Currently using a Chinook Chemun pack, and have been happily using it for several years, but it's showing signs of wear. It's the lightest of the traditional canoe packs I've found after comparing a few, aside from possibly the granite gear line packs. I really like having a front mesh pocket and emailed granite gear about it - no plans to include one in the future.

The old Chemun is about 1700 grams which is wickedly lightweight compared to most canoe/portage packs in the 100-110L range. The new Chemuns are much heavier...

One thing I do not like about the Chemun is that the material soaks up water.  

Any ideas on other packs?

Six Moons Designs has some nice packrafting packs but they weigh the same as my Chemun for less space and a more hiking pack style carry that would interfere with a seat. I guess the only benefit would be no water absorption.

HMG has the Porter 85 but again like the Six Moons Designs it's going to be taller than wide... very awkward for carrying a solo canoe overhead. Apparently they are not waterproof either, so that's not ideal given if any water gets in it would take a while to drain out.

Really stumped on this one. Seems like all portage packs are stuck using 15 year old materials and designs while the hiking industry has really taken strides. Our gear is lighter than it used to be, our packs should adapt too!

Last edited by MichaelAngelo (8/17/2024 9:05 am)