New Skala 38L Ultralight Rucksack Backpacking Rucksacks

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UOG TOP PICK – for Ultralight Overnights: With smart storage, comfortable carry, and a stripped-back design that doesn’t sacrifice usability, the Skala 38L hits the sweet spot for minimalist multi-day missions.

Gossamer Gear says: 

The Skala combines a tough yet lightweight frameless design with a backpacking classic: the roll-top main compartment. Secure the top by clipping the ends together for quick access, or fasten it down the sides with the optional side buckles. Easily reach your water bottle pocket using the latest cleat compression hardware, which cinches on and off when needed.

All-New Fabrics – The Skala is designed with two new fabrics to Gossamer Gear, our new Riptide fabric made from 100D Recycled Ripstop and an extra durable UHMWPE Stretch Mesh.

Ultralight Hardware – We meticulously scrutinized every component to maximize ultralight performance.

Type II Ready – With a generous 38L capacity, it’s the ideal size for overnight adventures that push your limits.

Our Verdict

The Skala 38 offers a confident mix of comfort, carry, and capability in a minimalist design. It’s a well-judged pack for overnight trips or stripped-back multi-day trails.

Weighing 587g, the Gossamer Gear Skala 38L is a frameless ultralight rucksack with a considered feature set. The cushioned shoulder straps are broad, breathable, and comfortable, even when pushing towards the upper end of their 9 kg comfort range. I particularly appreciate the stretch pockets on the shoulder straps, which are both accessible and functional, easily accommodating a phone, bars, or a filter bottle without any awkward shuffling.

The roll-top closure secures either at the top or down the sides, and the layout encourages tidy packing. There’s good structure from the removable SitLight pad, and compression is excellent thanks to the tie-on points and tensionable cleat system; there are cinches on the water side pockets, which is a nice touch. The large front stretch mesh panel is hard-wearing and handy for frequently needed items like waterproofs; I wish the side pockets used the same stretchy material, allowing you to store bulkier items like a shelter. A bit more space in the hipbelt pockets wouldn’t go amiss either. The only other thing I’d change is the single sizing, which may limit dialling in the perfect fit for some.

The Skala 38L remains a robust offering: light, capable and thoughtfully built with durable materials and flexible storage.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• Roll-top closure, fastened at the top or down the sides. Side compression straps are removable
• Refined buckles, smaller compression straps, and Lightrek Bungee attachment
• Exterior stretch mesh pockets
• Specialized cleat water bottle pocket cinch
• Front zippered security pocket
• Cushioned, ergonomic shoulder straps with perforated foam
• Removable Sitlight Pad; can be replaced with a 19” Airflow Pad
• Front and back reflective components
• Interior hanging loop and tube routing for a reservoir
• Sternum strap with a safety whistle
• Built in stretch mesh pockets on shoulder straps
• Trekking pole attachment system and ice axe loop
• Webbing thumb loops
• Tie-on points for extra compression and gear customization
• Top carrying handle

Specifications

• Weighs: 587g
• Height: 21” / 53.3 cm to the extension collar
• Height: 29” / 73.7 cm to the top
• Width: 11” / 27.9 cm
• Depth: 6” / 15.2 cm

Capacity

• Pack Body: 30L to horizontal seam
• Total: 38L including pockets
• Max Carry Capacity: 25 lbs
• For Comfort: 20 lbs

Material & Construction

• Riptide Ripstop, 100D Recycled Robic Nylon
• UHMWPE Stretch Mesh
• PFAS-free

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Rucksack
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Rucksack
• Why is ‘PFC Free’ Important?