[Review] Gossamer Gear TYPE II Cima 15 / Performance seen during 280km fastpacking

Introduction: Why Cima 15?

I have trusted Gossamer Gear products for many years, and I felt reassured by their quality and concept. The Cima 15 is the most minimalist of the newly released TYPE II series of backpacks . It looks like a daypack, but its design concept is to pursue "functionality that allows you to run." I chose this backpack because I needed a more compact backpack for the more aggressive mountain climbing and speed-oriented activities required for the final section of the Oshigaichi, 280km.

People around me often said, "Can you really do that with such a small backpack?" It's true that normally, you wouldn't go on a long-distance mountain climb with such a small backpack. It was a very challenging plan. However, this challenge to "unusual activities" turned out to be an opportunity to see the true value of this backpack.

Specification Overview

item	detail
capacity	15L
weight	505g
size	Height 43.2cm x Width 30.5cm x Depth 12.7cm
material	Body: 100D recycled Robic nylon (PFAS Free) Pockets: UHMWPE stretch mesh (PFAS Free)
price	25,300 yen (tax included)

Design and functionality: attention to detail

Highly breathable back system

I think the biggest feature of the Cima 15 is the design of its back pad . It is a non-removable one-piece structure, but it creates a sense of stability that sets it apart from flimsy bag-like backpacks.

The back has an air channel for ventilation , and the structure allows air to escape when the wind blows. Even during long periods of activity, your back will not heat up too much, and you will stay comfortable. The soft ridge foam and mesh suspension structure make it lightweight yet comfortable to carry.

Stability of the inverted triangle silhouette

The unique inverted triangle shape is designed to keep the center of gravity high. This shape naturally concentrates the center of gravity at the top when packed, minimizing shaking when carried on the back. The luggage does not move around even during active movements, making it easy to move at a fast pace.

A new approach to lightweight packs

The advantage of a frameless backpack is that it is extremely lightweight, but the disadvantage is that it is uncomfortable to wear. It is common to make a frame using a sleeping mat or to pack it in a way that makes it comfortable to wear. I think it is actually difficult to achieve both lightness and comfort at the same time.

Trail running backpacks naturally do not have frames, but they work because they have a vest structure that fits closely to the body and the amount of luggage you pack is extremely small. In recent years, many manufacturers have released backpacks based on this trail running vest shape with expanded capacity of around 15-20L, but the Cima 15 is not a backpack that follows that trend .

We have deliberately built in a slightly harder pad that is heavier, prioritizing comfort. As a result, packing is very easy, and you can feel stable wearing it in any situation. It feels lighter when you are moving around than a frameless backpack that is 200g lighter than this one. This is because there is no weight caused by the centrifugal force of swinging from side to side.

Extensive pocket system

The "Sunroof Pocket" for sunglasses is located inside the top zipper, which is a great idea. It protects your sunglasses from scratches and dirt while allowing quick access.

The stretch pockets on both shoulder straps are perfect for storing your smartphone or snacks, so you can access what you need while on the move without having to take your pack off.

The large mesh pockets on the sides and front are useful for storing bulky items such as bottles and rain gear. The use of UHMWPE stretch mesh ensures lightweight yet durability.

Put into action: 280km through the Great Shigaichi, 5 days of harsh conditions

The reality and woes of packing

Packing was a big challenge because, by any common sense, it is very difficult to fit all the gear you would normally need for five days into a 15L backpack.

We cut this, we cut that, but we can't cut anything that will threaten our lives or disable us. In the end, the thing we cut the most was our accommodation equipment. We barely had a sleeping mat, and we didn't bring a sleeping bag. We basically had an escape bivy, and only a simple shelter to protect our heads.

To keep warm, I wore an Active Insulation top and bottom set. The minimum temperature was below 10 degrees, but I was able to maintain my body temperature by continuing to walk during the really cold hours.

I felt the limitations at the very beginning . I had a lot of food, so I was barely able to carry it, and I had to tie what I could with bungee cords to the outside. However, as the food dwindled, my comfort level increased, so it was easier in the latter half.

Usage environment and conditions

Using this backpack on the final section of the Shiga Loop Trail "Oshigaichi" in May 2025 was the perfect opportunity to test its true value.

• Total distance : Approximately 280km

• Accumulated elevation difference : approx. 20,000m

• Duration : 5 days

• Accommodation : Basic bivouac

• Equipment concept : The most compact equipment possible

Under these conditions, I could not think of any other option than the Cima 15, which would allow me to pack all my gear into a 15L backpack and carry it comfortably and without stress. In addition to the fact that we had to push ourselves to make it in time, the weather ended up being bad, so we ended up spending more time than expected.

The truth about lightness

To be honest about the weight, 505g is not super light . However, due to its compact shape and excellent stability, it feels lighter than the numerical value. I have also used the 28L model of the same series, but the Cima 15 is clearly superior in terms of speed . The important thing is that lightness cannot be measured by simple weight alone. Stability and lack of shaking when moving greatly affect the actual burden.

Combined with Fast Belt

By using the Fast Belt from the same manufacturer , I was able to be more active. It was stable enough without a waist belt, but by adding the Fast Belt, I was able to occasionally put weight on my waist even with increased weight, which reduced shaking and made it possible to actually run.

The back is sturdy, so you can also simulate waist-loading . Of course, it's not designed to be waist-loaded, but if you loosen the shoulder straps and place it on your waist, the pressure on your shoulders will go away and you can move around more easily. I think you can move around more easily for long periods of time, especially when walking slowly on flat ground or climbing, if you occasionally change the load to your waist.

Comfort for extended periods of use

Even under extreme conditions of use, 22 hours a day for 5 days, I experienced very little discomfort or pain in my back. This is largely due to the excellent design of the back pad.

What was particularly impressive was that my back didn't heat up excessively even in sweaty situations. The air channel structure worked effectively to prevent stuffiness. Even a little air in my back helps to prevent my body temperature from rising. As a result, I also conserve my energy.

Advantages and disadvantages

merit

1. Outstanding stability: The inverted triangle shape and excellent back design reduce shaking even during active movements.

2. Excellent carrying comfort: It is so comfortable that you would never think it was a lightweight backpack. You will not feel tired even after long periods of use.

3. Functional pocket placementThe pocket layout has been carefully designed with an emphasis on accessibility during movement.

4. Good breathability: The air channel structure effectively prevents your back from getting stuffy.

5. Durable 100D Robic nylon and UHMWPE mesh ensures lightweight yet strong enough.

Disadvantages

1. Capacity limit: 15L capacity requires careful packing skills and equipment selection. It has little expansion capacity.

2. Zipper opening and closing restrictions: Unlike roll-top bags, the maximum capacity is fixed, and there is little room for adjustment of the contents.

3. Price: Compared to other products in the same capacity range, it is in a slightly higher price range.

Who is this for?

All day hikers

For day hikes, many hikers will find it easy to use. In particular, the back pad is superior to other lightweight backpacks. It doesn't heat up too much, it's stable, and it's very easy to use.

Speed ​​hiker/fast packer

This backpack really shines when used by speed hikers who want to be more active. It doesn't fit as well as a trail running backpack, but it is more stable and supports long distance activities.

It's best suited for day trips, but with some careful packing it can also be used for lightweight mountain trips over two nights. It really shines when used as a fast packing bag.

However, to be honest, I would have liked to use it for a mountain trip where I could pack more generously . This trip was not an ordinary one for me either.

Summary: The true value of TYPE II Cima 15

Through five days of actual use over 280km of the Great Shigaichi , we were able to confirm the true capabilities of the Cima 15. This is not just a daypack. It is a high-performance fastpack for hikers who pursue speed and lightness.

It exceeded expectations in many aspects, including its excellent back system, well-calculated pocket placement, and stability during active movements. Although it has limited capacity, it has functionality that more than makes up for it.

Of course, it is comfortable to use for day hikes, but it is also a backpack that I would highly recommend for those who pursue an active mountain climbing style, such as fastpacking or speed hiking.