Stone Glacier vs Kifaru

[hammer0419]

I have been a Kifaru user for a good 15 years. For what ever reason I have an interest in trying a Stone Glacier pack. However I am curious as to how they compare to Kifaru as far as fit and comfort are concerned. Every time I have ever tried something other than Kifau I have been completely disappointed. If anyone has carried both, I would be curious as to you opinion between the 2. Thanks

 

[Maah Daah Hey]

There is a great article on the main page about this exact topic. Bitterroot Bulls did a great comparison and there are some videos as well so you can see them without actually having them in person.

 

[gobbler1662]

I have had 3 Kifaru packs, a ul3700, a ZXR, and a spike camp. I also am running a stone glacier solo right now. As stated earlier Biteroot Bulls hit the nail on the head with his review of the two packs. I am kind of a UL freak so thus my choice of the stone glacier, but I honestly believe that a Kifaru is the best pack on the planet overall.

 

[Shrek]

Deleted

 

[Matt Cashell]

Thanks for kind words, MDH and gobbler.

Shrek,

I am not sure what your post has to do with the OP's question, but feel free to start a thread on brand loyalty.

Hammer,

As referenced above, I have quite a bit of time with these packs, and still really like them both. My opinions haven't changed, and I like the bit of extra organization the BT1 provides over the SG, so I have grabbed the BT1 more often over the summer.

I have had ZERO durability concerns with both packs.

 

[SHTF]

Im dieing to try a SG eventually. But I do love my Kifaru. Bitter Roots post on his experience really made me a fan and now I got the Bug to try out the SG. Thanks alot BR. As if I dont spend enough money on this stuff already... =-)

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

I have carried both, the biggest difference is the style of waistbelt. If you do decide to get a SG, I would order the lumbar pad from the outset, it makes the belt much more comfortable.

 

[jmez]

I have carried both, the biggest difference is the style of waistbelt. If you do decide to get a SG, I would order the lumbar pad from the outset, it makes the belt much more comfortable.

Especially true with a curvy back. If you don't have a flat back you need the lumbar pad.

 

[hammer0419]

Thanks for the info. I don't believe anything could be as comfortable as the Bikini Frame but still have an urge to try one?

 

[dotman]

Have you seen the new Paradox packs, not sure how well they will do but for some reason if I had an extra $500 I think I would like to try one. Doubt it would replace my Kifaru Bikini frame but I like gear and it might be worth taking a look at. Probalby won't know if it is any good till next year once the reveiws start to come out.

 

[Yellowknife]

I have carried both, the biggest difference is the style of waistbelt. If you do decide to get a SG, I would order the lumbar pad from the outset, it makes the belt much more comfortable.

That's not entirely true. It depends on the shape of your back. My dad gets 100% contact with the full wrap belt, and even the thinnest lumbar pad added too much pressure to his lower spine.

I've got a fair bit of curve, and a lumbar pad with half of the foam gives me perfect contact.

Soo... it depends.

Yk

 

[ScottR_EHJ]

YK, agreed shape of the back is the most important factor. I would get the pad from the outset rather than not have it, this way you wouldn't have to call and make a second order etc. if the belt doesn't make contact.

 

[blb078]

That's not entirely true. It depends on the shape of your back. My dad gets 100% contact with the full wrap belt, and even the thinnest lumbar pad added too much pressure to his lower spine.

I've got a fair bit of curve, and a lumbar pad with half of the foam gives me perfect contact.

Soo... it depends.

Yk

I agree, I have a curvy back and I like it better w/o the lumbar pad, although the max load I put on w/the pad was about 55lbs so maybe that will change w/75lbs+.

 

[Ridge Ghost]

Regarding fit, part of the reason I bought a Kifaru last year was the different sizing options. I have a short torso and 30" waist. Most "one size fits most" packs on the market didn't work well for me, both in waist belt and torso measurement.

I can't find anything on Stone Glacier's website about sizing. Do they offer different size waistbelts, or is it one standard size frame that fits a range of sizes?

 

[muleman]

One size frame and belt. The shoulder straps are attached with velcro and offer a lot of adjustment. Call Kurt if you have specific torso fit questions. He is very responsive, if not out hunting.

http://stoneglacier.com/Pack care-Fitting.html

 

[gobbler1662]

I have a 32 inch waist and the stone glacier fits me fine, with lots of adjustment up and down. I just returned from a 5 day backpack elk hunt and will be leaving for 21 day backcountry hunt on saturdaywith the SG, I should get to know this pack pretty well after that hunt.

 

[hammer0419]

The ONE SIZE BELT makes it an easy decision for me. Definately an no go. Every time I THINK of trying something other than Kifaru, reality appears and reminds me why nothing is better.

 

[MAT]

I'd like mto see more info on those new Paradox packs. They look to be actual lightweight packs! Frame is same wt as a Bikini 2# 5oz but with 4800 cu bag at 12 oz. That's a 4800 ci sytem at 3# 1 oz, which is 1# 4oz less that the Bikini/Highcamp. And they come in Multicam too.

 

[Derek0525]

One thing I wish the SG had was more outside pockets maybe a side pocket other than that I like mine so far.