Pa’Lante V2 Ultralight Backpack Review

Bottom Line

The Pa’Lante V2 is a top-notch frameless pack built for experienced ultralight thru-hikers with a dialed kit. We field-tested it in the rugged Rocky Mountains, comfortably carrying loads up to about 25 pounds thanks to the well-contoured shoulder straps and strategic packing. However, heavier loads can strain the shoulders due to the absence of a frame or load lifters.

Standout features include stretchy shoulder strap pockets that fit snacks and water bottles, a handy bottom pocket with trash port, and a designated tent stake pocket. The durable 210D UHMWPE Gridstop body withstands thru-hiking rigors, but the pack is also available in an Ultraweave version for maximum weather resistance. Both are best used in conjunction with a pack liner, as neither is totally waterproof.

For fast packers and ultralighters with a pack base weight below 12 pounds, the V2 is an expertly designed, trail-worthy pick for cranking out big miles. Newer ultralight hikers or those with heavier loads should consider a framed pack from our guide to top ultralight backpacks for better comfort.

comfort

The Pa’Lante V2 is a comfortable frameless pack, provided you pack it well and keep it under 25 pounds. The back panel has no frame or additional padding, so it will feel like whatever is on the inside of the pack. 

This basic design is more comfortable in many ways than over-engineered, heavily padded back panels found on traditional packs. The key lies in strategic packing, using your kit to create a custom “frame” that comfortably fits your back. When packed thoughtfully, the V2 rides with surprising comfort and stability, considering its lack of a supportive hipbelt or frame.

During our field testing, we were pleased to find no instances of unpleasant strap rub. The shoulder straps, while minimal, are well-contoured and distribute weight evenly. 

However, loads heavier than 25 pounds push the pack’s limits, straining the shoulders. This is a typical shortcoming of frameless packs. For those consistently carrying more than 25 pounds, a framed pack would be a wiser choice for extended comfort.

Functionality

The Pa’Lante V2 is a comfortable frameless pack, provided you pack it well and keep it under 25 pounds. The back panel has no frame or additional padding, so it will feel like whatever is on the inside of the pack. 

This basic design is more comfortable in many ways than the overengineered, heavily padded back panels found on traditional packs. The key lies in strategic packing, using your kit to create a custom “frame” that comfortably fits your back. When packed thoughtfully, the V2 rides with surprising comfort and stability, considering its lack of a supportive hipbelt or frame.

During our field testing, we were pleased to find no instances of unpleasant strap rub. The shoulder straps, while minimal, are well-contoured and distribute weight evenly. 

However, loads heavier than 25 pounds push the pack’s limits, straining the shoulders. This is a typical shortcoming of frameless packs. For those consistently carrying more than 25 pounds, a framed pack would be a wiser choice for extended comfort.

Water Resistance

It is no surprise that a Utah-based ultralight pack company isn’t hyperfocused on waterproofing. This backpack is best for trips when rain isn’t in the forecast, or if it is, it’s followed by weather that dries your things out relatively quickly. If you’re in that kind of climate, it’s more than sufficient in this metric.

The standard UHMWPE gridstop version of the Pa’Lante V2 is slightly water-resistant thanks to its DWR outer coating and PU inner coating, but it’s not waterproof. During our water exposure testing, the inside of the pack showed spots of moisture throughout. Since the seams are untaped, leakage is likely coming from them. The worst of it was on the top and back panels of the pack.

The gridstop version is the lightest and most affordable option, but it must be paired with a pack liner to completely safeguard gear from the elements.

For a more weather-resistant option, we recommend the ultraweave 200X version. Although more expensive, it’s guaranteed to be more durable and more water-resistant.

Construction

For a minimalist, frameless pack, the Pa’Lante V2 is surprisingly durable. The 210D UHMWPE Gridstop fabric, composed of 92% nylon and 8% ultra-high-molecular-weight polyethylene ripstop, offers an excellent strength-to-weight ratio. The fabric’s slight stretch also minimizes stress on high-tension areas, extending the pack’s lifespan. 

Pa’Lante’s UHMWPE Grid Mesh, used in the pack’s front and bottom external pockets, is extremely resilient. This 66% nylon, 21% UHMWPE, and 13% spandex blend, custom-developed with their fabric mill, delivers durability and crucial stretch for convenient and secure gear access. All seams feature a robust sewn binding, enhancing the pack’s overall structural integrity.

For those seeking even greater durability, Pa’Lante offers the V2 in an ultraweave 200X fabric variation. This 200D UHMWPE-faced laminate provides better abrasion resistance and waterproofing, albeit with a slight weight penalty.

Should You Buy The Pa’Lante V2 Ultralight Backpack?

This pack is specifically designed for seasoned ultralight backpackers who have their kit dialed-in to a low base weight (10-15 pounds or less) and appreciate a functional, trail-smart design.

The V2 may not be ideal for those new to ultralight backpacking or who consistently carry heavier loads. The frameless design can lead to some discomfort when pushed beyond the 25-pound limit, making it less suitable for extended trips with more substantial pack weights. The lack of a padded back panel means strategic packing is required to ensure a comfortable carry.

For high mileage days, the V2 offers a functional design meant to minimize pit stops. The accessible shoulder straps and bottom pocket help eliminate the need to unshoulder your pack for snacks and essential gear.

Ultimately, the V2 shines in the hands of experienced backpackers who have refined their gear selection and packing strategies. For those who embrace the ethos of “less is more” and value the freedom of minimalist travel, the Pa’Lante V2 delivers a top-tier ultralight backpacking experience that is well worth the price of admission.

What Other Ultralight Backpacks Should You Consider?

For more supportive and fully featured options, check out our full guide to ultralight packs.

Nashville Packs Cutaway Review: This is another frameless pack design, but with slightly better stability and comfort. The Cutaway is available in multiple volumes, but not everyone will love its adjustments and organization features.

Atom Packs The Pulse EP50 Review: The Pulse can be used with or without its minimal frame and represents a bridge between two ultralight pack styles. It has similar features, such as the bottom pocket and shoulder strap pockets, but it is more weather-resistant.

Hyperlite Mountain Gear Unbound 40 Review: The Unbound 40 has a minimalist design, is ultra-durable and weather-resistant, carries weight exceptionally well, and has a handy bottom pocket.