Construction Philosophy
The goal of Sabo is to provide UltraLight and UltraDurable products. That means balancing the benefits of lightweight with longevity of use. Each product focuses on simplistic construction methods, distilled and intuitive features, repairability, and durable material selections.
Many big-name brands are overbuilt and complicated just to stand out from competitors, making them difficult to repair, if at all. Many UltraLight brands sacrifice durability and longevity by selecting super light and less durable materials just to claim a few less grams. In recent years, increased usage of stretchy mesh is being used for a “superior garment-like- fit” end eventually becomes overly stretched out creating a poor fit and load carry after just a few seasons.
I want to provide people a lifetime pack. Gear that is simple, intuitive, holds up to the demands, and when it doesn't, can be easily repaired. I believe there are may ways to lighten your load and overall gear kit. But your pack is the first line of defense, takes the most abuse, and protects your entire gear kit. It’s what allows you to move through environments with everything on your back. Thus you will see, I try to construct gear using more durable and thicker materials compared to most UltraLight products. Yes, they will weigh a couple more grams, but I promise it’s worth it:)
Materials
Main Body Materials -
Harness Straps -
Back Panels
Exterior Stretch Pockets -
Interior -
Waterproofing
All of the packs main bodies are made from waterproof materials, primarily X-PAC, Challenge Sailcloth, Dyneme, or similar laminated or treated materials. The fabrics are robust and waterproof themselves, meaning when it rains the fabric wont become saturated with water and water wont be absorbed through the fabric itself and into your bag. This is enough protection for most situations and still more water protection than a traditional backpack you may be familiar with.
However the seams themselves are not water proof, they are finished with a Zig-Zag stich for increased repairability. This means if left in the rain for prolonged periods of time or submerged and held under water, moister can enter the pack through the seams.
A rain cover can be used for additional rain protection or accessories like waterproof stuff sacks can be used to keep your gear absolutely dry.
WHY NOT TAPE ALL SEAMS?? - You can order a bag with taped seams as a custom order if I don’t offer it taped as a standard product. I avoid fully taping seams on most standard products due to durability and repairability. The adhesive tape can degrade over time, adds additional time and cost, makes repairability more difficult, and usually is overbuilt for most peoples needs.
EXCEPTIONS - You will see some products which are made to be extra secure are taped like the UL Sling due to there simplicity and minimal build. These types of products are specifically made to protect sensitive gear and generally wouldn’t be used with additional dry bag packing accessories. Also some elements will be taped when it does not complicate construction or repair, for example the compression webbing on the front of packs which do not involve a major panel seam or assembly feature.