ULTRAGRID Nexus
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're between sizes and you are getting a FRAMED pack, we recommend you size DOWN!
If you're between sizes and you are getting a FRAMELESS pack, we recommend you size UP!
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.
$219.99
MADE IN THE U.S.A.
FREE U.S. DELIVERY OVER $50
LIFETIME WARRANTY*
TUNE-UPS & REPAIRS*
DESCRIPTION
The ultimate 40-liter frameless backpack for ultralight hikers just got better.
Weighing in at just 18 ounces with optional items removed, the Nexus is built for GOATs who want to go farther, faster. If you’re looking for unmatched performance, thoughtful functionality backed by a lifetime warranty, and your total pack weight is under 25 lbs., the Nexus is for you.
What’s New?
We’ve incorporated user feedback and updated the 2026 Nexus to improve durability, versatility, and ease of use without adding any weight.
Venom Mesh™ Front Pocket
We’ve upgraded the front stretch-mesh pocket to Venom Mesh™ for increased stretch and durability, giving you quick, easy access to rain gear and other essentials while you’re on the move.
Side Compression
We’ve replaced the upper side pockets with an ultra-light, ultra-simple shock cord and LineLoc system. The new setup provides additional compression while securely carrying taller items like trekking poles, tents, tripods, and camp chairs.
Upgraded Hardware & Webbing
We’ve upgraded the hardware and webbing to 5/8" for increased durability, excluding the hipbelt.
Simplified Y-Strap Closure
We’ve simplified the Y-strap top closure system based on user feedback and preference.
More Fit Options
The 2026 Nexus is available with your choice of our signature S-Straps or J-Straps, allowing you to choose the fit that works best for your body. We’ve also added a Large hipbelt size.
2026 Hipbelt Sizing
- Small: 30"–34"
- Medium: 34"–38"
- Large: 38"–42"
What’s the Same?
We kept everything you love about the Nexus.
Maximized Hipbelt Pockets
The Nexus hipbelt pockets maximize volume within a compact footprint, delivering excellent functionality without compromising the ultralight design. They’re large enough for contemporary smartphones, snacks, and other trail essentials—and can be opened with one hand.
Challenge UltraGrid
UltraGrid features a reinforced double 200D grid made from recycled materials, providing superior tear resistance and abrasion durability compared to similar 200D and 210D ripstop fabrics. Made entirely from recycled nylon, UltraGrid prioritizes more responsible production without compromising performance.
Its manufacturing process is also free of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), further reducing its environmental footprint.
Want to Go Lighter?
As sold, the Nexus weighs 21.5 oz.
To make this pack 18 ounces, you can remove the sternum strap (0.8 oz), front shockcord system (0.70 oz), foam back panel (2.2 oz), and upper ice axe loop (0.25 oz) for a total weight savings of 4 oz.
Looking to lighten up even more? The Nexus can be purchased without a hipbelt for $20 less, saving approximately 3–4 ounces. Please note: If you purchase your Nexus without a hipbelt, a hipbelt cannot be added aftermarket, and the pack is not compatible with the removable hipbelt system.
At its core, the Nexus embodies connection.
Thru-hiking and backpacking are journeys of discovery—connecting with the earth, meeting new people, and deepening your connection with yourself. The Nexus isn’t just gear; it’s an ode to the path of adventure.
MATERIAL: Challenge UltraGrid, Venom Mesh™
COLOR(S): Blackout, Tangerine
AT A GLANCE
WEIGHT: 18 – 21.5 OZ | 510 – 609 GM
VOLUME: 2,441 CU IN | 40 L
DIMENSIONS: 11.5″ W x 6.5″ D x 21.5″ H (Plus Extension Collar: 8.75″ H)
MAX LOAD: 25 LBS | 11.3 KG
The ultimate 40-liter frameless backpack for ultralight hikers aiming to go farther, fast, and who are carrying a total pack weight of 20-25 pounds.
FEATURES
- Frameless with a Comfort Rating of 25lbs
- Contoured Shoulder Straps for all Body Types
- UltraGird Fabric
- Ice Axe + Trekking Pole Loop
- Dual Side Shock Cord & LineLoc System
- Fits BV500 Vertically Inside
- Sewn-in Hipbelt
- Large Hipbelt Pockets Fits Modern Cell Phones
- Extension Collar with Y-strap Closure/Compression System
- Venom Mesh Front Pocket
- Daisy Chain up Shoulder Straps
- Haul Loop
- Compatible with all ULA Shoulder Strap Accessories
- Removable Sternum Strap (0.8 oz)
- Removable Shockcord System (0.70 oz)
- Removable Foam Backpanel (2.2 oz)
- Removable Upper Ice Axe Loop (0.25 oz)
CAPACITY
REC. MAX LOAD: SUB 25 LBS
PACK VOLUME
TOTAL VOLUME: 2,441 CI | 40 L
BREAKDOWN:
- MAIN BODY (W/ EXTENSION COLLAR): 1,953 CI | 32 L
- FRONT MESH POCKET: 153 CI | 2.5 L
- LEFT SIDE POCKET: 122 CI | 2 L
- RIGHT SIDE POCKET: 122 CI | 2 L
- LEFT HIPBELT POCKET: 30 CI | 0.5 L
- RIGHT HIPBELT POCKET:30 CI | 0.5 L
DIMENSIONS
- Back Panel Width: 11.5″
- DEPTH: 6.5″
- Bottom to Collar Height: 21.5″
- Collar Height: 8.75″
- Hipbelt Pocket: 2.5″ H (front) 4″ H (Back) x 6.5″ W x 2.5″ D
FAQ’S
Q: WHY ULTRAGRID™?
A: UltraGrid incorporates a reinforced double 200D grid made from recycled materials, offering superior tear resistance and abrasion durability compared to similar 200D or 210D ripstop fabrics. Crafted entirely from recycled nylon, it prioritizes eco-friendly production without compromising on quality. Additionally, its manufacturing processes are free of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), further minimizing its environmental footprint.
Q: CAN A BEAR CANISTER FIT IN THE NEXUS?
A: Yes, the Nexus can fit bear canisters like the BV500 vertically inside of the pack and also features a sewn top y-strap that allows you to attach a bear can on top of the pack.
Q: CAN I USE AN ICE AXE WITH A NEXUS?
A: Yes, the Nexus has a built in ice axe/trekking pole loop.
Q: CAN A WATER BOTTLE FIT IN THE SIDE POCKETS?
A: Yes, the side pockets were specifically designed and pleated to snuggly fit two 1 liter Smartwater bottles.
Q: CAN THE HIP-BELT POCKETS FIT MY PHONE?
A: Yes, the hip-belt pockets are large enough to fit large contemporary cell phones.
TECHNICAL FABRICS
ULTRAGRID™
UltraGrid incorporates a reinforced double 200D grid made from recycled materials, offering superior tear resistance and abrasion durability compared to similar 200D or 210D ripstop fabrics. Crafted entirely from recycled nylon, it prioritizes eco-friendly production without compromising on quality. Additionally, its manufacturing processes are free of VOCs (volatile organic compounds), further minimizing its environmental footprint.
VENOM™ STRETCH MESH
Venom™ Stretch Mesh balances utility and form. Lightweight yet rugged, the expanded 5×5 UHMWPE grid increases 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 reflects a commitment to sustainability and reduced environmental impact.
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