Kumo 36 vs. Gorilla 50: Which Ultralight Backpack for Your Trip
By Gossamer Gear | take less. do more. | Published: 2026-10-27
Category: Comparisons
Compare the frameless Kumo 36 and the framed Gorilla 50 to find the right ultralight backpack for day hikes, weekend trips, or long thru-hikes.
Quick answer
Choose the Kumo 36 for fast-and-light day hikes or overnight trips where every ounce matters. Pick the Gorilla 50 for multi-day thru-hikes that need a frame to carry heavier loads comfortably.
Volume and load capacity
The Kumo 36 holds 36 liters, enough for a minimalist overnight or a long day hike. The Gorilla 50 offers 50 liters, giving you room for extra food, layers, and gear on a week-long trek.
The Gorilla 50 includes a PVT Frame+Belt system that transfers weight to your hips, making it comfortable for loads up to about 30 pounds. The Kumo 36 is frameless and works best with lighter loads, typically under 20 pounds.
Frame and comfort trade-off
A frameless pack like the Kumo 36 saves significant weight but shifts the entire load to your shoulders. For short distances or very light gear, this is fine. For longer days or heavier carries, the Gorilla 50's aluminum frame and pivoting hipbelt make a noticeable difference in comfort.
If you plan to carry a bear canister or extra water for dry sections, the Gorilla 50's frame gives you the support you need. The Kumo 36 is better suited for ultralight sleep systems and dehydrated food.
Trade-offs at a glance
- Weight: Kumo 36 is lighter (frameless). Gorilla 50 is heavier due to the frame and hipbelt.
- Comfort with weight: Gorilla 50 handles heavier loads (up to ~30 lb) better. Kumo 36 is comfortable only with ultralight loads (~20 lb or less).
- Trip length: Kumo 36 for day hikes and overnights. Gorilla 50 for multi-day treks needing more gear. If your trips vary, the Gorilla 50 is more versatile.
- Features: Gorilla 50 has load lifters and an S-curve harness for a custom fit. Kumo 36 relies on a simpler, lighter design.
Product facts
- Kumo 36 Superlight Backpack: Frameless design with lightest-in-category hardware and compression. This keeps the pack extremely light but limits the weight you can carry comfortably.
Kumo 36 Superlight Backpack - Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack: PVT Frame+Belt: an aluminum closed-shape frame and pivoting hipbelt that move with your natural gait. The frame transfers load to your hips, so you can carry heavier gear without shoulder strain on long days.
Gorilla 50 Ultralight Backpack
Which pack fits you?
Best for
- Minimalist hikers who keep their base weight under 10 lb and want the lightest possible pack for short trips
- Thru-hikers who carry moderate gear and need a comfortable frame for weeks on the trail
Not for
- Hikers who regularly carry more than 20 lb and expect all-day comfort from a frameless pack
- Ultralight purists who want the absolute lightest option for a multi-day trek
