Exo K4 5000 vs Seek Outside 4800 pack

[isleofGough]

Has anyone compared the Exo Mtn Gear K4 5000 backpack vs the Seek Outside 4800 pack for comfort at under 30lbs and around 70lbs? The Seek Outside is supposed to be lighter and more waterproof, but I have a bad back and need to factor in comfort. The Seek Outside is not that much lighter once one adds a lumbar pad and equivalent accessories.

 

[sndmn11]

Where do you live? You might be able to find Roksliders in your area that will let you try either.

 

[isleofGough]

That would be great, but I am in Bellingham WA and would guess there aren't any people up here with both.

 

[Marbles]

I own an Exo K4 and 2 SO packs (an breakaway and a integrated). The Exo is the only one that sees use. It is more comfortable with heavy loads for me.

Both are good packs.

 

[WCT3]

I used a SO pack for 3 seasons and just got an Exo pack this winter. The SO is great for light loads up to 45ish pounds, perfect for scouting and backpacking but I started to have a lot of comfort issues with it as soon as I got over 50lbs. I haven't used the Exo much yet but it has been much more comfortable with weight.

 

[Alpineelk]

I have a so. My experience is super comfortable with the lighter loads they are quite flexible and move with you nicely. But I would say u give up some heavy load comfort for sure

 

[sndmn11]

To highlight, "whatever fits you best", I'm the opposite of the last few comments and enjoy the Seek frame under heavy loads. https://rokslide.com/forums/threads...ith-goshawk-merlin-testing-and-review.270105/

I've used the Exo risk free trial, and would LOVE to get to the same comfort as Seek's Revolution frame, but it hasn't worked out that way for me.

The best, absolute best, thing someone can do is buy two FRAMES, do a head to head shoot out, sell the loser, and buy a third alternate. Used is fine. THEN worry about the bag that goes on that frame.

 

[ethan]

I have a K3 and a couple older SO packs, the 4800 being one of them. They definitely both have a different feel, but both feel great under heavy weight and light weight, to me anyways. The SO's I have are the older xpac material and they are definitely louder than the codura, which can be huge in most hunting situations. The exo has a better layout for compartmentalization, but sometimes I like having just one big bag depending on what i'm doing.
My advice would be to try them both on and see which one works best for you, if you can. They're both great packs, just different feels and layouts.

 

[Wrongside]

I used a SO Evo for ~10 years. (Since moved to SG X-Curve.) And have tried out a buddy’s K4. Of the 2 packs you’re considering I’d guess the K4 will be more comfortable for most body types. Myself and several guys I know have had trouble keeping the SO frame off our glutes with 50+ pounds.

As mentioned above, it’s well worth trying a few different frames with weight. Packs and boots are very much personal preference and body type dependent.