CART STATUS: Awaiting Adventure Gear.
Ultra Circuit
$379.99
Size + Strap Guide
1. TORSO FIT
- Standing upright, tilt your chin to your chest.
- Locate your C7 Vertabra—the large lump at the base of your neck.
- With flexible tape, measure down the length and natural curvature of your spine to your iliac crest/ the top of your hipbone.
- This measurement in inches is your torso length.
TIP: If you're between 2 sizes, order the smaller size. Still not sure? Contact us.
2. TORSO CHART
We've found most people in these height ranges fall into these torso/pack sizes. That being said, it is always best to measure your torso using the guide above.
If you have questions, or your torso size doesn’t seem to make sense for your height, please contact us.
3. HIPBELT FIT
Use the following method to determine your hipbelt inches, then head to Step 4 to see the hipbelt size you need.
MEN
Pant Waist Size + 2".
WOMEN
CURVY HIPS: Smallest part of your waist + 5".
STRAIGHT HIPS: Smallest part of your waist + 3".
KIDS
Smallest Part of waist + 2".
4. HIPBELT SIZE CHART
Find the hipbelt measurement you calculated in Step 3 on the chart. That will be your hipbelt size.
TIP: If you are on the outer edge of a size, order the larger size. [ Ex: If you are 38", you will notice 38" is the last number of the Medium Hipbelt and the first number of the Large Hipbelt. You would want to order a Large.]
5. SHOULDER STRAPS
The downward slope of your shoulder profile usually determines strap preference. You can assess your shoulder slope profile by looking in a mirror or having a friend look at the angle of your shoulder from the base of your neck to your shoulder point.
If there is relatively little or no downward slope, you have what is referred to as flat or squared shoulders.
If there is a noticeable downward slope, you have what is referred to as standard or sloping shoulders.
J STRAPS
J-straps are the traditional straight straps. They are best suited for people with flat or square shoulders, as their flat shape provides better surface contact and less rub.
S STRAPS
S-straps contour body curves. They are best suited for people with standard or sloping shoulders, as their contoured shape better hugs your shoulder slope.
TIP: If you have a short torso but a larger upper body, you may need a slightly longer strap. If you are very large in the upper body, you might need XL shoulder straps. Contact us, and we would be happy to make these customizations so your pack is comfortable and fits well.
MADE IN THE U.S.A.
FREE U.S. DELIVERY
LIFETIME WARRANTY*
TUNE-UPS & REPAIRS*
DESCRIPTION
Say hello to the Ultra Circuit, the same Circuit you know and love, only stronger and lighter than ever. Purposefully constructed of Ultra 400 in high abrasion areas (bottom, back panel, and pockets) and Ultra 200 in low abrasion areas (sides, front, and collar), we’ve selected a fabric matrix that maximizes durability while keeping the pack ultralight [33.8 oz!]
In our commitment to making quality, durable backpacks that last a lifetime, we’ve been hesitant to build packs out of many popular ultralight fabrics. Why Ultra? 15x stronger than steel by weight, twice as abrasion resistant as standard 420D nylon, and waterproof to 200 psi, we’ve finally found an ultralight fabric that matches our high standards. Front pocket is ULTRA StretchMesh for added abrasion resistance. Note that to maximize water-resistance of the ULTRA Circuit, these packs do not have bladder hose ports.
We don’t think there’s a pack out there that compares to the load carrying capabilities, comfort, and durability of the Ultra Circuit. The Ultra Circuit utilizes a 1.2 oz carbon fiber and Delrin suspension hoop, a dense internal foam frame, and a single aluminum stay to give you excellent back panel support, maximum load control, weight transfer, and pack rigidity without limiting your range of movement. Front mesh pocket, dual hipbelt pockets, and Ultra 400 adjustable side pockets make it easy to stay organized whether you’re on a thru or just out for the weekend. If you have your total pack weight down to around 30 pounds and want to feel the freedom of traveling light, the Circuit is for you.
MATERIAL: Challenge ULTRA™
COLOR(S): Graphite Black/Silverado Grey
AT A GLANCE
WEIGHT: 33.8 OZ | 958.2 GM
VOLUME: 4,200 CU IN | 68 L
MAX LOAD: 35 LBS | 16 KG
If you have your total pack weight down to around 30 pounds and want to feel the freedom of traveling light, the Ultra 24 Circuit is for you.
FEATURES
- ULTRA 400 + ULTRA 200 Fabric
- ULTRA Hipbelt Pockets w/ YKK Waterproof Zippers
- ULTRA Side Pockets w/ Elasticized Top
- UltraStretch™ Mesh Front Pocket
- Internal Suspension Hoop
- Padded Backpanel
- NO Water Hose Port for Max Water Resistance
- Rolltop Closure
- Side/Top Compression Straps
- Ice Axe/Pole Retention Loops
- Sternum Strap
- Contoured Shoulder Straps
- Front Shock Cord
- ULA Logo on StretchMesh
CAPACITY
REC. MAX LOAD: SUB 35 LBS
REC. BASE WEIGHT: SUB 15 LBS
PACK VOLUME
TOTAL VOLUME: 4,200 CU IN | 68 L
BREAKDOWN (CU IN):
- Main Body: 2,400
- Front Mesh Pocket: 400
- Left Side Pocket: 400
- Right Side Pocket: 400
- Extension Collar: 500
- Left Hipbelt Pocket: 100
- Right Hipbelt Pocket: 100
FAQ’S
Q: WHY ULTRA™?
A: ULTRA is 15x stronger than steel by weight, twice as abrasion resistant as standard 420D nylon, and waterproof to 200 psi. Ultra is the ultimate in ultralight fabric, with the strength to go the distance in the harshest environments.
ULTRA fabric lasts longer, absorbs 80% less moisture, and has better UV resistance and color retention than traditional laminated nylon.
ULTRA is the only durable, waterproof pack fabric made from 100% recycled polyester! Every yard contains over 20 plastic bottles and saves over one pound of carbon emissions compared to standard pack fabric.
Q: WHAT IS UltraStretch™ MESH?
A: UltraStretch™ Mesh is built for maximum abrasion and cut resistance. A technical fabric, UltraStretch™ Mesh is a 4-way stretch mesh woven with the highest quality fibers for performance and longevity.
Q: WHAT IS A SUSPENSION HOOP?
A: The suspension hoop used in the Circuit is our minimal solution to transferring load between shoulder and hip. If you imagine an upside ‘U’ you get a sense of how the hoop is positioned and how it functions. The upper arch of the ‘U’ ties into the shoulder straps, while each leg of the ‘U’ ties into the hipbelt. These points of contact allow for a range of suspension flexibility while being rigid enough to support loads up to 35 lbs. In addition, because the suspension is located on the periphery of the pack body, and the back-panel is stiffened slightly with dual density foam, the result is a pack that can handle the load but does not dictate your body’s movements — but rather responds to how you move. Personally, when the loads are kept below 35 lbs, we find this pack to be the most comfortable in the ULA line-up.
Q: CAN A BEAR CANISTER FIT IN THE CIRCUIT?
A: Every bear canister on the market will fit into the Circuit vertically. Unfortunately bear canisters will not fit in the Circuit horizontally. Keep in mind it is best to pack something between the hard sided canister and the bottom of the pack.
Q: WHERE DO I STRAP MY SLEEPING PAD?
A: If you are using an inflatable pad, we recommended storing it in the interior of the pack to avoid punctures. A foam pad can easily be secured beneath the top compression strap that goes over the top of the pack or beneath the front shock cord compression. Although not necessary for optimum performance, positioning your sleeping pad into the interior of the Circuit (against the back-panel) is also a good solution.
Alternately, you can build your own pack and add Bottom Straps, or a top Y-strap to carry your pad externally.
Q: CAN A WATER BOTTLE FIT IN THE SIDE POCKETS?
A: Each side pocket can accommodate two 1-Liter ‘Big Slam’ style bottles. A Nalgene-style bottle will also fit, but in your quest to lighten up, that should have been replaced a long time ago! In general most people can reach back and retrieve a bottle, drink, and return the bottle to the pocket without removing the pack. The top of the side pockets are angled for easier access.
Q: HOW DOES THE TOP OF THE PACK STAY CLOSED?
A: The top of the pack closes like a dry bag (also known as a rolltop) very similar to what river runners use to create a water resistant seal for their gear bags. The back of the collar is slightly taller than the front. Once you are packed, the collar can be rolled down upon itself to effectively create a barrier to water penetration. Once rolled, each side of the collar can be buckled to the sides of the pack or the two yellow buckles on the top can also be fastened to each other.
As for access, once the collar is rolled and fastened shut, you would need to unbuckle the compression straps and unroll the collar to access the inside of the pack. However, the roll-top only needs to be rolled shut when the weather dictates. If the sky is dry, the collar can simply be folded forward. Vertical compression can still be achieved by buckling the collar to the sides of the pack.
TECHNICAL FABRICS
ULTRA™ represents a new paradigm in durability and weight. Constructed with an optimal blend of UHMWPE (Ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene) & high-tenacity polyester, the tight weave is laminated with an eco-friendly adhesive to Challenge RUV™ film. The result is an incredibly strong, lightweight, and waterproof to 200 psi textile.
ULTRA™ is the ultimate in ultralight pack fabric, with the strength to go the distance in the most demanding environments.
ULTRA™ 200
200D Ultra PE is woven and laminated to recycled, waterproof RUV™ film. At just 3.5oz/yd2, it exceeds the technical properties of any similar weight fabric available on Earth. Tear Strength: Warp: 103.1 lb / Fill 133.2 lb. Abrasion Resistance: 4,400 cycles.
ULTRA™ 400
A high modulus pack fabric, ULTRA 400, is constructed of a 400d Ultra PE (similar to Dyneema®) with 0.5 mil RUV™ film backing. It is 20% lighter and four times as abrasion-resistant than other 400d U-PE fabrics. Weight: 4.65 oz/yd², 158 gsm. Tear Strength: Warp: 187.7 lb, Fill 161.1 lb. Abrasion Resistance: 8,800 cycles.
WHAT PEOPLE ARE SAYING…
3 reviews for Ultra Circuit
STRONG. LIGHT.
MORE FROM THE ULA PACK LINE
ULTRALIGHT PACKS FOR EVERY ADVENTURE
Stephen Yadzinski (verified owner) –
Home from the first trip with this incredible pack — 3 nights in Capitol Reef in late December. The pack performed flawlessly through blowing snow and rain, keeping the down sleeping bag and jackets I brought to stay warm completely dry. My pack weight was 27 lbs leaving the car, and felt very good and balanced at the start and throughout the trip. I have nothing but great things to say about this pack. I expect this to be my go to for many years to come. HIGHLY recommend!
Gerald F. Chew –
I’ve moved from an X-PAC Circuit to the Ultra Circuit. Why you might ask? I’m a bit of a gear junkie, . . . and I have a lot of backpacks from various manufacturers; too many according to my wife. After “dialing” in the ULA pack they are by far the most comfortables ones that I own. While I absolutely love the X-PAC Circuit (i.e., I don’t think you can go wrong with either one or the Robic for that matter) which I used on the JMT, the Ultra Circuit is absolutely beautiful and actually seems more durable than the X-PAC. The Dyneema stretch mesh is incredible. This will now be my go-to pack.
The gear aside, the absolute best thing about ULA is their customer support and service. I’ve spent hours with them on the telephone and e-mail messages discussing how I will use the pack, where, time of year, . . . They are very helpful if you have any questions at all.
Glen Moore (verified owner) –
Just finished my first trip with my new Circuit Ultra, 45 miles in the Sawtooth National Forrest. The pack performed flawlessly. My pack weight was 30 pounds (not ultralight). A couple of long days over several mountain passes but the pack felt great the whole way. Plenty of room for all my gear. Love the stretch panel on back for easy access to jackets sit pads etc. I’m very geeky about my pack squeaking or being noisy as I walk down the trail this pack never made a sound no squeaks. The shoulder straps and hip belt are very comfortable and have plenty of padding even with a heavy pack. I love it and highly recommend this pack. Ready for my nest adventure!!