Here is how these two backpacks compare on the numbers. The Arc Haul Ultra 60 takes a modest overall edge, led by low weight, but the Arc Zip Ultra 62 has its own case.
| Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 | Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra 62 | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 73✓ | 72 |
| Capacity | 60 L | 62 L |
| Weight | 1 lb 6 oz✓ | 1 lb 9 oz |
| Rated load | 40 lb | 40 lb |
| Fabric denier | 100 D | 100 D |
| Price | $399✓ | $449 |
| Type | Ultralight | Ultralight |
| Frame | Internal | Internal |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Arc Haul Ultra 60 in blue, Arc Zip Ultra 62 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 Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60 against the Zpacks Arc Zip Ultra 62 is a study in priorities. The Arc Haul Ultra 60 wins on low weight and price, and the Arc Zip Ultra 62 pushes back on value.
The Arc Haul Ultra 60 is 3 oz lighter and $50 cheaper. Their GearScores land within a couple of points (73 vs 72), so neither runs away with it.
Pick the Arc Haul Ultra 60 if you care most about low weight and price, which makes it the better call for counting grams on long miles. Pick the Arc Zip Ultra 62 if you would rather save the difference.
The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60. It is 3 oz lighter than the Arc Zip Ultra 62.
The Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60. It is $50 cheaper than the Arc Zip Ultra 62.
They are nearly tied at 73 and 72 on the default algorithm, so re-weight the score to your own priorities to break the tie.
It depends on your priorities. Go with the Arc Haul Ultra 60 for low weight, or the Arc Zip Ultra 62 for the price. The spec table above shows exactly where each wins.