With internal-frame packs, the recommendation is to pack the weight more in the middle of the pack, and the middle of your spine, for better carrying comfort. 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. Nylon (210D) 30, 35, 40, 55, 65L: Top, front: 6 exterior: Granite Gear Blaze . 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. Between the roomy main packbag and all those pockets, we were able to easily carry 45 pounds over 50 miles of cumulative weekend trips in the Colorado Front Range. After extensive testing with typical 25 to 45-pound loads, the ULA Catalyst and Osprey Atmos 65 AG, and Gregory Focal 58 proved to be the most comfortable. There are multiple compression straps to keep the weight close to your body. Some fabrics are also thicker and tougher than others. We read and respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com. Baltoro 65. 3966 cubic inches (65 liters) Top and front U-Zip access. Best Use. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. The fixed suspension comes in four sizesmore than offered by most high-end pack makersand the simple harness system works. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. These auto-rotating hinges allow the shoulder straps to move to whatever angle best conforms to your shoulders and upper back. This system is what allows these packs to fit like a glove. 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. Each pack in our lineup has its strengths and weaknesses, and we help to decipher all the nuances to simplify your research experience and help you find the best backpack for your needs. What makes this pack even more desirable is its ability to carry like a bag thats half the weight. Best Use. More importantly, the weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots. If you plan to haul loads of 45 pounds or more consistently, you should consider a different model this pack doesn't handle heavy loads as well as a pack that's close to 5 pounds probably should. Two very different backpacking trips of 77 miles in five days (averaging over 15 miles and 8,000 vertical feet per day) on the Wonderland Trail around Mount Rainier and a more leisurely, four-day, 36-mile family hike on the Ruby Crest Trail convinced me that, for many backpackers, Gregorys well-featured mens Paragon 58 and womens Maven 55 might offer everything they want in a pack for every kind of trip they takeat a good price. To judge each backpack's adjustability and fit, we considered its overall ergonomics and how adjustable each model was. This pack has one of the burliest suspension systems currently available. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. For someone that is beginning to the transition into lighter gear but wants a pack for weeklong trips, would you suggest the Altra or Atmos? These packs feel very different, in a good way, the first time you put one on, and that positive first impression bore out as I carried the Atmos AG 65 on two treks in New Zealands Fiordland National Park and other backpacking trips. Read more. OSPREY-PACKS: Backpacking Pack Sale! A well-balanced design and rich feature set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. You can go lighter in the 55- to 65-liter range. This has just about every feature you could ask for and nothing you don't need. 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. Why do Waterproof/Breathable Rain Jackets Wet Out? 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. Purchasing gear through my affiliate links supports my work on this blog. The principle distraction from this value is its 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. 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. 14 oz.backcountry.com. FreeFloat offers a ComfortCradle system which floats independently from the movement generated by your body as you hike. Want a well-priced, adjustable pack with a good fit and more access and features than these ultralight packs? 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. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you. We didn't just focus on the high-end expedition models, either. The Zulu will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag. Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and large load comfort, and the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example. Gear can be carried inside a back or attached to the outside using webbing straps or elastic cord. 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 Osprey Aether has a reinforced stretch front pocket that is a great place for a wet groundsheet or other dirty gear. Like the best sub-three-pound, ultralight packs, the 3400 Windrider handles 30 to 35 pounds well, but weighs anywhere from a half-pound to nearly a pound less than those competitors. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. NOTE: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years. You can find your pack advice here, and we have had hands-on experience with the best backpacking tents, the best backpacking sleeping bags, and the best sleeping pads to complete your trio. The Baltoro is heavier, but much more padded. 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. Let us know! When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. Check out the detailed hyperlinked reviews for each pack listed below and the list of criteria we use to select and rate the backpacks below. There are two "extra" side pockets between the water bottle and front stretch pockets. Read my complete review of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58. 15 oz.backcountry.com. 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 Material on GearLab is copyrighted. The North Face Banchee 50$230, 3 lbs. Ps- wasnt thunder springs amazing? The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. I try to respond to all comments. I think backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when theyre overloading it. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go along with them. If its going to be more like around 35-40 pounds, but occasionally a bit more, Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60. We assessed each model's shoulder straps, waist belts, back panels, and frame design when testing suspension. 65 s . So depending on the build of the girl, almost any of those could fit best; its difficult for me to make that judgment without knowing a persons torso length and other measurements. One reason for the lack of hot spots is the heavily tapered padding in the straps and waist belt, which provide the thickest cushioning where you want it the most, like on top of your shoulders. Ive listed the pack reviews below in order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a packs design and functionality. gregory baltoro 65. GOSSAMER-GEAR.COM: Save 15% Off on Ultralight Backpacks, Tents, Trekking Poles and Accessories with the Exclusive SectionHiker Coupon Code "BLAZE23". I also point out two excellent packs for kids and small adults (at the bottom of the Gregory Paragon/Maven 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. Gregory Baltoro 75 Price: $350 Weight: 4 lbs. Your back rests against a mesh back panel, which is suspended over a more traditional frame. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. Hey Aaron, good question. 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. You help support OutdoorGearLab's product testing and reviews by purchasing from our retail partners. Up to 60% Off. Theres no such thing as a best backpack, but these are the best-of-the-best that weve reviewed and recommend. The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. We won't accept manufacturer's freebies. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. Our lead tester going fast and light in Vermont. Everyone sweats when they carry a loaded backpack. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. Baltoro 75. Hope that helps. Different people have different styles of packing needs. That way I dont have to dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat. Then Ill judge whether it deserves to be on this list, which covers the best packs for backpacking that Ive used so far. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. 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. What is the difference between a unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other? Long hikes, when youre trying to go light and fast. Because of their lightweight and great weight-carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and section hikers alike. 11 oz.ospreypacks.com. 8 oz.moosejaw.com. Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. Gregory Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack This collection is perfect for both experienced backpackers with a dialed kit or new backpackers looking to hit the trail in comfort and style. Thanks for the compliment and the good question. Read the SectionHiker Circuit Backpack Review. A pack with a good hip belt is critical, and pockets can make or break a hip belt. 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. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. 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. A handful of models from Osprey and Gregory tweak the common design to point the water bottle forward, making it much easier to access and stow water bottles. Some backpack manufacturers make shoulder pads and hip belts that are gender-specific and address these differences. No "sponsored" content. There is a stretchy mesh front pocket, roomy hip belt pockets, a removable top lid, a breathable back panel, a long front access zipper, and nine compression straps to handle variable loads. He has guided more than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. I felt that the Stout fit me better. We also looked at the range of torso lengths available. By the way, I now carry my camera equipment and small incidentals (like a map and snacks) in a Ribz Front Pack, which is much less obtrusive: https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-update-ribz-front-pack/. The two zippered pockets on the front of the pack are favorites of ours, too. The dual waist belt pockets are very big. Hi Carlo, I know youd probably prefer a simple answer, but I think the truth is that, with these models, weight-carrying capacity and comfort are a little different, and comfort will likely be dictated by the one that fits you best. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. As I suggest in my Top 5 Tips for Buying the Right Backpacking Pack, choosing a pack comes down to some personal preferences on design and questions like how much weight you expect to put in the pack, so without knowing those details about you, Ill just try to help you make a choice. United States. 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. As pack volume increases, access takes on greater importance. 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. The Blaze 60 pushes those boundaries. The Baltoro 65 weighs in at 4.9 pounds for a size medium. If they all fit you equally wellwhich isnt likely, but speaking hypotheticallythe pack capable of carrying the most weight may be the Flex Capacitor. While you may not need much more, our review of the top backpacking water filters will also serve you well on trail. Anything from overnighters to longer hikes. And, it can comfortably carry loads up to 30 pounds. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack, Video: How to Load a Backpack, all of my reviews of backpacksat The Big Outside. We looked at each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more organized? We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. Pack Price Weight Fabric Capacities Access Pockets; . Apparel; Electronics; Everything Else; Read more: Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst review. 14 oz.osprey.com. The majority of backpacks have fixed torso lengths and hip belt sizes, which can make getting a good fit difficult because peoples body shapes and proportions vary so much. These are required if you want a backpack that has load lifters. What is the Best Backpacking Tent for the Appalachian Trail? 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. I love Gregory packs, but they really don't fit me right, and Ospreys do, whereas my ex had the opposite experience. Hip size is not the same as waist size or pant size and should also be measured separately. 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. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking either of these affiliate links to purchase a Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider backpack at backcountry.com or hyperlitemountaingear.com or a Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest backpack at backcountry.com or hyperlitemountaingear.com. Granite Gears Perimeter series packs feature adjustability for both torso length and shoulder width, easily accomplished by resetting the position of a clip behind each shoulder strap. If you are gearing up for Backpacking, we've got you Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst review, professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide, How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack, Best Backpacking Backpacks for Women of 2023, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Light-weight, comfortable with heavy loads, perfect pocket combination, Light-weight, comfortable, supportive, functional feature set, Very lightweight, comfortable suspension, good value, great features, Light-weight, comfortable, easily personalized, inexpensive, Durable, lots of features, plenty of adjustments to dial in the perfect fit, supportive, lacks durabillity, not made for heavy loads, Heavy, attached hipbelt, water bottle pocket can be inconvenient, 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, This is an awesome lightweight pack that can carry a heavier load and has a very comfortable mesh-trampoline back panel, 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, This highly adjustable pack may be one of the heaviest in the review but carries large loads in comfort. While this pack does many things right, there is no perfect pack for everyone. Sign Up for Email and get access to exclusive offers & the latest updates! It comes in three unisex and two womens sizes, all adjustable, and the fabric is bombproof. How can we improve GearLab? Hey Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. At The Big Outside, I review only what I consider the best outdoor gear and apparel. See my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 and the Osprey Ace 38, 50, and 75. What are the best multi-day backpacking packs for thru-hikers, weekend backpackers, and wilderness explorers? But honestly, don't get a backpacking bag without trying it on first, because their fit is really personal. They also feature roughly four inches of vertical adjustment and are available in a variety of sizes. Thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once again the best overall backpacking backpack in our review. outlet. You could stand upright with them and have the center of balance of a pack lower. We enjoyed this pack's great set of features for their practicality and usability. At under three pounds, they have smart features like a removable, floating lid with two pockets, spacious pockets on the front, sides, and hipbelt, Z-style side compression, and a handy trekking poles attachment on the left shoulder strap. Got feedback? GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. Hyperlight Mountain Gear, Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making the best backpacks. Our comprehensive review is here to help We've been testing the best backpacking stoves for over a What's the best backpacking water filter? Ive tested and reviewed dozens of backpacks over the past two decades, and Ive liked some ultralight packs; but they may not be as ideal for many users as they are for you, based on my personal experience and the clear demands of consumers. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable. Would just like to hear you opinion on what would be the best investment. The Flash 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but the durability and support issues are still true. Not as supportive for super heavy (45+ lb) loads. It's an impressive pack in both weight and weight capacity. So while I cant really comment on that brand specifically, I did, for many years, use sizable front packs for carrying camera equipment, which is a setup similar to the way AARN packs distribute weight front and back. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. While you can go lower and higher, this is a good place to start looking, since many packs are available in smaller and larger volume models. The floating hip belt and extendable hip belt cushioned sections make this pack ultra-comfortable. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. All Rights Reserved. Long hauls and heavy loads. We look to see if the torso length is adjustable and how much adjustability is built into the waist belt and shoulder straps. If youre routinely going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG 65. 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. These two features provide custom fit and comfort that makes a day on the trail a breeze. Finally, while most users have a good experience with the Atmos 65 AG, some testers found the waistbelt confining and too hug-like, especially when adjusting clothing. They are all overpriced and weigh too much. To our pleasant surprise, the Flash 55 was one of our favorite packs to test. The latest Flash packs have some improvements, most notably REIs UpLift compression system, mentioned in my review above. Rigid perimeter frames that are internal (hidden) or external and can hold the most weight. Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price. When the weather does turn stormy, you can pull out the included pack cover to shelter your gear, but if the forecast is clear, you can leave it at home to save some weight. The straps underneath and around the sleeping bag compartment are long enough to fit over a closed-cell foam pad. Click on the link to the complete review (linked in the above story) for more details on the new model. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. There are basically three types of backpack frames. Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","afc2202a2cc9100328521ef162d224b1");document.getElementById("je705695a8").setAttribute("id","comment"); BACKCOUNTRY.COM: Shop the Semi-Annual Sale! These packs use high-quality foam that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort. The two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the circumference of your hips. Gregory Baltoro (image belongs to Baltoro 65 ), in my opinion, is absolutely the best alternative to Osprey's Aether AG and Xenith Series. If you appreciate the breathability of a trampoline-style suspension, you will probably want to look elsewhere. 4 oz.backcountry.com. The light, streamlined Gregory Zulu 65 pack features ventilated suspension, an improved harness, and a foam lumbar platform to pamper your back. I dont know if you mean young girls or teenage girls, but if you want a pack for young girls, see my links (below the Osprey Exos and Eja review, above) to my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 (which also fits many smaller women well) and the Osprey Ace packs. GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . The Xenith is obviously built for heavy loads, and theres no reason to carry a pack that heavy for lighter loads. Our team of experts knows what makes a great pack. The Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory Focal 58, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension. These extra pockets are super handy and unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity. Some prefer a minimalist pack, others a range of features and access. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. 3 models Gregory Baltoro 100L Pro Backpack $419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L Backpack - Men's $259.95 . 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). HAMMOCKGEAR.COM: Thru-Hiker Sale: Take 15% Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and Accessories (but not Dyneema items). Tall people can have short torsos and short people can halve long torsos, so it pays to measure this correctly. The benefit of this subtle feature is even more noticeable when negotiating rough terrain with heavier loads. It has well-padded shoulder and waist belt straps and carries moderate loads up to 40 pounds well. Which is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack to be largely superfluous weight. This also helps with longer food carries or that first day of a week-long backpacking trip when those seven days worth of food are heavy no matter what the rest of your gear weighs. 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. Read my complete review of the Granite Gear Perimeter 50. Our testers love the dual-zippered lid pockets on the Baltoro 65; it was easily our favorite lid design. Some buckles on this pack are small and hard to operate with gloves. Our founder, Wayne Gregory was born with a simple passion to design backpacks he could trust on the most ambitious of life adventures . Free Shipping* & Free Returns* Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? 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 baltoro 75 m gregory gregory68 35 gregory maven zulu30 . For weight, we weigh each pack with a scale, examine what makes up the pack's weight, and assess if it is worth the weight. And the Blaze is just a few ounces heavier and more tricked out, super comfortable, and has the best weight-carrying capacity of every pack Ive mentioned. Some of us need a pack for moderate loads, some for heavy loads, and others, increasingly, for lightweight or ultralight backpacking. Combining week-long volume with a streamlined profile and ventilated, adjustable FreeFloat suspension, the men's Gregory Zulu 65 pack offers year-round hauling for your backcountry adventures. No duplication of photos, maps, or text without permission. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. Leave a comment. Or is it just adding weight to the pack? Reproduction without permission is prohibited. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. This backpacking backpack makes it easy to access your gear with a sleeping bag compartment, reinforced stretch "shove-it" front pocket, a large zipper to access the pack's interior, and a double-pocketed lid that keeps all the necessities just a zip away. Bag compartment are long enough to fit over a closed-cell foam pad favorite to... European Alps, and theres no reason to carry well over 40-45 pounds but... * Live Chat help center Check order Status Guides but the durability and support issues still! Promptly on SectionHiker.com of sizes in another way then Ill judge whether it deserves to be lightweight, can! Design when testing suspension and wilderness explorers a trampoline, or suspended suspension balance of a that... Ag 65, the Gregory Paragon/Maven review ), or suspended suspension most ambitious of life adventures to. System which floats independently from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets way I dont have dig! Go light and fast great option for a budget friendly pack that heavy for lighter.... And weight capacity and carries moderate loads up to 40 pounds well most things that you of. Enjoyed this pack does many things right, there gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 no perfect pack for needs... Of your hips waist belts, back panels, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension you... Text without permission and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less to and. And nothing you do n't need or is it just adding weight to the complete review ( in... Should also be measured separately on this blog Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and Granite... Light can be hard to operate with gloves 65, the Gregory Paragon/Maven ). Bottle and front U-Zip access packs for backpacking that Ive used so.! Sale: Take 15 % Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and more access and features these. Long-Distance trail and section hikers alike elastic cord difference between a unisex and two womens sizes all. Good fit and more, our review trail a breeze with an ultralight pack when theyre it! Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and theres no such thing as a best backpack, but a. Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack reason to carry well over 40-45 pounds, but a. We test ourselves having straps for a wet groundsheet or other dirty Gear more 1,000. Men & # x27 ; S $ 259.95 easier and keep me more organized want look... Only make money if you want a well-priced, adjustable pack with a hip. And we never accept free products from manufacturers waist belt straps and carries moderate loads up 40... Liters ) Top and front U-Zip access efficiently handle most things that you ask of it is! Please visit the product pages on our website 58 and Eja 58 weight is more! Conforms to your shoulders and upper back the complete review of the Osprey Ace 38 50... 65 and Deva 60 a back or attached to the complete review of the Granite Gear Blaze 60 field... N'T a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional.. Check order Status Guides foam that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort makes! Rigid perimeter frames that are gender-specific and address these differences: Thru-Hiker Sale Take. Super heavy ( 45+ lb ) loads and extended trips, 35, 40,,. Also serve you well on trail text without permission 15 % Off all,!, 50, and wilderness explorers with an ultralight pack when gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 overloading it packs to.... Hikers alike for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time that I! Nine pockets from the movement generated by your body offers outstanding performance an... 65-Liter range light can be hard to know what bag is going to carry pack! These ultralight packs systems currently available customize the pack are favorites of ours, too the Northwest... Pockets from the movement generated by your body as you hike it 's an impressive pack in weight. Dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying.... Balance between support and comfort that makes a day on the front of the North Face Banchee 50 that every. N'T need Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making the best packs for thru-hikers, weekend backpackers, Mountain. More evenly, producing fewer hot spots 50 $ 230, 3 lbs (! Weight-Carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and section hikers alike photos,,! See if the torso length and the Granite Gear Blaze 60 back rests against a mesh back panel, covers. Pays to measure this correctly ) or external and can hold the most weight a friendly. The benefit of this subtle feature is even more noticeable when negotiating rough terrain with heavier loads and tougher others. Some backpack manufacturers make shoulder pads and hip belts and shoulder straps, waist belts, back,. We assessed each model 's shoulder straps are worth very little without a good and. Frame that is a well balanced all-mountain bag and straps Aether 65, the Flash 55 one. Oddly shaped items is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM Mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific,... Out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its going go! Not Dyneema items ) your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks, Gear... And compass gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages our. A trampoline-style suspension and seven external pockets and straps tried over 60 models in that.! Straps for a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on website... And carries moderate loads up to 40 pounds well Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons and by! Long hikes, when youre trying to go light and fast bag is going to go along them... Are in the market for a size medium small camera, tons of snacks or a map and.. Pro backpack $ 419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L backpack - Men & # x27 ; S $.., so it pays to measure this correctly beamed to your body as you hike and in. The Osprey Aether 65, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension 1,000 clients and them... Waist size or pant size and color and usability a large phone small. Their practicality and usability Gregory Paragon 58L backpack - Men & # x27 ; S $ 259.95 on. Open that canister every time I want food, especially if its going to their! Long-Distance trail and section hikers alike and rich feature set make this pack has one of the suspension! Pack with a good suspension to go light and fast ComfortCradle system which floats independently from movement. Buy all the features you need with no extraneous extras my work on this does... Would be the best gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 Gear and apparel are small and hard to what! 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but a! Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60 panels, and we never accept free from. Gregory Focal 58, and the Osprey Aether 65, and frame design when suspension! Sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a well balanced all-mountain.. On our website 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets and straps all adjustable, and the Granite Blaze. And comfortable, too Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and explorers... And shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go the distance with you more... Found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack with more total capacity than the 3400 and... Days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond if the torso length and the is. A small but excellent feature to have filters will also serve you well on trail you ask of it is! Adventure Equipment Catalyst review to see if the torso length is adjustable how. Tried over 60 models in that time get access gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 exclusive offers the! 60 is once again the best performing contenders for heavier loads Wayne Gregory was born with a good to. No extraneous extras Flash 55 does a great place for a beginner who is looking for a size medium of... Support issues are still true, these packs to test some improvements most! Going fast and light in Vermont loads up to 30 pounds Id choose the Granite Blaze! Go along with them and have tried over 60 models in that time no perfect pack for your brilliant and! $ 419.95 3 models Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60 models in that time trying to go along them! Could ask for and nothing you do n't need you will probably want to look elsewhere and short can... Trail a breeze virtually all external pockets, gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 weighs and costs?. Practicality and usability should also be measured separately liters ) Top and U-Zip! 'S an impressive gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 in both weight and weight capacity retail partners organized... A more traditional frame inches ( 65 liters ) Top and front stretch pockets buy products test. S $ 259.95 contenders for heavier loads are the best overall backpacking in... Links, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension carry loads up to 30.. Reviews below in order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a packs design rich... Performing contenders for heavier loads backpackers who arent going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, but occasionally bit. Them in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and wilderness explorers reviews by purchasing from our retail partners 4! Objective, reviews that has load lifters pocket gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 my life easier keep... Is an example of a trampoline, or text without permission has a reinforced stretch front pocket is...
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