Got feedback? Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a favorite for extended style adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads. We directly compared the best and most popular packs to evaluate the pros and cons of each and help narrow down the right one for you. The straps on the Gregory Focal 58 pass through the side pockets and function as side compression straps. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. Then Ill judge whether it deserves to be on this list, which covers the best packs for backpacking that Ive used so far. 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. 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. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. This pack had excellent hip belt pockets. 1 oz. 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. 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. Baltoro 75. Gregory Baltoro 65 Pack - Men's (24) 24 reviews with an average rating of 4.2 out of 5 stars. 26 $219.95 $219.95. With all this carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. 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. More sizes mean it could work for a broader range of users. 15.7 oz. Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58$260, 58L/3,539 c.i., 2 lbs. 11.4 oz. However, when it comes to tailor-like fitting, the adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme. If you have ever trekked up into the mountains with a poorly-fitting pack, there is no doubt you understand the benefits that a quality pack can provide. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. That works, but its not an easy fit. Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 suspension. Free Shipping and Returns. The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Since bottles go in vertically, there is no inference with arm swing. Gregory Baltoro 65/Deva 60. 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. When you say lighter gear, your pack choice will depend on what you really mean by that in terms of total weight. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. While they generally weigh a bit more, getting a well-fitting backpack is usually worth it. Shop All Backpacking Packs. The Flash 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but the durability and support issues are still true. Though it can comfortably handle loads many lighter packs couldn't dream of carrying, there is no denying this pack is heavy. We also would have liked to have carried a little more than 30 pounds from time to time, but being able to do so would require a more robust suspension and add to the pack's baseline weight. That can lead to an inflated number that youll regret when it starts pouring rain. Although the backpacks in this review are not waterproof, it's worth noting that many of them include a rain cover, such as the Osprey Aether 65, the Osprey Rook 65, REI co-op Traverse 60, and the REI Flash 55. The REI Flash 55 is an inexpensive, lightweight, and well-designed backpacking backpack. Let us know! How can we improve GearLab? We take every pack out onto the trail, loaded with backpacking gear, and use it as you would. (There is a larger model, The North Face Banchee 65.). 3 models Gregory Baltoro 100L Pro Backpack $419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L Backpack - Men's $259.95 . We assessed each model's shoulder straps, waist belts, back panels, and frame design when testing suspension. A spring steel rod lends the pack an ergonomic shape plus rigidity along the vertical axis and some horizontal flex, while a PE board cone disperses weight. 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. 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. 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 Gregory Focal 58 or Focal 48 at moosejaw.com, backcountry.com, or gregorypacks.com, or a womens Gregory Facet 55 or Facet 45 at moosejaw.com, backcountry.com, or gregorypacks.com. One of the sweetest features of the suspension system is that the shoulder straps and the waist belt can automatically pivot to the ideal angle to maximize load distribution and increase comfort. 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. The latest Flash packs have some improvements, most notably REIs UpLift compression system, mentioned in my review above. 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. Entire Store. 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 Paragon 68, 58, or 48, at moosejaw.com orbackcountry.com, or a womens Maven 65, 55, or 45 atbackcountry.comormoosejaw.com. The Response A3 suspension system is made to carry heavy loads and allows the harness and hipbelt to rotate independently, delivering dynamic support that adapts to your bodys movements on the trail. Measure the circumference of your body over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest. Because of their lightweight and great weight-carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and section hikers alike. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. 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. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. 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 . You could stand upright with them and have the center of balance of a pack lower. 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. $299.95 $224.96. This pack weighs around 5 pounds. How you access the primary compartment on the backpacking pack is part of our Ease of Use metric and measures how easily we could grab a few items without unpacking the entire bag. 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. This model has extremely well-designed and auto-rotating shoulder straps that conform to the shape of your upper back. If its going to be more like around 35-40 pounds, but occasionally a bit more, Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60. 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. He has guided more than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. Click here to learn how I can help you plan your next trip. Overall, though, its a great backpack to get you through the mountain. 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. I think Osprey has improved on its harness technology with the AG harness in the Atmos and Aura packs, which can handle pretty substantial loads. When evaluating a backpack, its important to find out how the manufacturer calculates its pack volume. The stretchy mesh beavertail-style pocket is excellent for drying socks, storing a rain shell, or fitting oddly-shaped things like flip-flops. 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/. Up to 60% Off. Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. 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. Even with moderate pack weights, the foam spreads even pressure across the surface area of the shoulder straps. We think the back offers exceptional value for a robust load hauler. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. Join The Big Outside to get full access to all of my blogs stories. 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. It has the capacity and support for long trips and the compression and low weight for short trips, plus super access with a wide top-loading mouth, a zipper into the main compartment, and six external pockets. However, it isn't too stiff such that it causes discomfort or hot spots. 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. Camping gear has gotten much lighter, and this helps more backpackers go lighter, too. Not sure what type of pack you need? The Gregory Focal has cushy foam padding on the shoulder straps that is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort. Adjustable for torso and hipbelt length in two sizes, both packs have breathable mesh and foam throughout the harness and a trampoline-style back panel that allows air flow over your back and hips. Your email address will not be published. 15 oz.Baltoro 65: backcountry.com Deva 60: backcountry.com. These models offer a similar setup and exhibit our favorite overall organizational and pocket layouts. gregory 65 m s; . There are basically three types of backpack frames. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. outlet. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics. We also research how many different sizes each pack comes in. The Optic and Exos are fairly similar, and the significantly lighter HMG pack will carry as well as those twoassuming it fits you, and it comes in four sizes, so it should fit. They all have impressive outdoor resumes and together have logged tens of thousands of backpacking miles. Each pack review in this article links to that packs complete review at The Big Outside. Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and large load comfort, and the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example. Heck, for an upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs. Hi Colin, thanks for that question. This metric evaluates how easy it is to pack and retrieve items from these backpacks, paying particular attention to the design of the main compartment, pockets, lid, straps, and other unique attributes. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. It added to the pack's overall comfort, particularly with heavy loads and long days. We look to see if the torso length is adjustable and how much adjustability is built into the waist belt and shoulder straps. They are all overpriced and weigh too much. Free Shipping* & Free Returns* Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides. This pack's rock-solid suspension and plush padding make heavier loads feel manageable. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. The huge vertical adjustment range helps dial in your fit and makes it an excellent option for younger backpackers who are still growing. The large, U-Zip opening makes access and organization of your gear a snap. Barely tipping the scales at 2.8 pounds, the ULA Catalyst is an excellent pack for lightweight enthusiasts. . Hope that helps. CampSaver. These allow airflow between your back and the pack's load, reducing back sweat. 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. Keen to make ultralight backpacking more enjoyable? 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. Ps- wasnt thunder springs amazing? At loads above 45 pounds, however, the Osprey Atmos 65 AG becomes less comfortable. 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. Not as supportive for super heavy (45+ lb) loads. All Rights Reserved. In every respect, the mens Baltoro and womens Deva packs have long filled the big-pack role extremely well, and trips in Idahos Sawtooth Mountains and on the Teton Crest Trail demonstrated that the latest versions of these two packs are only better. We are a participant in the Amazon Services LLC Associates Program, an affiliate advertising program designed to provide a means for us to earn fees by linking to Amazon.com and affiliated sites. What are the most important features to consider when choosing a backpack? We particularly loved this feature. This tends to provide more airflow, making these packs cooler and less sweaty, but typically less capable of handling heavier loads. 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. The Exos and Eja also come in 48-liter ($240) and 38-liter ($220) versions. This particular pack could be worth it for anyone looking to go on extended adventures with a lot of equipment, or if you are the designated porter for the group. We feel this makes it an exceptional value overall. But no matter which type of backpacker you are, this review covers the best packs in each of those categories. Small buckles are hard to operate with gloves. 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. 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. All trademarks property of their respective owners Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. If youre considering a new pack and liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more. Hi, Im Michael Lanza, creator of The Big Outside. When the 3400 Windrider was delivered to my house, the box looked much too small to contain a backpack. From this I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable. The smaller versions of the Gregory Optic and Octal and the Osprey Exos and Eja would probably work, as well as the Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor. For average trips with loads at or under 40 pounds, this is one of the more comfortable packs in our review. 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. Most packs have zippers on the front or back of the lid, which means that it's not as easy to get inside them. 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. My judgments draw from many thousands of miles and more than three decades of backpacking and a quarter-century of testing and reviewing gearincluding the 10 years I spent as the lead gear reviewer for Backpacker magazine and even longer running this blog. Frame stays, which are metal rods inside a backpack to keep it from collapsing on itself and prevent objects from poking you in the back. Granite Gear Perimeter 50$250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs. The ULA Catalyst has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack. The main reasons it isn't lighter are that its suspension is one of the most robust in our review. Everyone wants the best possible fit and comfort, and almost everyone has a budget. 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. Baltoro 65. Among these which one will be suitable for girls as I want some lightweight and withstand able backpacks? Super trip. 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. I think backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when theyre overloading it. That way I dont have to dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat. What sets the Atmos 65 AG apart the most, though, is Osprey's innovative anti-gravity (AG) suspension, which helps spread the load more evenly across the hips and shoulders while also venting excess heat that tends to build behind your back and under the hip belt. Read my complete review of the Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60. The clever features made everything super handy for packing while leaving things easily accessible. Searching for the best backpacking backpack? 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's suspension is stiff and robust, but this makes the pack quite heavy. Three big, external mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and the roomy, zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience. gregory baltoro 75 m gregory gregory68 35 gregory maven zulu30 . Long hikes, when youre trying to go light and fast. Also, many side access panels are a pain to close when the pack is fully loaded. Don't select a pack solely for an elongated zippered access panel, especially if you will rarely use it. The large fits 18 to 21-inch torsos and 30 to 52-inch waists. 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. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. You can go lighter in the 55- to 65-liter range. The floating hip belt and extendable hip belt cushioned sections make this pack ultra-comfortable. The Baltoro's "U" shaped aluminum frame is quite stiff and does a fantastic job of transferring the load from the pack to the hips. Designed to be the ultimate multi-day backpacking pack. This system is made up of internal and external frame components or "stays," compression straps, shoulder straps, and the hip belt. 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. This competitor stands out for its excellent pockets and features. Some premium packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit. You can expect the models with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2-3 liter hydration bladder. 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? That seems like a bonus for a backpack with a customizable fit and high functionality that carries a modest weight and price. 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. Each of my picks for the 10 best backpacking packs stands out for different reasons. This collection focuses on simplicity without compromising durability. While ease of access is an important consideration, it's not as important as weight. What makes one backpack better than another? If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. These packs use high-quality foam that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort. 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. All the backpacking backpacks in our review are top-loading, and many have a separate sleeping bag compartment with bottom access zipper. 3 oz.moosejaw.com. The Gregory Baltoro 65 pack offers plenty of space in a feature-rich silhouette that's optimized for comfortable carrying. He has since trained dozens of guides to do the same with over 1,000 participants while ensuring that they all have the appropriate, properly fitted gear for their adventures. However, when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds. Read my complete review of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58. 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.
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