: 0.25 oz
  • Haul Loop: For convenient carrying off the trail
  • Large Hip-belt pockets 
  • Top Y-Strap
  • Fits BV500 Vertically Inside: Perfect for food storage on long trips

 

Designed for Connection

At its heart, the Nexus represents more than just a backpack. It’s a tool for connecting with the trail, with fellow hikers, and with yourself. Its thoughtful design and cutting-edge materials make it a companion that empowers you to push your boundaries and explore with confidence.

THE NEXUS LAUNCHES 9AM MT ON DECEMBER 20TH.

1 Comment

  1. Morgan Sommerville

    I recently used the Circuit for the first time on an 8-day trip. It was great, but I missed not having a free floating, removable top flap/pocket. My worn out, home-made frameless pack that the Circuit replaced included that (which I copied from its predecessor, a Dana Bomb). I think that would be a great addition, or option. 🙂

    Reply

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