Gossamer Gear Mariposa Review

For a lightweight workhorse that is durable and adjustable, nothing compares to the Gossamer Mariposa. The pack is large enough to carry heavy and bulky loads, but easy to adjust to accommodate smaller loads as well. Its removable hip belt and frame make it light and compact, and the movable foam backing is an excellent addition for trail-side stops and added carrying comfort. The shoulder straps are thick and cushions and distribute weight incredibly well. Of the packs we tested, this one is by far the most comfortable right out of the box. Its design is easy to figure out, with no extra accessories or features, and it's ready for the trail right away, it requires little to no break-in period.

The features and unique top closure of this pack were exactly what we wanted in an ultralight backpacking pack. The large external, mesh pocket holds plenty of clothing, while the side pockets vary in size and can carry anything from a JetBoil stove to a Nalgene water bottle or a few snacks.

Performance Comparison

Weight-to-Volume Ratio

Gossamer claims the Mariposa to have a carrying capacity of 60 liters. In our volume tests, we found this to be pretty about spot on, depending on how much you overfill the top of the pack with its fold-over closing mechanism.

In our measurements, the pack had a capacity of about 65 liters, with the external pockets holding more than the company reported online. With a stripped-down weight of 30.5 ounces or 1 pound 12 ounces, the Mariposa weighs more than the Gorilla (which weighs in at 27.5 with all accessories removed).

These three ounces are not much when you take into account the additional 10 liters of carrying capacity that the Mariposa offers. Compared side-by-side to the Gossamer Gorilla, the Mariposa scored lower overall in the weight to volume metric, but if you're looking for a pack that will perform in a more extensive range of situations, the Mariposa is worth the extra weight.

Load Carrying Comfort

This pack takes the cake regarding load-carrying comfort. Tested on some different trails from Wyoming to the Sierra Nevada, the Gossamer Mariposa felt great from our first steps with it on the trail.

The wide shoulder straps and waist belt disperse the load comfortably without creating pressure points. The new belt design is stiffer than the older versions of this pack, providing more support in the waist. The new aluminum stay connects the back of the model to the waist belt which also offers more support when carrying heavy loads. We found this pack to work great when carrying light loads (around 15-20 pounds) as well as more substantial loads (above 35 pounds).

Features

The Mariposa has just enough features so that each item in your kit has its own place, but not too many bells and whistles that the pack feels like a one-man marching band when loaded up for a few days out.

The side pockets are placed in just the right position so that you can grab your water bottle (and replace it!) while keeping the pack on. The mesh pocket on the backside is large enough to hold snacks, clothing, and other gear, while the side pockets are large enough to hold a JetBoil or water bottle.

The most notable new feature on the Mariposa is the over the top closure mechanism, which eliminates a lid from the pack's design. We liked this system, as it keeps everything secure while providing flexibility for carrying larger and smaller loads. The new hip belt also comes with little pockets, which we found useful for carrying snacks or holding micro-trash.

Adaptability

The Mariposa is one of the most versatile packs we tested. It is easy to remove the frame and waist belt when slimming down and carrying lighter loads.

The side compression straps and the over the top closure also allow for significant adjustability concerning volume. The Mariposa works exceptionally well when paired with a bear can - something to consider if you plan to travel in national parks, where these are required.

Durability

In the Mariposa, Gossamer Gear uses 100D Robic High tensile strength nylon for the bulk of the pack and a combination of 100D nylon and 70D ripstop nylon for specific portions of the pack.

These materials proved to be as durable as they sound during our testing period. The pack received hardly a sign of wear or abrasion, even after many trips above tree-line and through many alpine talus fields. The foam backing and simple aluminum frame durable while still providing support.

Value

Like any quality piece of equipment, Mariposa is a bit of an investment, but it's guaranteed to pay off. The pack is both durable and versatile, so even if you're not going on long-distance trips all the time, the Mariposa will still be useful as a day-hiking or traveling pack.

Conclusion