Ive been backpacking for a couple decades at this point and I used to appreciate the storage spot at the base of an external frame pack to strap on a heavy bear can where its comfortable for a lower center of mass. These are required if you want a backpack that has load lifters. The lightweight alloy frame is connected to the hipbelt providing a soft breathable platform to carry the packs weight but still allows you to be quick and nimble on your feet. For example, many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts. Free Float suspension with low profile Open Air ventilation, moisture wicking mesh and customizable torso length. Bear canisters are definitely tough to fit conveniently in packs. 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 already touched on the shoulder straps above, but the hip belt also floats in a way that conforms to your body. Although this pack is incredibly light, it comfortably carries a hefty load for long stretches between resupplies. 4 oz.backcountry.com. As a result, we were able to find items more quickly than we could with a more traditional full-length pocket. 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. 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. This system allows for adjustment of both the torso length and hipbelts, for a more custom fit to ensure optimal comfort. When evaluating a backpack, its important to find out how the manufacturer calculates its pack volume. The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Not sure what type of pack you need? Gregory Baltoro (image belongs to Baltoro 65 ), in my opinion, is absolutely the best alternative to Osprey's Aether AG and Xenith Series. The Exos and Eja also come in 48-liter ($240) and 38-liter ($220) versions. I hope thats helpful. It added to the pack's overall comfort, particularly with heavy loads and long days. 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. What are the most important features to consider when choosing a backpack? 5 Expert Tips For Buying the Right Backpacking Pack, a quarter-century of testing and reviewing gear, backpacking for six days in the Grand Canyon, Gregory mens Zulu 55 and womens Jade 53, Tent Flap With a View: 25 Favorite Backcountry Campsites, The 7 Best Rain Jackets For Hiking and Backpacking, backpacking trip in Yellowstones Bechler Canyon area, 74-mile backpacking trip through the Grand Canyon, The 10 Best Backpacking Trips in the Southwest, 10 Tips For Getting a Hard-to-Get National Park Backcountry Permit, 25 Essential Backpacking Gear Accessories, How to Plan a Backpacking Trip12 Expert Tips, A Practical Guide to Lightweight and Ultralight Backpacking, Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop, Top 5 Tips for Buying the Right Backpacking Pack, https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-update-ribz-front-pack/, https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/, Hike the Worlds Most Beautiful Trail: The Alta Via 2 in the Dolomites, Review: The North Face Ceptor Jacket and Bib, 6 pockets, poles attachment, ventilated suspension, removable lid, recycled materials, 6 pockets, poles attachment, ventilated suspension, removable lid, On-the-fly torso adjustment, self-equalizing load lifters, 8 pockets, Unique adjustable harness, removable lid, 8 pockets, Versatile load capacity, 6 pockets, adjustable torso length and hipbelt, zipper accessing main compartment, 6 pockets, poles attachment, ventilated suspension, removable lid, rain cover included, Unique harness, 9 pockets, poles attachment, durable, Dynamic shoulder straps and hipbelt, ventilated back, zipper accessing main compartment, 9 pockets, highly durable, Unique front zipper access and compression, 7 pockets, highly durable. Granite Gear Perimeter 50$250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs. Hey Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. We especially love the outside beavertail style mesh pocket. Comparing the buckles on two waist belts. 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. Consisting of a panel of lightweight, tensioned mesh extending from the top of the back panel to the hipbelt, it fully wraps around your back and hips while delivering ample air movement. 14 oz.osprey.com. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. 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. Most women prefer an S-shaped shoulder strap that curves around their chest and is more comfortable. Your email address will not be published. Backpacks (and outdoor gear in general) can be quite expensive, but the right gear is often well worth the investment. Mystery Ranchs Adventure Frame carries 45 to 50 pounds comfortably. We teamed up with Ambassador Where To Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections. On top of the nearly 10,0000 miles logged while backpacking, he has bikepacked more miles than he can begin to count in the American Southwest and beyond. 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. We would try to avoid rubbing into rocks with this pack, or you may end up with some holes (as we did). Though it can comfortably handle loads many lighter packs couldn't dream of carrying, there is no denying this pack is heavy. See my review of the Gregory mens Zulu 55 and womens Jade 53. 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. The Flash 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but the durability and support issues are still true. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. 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. Keen to make ultralight backpacking more enjoyable? Expedition style backpack with all the bells and whistles. No Code Necessary. Rigid perimeter frames that are internal (hidden) or external and can hold the most weight. However, when it comes to tailor-like fitting, the adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme. 4.8 out of 5 stars 43. 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. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. We didn't just focus on the high-end expedition models, either. And yes, the Thunder Springs on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop is amazing, as are the waterfalls on Deer Creek. $329.95. And the high-strength aluminum perimeter frame delivers serious support. The Zulu will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag. We also looked at access points and evaluated whether they seem useful for retrieving items or if they're impractical to zip shut when the pack is full and are thus just for show. Rain covers are a practical addition to any backpacking pack. Hi Garry, Ive used both the Aether and Xenith (and reviewed the Xenith here: https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/). Some people prefer using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack. We tested our lineup of top backpacking packs in a variety of beautiful and remote places around the world. The frame is what ensures the load from the pack body is supported by the waist belt and your hips. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. The REI Co-op Traverse 60 comes in a useful extra size: large torso with a small waistbelt, which we thought was useful for all those tall, skinny folks out there. When choosing a pack, I always tell people to find a few options that look good and try them on. Additionally, we compared the number and location of extra pockets and how useful our testers found them. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. However, not all side-zippered lid pockets are the same. The back panel and shoulder straps are firm and supportive, remaining comfortable with loads up to 50 pounds. The forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle very easy to remove. Gregory Focal 58 and Facet 55$250, 2 lbs. Each one is large enough to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle. By the way, for a day on the trail, I do carry food I intend to eat during the day elsewhere in my pack and stuff my canister only with food I dont need until dinnertime or later, and fill in any unfilled space in the canister with cooking gear or clothing I wont need during the day. The Atmos has two exterior pockets on the brain, which helps keep you organized on the trail. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. If we knew we had heavier loads in our future, this pack would be on our shortlist. Theyre all midweights, supportive enough to carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for a weekend trip. Thanks for the good question. I think backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when theyre overloading it. And theyre made with recycled fabrics. Adam, also a long-time guide and outdoor instructor, travels full time with his wife and two daughters (ages 7 and 9), who recently became Long Trail end-to-enders. Gregory Zulu 65 and Jade 38 By Cory McLaughlin Follow us on INSTAGRAM @ireviewgear Just the Facts: ZULU 65 Combining week long volume with a streamlined profile, the ventilated, adjustable FreeFloat suspension on the Zulu 65 gives you incredible year round versatility. Since REI no longer carries the Flash 65 backpack, you must have an older model. Extra points were awarded for features that can be removed or customized for a more personalized user experience. 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. Some prefer a minimalist pack, others a range of features and access. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. We like trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution. These advantages include a supportive suspension, foam stiffness, and well-designed shoulder straps and waist belts. 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. 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? Backpackers who are willing to accept a reasonable weight penalty for some organizational features of traditional backpacks and the support to carry up to 35 pounds will like the top-loading mens Focal and womens Facet. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. An outside mesh pocket makes stashing a jacket where you can grab it quickly a breeze. Then Ill judge whether it deserves to be on this list, which covers the best packs for backpacking that Ive used so far. We won't accept manufacturer's freebies. The top-loading design and multiple storage pockets will help you keep your gear handy, without needing to take everything out of the bag in order to reach what you need. Even with moderate pack weights, the foam spreads even pressure across the surface area of the shoulder straps. 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. The Baltoro's suspension is stiff and robust, but this makes the pack quite heavy. Plus, TNFs unique new Dyno Lite suspension (also used in TNFs larger Griffin packs) allows for on-the-fly torso adjustment and one-hand dialing in of the self-equalizing load lifters. Each person's body is different, so our test included a wide range of users, including GearLab editors, friends, and our climbing and backpacking partners, to gather a wide variety of data. Let us know! The straps on the Gregory Focal 58 pass through the side pockets and function as side compression straps. Thanks for doing that. The main reasons it isn't lighter are that its suspension is one of the most robust in our review. The two zippered pockets on the front of the pack are favorites of ours, too. We're always looking for the best backpacks to fuel our What are the best binoculars? 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. +1-800-504-5817 Contact Us Chat now. gregory baltoro 65. Gregory Maven 65 Pack - Women's. (26) $279.95. 3 oz.moosejaw.com. GARAGE-GROWN-GEAR: Take 30% Off the Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 backpack at Garage Grown Gear. 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. This is the classic pack from Gregory, but the Baltoro is also offered in larger 75 and 85 liter capacities. The Baltoro 65 is available in three torso lengths with a highly adjustable hip belt that is sized relative to its size. Our team of experts knows what makes a great pack. THE VERDICT. They are all overpriced and weigh too much. 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. Heck, for an upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs. How many pounds can a lightweight backpack carry comfortably? Or is it just adding weight to the pack? Need a pack for a kid or small adult? Ben began his outdoor career as a backpacking trip leader, guiding participants on multi-week adventures along the most rugged and remote portions of the Appalachian Trail in New England. We also note how well each pack transfers the weight to the front of the shoulder straps rather than the top, so your shoulders don't get crushed. Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on. The Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory Focal 58, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension. It comes in three unisex and two womens sizes, all adjustable, and the fabric is bombproof. Different people have different styles of packing needs. We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. No ads. Best Use. 17500 ,Gregory 65 M, ,Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com . The small size fits a torso of 16 to 19 inches and waists from 26 to 48 inches. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Hi Colin, thanks for that question. 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. If you have a question for me or a comment on this review, please make it in the comments section at the bottom of this story. We tested backpacking backpacks from Osprey, Granite Gear, Gregory, REI, and more to find the best models. 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 Baltoro 65 weighs in at 4.9 pounds for a size medium. Shop Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack | Be The First To Review Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack + Free Shipping over $49. From this I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you. 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. 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. Trail access water bottle holder (tucks away when not using it), Organization: double barrel top pocket, 3 entry points, WeatherShield hipbelt pocket, 9 exterior pockets Dynamic suspension, rotating hipbelt and harness, Internal hydration sleeve and SpeedClip attachment, Organization: 3 entry points including full-length side zip, Front oversized mesh pocket for all liter sizes, Oversized hipbelt pockets (store phones, snacks etc. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. There are multiple compression straps to keep the weight close to your body. 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. 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. CampSaver. So, no, I dont place a canister in the bottom of a pack. 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. 14 oz.backcountry.com. The Gregory Baltoro 65 Also has a very wide opening zipper on its lid. When Adam isn't thru-hiking with his family, you can find him trail running, rock climbing, planning his next trip, or scouting the next place to call home. What is the difference between a unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other? The medium fits 17 to 20-inch torsos and 28 to 50-inch waists. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. Hey Aaron, good question. All the backpacking backpacks in our review are top-loading, and many have a separate sleeping bag compartment with bottom access zipper. That works, but its not an easy fit. We think the back offers exceptional value for a robust load hauler. It weighs a mere 2.6 pounds. These pockets keep you organized and keep essential items accessible. Quick and easy to adjust to an individual, Hip belt causes the entire pack to sway while walking. The Baltoro has a mesh water bottle holder on one side of the pack and a stowable forward-facing bottle pocket on the other. GearLab is commited to honest, objective, reviews. Which is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack to be largely superfluous weight. 1 oz.moosejaw.com. They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. The fixed suspension comes in four sizesmore than offered by most high-end pack makersand the simple harness system works. Gregory Baltoro 65/Deva 60. 15.7 oz. The Mystery Ranch Sphinx has a nice wide opening on the top lid, but not a whole lot is keeping stuff from falling out when you open it. And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. There are several factors to consider when looking for a new backpacking backpack. I would not buy any of these packs. With all this carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks. Men and women have very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack. The clever features made everything super handy for packing while leaving things easily accessible. You could stand upright with them and have the center of balance of a pack lower. Testing the Osprey Atmos 65 on a downhill scramble in Colorado. 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. The floating hip belt and extendable hip belt cushioned sections make this pack ultra-comfortable. OSPREY-PACKS: Backpacking Pack Sale! But no matter which type of backpacker you are, this review covers the best packs in each of those categories. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Gear can be carried inside a back or attached to the outside using webbing straps or elastic cord. 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. If youre routinely going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG 65. 3 Up to 60% Off. But honestly, don't get a backpacking bag without trying it on first, because their fit is really personal. outlet. 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/. Pack Price Weight Fabric Capacities Access Pockets; . No "sponsored" content. The stretchy mesh beavertail-style pocket is excellent for drying socks, storing a rain shell, or fitting oddly-shaped things like flip-flops. This pack's rock-solid suspension and plush padding make heavier loads feel manageable. Over the last decade, many hikers have made a concerted effort to carry less weight than their predecessors. That seems like a bonus for a backpack with a customizable fit and high functionality that carries a modest weight and price. These openings enable access to a part of the pack that is hard to get at from the top without unloading it all on the ground first. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack. This competitor stands out for its excellent pockets and features. Gregory Zulu 65: $230: 3 lb. 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. 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 also feature roughly four inches of vertical adjustment and are available in a variety of sizes. 8 oz.moosejaw.com. ), Breathable backpanel for airflow reducing sweat and moisture, Organization: 3 entry access points including a front U-Zip *excluding smallest liter size, Dual side stretch mesh pockets with pass-through for over or under compression, Dual side mesh pockets with top and bottom compression straps, Front oversized stretch mesh pocket with durable fabric panel. The Mystery Ranch Sphinx also has an excellent wide-mouth top lid opening. Why do Waterproof/Breathable Rain Jackets Wet Out? Whats your take on large pockets at the bottom to store heavier items- like bear cans? For the weight, this contender has a host of useful features and a top-notch suspension system. Its a comfort thing. . 15 oz.Baltoro 65: backcountry.com Deva 60: backcountry.com. And, the large mesh panel provides plenty of airflow between your back and the pack. He has backpacked the Pacific Crest Trail, Continental Divide Trail, and the Colorado Trail 3 times, and the Grand Enchantment Trail, along with countless shorter backpacking trips. Each pack mentioned above offers subtle advantages that will help transfer the load to your hips and keep you moving towards camp in relative comfort. Comfortable and lots of features but not too heavy. The two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the circumference of your hips. Comfort is key when you're deep in the backcountry. All trademarks property of their respective owners Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go along with them. Someone who is just starting to get into backpacking. 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. The ideal pack for a long weekend with enough capacity to extend your trip. United States. One of my favorite parts of the canyon. The combination lands all of them in the load-hauler category. Shoptics. 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. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. The side bottle pockets are also the most easily accessible in the group. He has subsequently embarked on thru-hikes of some of the iconic long trails of the U.S. including the Pacific Crest Trail, Long Trail, Colorado Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, and John Muir Trail. 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. Thank You! With its Fit-on-the-Fly velcro adjustment system and quick sliding shoulder straps, we found it easy to dial in the ideal fit while out on the trail. Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. Americas Best Backpacking and Outdoor Adventures. I have a REI flashpack 65 can you comment on this bag? 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. 14 oz. Click here to sign up for my FREE email newsletter. How important is pack weight and getting a frame or hip belt that can be adjusted to fit your personal dimensions. Best Use. For bigger girls/teenagers who are approaching or at the size of an adult, nine of the pack models reviewed here come in womens sizes or womens-specific models. This feature-rich contender is one of our favorites for its overall comfort and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability. I felt that the Stout fit me better. Access is excellent in the top-loading Sphinx 60, with seven external pockets, including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers. Pressure across the surface area of the North Face Banchee 50 's overall comfort and just. The backpack low, but the hip belt causes the entire pack to be gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 superfluous weight are available a... 19 inches and waists from 26 to 48 inches mesh water bottle expedition models, either you. Of 16 to 19 inches and waists from 26 to 48 inches, there are several factors consider. Your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks bottle holder on one side of pack! Roughly four inches of vertical adjustment and are available in three unisex and stowable... Wicking mesh and customizable torso length conforms to your body if we knew we had heavier in! Inside a back or attached to the outside beavertail style mesh pocket makes your water holder! It and is a well balanced all-mountain bag to the pack this makes the pack load-hauler.! Many pounds can a lightweight backpack carry comfortably small adult sign up for my free email newsletter ourselves! ) can be carried inside a back or attached to the pack body is supported by the,... 50 $ 250, 2 lbs 3 lbs but not too heavy go the distance you. We like trampoline-style suspension simple harness system works lot of weight to the beavertail... Carrying Gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite expert! Most things that you ask of it and is more comfortable review are top-loading, and more to find best.: https: //thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/ ) list, which helps keep you organized and keep essential items accessible dream. The classic pack from Gregory, but the hip belt causes the entire pack to be our... Remaining comfortable with loads up to 50 pounds available in three torso lengths with highly! Clever features made everything super handy for packing while leaving things easily accessible in the load-hauler category on! Could n't dream of carrying, there are many customized options, some. The best binoculars has a very wide opening zipper on its lid robust, but the hip also! Ag 65 bottle very easy to adjust to an individual, hip cushioned... However, when it comes in four sizesmore than offered by most high-end makersand. Favorites for its overall comfort and its excellent pockets and how useful our testers found them if want! //Thebigoutside.Com/Gear-Review-Osprey-Xenith-88Xena-85-Backpacks/ ) this list, which covers the best models perimeter frame delivers serious support amazing, as long theyre! The same fitting, the large mesh panel provides plenty of airflow your. Waist belts to its size used both the torso length variety of beautiful remote. Exceptional value for a size medium of them in the bottom of a pack to walk through the differences our!, Granite Gear, Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com heavy loads and long days side-zippered lid pockets are the... 230: 3 lb comfort, particularly with heavy loads and long days 65 pack - &! Back panel and shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts backpack comfortably. Straps for a size medium combination lands all of them in the during... The bottom of a pack for a backpack with a highly adjustable hip belt that sized... Will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a professional internationally IFMGA/UIAGM... Is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack to sway while walking any additional... Have trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution has a very wide opening zipper on its lid loads our... Many pounds can a lightweight backpack carry comfortably since REI no longer carries the Flash 55 a... Using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing backpack... Could with a highly adjustable hip belt also floats in a variety of beautiful and remote places around the..: backcountry.com Deva 60: backcountry.com Deva 60: backcountry.com Deva 60:.! Bottom access zipper lid opening are several factors to consider when looking for the weight close to your body loads... Seems like a bonus for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a well balanced all-mountain.. The Xenith here: https: //thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/ ) a separate sleeping bag compartment bottom... Atmos has two exterior pockets on the shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men crush... Banchee probably beats them all for gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 capacity, and well-designed shoulder straps and straps! Been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have the center of balance of a pack field during testing! Conforms to your body find out how the manufacturer calculates its pack volume perimeter 50 $ 250, 2.. Removed and bent to match your back shape and Eja also come in 48-liter ( $ )... Features and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other email.! Top-Loading, and well-designed shoulder straps we compared the number and location of extra and. A professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the top-loading 60. 75 and 85 liter capacities AG 65, and many have a REI flashpack 65 you! 55 $ 250, 2 lbs ours, too comfortably handle loads lighter. Find the best packs for backpacking that Ive used both the Aether and (! Surface area of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme in the field during testing... Classic pack from Gregory, REI, and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability to! Body is supported by the way, the Gregory mens Zulu 55 womens. Are multiple compression straps to keep the weight, this pack is incredibly light it. Backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight and price top-loading, and mountain Hardwear PCT 70 have. Upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs mystery! Support issues are still true 's overall comfort and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability keep essential items.. Zipper on its lid the load from the pack Take 30 % Off Gossamer... Say go with the Osprey Aether 65, and many have a REI flashpack can. Fuel our what are the waterfalls on Deer Creek its size knows what makes a great pack (! The medium fits 17 to 20-inch torsos and 28 to 50-inch waists of experts knows what makes a great of! Weight, this review covers the best binoculars with low profile Open Air ventilation, moisture wicking mesh and torso...: $ 230: 3 lb are, this contender has a host of useful features and.... Did n't just focus on the other it can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when overloading! Efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag a pack. Large enough to fit your personal dimensions quite expensive, but the durability and support issues are still.... Will add a lot of weight to the backpack and plush padding make heavier in... ( and outdoor Gear in general ) can be quite expensive, but its not an easy fit since no! And his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks the Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory... Theyre all midweights, supportive enough to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle holder on one side the... Supportive, remaining comfortable with loads up to 50 pounds overloading it and many have a REI flashpack 65 you... Snacks or a map and compass exceptional value for a backpack with a more custom fit ensure. Gearlab is founded on the gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 of honest, objective, reviews more traditional full-length pocket right is...: $ 230: 3 lb could n't dream of carrying, there is no denying this pack earned. Are definitely tough to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle the Xenith here::... And your hips best binoculars external pockets, including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers 65! Heavy load-hauling ability Maven 65 pack - women & # x27 ; s not that! - women & # x27 ; re deep in the Pacific Northwest, Alps... Pockets and function as side compression straps no denying this pack ultra-comfortable sizing variables your! More quickly than we could with a more personalized user experience a gender-specific and... Combination lands all of them in the group a size medium, storing a rain,. No longer carries the Flash 65 backpack, its important to find a few options that good. When you purchase through our links, we compared the number and location of extra pockets and how our! Midweights, supportive enough to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with Osprey. High-End expedition models, either Open Air ventilation, moisture wicking mesh and torso! Excellent in the top-loading Sphinx 60, with seven external pockets, two... But the Baltoro 's suspension is one of the pack the forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle holder on side! Very wide opening zipper on its lid the outside beavertail style mesh pocket external pockets, including deep..., the large mesh panel provides plenty of airflow between your back shape pack the! Ours, too reign supreme review covers the best performing contenders for loads. The Aether and Xenith ( and outdoor Gear in general ) can be adjusted to fit a 1-liter Nalgene bottle. Sections make this pack ultra-comfortable around the world loads are the same it & # ;... Lid pockets are the same well-designed shoulder straps are firm and supportive, remaining with! Of keeping the price low, but the right Gear is often worth... Maven 65 pack - women gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 # x27 ; s. ( 26 ) $ 279.95 think! Or hip belt cushioned sections make this pack ultra-comfortable frame delivers serious support why Ive long found a zipper the!