Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L vs Arc Haul Ultra 40L: Which Pack?

Quick answer

Choose the Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L if you need maximum capacity and quick access for multi-day or thru-hike trips. Choose the Women's Arc Haul Ultra 40L if you want a lighter, simpler pack for shorter hikes and everyday escapes.

Capacity and access: 62L vs 40L

The 62L Arc Zip Ultra gives you 22 more liters than the 40L Arc Haul Ultra. That extra space matters when you carry a bear canister, a week of food, or bulky winter layers. The Arc Zip also features a zip access design that lets you reach gear without unpacking everything, which is a real advantage on thru-hikes where you stop often.

The 40L Arc Haul Ultra keeps your load smaller and forces you to pack only what you need. For weekend trips or fast-and-light hikes, that limitation is actually a benefit: less space means less weight and less temptation to overpack.

Comfort and frame: curved carbon fiber in both

Both packs use Zpacks' signature curved carbon fiber Arc Frame, which transfers weight to your hips and keeps your shoulders relaxed. The Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L is specifically praised for this balanced carry in customer reviews, even when fully loaded. The Women's Arc Haul Ultra 40L is described as super comfortable and super light, with a women's-specific design that helps you carry with confidence.

The trade-off is that the larger 62L pack will naturally weigh more when filled, but its frame is built to handle that load. The 40L pack is lighter overall, but it has less capacity for heavy or bulky gear. Neither pack sacrifices frame comfort for weight.

Weather protection and durability

The Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L is reported by a customer to be waterproof, tested under strong rain. That reliability matters on long trips where weather can change quickly. The Women's Arc Haul Ultra 40L is made from ultra-durable Ultra 100X fabric, which balances strength with barely-there weight.

If you expect prolonged rain or river crossings, the 62L's proven waterproofing gives extra peace of mind. For shorter trips where you can dry out gear easily, the 40L's durable fabric is still a strong choice.

Price and value

The Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L is priced at USD 296.34 (compared to a catalog comparison price of USD 449.00). The Women's Arc Haul Ultra 40L is priced at USD 239.40 (compared to USD 399.00). The 62L costs more, but it delivers significantly more capacity and quick access. The 40L is the more affordable option if you don't need the extra space.

Key trade-offs

• Capacity vs. simplicity: The 62L gives you room for bulky gear and extra food, but it invites overpacking. The 40L forces you to pack minimal, which keeps your load light but limits what you can bring. If you often carry a bear canister or winter gear, the 62L is the safer bet.
• Quick access vs. streamlined design: The Arc Zip Ultra's zip access lets you grab items without unpacking, which saves time on the trail. The Arc Haul Ultra's simpler design has fewer openings, reducing weight and potential failure points. Frequent stops for snacks or layers favor the 62L; fast-and-light hikes favor the 40L.
• Weight and price: The 62L is heavier when filled and costs more, but it handles heavier loads with its proven frame. The 40L is lighter and cheaper, ideal for shorter trips where you can keep your base weight low. Set a budget and a target base weight before deciding; the 40L wins if both are tight.

Product facts

• Women's Arc Zip Ultra 62L Backpack: Waterproof and tested under strong rain, with a well-balanced carry that puts weight on the hips. You can trust it in wet weather and carry heavy loads comfortably over long distances.

  

• Women's Arc Haul Ultra 40L Backpack: Built with Ultra 100X fabric and a women's-specific design for comfort and confidence. It offers a durable, lightweight option that fits women well for shorter or lighter trips.

  

Which pack is right for you?

Best for

• Thru-hikers and multi-day backpackers who need maximum capacity and quick access
• Hikers who often carry bulky gear like bear canisters or winter sleeping bags
• Women who prioritize a balanced, hip-focused carry for heavy loads

Not for

• Ultralight hikers doing weekend trips who want to minimize weight and cost
• Those who already have a dialed-in lightweight kit and don't need extra space
• Hikers who prefer a simple, streamlined pack without zip openings