ULA Equipment Circuit Review (2026)

ULA built the Circuit specifically for backpackers who want ultralight-adjacent weight without giving up the ability to carry real loads — its carbon fiber and Delrin hoop combined with a single aluminum stay transfers weight to the hips far more effectively than the frameless designs common in the true ultralight category, a difference testers consistently notice when carrying loads approaching the 35-pound max.

Check price at ULA Equipment →

$260 retail

9.2

/10

TrailCraft Score

What Works

Carbon fiber and Delrin hoop frame with a single aluminum stay transfers load to the hips far better than most frameless ultralight packs
Full custom sizing (torso, hip belt, shoulder strap style) available directly from ULA at no extra charge
Robic nylon construction is significantly more durable than Dyneema competitors at a similar weight

Limitations

At 41 oz, it's heavier than fully frameless ultralight packs designed for sub-20-lb base weights
Foam back panel doesn't ventilate as well as a suspended mesh back panel design

Specifications

Weight41 oz / 2 lb 9 oz

Capacity68L

Max Recommended Load35 lb

FrameCarbon fiber/Delrin hoop + single aluminum stay

Fabric210D/400D Robic nylon

Made InUSA (Utah)

Score Breakdown

Load Carrying

9.5

Durability

9.4

Weight

8.7

Value

9.0

What Sets It Apart

ULA is a small American cottage manufacturer that builds each Circuit to order, with torso length, hip belt size, and shoulder strap style all customized at no extra cost — a level of fit customization not available from larger mass-market brands.

A carbon-and-aluminum hybrid frame that carries 35 pounds like a much heavier pack

Who This Is For

The ULA Circuit is right for: backpackers who need to carry 25-35 lb loads comfortably (bear canisters, winter gear, longer resupply stretches), hikers transitioning from traditional heavy packs who want a lighter pack without losing frame support, and anyone who values US-made, made-to-order fit over off-the-shelf sizing.

A note on pricing and links: Prices are current as of July 2026. Some links are affiliate links.

How It Compares

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All 20 best ultralight gear in this category ranked side by side.

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Common Questions

Is the ULA Circuit considered truly ultralight?

It's on the heavier end of the ultralight category at 41 oz, but it's specifically designed to carry more weight comfortably than frameless ultralight packs, making it a popular choice for hikers who want most of the weight savings without sacrificing load-carrying comfort.

Can the ULA Circuit be customized?

Yes — ULA offers custom torso length, hip belt sizing, and shoulder strap style at no additional cost, along with a more durable 'Ultra' fabric upgrade for an additional charge.

Does the Circuit fit a bear canister?

Yes — ULA states the BV500 and Garcia canisters fit vertically inside the main compartment, and other BearVault sizes fit horizontally.