Gear Review: UL Backpacks: Osprey Eja 58 and Arc Haul Scout 50

The Osprey Eja 58 and the Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 are my current choices for my PCT endeavor. I listed a breakdown of specifications to determine how each will cater to slightly different hiking styles and preferences.

Weight & Materials

The Osprey Eja 58 weighs around 2.7 lbs (1.22 kg), made of high-tenacity nylon, which is durable but heavier. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 weighs about 1.4 lbs (635 g), made of Gridstop fabric, which is ultralight but less abrasion-resistant than traditional nylon.

For the win: Zpacks for ultralight hikers; Osprey for durability.

Suspension & Comfort

Osprey Eja 58 has an Airspeed mesh back panel, which keeps your back ventilated, and padded hip/shoulder straps, making it comfortable for heavier loads. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 uses an adjustable arc frame for ventilation but has minimal padding on the straps and hip belt. It’s best for lighter loads.

For the win: Osprey for comfort, especially with heavier loads; Zpacks for breathability with ultralight loads.

Load Capacity

Osprey Eja 58’s recommended load range of 20-35 lbs (9-16 kg).

Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 can carry up to 35 lbs (16 kg), but feels best under 25 lbs (11 kg).

For the win: Osprey for carrying heavier gear comfortably; Zpacks for ultralight setups.

Storage & Accessibility

Osprey Eja 58 has multiple pockets, including hip belt pockets, side stretch pockets, and a large front mesh pocket. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 on the otherhand, is more minimalist, with one large main compartment and a stretch front pocket. I added Hip belt pockets as add-ons.

For the win: Osprey for organization; Zpacks for simplicity and modularity.

Durability & Weather Resistance

Osprey Eja 58 has a more rugged, but not naturally waterproof—requires a rain cover. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 is made of water-resistant fabric, but the pack isn’t fully waterproof without a liner.

For the win: Zpacks for built-in water resistance; Osprey for better long-term durability.

Price

Osprey Eja 58 runs at $260. Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50 costs about $325 but I got mine on discount from the bargain bin.

For the win: Osprey for budget-conscious hikers.

The precedence in carrying my gear and equipment comes down to a balance of weight, comfort, and function as I take on the demands of the trail. I will use Osprey Eja 58 for hikes where I need prioritize comfort, durability, and carrying capacity. It’s my go to choice if I need a reliable, well-padded pack with easy access to gear. I love the minimalist design of my Zpacks Arc Haul Scout 50. The low weight and modularity is perfect for trips demanding shorter number of days with high mileages as I prefer a lower base weight and a more streamlined setup.

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