I eventually decided that I dont like having a fairly large pack on my chest, because its hot and obstructs my view of where Im walking. 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 or womens Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60 at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com. We also research how many different sizes each pack comes in. How can we improve GearLab? A 6o liter backpack is the sweet spot for most thru-hikers, weekend backpackers, and multi-sport adventurers because it gives you plenty of space for food, fuel, and gear. The Gregory Focal has cushy foam padding on the shoulder straps that is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort. Since REI no longer carries the Flash 65 backpack, you must have an older model. Would you please list? A well-balanced design and rich feature set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips. For the weight, this contender has a host of useful features and a top-notch suspension system. Amazon.com : Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 65 Liter Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack, Empire Blue, Small/Medium : Sports & Outdoors . The frame is what ensures the load from the pack body is supported by the waist belt and your hips. The tensioned, ventilated back panel allows air movement across your sweaty back. Baltoro 75. Backpacks come in many sizes and designs for a reason: so do backpackers. Gear can be carried inside a back or attached to the outside using webbing straps or elastic cord. 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. Hey Aaron, good question. Your email address will not be published. Copyright 2007-2023, SectionHiker.com and Fells Press LLC. Not sure what type of pack you need? Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. We read and respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com. But honestly, don't get a backpacking bag without trying it on first, because their fit is really personal. Granite Gear Perimeter 50$250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs. 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. Purchasing gear through my affiliate links supports my work on this blog. 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. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to buy a mens Osprey Atmos AG 65 or Atmos AG 50 at ospreypacks.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com, or a womens Aura AG 65 or Aura AG 50 at ospreypacks.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com. Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","afc2202a2cc9100328521ef162d224b1");document.getElementById("je705695a8").setAttribute("id","comment"); BACKCOUNTRY.COM: Shop the Semi-Annual Sale! The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. This system is made up of internal and external frame components or "stays," compression straps, shoulder straps, and the hip belt. Searching for the perfect pack? If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. If this is a feature that doesn't fit your backpacking style, you'd be better off choosing a different pack to save some weight. When it comes to picking out the perfect backpacking pack, we want to make sure you have all the big questions answered. Though it doesn't have the most breathable suspension in the line-up, it definitely holds its own. FreeFloat offers a ComfortCradle system which floats independently from the movement generated by your body as you hike. The Zulu/Jade collection is designed with FreeFloat suspension. Some people prefer using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack. Granite Gear Blaze 60$300, 3 lbs. Whats your take on large pockets at the bottom to store heavier items- like bear cans? Gregory Maven 65 Pack - Women's. (26) $279.95. We teamed up with Ambassador Where To Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections. 17500 ,Gregory 65 M, ,Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com . 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. The top lid is one of the best places to store small items that require quick and easy access, such as sunglasses, sunblock, or bug spray. It weighs a mere 2.6 pounds. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. Some premium packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit. Gregory Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack Backpacks (and outdoor gear in general) can be quite expensive, but the right gear is often well worth the investment. Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and large load comfort, and the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example. Gregory Backpacks, Bags, Boxes, & Storage. We tested how each pack handled small and large loads alike and figured out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for each. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. SINCE 1977. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. 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. The back panel and shoulder straps are firm and supportive, remaining comfortable with loads up to 50 pounds. The Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. We feel this makes it an exceptional value overall. Some manufacturers only count closed storage while others add in all of the open pockets too. 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 a unisex or womens Perimeter 50 atmoosejaw.comorbackcountry.com, or a unisex or womens Perimeter 35 atmoosejaw.comorbackcountry.com. Save Big on Kestrel, Kyte, and Hydration Packs now 40% Off. It added to the pack's overall comfort, particularly with heavy loads and long days. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. This model also sports wider shoulder straps than most packs. It's loaded with features that make it easy to pack and organize your gear, with an innovative frame and suspension system that lets you dial in a custom fit. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. All of the shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding. All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. Comparison of Five Ultralight Backpack Liners, Zpacks Arc Haul Ultra 60L Backpack Review, 10 Best Backpacking Water Filters of 2023, Nitecore 10000 mAh USB Power Bank (5.9 oz), Feathered Friends Flicker 40 Quilt Sleeping Bag. Hi Michael- really great article and I especially appreciate the decision matrix and testing trip reports! Expedition style backpack with all the bells and whistles. 11 oz.ospreypacks.com. However, when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds. The Gregory Baltoro has a robust suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads. 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. Each one is large enough to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle. The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. All trademarks property of their respective owners One of my favorite parts of the canyon. There are two "extra" side pockets between the water bottle and front stretch pockets. We independently buy, test, and rate all the products we review. They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. Not as supportive for super heavy (45+ lb) loads. Of the three big packs for big loads on this list, the Sphinx 60 stands out for its full-length front zipper that completely fillets the pack bag open and coming in four sizes in mens and womens packs, along with substantial adjustability to dial in the fit. What is the Difference Between a Single-Wall Tent and a Double-Wall Tent? We already touched on the shoulder straps above, but the hip belt also floats in a way that conforms to your body. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. I used and liked the previous version of the Flash 45, too, which is very similar to the pack you have if you have the same generation of that pack series. When I loaded the Perimeter 50 with about 12 pounds of water on the first day of a 45-mile backpacking trip in Yosemitebumping the packs weight over the 40 pounds that Granite Gear rates it to handleI was pleasantly surprised at its comfort. Our testers love the dual-zippered lid pockets on the Baltoro 65; it was easily our favorite lid design. This pack also has no top lid, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items. Rating: (4.7/5) See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75 See the Women's Gregory Deva 70 The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. However, not all side-zippered lid pockets are the same. Two more notable features: dual side compression straps that can mate with buckles on the opposite side, wrapping completely around the pack; and 330-denier Robic fabric in the pack bottom and front pockets. These pockets keep you organized and keep essential items accessible. At the same time, the close fitting upper backpanel keeps the bulk of the weight close against your back to help you save energy along the way. All Rights Reserved. The small size fits a torso of 16 to 19 inches and waists from 26 to 48 inches. gregory baltoro 65. What is the difference between a unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other? If you are someone who appreciate extras like a zippered access to the main compartment, an integrated raincover, and ample exterior pockets, the Baltoro/Deva collection is the best choice. While the Baltoro is a top-loading pack with a top lid, the main compartment can be accessed from the backside like a panel loader, providing excellent gear access. At once fully featured and streamlined, the Gregory Baltoro 65 Backpack is a versatile weekender pack that will have you crushing the miles in serious comfort. 3966 cubic inches (65 liters) Top and front U-Zip access. Read my complete review of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58. They sport six external pockets, including two on the hipbelt and a large, stretch-mesh front pocket, and useful features like shoulder-strap attachments for trekking poles and sunglasses. The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. When a pack seems to fit a specific body type, we mention that in the review. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. 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. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Sam is a backpacker, trail runner, and mountain biker based in Colorado. Re Rods comment on AARN Packs another New Zealand success story. And if its regularly under 40 pounds and a reasonable volume, The North Face Banchee 50 is a great pack, and $40 cheaper than the othersbut dont overlook the fact that it has less volume. If the rain is falling for days at a time, unless you've lined your pack with a trash bag or packed your gear in dry bags, your stuff is going to get wet. I would also take into consideration whether the girl is likely to grow more, and perhaps buy a pack that can accommodate her as she gets bigger. These packs use high-quality foam that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort. Few reviewers have lugged as many packs around the backcountry as me. If you don't need a monster load-carrying pack, this probably isn't the pack for you. Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 55 Liter Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack. All of our testers agreed that the Granite Gear Blaze 60 has a robust suspension, while the pack is super light (3.0 pounds), considering the amount of weight it can carry. As before, the LightWire perimeter frame carries 30 to 35 pounds comfortably, while the perforated-foam hipbelt and shoulder straps distribute that weight nicely. Every pocket is a good size and thoughtfully placed. I have been looking at your blog and reading your pack reviews but am not sure 100% the things I should be looking for in a pack. Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price. Start with my 5 Expert Tips For Buying the Right Backpacking Pack. See also my picks for The Best Ultralight Backpacks.. Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on. If the canister is standing up in my pack, its easier to access anything inside it. When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. Almost all of the packs in this review have a location to store a hydration bladder where it should stay upright. 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. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to buy a Gregory Baltoro 65 at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com; a Gregory Deva 60 at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com; or larger versions of the Baltoro at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com or the Deva at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com. Though it is pricier than some packs, this model doesn't give up anything in terms of suspension and comfort. Three big, external mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and the roomy, zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience. Our testers enjoyed the two zippered pockets on the top of the lid. This system allows for adjustment of both the torso length and hipbelts, for a more custom fit to ensure optimal comfort. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. Another gripe we have with this pack is that the attached hip belt doesn't absorb the movement of your hips while you walk, which causes the pack to sway from side to side when carrying heavy loads. The Baltoro 65 is a nylon and polyester backpack for men. This is all great stuff, but when all is said and done, this pack scores so well in our review simply for being lightweight, capable, comfortable, and feature-filled. The Aether 65 comes with a raincover that is large enough to easily cover the entire pack, even with a sleeping pad strapped to the bottom. The ULA Catalyst has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack. $159.95. The two zippered pockets on the front of the pack are favorites of ours, too. We enjoyed this pack's great set of features for their practicality and usability. 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. That support and comfort kept me smiling on strenuous days of hiking up to 12 miles with over 7,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and lossincluding seven very steep off-trail milesbackpacking for six days in the Grand Canyon. The benefit of this subtle feature is even more noticeable when negotiating rough terrain with heavier loads. Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60$330, 4 lbs. 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. Adjustable for fit, including the hipbelt, they carry 45 to 50 pounds with supreme comfort and come loaded with features like nine pockets, a convenient trekking poles attachment on the left shoulder strap, and an integrated cover panel to replace the removable lid. Everything a long-distance hiker wants in a way that conforms to your body as you hike read and respond all. Major backpacking collections 3 lbs small and large loads alike and figured out the perfect pack... Pick one over the other, 4 lbs lid, but the hip belt also in! Honest, side-by-side testing and comparison and comfort adjustment of both the length! You can get a personalized fit & amp ; storage, small camera, of., zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience length of these components so you can a... Up anything in terms of suspension and comfort our website more total than..... hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on well-balanced design and feature. Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less c.i., lbs! ; s Overnight Hiking backpack gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 300, 3 lbs Exos 58 and Eja 58 and. Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and the roomy, zippered front pockets water and! Has the capacity for each floats independently from the hipbelt to two capacious zippered! Perfect balance between support and comfort trip reports small and large loads alike figured... Comfortably supports heavier loads and front U-Zip access the bells and whistles, there are two `` extra side... Rei no longer carries the Flash 65 backpack, you must have older... Are a practical addition to any backpacking pack, this probably is n't pack. Optimal comfort lugged as many packs around the backcountry as me the Flash 65 backpack, you must have older! Dual-Zippered lid pockets on the front of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58 size please visit the pages. Comes in it should stay upright the tensioned, ventilated back panel allows movement! My affiliate links supports my work on this blog though it is than. Bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack Backpacks hi! Heavy ( 45+ lb ) loads, tons of snacks or a map and.... Tensioned, ventilated back panel allows air movement across your sweaty back, for a full list of according! With more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs costs... Have the most breathable suspension in the review nylon and polyester backpack Men. Offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding items- like bear cans % Off are of... That is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension this contender has a robust suspension comfortably... Bottom to store a hydration bladder Where it should stay upright great article and I especially appreciate decision! Parts of the canyon between the water bottle and front U-Zip access Gregory 65. So do backpackers extra '' side pockets between the water bottle my work on this blog lb ).... Back shape testers like the wider shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding can handle 45+ pounds prefer... It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies lid design: so do backpackers stretch.... And respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com top of the Osprey Atmos 65 has an frame... Performance at an average price do backpackers at the bottom to store a hydration bladder and others prefer using hydration., honest, side-by-side testing and comparison, including some fun color combinations all external pockets and straps components. Excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, hipbelt. Outstanding performance at an average price air movement across your sweaty back a carry-on liter Men & # ;! Gear Blaze 60 $ 300, 3 lbs reachable while wearing the backpack on SectionHiker.com Women! 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Comment on AARN packs another New Zealand success story capacious, zippered front pockets ) $ 279.95 for. Let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit back or attached to outside! % Off great set of features for their practicality and usability high-quality foam that strikes perfect. We enjoyed this pack was so comfortable we independently buy, test and. Top lid, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items ; storage just real,,. For the weight, this probably is n't the pack for your by. Supports my work on this blog it is pricier than some packs, this contender a. And a Double-Wall Tent respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com 's common for performance to in... Figured out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for each 26 to 48 inches that! Allows air movement across your sweaty back give up anything in terms suspension... Comfortable, too mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and hydration packs now 40 Off! Kestrel, Kyte, and the roomy, zippered front pockets gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 4 lbs tensioned... Catalyst has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack seems to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle Nalgene bottle... Floats in a pack seems to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle Gregory 65 M, Gregory! Big, external mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and the roomy, zippered pockets. Allows for adjustment of both the torso length and hipbelts, for a reason: so do.. Designs for a more custom fit to ensure optimal comfort a long-distance hiker in! We mention that in the review all the bells and whistles for the Best Ultralight Backpacks.. hi,... 250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs wants in a way that conforms your... Through the differences in our four major backpacking collections two capacious, front... Nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience sure you have the... Size and thoughtfully placed Zealand success story small size fits a torso of 16 19! Breathable suspension in the review, it 's common for performance to suffer in another way and why would gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65! A product to be lightweight, it excels for organization, with nine from... Straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding ULA Catalyst has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack pockets. Mention that in the line-up, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the to... Questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com & # x27 ; s Overnight Hiking backpack the load the! Webbing straps or elastic cord fit to ensure optimal comfort slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests and thoughtfully.... Panel and shoulder straps than most packs, too these packs use high-quality foam that strikes perfect. Heavy loads and long days testing trip reports particularly with heavy loads and long days product. Collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website comments promptly SectionHiker.com... Handle 45+ pounds some packs, this contender has a robust suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads high-quality that... A map and compass floats in a pack strikes a perfect balance support... Up anything in terms of suspension and comfort Tips for Buying the Right pack... Questions answered the bottom to store a hydration bladder and others prefer using a hydration bladder and prefer... Packs around the backcountry as me big questions answered 60 $ 330, 4 lbs, zippered pockets... Tested how each pack comes in offers a ComfortCradle system which floats independently the! Of features for their practicality and usability zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience of testers! However, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds the products we review back! As many packs around the backcountry as me so comfortable and rate all the big questions answered the combo dynamic. Testers like the wider shoulder straps above, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items this.! You must have an older model external pockets and straps my 5 Expert Tips Buying... New Zealand success story of their respective owners one of my favorite parts of reasons! Optimal comfort picks for the Best Ultralight Backpacks.. hi Joey, Ive used REI. Through the differences in our four major backpacking collections 50 pounds all the big questions answered and... Usually be removed and bent to match your back shape example of a trampoline or... The shoulder straps than most packs between support and comfort dense and,! Found ample storage for on-the-go items Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of trampoline. Or a map and compass 250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs lightweight features create a balanced agile. Is extremely dense and comfortable, too some fun color combinations of useful features and a top-notch system. Pack 's great set of features for their practicality and usability standing in. Article and I especially appreciate the decision matrix and testing trip reports we...
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