The Cicada 28L is a larger version of the Cicada 22L. Built by the most trusted name in ultralight backpacking, the Cicada brings ULA’s signature durability, reliability, and design ethos into everyday carry. For more than two decades, ULA has outfitted long-distance hikers who count every ounce and demand strict performance from their gear. The Cicada applies that same trail-proven commitment to function and toughness, reimagining it for life in motion—whether you’re commuting, catching a flight, or posted up at your favorite coffee shop.

The Cicada is a streamlined, front-loading daypack designed for intuitive organization and ease of access. Exterior pockets include two smaller and one larger front compartment, a top QAP pocket, two water bottle pockets, a hidden passport pocket, and an exterior-accessed, padded laptop compartment.

The thoughtful internal layout features a tablet sleeve and two stretch-mesh side pockets. The interior front panel features two mesh-zippered pockets with a low-profile pen/stylus holder for those moments your ideas need to move as quickly as you do.

Comfort is delivered through a minimal back panel, padded haul loop, and ULA’s signature S and J-straps. This build has a luggage pass-through.

From trail-tested to city-ready, the Cicada delivers ULA reliability in a form that fits under an airplane seat—and into everyday life.

5.9 Dyneema® Composite Fabric

The Bespoke Cicada 28L 1026 features a black 5.9 Dyneema® Composite Fabric exterior, marking ULA’s first return to Dyneema in a while. Engineered for next-level abrasion resistance, this composite is designed to withstand constant contact with rough surfaces and heavy loads. Its woven polyester face is reinforced with Dyneema® fibers oriented at 0°/90°, backed by a polyester film to create a durable, stable composite suited to demanding use. With high tensile strength, excellent tear resistance, and a water resistance rating exceeding 20,000 mmH₂O, it delivers the performance expected of a technical pack fabric without unnecessary bulk. No intentionally added PFAS.

Color: Black

X-Pac® VX21RS

The Bespoke Cicada 28L 1026 can be fully lined in X-Pac® VX21RS Red. VX21RS has a softer hand and enhanced tear resistance. Constructed with a C6 DWR 210D ripstop nylon face with a polyester and PU waterproof coating, black polyester X-Ply™ at 22°, and a 50D polyester taffeta backing, this material offers low stretch, reliable weather protection, and structural integrity under load.

Color:  Red

EPX400

The Bespoke Cicada 28L 1026 can also be fully lined in EPX400 Wolf Grey, offering a durable, understated alternative to the Red X-Pac® VX21RS lining. With nearly twice the abrasion resistance of 420D nylon, EPX400 is built to withstand the friction and wear of everyday use.

Constructed with a 400D face, 45° Blue CrossPly, and 70D ripstop backing, this fabric balances durability with structural stability. It delivers a tear strength of 45.7 lbs in the warp and 42.9 lbs in the fill, with abrasion resistance tested to 3,000 cycles.

Color: Wolf Grey

Venom™ Stretch Mesh

Black Venom™ Stretch Mesh is used throughout the Bespoke Cicada 28L 1026, including the exterior water bottle pockets, interior side pockets, interior tablet sleeve, and upper interior zippered pocket. Using the same material across these compartments creates a consistent look while providing the flexibility needed for everyday organization.

Lightweight yet rugged, Venom™ uses an expanded 5 × 5 UHMWPE grid to increase elasticity for smoother access and improved adaptability without sacrificing structure. Built on a 100% recycled nylon base and finished with a PFC-free C0 DWR, it balances durability, stretch, and weather resistance.

Color: Black

The following details document the materials and construction choices specific to this archived release.