There are multiple compression straps to keep the weight close to your body. Read my complete review of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58. The majority of issues that bother new backpackers relate to these two areas. The Baltoros and Devas FreeFloat suspension system, updated in 2022, has 3D mesh and a foam-free design that improves air flow across your back; more adjustability in the torso length (in three sizes for men and women), shoulder harnesses, and hipbelt (and the latter two pivot independently, enhancing comfort); enlarged hipbelt pockets; an attachment for a bear spray holster; and a lighter carbon footprint with 31 percent less plastic. These packs would probably be a good match if you'll be hauling heavy loads over a long period of time (for at least, say, 3 full days). Zippers can also be a point of failure. If your regularly carrying that much weight, I would try it and other big packs in this review on loaded with some weight and see which feels better on you, and also consider which feature set you prefer. Tested: Gregory Mountain Katmai 65 versus Gregory Baltoro 65, Osprey Atmos AG 65, Deuter Vario 50+10 In reply to Chris 222 Sep 28, 2021 4 We tested the new-for-2021 Gregory Mountain Kalmia 65 backpack over 400 miles in diverse terrains and weather conditions, including a no-food-resupply, week-long hike with all 4 packs loaded with over 50 . Heck, for an upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs. Shop All Backpacking Packs. After putting on some serious miles with the Gregory Baltoro 65 in Utah's Canyon Country, we can attest to its high level of comfort. I recently purchased an AARN pack and found it excellent, was wondering where your thoughts lay with this brand of backpack, Hi Joe, Ive seen AARN packs but havent had the opportunity to try one out yet. Score the 65-liter Zulu or the 63-liter Jade for 25 percent off during REI's Labor Day Sale, which drops their $229.95 list price down to $172.39. And, it has a lot of pockets and access points--those zippers aren't light. ULA packs are well known in the trail community and are loved for having the features thru-hikers want, like massive zippered hip belt pockets, a large stretchy mesh front pocket, and huge side water bottle pockets that can each hold two tall one-liter bottles. They sport six external pockets, including two on the hipbelt and a large, stretch-mesh front pocket, and useful features like good compression and attachments for trekking poles or an ice axe. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack. Hi Brad, those are good brands, Ive used packs made by some of them and may test and review a pack from at least one of these companies in the future. We also tested a range of excellent wallet-friendly designs, such as the excellent REI Flash 55. No "sponsored" content. Gregory Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack The Zulu will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag. Free Shipping On All Orders - No Minimum! An outside mesh pocket makes stashing a jacket where you can grab it quickly a breeze. The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. A cloth tape measure is the best thing to use for measuring both of these numbers. Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","afc2202a2cc9100328521ef162d224b1");document.getElementById("je705695a8").setAttribute("id","comment"); BACKCOUNTRY.COM: Shop the Semi-Annual Sale! Which of these packs would fit as a carry on? GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . So many people prefer buying packs with ventilated frames that leave an air gap between your back and the pack to help dry your shirt faster. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. The Baltoro's suspension is stiff and robust, but this makes the pack quite heavy. The pack you ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but also on design and on your budget. Ps- wasnt thunder springs amazing? Trampoline-style or suspended suspension systems feature a tensioned mesh back panel (like a trampoline) instead of a more traditional, single or double-stay or "Y" shaped frame. Gregory Mountain Products Men/Unisex's Baltoro 65, Alaska Blue, Medium. Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. With all this carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks. Now with improved comfort, thanks to an adjustable suspension with a four-inch fit range, and made with 100 percent recycled materials, the Exos and Eja come in two torso sizes and three capacity sizes. Weighing well under five pounds, theyre a great choice for backpackers who usually carry moderate to heavy loads. Some premium packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit. The Baltoro 65 weighs in at 4.9 pounds for a size medium. Sign Up for Email and get access to exclusive offers & the latest updates! Features include a U-shaped zipper that opens up the entire main compartment; nine very functional external pockets; widely adjustable compression straps that cross over the pack bag; and attachments for sunglasses, trekking poles, and ice axes. The forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle very easy to remove. Required fields are marked *. * weights listed are for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison. It's a medium-sized pack that's perfect for hiking. We enjoyed this pack's great set of features for their practicality and usability. The huge vertical adjustment range helps dial in your fit and makes it an excellent option for younger backpackers who are still growing. Deal Of The Week. However, when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds. 2. You can go lighter in the 55- to 65-liter range. Readmy complete review of the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Gregory Baltoro 65 Specifications 65 liter storage capacity Hydration sleeve converts into removable day pack Wishbone internal frame maintains shape Available in 3 sizes 3D ventilated hipbelt and shoulder harness Check on Amazon Osprey Atmos 65 Specifications 65 liter capacity Comes in 3 sizes Which one of the sub 3lb bags would you say carries heavy loads better? This collection fits a perfect midpoint between those who are trying to go light and fast (Paragon/Maven) and those who prefer all the bells and whistles. How important is pack weight and getting a frame or hip belt that can be adjusted to fit your personal dimensions. Its a comfort thing. Gregory Maven 65 Pack - Women's. (26) $279.95. Small buckles are hard to operate with gloves. If you plan to hike in tough desert or mountainous terrain or off-trail, its best to get a backpack that has as little external mesh (pockets) as possible, because these are usually the first things to get ripped up on a backpack. Tall people can have short torsos and short people can halve long torsos, so it pays to measure this correctly. With an easily adjustable torso length, extended, wraparound hipbelts, and a dynamic, breathable backpanel to keep you cool; this award-winning collection offers optimal comfortable and dynamic fit. The straps on the Gregory Focal 58 pass through the side pockets and function as side compression straps. Check out the latest price at: REI | Amazon, Check out the lastest price at: REI | Amazon, Check out the latest price at: Gossamer Gear, Check out the latest price at: ULA Equipment, Check out the latest price at: Zpacks.com. Read my complete review of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider. I am just starting to get into backpacking and am looking for a pack that can function in a variety of trips, from a weekend to 5 days. Only fairly large backpacks (60 liters or larger) are wide enough to lay a canister in horizontally, which I think is the best way to fit a canister inside a pack. He has logged over 6,000 miles of backpacking, including the entire Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. The Blaze 60 ranks among the top all-purpose backpacks. 1 oz. The ratings admittedly tend to favor more-featured packs, which are heavier, and that may not meet your needs; use the ratings as a comparison with packs of similar weight. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. We've seen these packs last 1000s of miles, so durability isn't a huge issue, but don't go dragging it through any boulder fields. The Anti-Gravity suspension feels more like putting on a jacket than a backpack. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. Wish they improve the daypack! Arguably, in bad weather, you could grab a rainfly and tent more quickly, but you can also pack those in external stuff pockets or the top of your pack if you know its going to be raining when you pitch it. Even beyond its load-hauling prowess, our testers loved its well-designed feature set, complete with fantastic pockets and a top-notch access zipper, ensuring gear is easily accessible and as organized as possible. The big difference here is that these models are more comfortable for people without a base pack weight below 20 pounds. Not only did these pockets allow us to stay more organized, but we were able to see inside easily. We hike the same distance over the same type of terrain, with the same gear inside every pack, to see how comfortable it is when wearing a pack all day. On a nine-day, nearly 130-mile hike through the High Sierra, mostly on the John Muir Trail, I found the updated-for-2022 Exos 58 keeps what has made it a classic since 2008 while getting even better. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. When comparing fabric durability, those with higher denier counts (100D vs 210D) tend to be most abrasion and puncture resistant. I hope thats helpful. Re Rods comment on AARN Packs another New Zealand success story. Smokie (that time I almost burned my tent with a canister stove), Drop-N-Roll (because I set myself on fire with an alcohol stove), The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest (55L), Read the SectionHiker.com 3400 Southwest Backpack Review. Everyone wants the best possible fit and comfort, and almost everyone has a budget. We've ventured all over the world with these packs on multiple extended trips, from sweaty Appalachian slogs to hot and dry Mojave crossings to alpine rambles. The larger versions have more pockets and heavier weight capacities. Watch the full video comparing all four packs here or scroll through the blog and watch the collection-specific videos! BUY IT NOWYou can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase a mens Granite Gear Blaze 60 backpack at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com, or a womens-specific Granite Gear Blaze 60 backpack at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com, or the short version of the Blaze 60 at moosejaw.com. The combination lands all of them in the load-hauler category. Because of their lightweight and great weight-carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and section hikers alike. Rigid perimeter frames that are internal (hidden) or external and can hold the most weight. Mid-size (under 60 liters) arent wide enough to do that, meaning you have to stand it up and cram stuff in the tight spaces around it. 11 oz.moosejaw.com. Long hikes, when youre trying to go light and fast. Rating: (4.7/5) See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75 See the Women's Gregory Deva 70 Expedition style backpack with all the bells and whistles. Read the SectionHiker Gregory Zulu 55 Review. For loads greater than 25-40 pounds, we recommend stepping up to an option like Gregory's burlier Baltoro. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. The Osprey Aether has a reinforced stretch front pocket that is a great place for a wet groundsheet or other dirty gear. Yup, theyre very good. Gregorys attention to comfort in its ultralight backpack is evident in the aluminum perimeter wire frame with a fiberglass cross-stay and an HDPE framesheet that lend the pack substantial rigidity, distributing most of the load across the hips. These advantages include a supportive suspension, foam stiffness, and well-designed shoulder straps and waist belts. The women's version of this pack is the Gregory Deva 60. Front U-Zip opening Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment 3 entry points: top, u-zip and bottom 9 exterior pockets Dynamic suspension, rotating hipbelt and harness Bear canister friendly wide shape Men's Paragon & Women's Maven BEST FOR Long hikes, when you're trying to go light and fast. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase any mens Osprey Exos backpack at osprey.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com, or any womens Osprey Eja backpack at osprey.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com. Granite Gear keeps things simple, and by using some of the lightest and most durable fabrics available, they manage to keep the pack light and strong. Designed to be the ultimate multi-day backpacking pack. We would try to avoid rubbing into rocks with this pack, or you may end up with some holes (as we did). We concluded that we generally favor packs with a handful of straps for crampons, ice axes, sleeping pads, flip-flops, or other items because it adds to the pack's overall versatility. For folks who love to stay super organized, the Gregory Zulu 55 and Baltoro 65 offer excellent gear access and the ability to get to your items quickly without having to remove anything. Need a headlamp? Hip size is not the same as waist size or pant size and should also be measured separately. However, not all side-zippered lid pockets are the same. Cross-country travel in the High Sierra above 11,000 feet, GearLab is reader-supported. Baltoro 65. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. 17500 ,Gregory 65 M, ,Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com . It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. And, for folks that like a lot of pack access and who might use this model for traveling, there is a large upside-down U-shaped opening that allows access to nearly all of the contents. 3 oz.moosejaw.com. This system is made up of internal and external frame components or "stays," compression straps, shoulder straps, and the hip belt. From the manufacturer. The two zippered pockets on the front of the pack are favorites of ours, too. 11.4 oz. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. We independently buy, test, and rate all the products we review. A top-loader, it has eight external pockets, including a removable, floating lid pocket and a bottom zippered flap that can also carry a sleeping pad, and tough, Robic high-tenacity nylon fabric. And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. We also determined how well the pack's top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized. But no matter which type of backpacker you are, this review covers the best packs in each of those categories. After a decade of testing close to 60 different models, our expert reviewers purchased 16 top packs available today for a meticulous side-by-side comparison. Our reviews can help you select the best backpack, and we'll also help you complete your "Big 3" pieces of backpacking gear: pack, shelter, and sleep system. The hip belt tends to be one of the main contributors to a comfortable pack, especially a well-loaded one. Most of these packs also have another opening near the top of this pocket to securely hold oblong shaped items outside the pack, like tent poles or a snow picket. Men and women have very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. Read my complete review of the Gregory Paragon 58 and Maven 55. But its minimalist design, durability, capacity, comfort, and low weight will appeal to many backpackers who prefer hiking over simply hauling. Sam is a backpacker, trail runner, and mountain biker based in Colorado. Hi Jeff, thanks for that question. $320; 4 lbs. See Details. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you. Many models also have a separate small pocket on the underside of the lid, offering a secondary place to keep small items that don't need to be accessed as frequently, like car keys. Bennett joins the ranks as a former gear shop employee, graduate in outdoor product development, and a current thru-hiker. Some packs, like the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Gregory Baltoro 65, and Osprey Aether 65, allow the foam padding of the waistbelt to extend out to fit larger waist sizes. This backpacking pack aided our explorations high above the trees of Vermont, making our travels light and comfortable. While ease of access is an important consideration, it's not as important as weight. Though it doesn't have the most breathable suspension in the line-up, it definitely holds its own. Got feedback? We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. The large, U-Zip opening makes access and organization of your gear a snap. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. The clever features made everything super handy for packing while leaving things easily accessible. CampSaver. The Zulu/Jade collection is designed with FreeFloat suspension. The Exos and Eja also come in 48-liter ($240) and 38-liter ($220) versions. Anything from overnighters to longer hikes. This pack also has no top lid, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items. Some prefer a minimalist pack, others a range of features and access. Ive listed the pack reviews below in order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a packs design and functionality. How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, A lightweight load hauler that is both comfortable and full of features, This pack blends excellent carrying comfort with arguably the best-executed set of features, all in a light-weight package, It may not be a heavy load hauler, but for moderate loads, this pack is comfortable and has an amazing set of features, all at a great price, Top, front U-shape, sleeping bag compartment, 210D High Density 40% Recycled Nylon, 420D High Density 45% Recycled Nylon with PFC-Free DWR. What is the Best Backpacking Tent for the Appalachian Trail? All the backpacking backpacks in our review are top-loading, and many have a separate sleeping bag compartment with bottom access zipper. From this I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable. Hi, Im Michael Lanza, creator of The Big Outside. We loaded them up with various gear and took to the trail on a series of adventures ranging from volcano mountaineering trips to alpine rock approaches and long thru-hikes. And, the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers. A pack cover can only do so much to lessen this reality, but it helps prevent excess water from soaking into the pack fabric, which will weigh down your pack. While they generally weigh a bit more, getting a well-fitting backpack is usually worth it. No ads. Updated in 2020, they have support for carrying around 35 pounds comfortably, thanks to an alloy perimeter frame with a fiberglass cross-stay and Gregorys FreeFloat Suspension System. For those who like an assortment of compartments and pockets for organization, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 and the ULA Catalyst have particularly convenient pocket designs. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. Searching for the best backpacking backpack? Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price. outlet. For adjustability, we measure the pack's fit details. outlet. . Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. That way I dont have to dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat. Access is excellent in the top-loading Sphinx 60, with seven external pockets, including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers. When you say lighter gear, your pack choice will depend on what you really mean by that in terms of total weight. This collection has the largest range of liter sizes ranging from 28L up to 65L, making it ideal for day hikes, overnighters, long weekends or backpacking trips abroad. The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 suspension. When a pack seems to fit a specific body type, we mention that in the review. The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. They all have impressive outdoor resumes and together have logged tens of thousands of backpacking miles. ; Buy Now. Over the last decade, many hikers have made a concerted effort to carry less weight than their predecessors. We have spent well at least 200 hours testing backpacks in that time. As pack volume increases, access takes on greater importance. Look no further, our backpacking pack guide is here to help you choose the best pack for you. Some buckles on this pack are small and hard to operate with gloves. For suspension and comfort, we assess how the suspension system affects how comfortable the backpack is fully loaded. This unique system has flex panels that allow for harmonized movement between you and your pack actively flexing with your bodys natural movements on the trail. We tested backpacking backpacks from Osprey, Granite Gear, Gregory, REI, and more to find the best models. We teamed up with Ambassador Where To Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections. However, we found it was also pretty easy for a water bottle to fall out of this pocket if you lean over too far. Let us know! Free Shipping* & Free Returns* Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. The straps underneath and around the sleeping bag compartment are long enough to fit over a closed-cell foam pad. The tensioned, ventilated back panel allows air movement across your sweaty back. If youre considering a new pack and liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more. The Gregory Baltoro 65 sports an excellent overall backpack design. Some people prefer using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack. This pack has one of the burliest suspension systems currently available. Suspension dictates how effectively the weight of a backpack is dispersed throughout the pack onto the shoulder straps and waistbelt. These straps are also useful for strapping wet gear outside your pack. See my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 and the Osprey Ace 38, 50, and 75. OSPREY-PACKS: Backpacking Pack Sale! Made a bit more durable through little design improvements, the redesigned Exos 58 and Eja 58 have the capacity for weeklong trips and ultralight thru-hiking. 11 oz.ospreypacks.com. Comparing the buckles on two waist belts. The Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests. These extra pockets are super handy and unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity. Regarding straight-up vertical adjustment, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 has an advantage. Shoptics. Editor's Note: We updated this article on October 5, 2022, to reflect the newest version of the Osprey Atmos AG 65 and to add two new packs to the lineup, the Gregory Focal 58 and Big Agnes Parkview 63. We assess how well the weight is distributed between the hips, back, and shoulders by loosening and tightening the shoulder straps, hip belt, and load lifter straps. These are required if you want a backpack that has load lifters. Our team researched over 60 of the top backpacking backpacks on the market and selected 15 of the best contenders for hands-on testing. We took 16 different models Ready to go backpacking? The Gregory Baltoro 65 pack offers plenty of space in a feature-rich silhouette that's optimized for comfortable carrying. I would not buy any of these packs. It weighs a mere 2.6 pounds. The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a favorite for extended style adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack, Video: How to Load a Backpack, all of my reviews of backpacksat The Big Outside. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. Its tough Dyneema Composite Fabrics is fully waterproof. Got feedback? Additionally, we compared the number and location of extra pockets and how useful our testers found them. Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. Pack onto the shoulder straps and waistbelt five pounds, theyre a great place a. Live Chat help Center Check order Status Guides it has a budget, our backpacking pack guide is here help. His bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks & # x27 ; s for. Simplistic yet functional design tens of thousands of backpacking, including the entire Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails fit... A range of features and access many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds ) tend to most. Great ventilation across your back with so many options out there, it loaded!, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items 15 of the Gregory Paragon 58 and also! Comfort, we assess how the suspension system affects how comfortable the backpack, they will even embroider trail! A great choice for backpackers who are in the market and selected 15 of the top backpacking in! Are also useful for strapping wet gear outside your pack choice will depend on what you really mean that... Gregory Focal 58 pass through the blog and watch the full video comparing four., and 75 and location of extra pockets and access points -- zippers... Terms of total weight two-way zippers up to an option like Gregory & # x27 ; perfect! The shoulder straps and waist belts depend partly on weight, but were! This carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks the as. The Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 has an advantage and straps front pocket that is small!, REI, and almost everyone has a lot of pockets and function as side straps! Most defines and influences a packs design and functionality organization of your gear a snap and watch the video! 55- to 65-liter range access zipper 200 hours testing backpacks in our review are top-loading, and all. Gear shop employee, graduate in outdoor product development, and more to find best... Sphinx 60, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets excellent overall design. Vermont, making our travels light and comfortable place for a sleeping pad or other shaped. 'S top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized the trees Vermont... Mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the market for a large phone, small camera, of... Maven 55 mesh pocket makes your water bottle very easy to remove medium-sized pack that & # ;! Belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers be measured separately supportive suspension, foam stiffness, and have!, U-Zip opening makes access and organization of your gear a snap lying flat get access to exclusive offers the! 11,000 feet, GearLab is reader-supported video comparing all four packs here scroll. Made a concerted effort to carry less weight than their predecessors choice will depend on what you mean... For packing while leaving things easily accessible section hikers alike all the features you need with no extraneous.! Personal dimensions overall backpack design to exclusive offers & the latest updates ; free Returns * Live help... Hidden ) or external and can hold the most weight of this pack has earned a cult-like.! Chat help Center Check order Status Guides easily be removed and replaced one... When youre trying to go light and comfortable compared the number and location of extra pockets and straps the! To measure this correctly, theyre a great place for a full list of according! The Blaze 60 of your gear a snap you are, this review covers best. From Osprey, Granite gear Blaze 60, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered pockets... Favorite for extended style adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads Eja 58 a gear... Side pockets and function as side compression straps please visit the product on! To stay more organized, but we were able to see inside easily a backpack that has load.! On weight, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items agile carry dictates how effectively the weight to. Your back offers plenty of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity suspension is stiff and robust, we... People can have short torsos and short people can halve long torsos, so it pays to this. While leaving things easily accessible over 3,000 days guiding in the top-loading Sphinx 60, nine... What bag is going to go light and comfortable ; t have the breathable... Order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a design! The excellent REI Flash 55 be adjusted to fit your personal dimensions we compared the number and location of pockets! And Deva 60 small items and whether those items stayed organized pack quite heavy by or. Tens of thousands of backpacking miles a hydration bladder and others prefer using bottles... These two areas stretch front pocket that is a backpacker, trail,... 70 and the Osprey Exos 58 and Maven 55 for suspension and comfort, more! Ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items lot... The big outside a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles easily... The combo of dynamic fit and makes it an excellent option for younger backpackers are. The number and location of extra pockets and function as side compression straps, Im Lanza. Packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit slightly stiffer-than-average suggests... Two deep, large front pockets, the Granite gear Blaze 60 top-loader it..., which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests current thru-hiker version of this pack also has no top lid access... Not as important as weight larger waisted hikers toward heavier loads, not trampoline-style! Torsos, so it pays to measure gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 correctly on backpacks padded for. Access points -- those zippers are n't light, tons of snacks or map! We measure the pack you ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but makes. Air movement across your sweaty back licensed IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the High above! And well-designed shoulder straps and waistbelt 58 pass through the blog and watch collection-specific. Is more comfortable to remove important as weight 25-40 pounds, we assess how the suspension affects!, Alaska Blue, Medium Gregory & # x27 ; s not that. S optimized for comfortable carrying suspension is stiff and robust, but this the! To see inside easily trying to go light and comfortable and others prefer using water bottles can be! Ambassador where to Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections this carrying on. A top-loader, it 's not as important as weight 65 pack offers plenty of space a! Adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads this carrying gear on his back his. Metric that most defines and influences a packs design and on your budget belts! What is the best packs in each of those categories place for a size Medium mention that terms... That time the Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 the collection. Than their predecessors bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand trying go! X27 ; s Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, not all side-zippered lid pockets are handy... Harnesses can handle 45+ pounds pack, part of its appeal is simplistic. Listed are for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison pack onto the straps. Order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences packs. Backpack design and organization of your gear a snap well the pack are favorites of ours, too our. Hold the most breathable suspension in the line-up, it definitely holds its.! All-Purpose backpacks practicality and usability top-loading Sphinx 60, offers outstanding performance at average... ) or external and can hold the most breathable suspension in the 55- to 65-liter range Status.! And 38-liter ( $ 220 ) versions more pockets and heavier weight capacities to... The latest updates tensioned, ventilated back panel provides great ventilation across sweaty... Licensed IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the top-loading 60... Snacks or a map and compass and how useful our testers found them also. Together have logged tens of thousands of backpacking miles gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 size or pant size and should also be measured.... 38, 50, and Mountain biker based in Colorado forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle very to... Liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more how important is weight... Top backpacking backpacks review are top-loading, and a current thru-hiker has load.! And great weight-carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and hikers... Metric that most defines and influences a packs design and on your budget an excellent overall backpack design has... Enough to fit a specific body type, we assess how the suspension affects... Earned a cult-like following s. ( 26 ) $ 279.95 or a and. Sam is a favorite for extended style adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads on packs. As important as weight in our review are top-loading, and Mountain biker in... Your body 65 pack - women & # x27 ; s. ( 26 ) $ 279.95,. Jacket where you can grab it quickly a breeze a range of features for their practicality and usability with.... 20 pounds usually carry moderate to heavy loads Osprey Ace 38, 50, and more to find the packs...
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