50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter: A Balanced Lightweight Pack
Clark Rasmussen
Key Review Points
Quick Features:
- “Ultra-light” Design 2.8 lbs
- Exterior Mounting Options
- Good Fit and Support
- Ideal Volume for Over-Nights
The 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter is an improved light weight offering.
We don’t do a whole ton of long distance, multi-day hikes here in the Upstate Crew; not for a lack of interest but more so from an absence of “ideal timing.” On the rare occasion that we do, it’s always a really fun “gear stress test,” a chance to evaluate our hiking stuff under the grueling conditions of the Adirondack wilderness.
The 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter is the second 50+ Deuter pack that I’ve bought, after my incredibly beloved and extra large 65+10, which still lives and has been somewhat relegated to travel luggage. This Ultra model is smaller, lighter and…. better? Maybe? Weight is a factor that is relatively easy to overlook in shorter spans, but even a few pounds can make a world of difference over 3,4 or 5 days straight of back-packing.
I’m pleased to say my experience with the Ultra has been a significant improvement over something that I was already pretty pleased with (the 65+).
THE PROS:
The 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter carries all of my favorite Deuter features, including an off-the-back style frame, which is one of my “must-haves” when it comes to hiking packs (internal or external). This version has a lower profile and its tighter against the pack, but is still effective and allows for air-flow. The mesh and webbing across this frame also seem lighter and more breathable than models from years past, which probably adds to some weight reduction.
In some ways, this this new style has less “features” than previous packs, but I think all the visual changes and some less straps add up to a sleeker design and a reduced weight. The material, the frame and even the straps are thin and light weight and well fit. Load lifters, a water reservoir pouch, and all the other little details are still present here.
The three external stretching pockets, one on each side and one on the front of the pack, are a staple for many Deuter bags and they make a return here for the 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter. It’s always helpful to have easy access during a long trek, and anything on the outside is easy to reach. For me, snacks and water are generally kept here, and not much else. All things considered, this is an easy thing to overlook but another favorite for me.
All attachments, straps and loops have this modular, “attach wherever” kind of design that lends itself really well to the ultra-light style, meaning you could potentially reduce weight by removing the side tie-downs and the top as well. In my personal opinion, I don’t see that making a huge weight difference, probably not even close to a pound, but there are plenty of people who we love having that option.
THE CONS
There are some compromises that have been made for the 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter to reduce weight, none of which are “deal-breakers” in my mind. An easy and obvious example is that this new series of packs does not have a bottom opening to access the main compartment, nor does it have an internal membrane to compartmentalize the large “duffle-style” compartment. I personally don’t have much of an issue with this, but there will be some who are disappointed by its absence.
My only real “Con” is that I have some mild concerns about long-term durability. This very light pack is… well… very light and flimsy. The polymer “rip-stop” material should hold up, and I’m sure it’s been well tested, but the Adirondacks have a way of really beating the gear; there’s really no better way to explain it. All of that being said, Deuter does have a life-time warranty on their packs, so this concern could be addressed easily if it materializes at all. If I do have durability issues with my 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter, I will send it to Deuter for repairs, and add an update here.
I got my pack at a pretty deep discount at a local Sierra store, but at full price ($250) this ultra light pack is on-par with a lot of other bags in the space.
50L AirContact Ultra
Eureka Tent
In Conclusion: My New Pack for the Long Weekend Trips
The 50L AirContact Ultra from Deuter takes its place next to my revered 30L Futura as an “any time, anywhere” pack that I’ll be using well into the future. the 50+5 size gives you some wiggle room for packing, and all the exterior straps and loops offer lots of additional options.
Now, is this the best pack in the ultralight space? That’s a whole lot harder to say, or to even make a recommendation on. Hyperlite and Gossamer will appear all across the internets highest recommendations, but you’re unlikely to see a whole ton of Deuter recommendations. Based on the numbers, I’d venture to say it’s at least competitive. For me, the fit and features of the Deuter packs always hit the mark, and that’s especially true here.
Purchase links:
Backcountry
Amazon
Direct From Deuter