KUIU PRO Pack System – The Latest Advancements in Hunting Pack Design
If you pay attention to any of the online, social, and even campfire debates on what the best pack for hunting is, you’ll notice nearly everyone agrees to disagree. That said, there are a lot of good packs out there. But what makes the KUIU Packs special or unique?
In our relentless pursuit of innovation, we’ve made a lot of changes over the years. These updates and refinements are often overlooked because our packs have kept a similar look and they’re often decked out in the same camo patterns as our older versions. Simply put, if you compare an older generation of KUIU hunting pack, prior to the launch of our newer PRO Packs in 2019, they do not stack up to our latest and greatest designs.
Our hunting packs for deer, elk, sheep hunting have always been known for their bag-swap modularity and ranking among the lightest. With recent advancements in technology, engineering, and materials, we’re also staking claim to the most comfortable and durable.
What Has Improved on KUIU’s Hunting Pack Designs?
First, our patented Carbon Fiber Frame received a major upgrade in 2017. This is when we switch over to Chomarat® Spread Tow Carbon Fiber. The frame kept a similar profile, however, the materials and make up received a complete overhaul. This not only made the frames more durable, but they also optimized the flexibility and stiffness to carry weight more efficiently.
In 2019, we launched the PRO Pack System with a completely redesigned suspension and upgraded bags. The new suspension was game changing for us. While maintaining the ultralight weight we’ve always been known for, the waist belt and shoulder straps are remarkably more comfortable, adjustable, and durable than ever before. The PRO Bags, available in 2300, 3600, 6000, and 7800 cubic inch sizes were upgraded to the gold standard in pack materials: Heavy-duty CORDURA® 500 denier fabric, Hypalon anchored compression straps, Duraflex® hardware, and robust #10 YKK® zippers. The bag layouts were also improved, making it easier to carry and access optics, rifle, and bow.
In 2020, we introduced the PRO LT (Light and Tough) series of bags in 4000, 5500, and 7000 cubic inch sizes. Leveraging a lighter, high-tenacity CORDURA® 330 denier fabric, paired with coated fabric paneling for added water and abrasion resistance, the PRO LT packs are ideal for the elk hunters looking for the lightest pack possible but unwilling to sacrifice pack organization and durability.
In 2022, we launched the Women’s PRO Suspension. With women’s specific ergonomics, it opened the door for women hunters to have a pack built specifically for them. Without compromise, the Women’s PRO Suspension utilizes the same Carbon Frame and PRO and PRO LT bag options.
In 2024, we launched the PRO Divide 4500 hunting pack. It’s the perfect size for gear-intensive day hunts or 2-4-day backpack hunts. This improved bag design offers best in class durability, organization, and gear hauling capability. Its unique Divide Pocket with dual zipper sliders and C-shape opening is perfect for stowing and quickly accessing a hunting rifle, tripod, or optics—while its innovative YKK locking zippers won’t move or migrate, even if they’re left open. Consider it the workhorse of the KUIU PRO Pack line-up.
How Does KUIU’s Modular Pack System Work?
Not every hunt calls for the same game plan. The purpose behind a modular pack system is to have one frame and suspension with common connection points so you can swap to any size or style of KUIU bag. This system is not only extremely versatile, but also offers a value other high-end packs can’t match. You can purchase the frame, suspension, and two sizes of bags for around the same price as a competitor’s pack with only one bag.
Carbon Fiber Frame: The Weight-Bearing Backbone
Weighing in at only 11 ounces, KUIU’s patented Carbon Fiber Frame features ultralight Spread Tow Carbon Fiber Technology—built for vertical stiffness, horizontal flex, and ultimate strength.
Available in three sizes, each frame has 4” of vertical shoulder strap height adjustment. Select the size of frame that fits your torso and fine-tune shoulder strap height with their innovative T-Lock system.
Measuring your torso takes a little homework, but KUIU has made this video showing you how it’s done and how to properly fit your pack.
The Suspension: Shoulder Straps and Waist Belt
Since the introduction of the PRO Suspension, reviews report hunters comfortably hauling more weight than ever before. Featuring plush dual-density foam and a highly durable and breathable spacer air mesh lining, the hip belt wings are contour adjustable, while the lumbar pad has close to two inches of vertical adjustability for ultimate comfort. The PRO Suspension is available in two waist sizes and one women’s size.
The shoulder straps are wider and softer than previous designs. They also feature a broader stance, positioned two inches wider across your back—the wider open stance across your back not only promotes airflow and ventilation, it helps with pack stability while navigating steep terrain.
How Do I Choose the Right Size of Backpack?
PRO: Heavy duty and full featured with ample pocketing for unmatched organization.
- 2300: One-day hunts and scouting ventures
- 3600: Gear intensive day hunts or 2-3-day backpacking hunts
- 6000: 3-7-day unsupported expedition hunts
- 7800: Up to 14-day unsupported expedition hunts
PRO LT: Light and tough, the PRO LT packs are for the minimalist that counts every ounce and not willing to sacrifice packability.
- 4000: Gear intensive day hunts or 2-3-day backpacking hunts
- 5500: 3-6-day unsupported backpacking hunts
- 6000: 3-7-day unsupported expedition hunts
- 7000: Up to 10-day unsupported backpacking hunts
PRO Divide 4500: Built for assembled optics carry and improved main compartment organization, this workhorse is the perfect size for gear-intensive day hunts or 2-4-day backpack hunts. Completely remove the lid for use as a large capacity day pack.
- Main Body: 4000 cu in / 66 L
- Lid: 500 cu in / 8 L
- Complete Pack Weight: 5 lb 4.3 oz / 2390 g
- Hydration compatible
- Main body: CORDURA® Double Ripstop – 330D
- Back, Bottom, & Pocket Panels: CORDURA® HT Waterproof– 330D
How and How Well Does It Pack Elk Quarters and Meat?
Built with a heavy haul in mind, you have two options for packing out meat. You can either go on the inside of the bag or use KUIU’s innovative Load Sling Mode. There’s nothing extra to carry, like a meat shelf, it’s all built in.
By loosening the bag’s bottom straps, detaching the upper section, and extending the side compression straps, the bag creates a V-shaped 2500 cubic inch opening between the bag and the frame—the perfect size for elk quarters. Place the meat between the bag and frame, then reconnect the buckles and use the extended bridge straps located at the top of the frame stays. Like swapping the bags, putting a pack into load-sling mode should be practiced before stepping out in the field.
The Hunting Pack Accessories to Complete the System.
KUIU also offers a broad range of accessories for their pack system:
- Boned-out and quarter game bags
- Hydration systems
- Roll-top and zippered dry bags
- Rifle and bow carry solutions
KUIU’s PRO, PRO LT and PRO Divide packs are backed with a limited lifetime warranty and only available direct to consumer from KUIU.
