Short answer: if you want an ultralight packraft for backpacking and Class I–III water, start with the Go North Carver. It's about 5–6 lbs and packs down to the size of a sleeping bag. Want more stability or room for gear? Step up to the Badger.
What actually matters for backpacking
- Weight. You're carrying it. Every pound counts on a long hike in.
- Packed size. Sleeping-bag size fits in or on a pack.
- Water rating. Make sure it's built for the class you'll actually run.
- Load capacity. Enough for you plus your pack, with room to spare.
Go North packrafts side by side
| Packraft | Weight | Water | Load capacity | Price | Good at |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Carver | 5–6 lbs | Class I–III | 500–600 lbs | $1,099 | Lightest; backpacking, surfing, play |
| Badger | 7–8 lbs | Class I–III | 800–900 lbs | $1,199 | Stable all-rounder |
| Achelous | 7–8 lbs | Class I–III | 600–700 lbs | $1,250 (sale) | Removable spray skirt for technical water |
| Element | 8–9 lbs | Class I–III | 800–900 lbs | $1,299 | Heavier loads, stability |
| Stance | 8–9 lbs | Class I–III | 700–800 lbs | $1,499 | Bigger; punches through features |
| Glacier | 13–14 lbs | Class I–III | 1,000–1,100 lbs | $1,699 | Tandem for two paddlers or heavy gear |
Specs and prices from the Go North listings in the SOLWYRX shop, October 2026. Prices can change, so check the product page.
My picks
- Lightest on your back: the Carver. It's playful, great for surfing, and has a personality all its own. It gets pushed around a bit, so you want to be somewhat skilled.
- Most forgiving: the Badger. It's the "Class III couch": stable, fun and an all-rounder.
- Technical water: the Achelous, with its removable spray skirt.
- Two people or a hunting load: the Glacier.
I took the Carver on a fall colors float with the OWA this October, and it was an absolute blast. Five Go North packrafts also ended up in our 12-boat stack.
Quick answers
Can a packraft really handle Class III? These Go North models are rated Class I–III. But your skills, training and gear matter more than the boat. Never boat alone.
Can I carry gear in the tubes? Yes. You can pack all of these with gear in the tubes, which keeps the weight low and the boat balanced.
Where can I see one in person? Email me. We can often meet at Go North's shop in the Tualatin area.
