In 2019, Gossamer Gear launched its Ranger 35 Backpack.
I got lucky and was honored to go on a day hike with Glen Van Peski, Gossamer Gear's Founder.
Be sure to listen to our one-hour conversation on my podcast.
We paused to review the Ranger 35.
Weighing at just under 1 kilo (32 oz exactly), this is a light, compact backpack.
It's not a super ultralight backpack. It's designed for a specific use case.
Who is it for?
As Glen explained in the video, the Ranger 35 is designed for craggers.
These are people who love high-adrenaline sports, like a mini-Alex-Honnold.
It's perfect for people who love:
- Adventure racing
- Climbing
- Bouldering
- Trail running
- Snow adventurers (skiing, snowboarding, and cross-country)
- Obstacle course racing (e.g., Ruck, Tough Mudder, Spartan)
- Commuting to work on a bicycle with your laptop on the back
It's packed with compartments, compression straps, and easy-to-access places for snacks, drinks, maps, phones, and GPS.
Check out the video:
This Gossamer Gear video provides an outstanding summary of the features:
Ranger from Gossamer Gear on Vimeo.
Who is NOT for?
It's unsuitable for:
- Thru-hikers
- Ultra-light backpackers
Ultra-light backpackers wouldn't carry a 1 kg backpack. You need something half that weight.
At the same time, most backpackers also need more capacity because 35 liters is pretty tight, making it a deal-killer for most thru-hikers.
Conclusion
There's no perfect backpack for all situations. Each backpack has its pros and cons.
I'm still a sucker for Gossamer Gear's Mariposa 60 as my general-purpose backpack. However, when I went on my Go Ruck event and for other uses, the Ranger 35 was perfect. Weekend Warriors rejoice!
Disclosure: Gossamer Gear has sponsored my adventures by giving me free gear (but never cash) for over a decade. Also, I have affiliate links which I hope you will use if you buy something from Gossamer Gear. I always use their products, which is why I endorse them.
