Gossamer Gear Fast Kumo 36

Product detailed description

The Gossamer Gear Fast Kumo 36 is essentially the first true fast-pack in the lineup of this legendary American brand. The backpack’s basic features are identical to those of the popular Kumo 36, which we tested in previous years on the Appalachian Trail or, for example, Via Dinarica. The backpack has undergone a major transformation, particularly in the area of the shoulder straps. These are designed like a running vest, which expands the storage options for everything you want to keep close at hand and, of course, allows you to run with the backpack.

Lightweight yet durable

As with all Gossamer Gear backpacks, this one also uses time-tested Robic Nylon, which is lightweight yet very durable. The backpack features 100D Robic Nylon on the bottom and 70D Robic Nylon on the rest of the body. Unlike the larger Mariposa, it does not have an aluminum back panel, but only a removable back pad; nevertheless, it fits great and, above all, adapts perfectly to any back. You can use the support for sitting, or if you’re using a shortened sleeping pad, you can place it under your feet or head. Personally, we use a folded foam mat, which we then also use for sleeping under an inflatable mat (the inflatable doesn’t slip on it and it also raises the insulation off the ground).

Running backpack

The Fast Kumo is designed specifically for individuals with high ambitions. So if you’re planning to run one of the long-distance trails or perhaps the 1000 Miles race, the Fast Kumo could be the perfect companion. The shoulder straps, designed like a running vest, are a real success. They offer a variety of ways to keep everything you need close at hand. For regular hydration, there are two spacious mesh pockets that can easily hold a half-liter bottle.

On the left strap, there is a spacious zippered pocket for even a larger smartphone.  It is cleverly separated from the bottle pocket so they don’t “steal” space from each other. The right strap has one small pocket at the top where you can store smaller items. There are two additional smaller pockets in the main section of the strap. One has top access for snacks, and the other, the so-called "trash pocket," has side access for storing wrappers from energy bars and the like. There are also loops for attaching additional gear, such as an inReach navigation device, a compass, and more. Two chest straps, which are easily adjustable in height, ensure the backpack stays securely in place. On the lower part of the left shoulder strap, there is an elastic loop for attaching trekking poles.

A great feature is the backpack’s “tunnel” design. Simply fill it as needed, fold the lid over, and secure it with two buckles. In essence, you can fill the backpack only halfway or “overfill” it by 15–20 cm above the length of your back.

Minimalist hip belt

The hip belt on the Fast Kuma is essentially identical to that of the classic Kuma. It detaches using a simple plastic buckle, and a major advantage is the ability to adjust it to two different heights. The hip belt features classic zippered mesh pockets that easily accommodate even slightly bulkier items. The backpack is designed to sit higher on the back than the standard Kuma, so the hip belt typically rests in the abdominal area. The back length for the M size is 45 cm, and for the S size, it is 41 cm.

Spacious pockets

What you’ll appreciate most about this backpack are the exterior pockets. The large, elastic, mesh pocket is ideal for items you need to keep close at hand without having to constantly reach into the backpack—it easily fits a waterproof jacket, pants, a filter, and a snack. Of course, there are also two side pockets that can easily accommodate a 1.5-liter bottle. You can easily reach for the bottle while walking without having to take the backpack off your back. These pockets are also accessible from the side. There’s also a large zippered pocket in the backpack’s lid. There are compression straps on the sides, and the lid features 4 loops for threading additional straps and attaching items like a sleeping pad to the backpack. There is also an eyelet on the bottom of the backpack for attaching an ice axe. Martin Kotyza wrote an excellent and very detailed review of the Fast Kumo.

Replacement buckles for Gossamer Gear backpacks.

Gossamer Gear Fast Kumo 36:

• Detachable and height-adjustable hip belt with two zippered pockets.
• Shoulder straps like a running vest.
• Two height-adjustable chest straps.
• Two bottle pockets on the chest
• Stretch chest pockets (one zippered)
• Trekking pole loops
• Ice axe loop
• Hydration tube port
• Whistle
• Removable back panel
• Large nylon side pockets
• Large mesh pocket
• Zippered pocket in the backpack lid

Technical specifications:

• Weight: 610 g (size M), 586 g (size S).
• Dimensions: 46 x 27 x 12 cm (size M) 41 x 27 x 12 cm (size S)
• Volume: 36 L.
• Maximum load: 11.5 kg (recommended load for comfort: 9 kg).
• Hip belt circumference: 71–122 cm.
• Back panel length: 43 cm (M), 39 cm (S).

Materials:

• 70D Robic Nylon (backpack body) 
• 100D Robic Nylon (backpack bottom)
• PFAS free