Golite Jam2 Pack Review

I have found the Jam2 pack to be the perfect solution for dayhikes, backpacking, alpine climbing, and winter trips. The pack is very basic (what I look for in a pack) There is one main compartment with a roll top closure, and one additional zippered outside pocket. Compression straps on the sides and Golite's Compacktor system.

This pack is relatively comfortable if loads do not exceed 35 lbs. The shoulder straps are well padded, however there is no hip belt padding. The lack of padding on the hipbelt is not an issue when loads are light or many layers of clothing are worn in cold weather. On a spring trip to the desert in Utah I found the hipbelt to be a little uncomfortable when the pack was loaded with all my equipment and almost 4 gallons of water. This is understandable as the weight limit was greatly exceeded. For this I recommend adding a frame sheet to the pack.

The Jam2 has a great balance of light weight and very good durability, after months of use this pack shows little wear. This is due to the dyneema fabric. According to Golite this fabric is much stronger than steel and weighs significantly less. After a trip to the beartooths even the rough and abrasive rocks could not harm the pack.

At 50 liters the Jam2 seems perfect for thru hiking and weekend winter trips as well as superlight alpine climbing. I like that skis can be attached if needed (although there are no reinforcements for ski edges) and the gear loops are very well placed. The trim cut on the pack keeps it out of the way of swinging arms as well.

Golite has created a pack that is is almost perfect, however a mesh back panel could be added for better comfort and ventilation, I found that my back got got quite sweaty. I highly recommend this pack to any climbers, backpackers, and travellers who want the lightest pack they can get without sacrificing durability. This pack is designed for minimalists not people looking for lots of features.