Jump to: Our Verdict / Features / Specifications
We're working out what we think - we'll add our view here!
Ultralight Adventure Equipment says:
The ULA UltraGrid Ohm is a full-featured, active suspension, ultralight pack built for hikers who like to move fast while still carrying what they need to stay safe and comfortable. With a capacity of 55 liters and a max recommended load of 30 pounds, the Ohm strikes a balance between ultralight efficiency, on-trail functionality, and maximum load control.
The UltraGrid Ohm’s body pattern has been updated from previous versions to eliminate external binding, resulting in a cleaner, more durable build. The Ohm is constructed with UltraGrid fabric throughout the main body and shoulder straps, replacing Robic for improved durability and abrasion resistance without sacrificing weight savings. UltraGrid fabric is engineered to be ultra-light, ultra-strong, ultra-durable, and highly tear-resistant. It’s built to handle repeated abrasion, rough terrain, and extended miles, making it ideal for a frameless pack designed to go the distance.
The Ohm utilizes a 1.2 oz carbon fiber/delrin active suspension hoop that provides structure, weight transfer, and load control without unnecessary weight. The Variable Side Compression System (VSCS) features two points of grommetless tensioning, creating an even, full-body compression. Whether you're carrying a smaller kit or attempting to stabilize a full pack, the Ohm’s VSCS has your load dialed in.
The UltraStretch™ front pocket features a pleated design for expanded carrying capacity, meaning it can swallow damp rainflies and tarp shelters, layers, and quick-access gear with ease. UltraGrid side pockets have been redesigned with pleats, allowing each pocket to comfortably hold up to two water bottles. Two Robic hipbelt pockets help keep you organized on the trail.
The Ohm features a 3/4" roll-top closure with a sewn-in Y-strap. The UltraGrid Ohm does not include low-profile loops for the removable strap kit, for a more streamlined carry.
A single, centered ice axe/trekking pole loop comes standard and securely holds two trekking poles.
The Ohm uses the same hipbelt and shoulder strap system as our larger packs for excellent comfort and weight transfer. The hipbelt can move up or down within its sleeve to fine-tune torso fit.
The ULA Ohm remains a tough, load-efficient pack built to last, delivering active suspension support and full-body compression in a streamlined ultralight design.
FAQ'S
Q: WHAT IS A SUSPENSION HOOP?
A: The suspension hoop used in the Ohm is a minimal solution in helping you transfer 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 30 lbs. In addition, because the suspension is located to the periphery of the pack body, the backpanel is ‘soft.’ This results in a pack that can handle a load and does not dictate your body’s movements — but rather responds to how you move.
Q: WHAT EXACTLY IS THE VARIABLE SIDE COMPRESSION SYSTEM (VSCS)?
A: The bane of many ultralight packs is the lack of adequate compression. They work great when they are fully loaded (and therefore relatively stable in terms of load control), but suffer when the total volume is not packed. The Variable Side Compression System on the Ohm uses non-stretch cord and a grommetless cinch system that allows the entire pack body to be compressed no matter the overall volume of gear you have.
Q: HOW DO I USE MY SLEEPING PAD IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE OHM? WHAT PADS WORK BEST?
A: Just about any lightweight pad (foam or inflatable) can be used for additional support and padding inside the Ohm. Three quarters and full length pads that can be folded (as opposed to rolled) work the best. If you are using an inflatable mattress, deflate, then fold it into 1/3’s or 1/5’s before inserting. We also supply a ¼ inch piece of open cell foam with the pack that works very well for those of you not carrying a sleeping pad.
Q: CAN A WATER BOTTLE FIT IN THE SIDE POCKETS?
A: Each bellowed side pocket can accommodate two 1-Liter ‘Big Slam’ style bottles. In general most people can reach back and retrieve a bottle or 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.
Our Verdict
We're working out what we think about Ultralight Adventure Equipment's UltraGrid OHM 55 Rucksack, we'll add our comments here in due course.
- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear
Features
- UltraGrid fabric throughout
- UltraStretch™ Mesh Pleated Front Pocket for Optimized Capacity
- UltraGrid Bellowed Side Pockets: Hold 2 Water Bottles Each!
- Dual Robic Hipbelt Pockets
- Single Ice Axe/Trekking Pole Loops
- Non-stretch, Grommetless Compression Shock Cord Sides
- Sewn-in Y-strap Top Strap
- Contoured UltraGrid Shoulder Straps
- 3/4” Rolltop Closure
- 5/8” Hardware
- Carbon Fiber/ Darlin Suspension Hoop
- Internal Pad Holster
- Hydration Port
- Removable Sternum Strap [-0.5 oz]
- Removable Foam Back Pad [-2.0 oz]
- Removable & Height Adjustable Pass-through Hipbelt [-8.1 oz]
Specifications
Medium
- Weighs: 657g
- Capacity: 3,356 CU IN | 55 L
- Max Load: SUB 30 LB
Large
- Weighs: 683g
- Capacity: 3,356 CU IN | 55 L
- Max Load: SUB 30 LB
Material & Construction
- 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.
- ULTRASTRETCH™ - UltraStretch™ is an advanced 4-way stretch mesh woven with the highest quality fibers for performance and longevity. Made from a woven blend of Nylon 6-6, Lycra®, and Ultra-PE and coated with C0 DWR, UltraGrid is extra durable because it has Ultra™ Fiber (also known as UHMWPE, or branded Spectra™ or Dyneema™) woven into it.
Capacity Breakdown
- MAIN BODY: 1,831 CI | 30.0 L
- FRONT MESH POCKET: 397 CI | 6.5 L
- LEFT SIDE POCKET: 350 CI | 5.7 L
- RIGHT SIDE POCKET: 350 CI | 5.7 L
- EXTENSION COLLAR: 250 CI | 4.1 L
- LEFT HIPBELT POCKET: 91.5 CI | 1.5 L
- RIGHT HIPBELT POCKET: 91.5 CI | 1.5 L
