Max Ultralight Backpack Ventilation Frame + Sleeve (New)
The Max Ultralight Vaucluse Ventilation Frame + Sleeve is the lightest way to give your ultralight backpack that “ventilated back panel” feel. This design uses Vaucluse’s patented airflow frame concept to create a gap between you and the pack, helping dissipate heat and eliminate clammy, soaked backs after long, humid trail climbs.
Free shipping on orders over $60 in the USA. Applies automatically at checkout.
This ventilation frame features a sleeker design and attachment system specifically for ultralight backpacks or any backpack with attachment points on the sides (see photos). The four corners of the sleeve secure to any four points on your backpack and can be adjusted up or down to find the perfect location.
This version differs from our standard version (see photos) in that it lacks the overhead loops that wrap around the backpack's shoulder straps. As a result, this frame is 7 ounces lighter.
The Max Ultralight Ventilation Frame delivers a “moves-with-you” comfort that keeps you cooler, drier, and more comfortable, making it a cult favorite.

Key Features
◼️ Sleeker design and simpler attachment points
◼️ Reduces sweat and increases airflow
◼️ Frame comes in one size (universal design)
◼️ Supports loads over 100 lbs
◼️ Fits packs 15L and larger
◼️ Cushioned mesh for added comfort
◼️ Lightweight (5.5 oz / 153 g)
◼️ Proudly made in USA
◼️ Made from recyclable, non-toxic materials
◼️ Lifetime warranty and refund option
Specifications
Dimensions: 14.5" tall x 8.5" wide x 1.25" deep (36.8 cm x 21.6 cm x 3.2 cm)
Weight: Frame - 3.0 oz (85 g)
Sleeve: 1.8 oz (52 g)
Ventilation Gap: 0.75" / 1.9 cm
Load Capacity: 150 pounds (68 kg)
Compatibility note
This frame and sleeve are designed for ultralight backpacks and are compatible with most 15L+ packs with side attachment points.
Before you start
The frame arrives already installed inside the sleeve. It can be removed for washing the sleeve.
The sleeve has two different mesh faces: a cushioned side (for comfort against your back) and a thinner side (for maximum ventilation). Most people position the cushioned side against their back, but it can be used in either orientation.
Choose your ride height
Put the loaded backpack on and decide where you want the frame to sit.
Most hikers prefer the frame in the upper to upper-middle back area.
Attach the corners
Identify four attachment points on your backpack that the corner cords will reach. If the included cords aren’t long enough, use zip ties or tie loops to extend the cords.
Pinch each springless cord lock until the holes line up, and run each of the four cords through them.
The frame position can be fine-tuned up or down by adjusting the four corner cords.
Put the pack on, walk around, and make small re-adjustments as needed.
Using a different backpack?
If your pack’s attachment points don’t line up well with the sleeve cords, you can also secure the frame using zip ties, with or without the sleeve.


Will this ventilation frame fit my backpack?
Yes. Our frame comes in ONE SIZE and features a universal design that fits small to large backpacks. This allows you to attach the frame to your favorite pack.
The graphics illustrate how our one-size frame fits on backpacks of varying sizes: small, medium, and large.

Customers have attached the frame on the following brands: 5.11, 3FUL, Base Jumping Pack, Bonfus, Bullet, Camelbak, Chrome Industries, Craghoppers, Columbia, Cotopaxi, Coyote, Dandee, Designer Park, Deuter, Diamond, DSPTCH, Durston, Eastpak, Eberlestock, EDC, Expedition Units, Fjällräven, GoRuck, Gossamer, Granite Gear, Gregory, Habagat, High Sierra, Hill People Gear, Hydration Pack, Hyperlite, Jansport, K9 Sport, Kelty, Kurgo, Kurgo G, Kyte, LifeAF, Lilly, LV, Mammut, Mangellan, Mardingtop, Marmot, Military Assault Pack, Miramrax, ModGear, Molle 4000 Airborne Ruck, Mossy Oak, Mountain Wear, Mountainsmith, Mubasel, MVP Disc Sports, Mystery Ranch, Nashville Packs, Nomatic, Norfuma, North Face, Orange Mud, Osprey, Outdoor Vitals, Pack Back Designs, PDW WUULF, Peak Design, Perry Ellis, Photography Pack, Portable Oxygen Pack, REI Backpack, Rockagator, Ruck Backpack, Salomon, SAR Backpack, Savage Gear, Savotta, Six Moon Designs, SKYSPER, SOG Ninja, SWD Movement, Swiss Gear, Tactical Backpack, Teti, Teton Sport, ULA, Ultimate Direction, Under Armor, US Army Issued Pack, Volpi, WANDRD, Waymark, Wild Iowa Bushcraft, Yak Pak, Zenith, Zomake, Zpacks.
Customer Use Cases
Many customers use the frame for activities such as hiking, commuting, school, camping, biking, and traveling, among others.
The included Mesh Sleeve offers two thickness options: a thin layer for ventilation and a cushioned side for comfort, making it ideal for larger packs and high-load situations.
Compatible with packs from 15L to over 65L, the frame provides the comfort of ventilation during various activities.



Backpack Sizes that fit the Frame
- Light packs (15L to 20L)
- Day/Travel packs (20L to 28L)
- Larger packs (30L to 45L)
- Excursion packs (45L+) - The frame covers 70% or more of your back on average on larger packs. Its design allows it to be compatible with larger packs.
Benefits
- Helps you sweat less and enjoy backpacking more
- Improves airflow with natural ventilation, keeping you cooler and drier
- Attaches to any backpack (framed or frameless), one size fits all
- Sturdy, abrasion-resistant material is flexible and conforms to your back
- Lightweight design (5.2 ounces). As light as a pair of socks
- TSA compliant for travel
Included items
- Pre-assembled Backpack Ventilation Frame
- Mesh Sleeve
- Loops to connect the frame to your backpack straps
- 6 reusable zip ties to secure frame on your backpack
- Satisfaction guaranteed
- Lifetime warranty
Material
Frame: Made from recyclable, durable, abrasion-resistant High-Density Polyethylene (HDPE). Safe for use, made from FDA-approved materials.
Mesh Sleeve Front Panel Fabric: 1/8 inches / 3mm spacer mesh in black
Mesh Sleeve Back Panel Fabric: Lightweight and durable pocket mesh in black
Side Loops: 550 Paracord in black
Buckles: 0.5-inch lightweight buckle in black
Straps: 0.5-inch lightweight cord in black
Webbing: 0.5-inch nylon webbing in black
