Here is how these two backpacks compare on the numbers. The CDT leans on low weight while the Gorilla 50 answers with load carry, so the pick comes down to which you value.
| ULA CDT | Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 69✓ | 66 |
| Capacity | 50 L | 50 L |
| Weight | 1 lb 11 oz✓ | 2 lb |
| Rated load | 25 lb | 30 lb✓ |
| Fabric denier | 200 D✓ | 70 D |
| Price | $200✓ | $275 |
| Type | Ultralight | Ultralight |
| Frame | Frameless | Internal |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: CDT in blue, Gorilla 50 in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. Capacity is shown for context and is not scored, since more volume is a sizing choice rather than better. GearScore is the overall rating (0 to 100); re-weight it on the full backpack comparison. Prices are current MSRP.
The ULA CDT against the Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50 is a study in priorities. The CDT wins on low weight and durability, and the Gorilla 50 pushes back on load carry.
The CDT is 5 oz lighter, tougher fabric (200D vs 70D), and $75 cheaper. The Gorilla 50 is a higher rated load (30 vs 25 lb). On the default GearScore the CDT leads 69 to 66.
Pick the CDT if you care most about low weight and durability, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Gorilla 50 if load carry matter more to you, or you are focused on rough ground and hard use.
The ULA CDT. It is 5 oz lighter than the Gorilla 50.
The Gossamer Gear Gorilla 50. It is a higher rated load (30 vs 25 lb) than the CDT.
The ULA CDT, 69 to 66 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the CDT for low weight, or the Gorilla 50 for load carry. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.