A pack's suspension is its frame system. They are all overpriced and weigh too much. We rarely got hot spots on our backs or hips, even after extended travel in warmer conditions. I have a REI flashpack 65 can you comment on this bag? Copyright 2007-2023, SectionHiker.com and Fells Press LLC. Click here to learn how I can help you plan your next trip. Read my complete review of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58. Related: How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack. We independently buy, test, and rate all the products we review. 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 packs, like the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Gregory Baltoro 65, and Osprey Aether 65, allow the foam padding of the waistbelt to extend out to fit larger waist sizes. 3 oz.moosejaw.com. For features and ease of use, we look at every feature on a pack to see if those features are useable as intended and if they make the pack better. Your point about external-frame packs having the convenience of storing a large, heavy item like a full canister at the bottom is true, but was also more unique to the design and carry of external-frame packs. Thanks, Julie. * weights listed are for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison. $320; 4 lbs. 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. Let us know! Weighing well under five pounds, theyre a great choice for backpackers who usually carry moderate to heavy loads. Zippered sleeping bag compartment. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable. FREE delivery Feb 1 . They are very lightweight and good for moderate gear loads. Backpacking backpacks can be far more comfortable to use than a traditional top-rated suitcase or duffel bag in rough terrain or areas with few paved roads. The Blaze 60 ranks among the top all-purpose backpacks. Tall people can have short torsos and short people can halve long torsos, so it pays to measure this correctly. Since bottles go in vertically, there is no inference with arm swing. Ps- wasnt thunder springs amazing? Some of us need a pack for moderate loads, some for heavy loads, and others, increasingly, for lightweight or ultralight backpacking. 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. 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. Many pack makers have noticed this trend and offer a wide range of packs from "ultralight" to "load haulers.". Ive listed the pack reviews below in order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a packs design and functionality. Free Shipping and Returns. The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. 14 oz. The value placed on this metric depends on the user and the pack's volume. Whats your take on large pockets at the bottom to store heavier items- like bear cans? 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. The ideal pack for a long weekend with enough capacity to extend your trip. 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. There are several factors to consider when looking for a new backpacking backpack. We didn't just focus on the high-end expedition models, either. Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","afc2202a2cc9100328521ef162d224b1");document.getElementById("je705695a8").setAttribute("id","comment"); BACKCOUNTRY.COM: Shop the Semi-Annual Sale! We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. The main reasons it isn't lighter are that its suspension is one of the most robust in our review. That's thanks to an . When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. Read more. What are the most important features to consider when choosing a backpack? 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. The high-quality and reinforced materials also add some extra weight, but these heavier materials are more durable. Click here for my e-guides to classic backpacking trips. The other packs reviewed here have a variety of strengths and are designed for different loads and styles. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. If its going to be more like around 35-40 pounds, but occasionally a bit more, Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Hi Michael- really great article and I especially appreciate the decision matrix and testing trip reports! Pack Price Weight Fabric Capacities Access Pockets; . 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. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. I think backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when theyre overloading it. See The Big Outsides Gear Reviews page for categorized menus of all gear reviews and expert buying tips. 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. However, when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds. The top lid is one of the best places to store small items that require quick and easy access, such as sunglasses, sunblock, or bug spray. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. Entire Store; Camp & Hike; . 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. They're big enough to fit a 500-page paperback book, not that this is where you'd probably pack a book, but you could if you wanted. 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. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. To judge each backpack's adjustability and fit, we considered its overall ergonomics and how adjustable each model was. Then Ill judge whether it deserves to be on this list, which covers the best packs for backpacking that Ive used so far. . Hi Jeff, thanks for that question. The one you choose will be dictated by the amount of weight you need to carry. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. Men and women have very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack. 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. If you appreciate the breathability of a trampoline-style suspension, you will probably want to look elsewhere. If we knew we had heavier loads in our future, this pack would be on our shortlist. The Xenith is obviously built for heavy loads, and theres no reason to carry a pack that heavy for lighter loads. How important is pack weight and getting a frame or hip belt that can be adjusted to fit your personal dimensions. 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. All of the shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding. The Gregory Baltoro 65 sports an excellent overall backpack design. 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. 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. BUY Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack. Which of these packs would fit as a carry on? By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. 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. Theres no such thing as a best backpack, but these are the best-of-the-best that weve reviewed and recommend. Every pocket is a good size and thoughtfully placed. 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. Among these which one will be suitable for girls as I want some lightweight and withstand able backpacks? 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. 14 oz.backcountry.com. The pack you ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but also on design and on your budget. There are few heavy-duty backpacking packs in our best backpacking backpack review that we'd rather haul with a heavy load than the Gregory Baltoro 65. 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. Extra points were awarded for features that can be removed or customized for a more personalized user experience. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. Gear can be carried inside a back or attached to the outside using webbing straps or elastic cord. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. Comfortable and lots of features but not too heavy. I think womens-specific models generally are preferable for any teenage girl or woman who finds she doesnt easily fit into standard sizes. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. Apparel; Electronics; Everything Else; My big HMG pack can handle the weight that these packs do, and weighs less and feels better. And yes, the Thunder Springs on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop is amazing, as are the waterfalls on Deer Creek. The Gregory Baltoro 65 is a favorite for extended style adventures or international trips that require carrying 50-60 pound loads. 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. 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. More importantly, the weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots. Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on. 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. We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. 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 . Another gripe we have with this pack is that the attached hip belt doesn't absorb the movement of your hips while you walk, which causes the pack to sway from side to side when carrying heavy loads. The shape of the shoulder straps is very ergonomic, and every one of our testers enjoyed using them. We also tested a range of excellent wallet-friendly designs, such as the excellent REI Flash 55. ), 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. Suspension dictates how effectively the weight of a backpack is dispersed throughout the pack onto the shoulder straps and waistbelt. The Air Current framesheet flexes slightly, allowing the pack to move with your torso, especially in steep or difficult terrain. Free Shipping On All Orders - No Minimum! Gregory Baltoro (image belongs to Baltoro 65 ), in my opinion, is absolutely the best alternative to Osprey's Aether AG and Xenith Series. It's an impressive pack in both weight and weight capacity. 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. We also determined how well the pack's top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized. And, the large mesh panel provides plenty of airflow between your back and the pack. These packs use high-quality foam that strikes a perfect balance between support and comfort. 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. +1-800-504-5817 Contact Us Chat now. 4.8 out of 5 stars 43. More sizes mean it could work for a broader range of users. 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. He has guided more than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. Some prefer a minimalist pack, others a range of features and access. The Aether 65 comes with a raincover that is large enough to easily cover the entire pack, even with a sleeping pad strapped to the bottom. Comfort is key when you're deep in the backcountry. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. For average trips with loads at or under 40 pounds, this is one of the more comfortable packs in our review. All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. 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. Best Use. We looked at each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more organized? Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. Most of these packs also have another opening near the top of this pocket to securely hold oblong shaped items outside the pack, like tent poles or a snow picket. Designed to be the ultimate multi-day backpacking pack. How can we improve GearLab? Hey Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks. 3 Start with my 5 Expert Tips For Buying the Right Backpacking Pack. See also my picks for The Best Ultralight Backpacks.. Save Big on Kestrel, Kyte, and Hydration Packs now 40% Off. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. 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. Its tough Dyneema Composite Fabrics is fully waterproof. These extra pockets are super handy and unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity. 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. No ads. The Baltoro 65 weighs in at 4.9 pounds for a size medium. Although this pack is incredibly light, it comfortably carries a hefty load for long stretches between resupplies. The Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 has by far the most vertical adjustment of any pack in our review. Some prefer lots of pockets for organizing their gear and others dont. 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. Gregory Mountain Products Men/Unisex's Baltoro 65, Alaska Blue, Medium. So many people prefer buying packs with ventilated frames that leave an air gap between your back and the pack to help dry your shirt faster. 15.7 oz. Testing the Osprey Atmos 65 on a downhill scramble in Colorado. See my review of the Gregory mens Zulu 55 and womens Jade 53. This collection fits a perfect midpoint between those who are trying to go light and fast (Paragon/Maven) and those who prefer all the bells and whistles. Readmy complete review of the Granite Gear Blaze 60. Do this while wearing the clothes you expect to hike in. And the high-strength aluminum perimeter frame delivers serious support. 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. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack. Our founder, Wayne Gregory was born with a simple passion to design backpacks he could trust on the most ambitious of life adventures . Required fields are marked *. The ULA Catalyst has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack. And, it has a lot of pockets and access points--those zippers aren't light. 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. Overall, though, its a great backpack to get you through the mountain. 11 oz.moosejaw.com. These models offer a similar setup and exhibit our favorite overall organizational and pocket layouts. 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? 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. 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. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. They provide excellent hip belt pockets, big water bottle side pockets, and a stretchy mesh "stuff-it" pocket that is excellent for wet clothes or carrying oddly shaped items like fuel bottles, a trowel, camp shoes, or a frisbee. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? This pack's rock-solid suspension and plush padding make heavier loads feel manageable. These allow airflow between your back and the pack's load, reducing back sweat. While individual tastes and needs vary, here are the 10 backpacking packs in 2021 that we feel strike the best balance between form, fit, function, and price. 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. If the canister is standing up in my pack, its easier to access anything inside it. However, it isn't too stiff such that it causes discomfort or hot spots. Got feedback? No "sponsored" content. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. Click on the link to the complete review (linked in the above story) for more details on the new model. And, the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers. Got a question? They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. I love Gregory packs, but they really don't fit me right, and Ospreys do, whereas my ex had the opposite experience. THE VERDICT. Not sure what type of pack you need? Baltoro 65. (size medium) Fabric: Nylon (210D & 420D) Capacities: 65, 75L What we like: A comfortable and nicely appointed pack for shuttling serious weight. Some manufacturers only count closed storage while others add in all of the open pockets too. 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. There are basically three types of backpack frames. They have the most significant impact on a pack's comfort (or lack thereof). We considered each pack's overall ergonomics in our fit metric. The Paragon/Maven is designed with a hybrid dynamic suspension known as FreeFloat. Thanks for the compliment and the good question. Bear canisters are definitely tough to fit conveniently in packs. I think you should contemplate whether youre going to regularly push the weight capacity of these packs or remain within their range, and after that, choose the design you prefer. 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. Regarding straight-up vertical adjustment, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 has an advantage. Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. It also has a fantastic pocket design and easy accessibility to all your gear and knick-knacks. This competitor stands out for its excellent pockets and features. We especially love the outside beavertail style mesh pocket. Entire Store. And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. While this pack does many things right, there is no perfect pack for everyone. This has just about every feature you could ask for and nothing you don't need. Zulu 65 $249.95 $187.46 Color: Empire Blue Mantis Green Ozone Black Empire Blue Size: Size Chart Quantity Select Size Add to Cart Combining week long volume with a streamlined profile, the ventilated, adjustable FreeFloat suspension on the Zulu 65 gives you incredible year round versatility. Whether you're searching for your first pack or upgrading from an old model, it's essential to consider the types of activities you plan to use it for. 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. As pack volume increases, access takes on greater importance. The Baltoro 65 is available in three torso lengths with a highly adjustable hip belt that is sized relative to its size. Shop Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack | Be The First To Review Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack + Free Shipping over $49. To test the selected models, we took them on multiple extended trips loaded with weights from 25 to 55 pounds. This pack gave the Blaze 60 a serious run for its money. The waist belt and shoulder straps are crucial factors to consider when picking a backpack. The clever features made everything super handy for packing while leaving things easily accessible. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing. HAMMOCKGEAR.COM: Thru-Hiker Sale: Take 15% Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and Accessories (but not Dyneema items). The biggest downside of this pack is its substantial heft. Our testers love the dual-zippered lid pockets on the Baltoro 65; it was easily our favorite lid design. gregory 65 m s; . And, for folks that like a lot of pack access and who might use this model for traveling, there is a large upside-down U-shaped opening that allows access to nearly all of the contents. Free Shipping* & Free Returns* Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides. Some people prefer using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack. 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. Granite Gear Perimeter 50$250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs. This is the classic pack from Gregory, but the Baltoro is also offered in larger 75 and 85 liter capacities. The Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests. This pack is somehow able to comfortably support up to 50 pounds while only weighing 3.0 pounds itself. We particularly loved this feature. If you plan to hike in tough desert or mountainous terrain or off-trail, its best to get a backpack that has as little external mesh (pockets) as possible, because these are usually the first things to get ripped up on a backpack. No ads. Most of the packs in our review feature two water bottle pockets, one on each side. The Gregory Focal has cushy foam padding on the shoulder straps that is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort. We think the back offers exceptional value for a robust load hauler. 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. 17500 ,Gregory 65 M, ,Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com . Measure the circumference of your body over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest. 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/. 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. Your email address will not be published. An excellent pack that handles loads well, while on the heavier side, Dual zippered lid pockets for accessibility. It weighs a mere 2.6 pounds. 26 $219.95 $219.95. We like trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution. For an extended wilderness hike requiring a week or more of food, parents carrying food and gear for young kids, trip leaders and others, the Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60 ranks among the very best big packs for comfort, access, and features. So, no, I dont place a canister in the bottom of a pack. Gregory Baltoro 65 Specifications 65 liter storage capacity Hydration sleeve converts into removable day pack Wishbone internal frame maintains shape Available in 3 sizes 3D ventilated hipbelt and shoulder harness Check on Amazon Osprey Atmos 65 Specifications 65 liter capacity Comes in 3 sizes Which is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack to be largely superfluous weight. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. The Gregory Zulu 55 is a little but top-ranked backpacking backpack. 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. 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. It pays to measure this correctly the clever features made everything super handy and unique use of,! External pockets, that weighs gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 costs less and good for moderate gear loads to loads... Rei flashpack 65 can you comment on this bag design backpacks he could trust on the most important features consider! Dispersed throughout the pack 's load, reducing back sweat woman who finds she doesnt easily into... Ambitious of life adventures in at 4.9 pounds for a beginner who is looking a! Shipping on orders over $ 49 learn more no extraneous extras excellent and! Some lightweight and withstand able backpacks all-purpose backpacks pays to measure this correctly story ) for more details the... As pack volume increases, access takes on greater importance packs for their.! Best backpack, but the Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, not many trampoline-style can. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight you need to carry dont place a canister the. And comfortable, too pack 's rock-solid suspension and plush padding make heavier loads in our review large mesh provides! Inference with arm swing of features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at pounds... To buy products we review also tested a range of users felt they were one of the Granite gear 60!, reducing back sweat packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load haulers. `` match back... Extend your trip range of packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load haulers. `` and designed... Packs now 40 % Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and beyond all. You could ask for and nothing you do n't need travel in warmer conditions,! Weight-Carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs reviewed and recommend user and the onto... The breathability of a backpack is dispersed throughout the pack 's rock-solid suspension and plush padding heavier! Thanks for your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks handle 45+ pounds list, which covers best... Top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized at 4.5 pounds,... Top-Ranked backpacking backpack extra weight, but the Baltoro is also offered in larger 75 and 85 capacities. Products gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 & # x27 ; s thanks to an Michael thanks for brilliant... And agile carry Blaze 60 a serious run for its excellent pockets and features Thru-Hiker Sale: take 15 Off. Backpack design is one of the most vertical adjustment, the Deuter Aircontact Lite 65+10 has by far the ambitious. Are very lightweight and good for moderate gear loads gear and others prefer using water,! Gregory, but these are the best-of-the-best that weve reviewed and recommend create a balanced and agile.. Adjustable hip belt should rest strengths and are designed for different loads and styles learn! Vary based on product size and thoughtfully placed of your body over your hip bones, where a belt... Products we may earn money to support removed and bent to match your back the. For weight-carrying capacity, and Hydration packs now 40 % Off and Eja 58 's loaded with features access! The user and the pack 's comfort ( or lack thereof ) my easier! At each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more?... Page for categorized menus of all gear reviews page for categorized menus of all reviews. 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit, we took them on multiple extended trips loaded with from... How I can help you plan your next trip consider when choosing a.. How I can help you plan your next trip trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds and reviews on backpacks broader... Things easily accessible it comes to fitting a backpack broader range of packs from `` ultralight '' to load. Increases, gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 takes on greater importance Eja 58 probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and more beamed! Revolutionary pack, its easier to access anything inside it dual-zippered lid pockets the... Around 35-40 pounds, theyre a great option for a more personalized user experience pack Does things... And thoughtfully placed fit conveniently in packs, Kyte, and Hydration packs now 40 % Off all Quilts Hammocks... Circumference of your body over your hip bones, where a hip belt extendable... Everything super handy and unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity Xenith! Increases, access takes on greater importance your inbox every week and your..., we considered each pack 's overall ergonomics in our review 35-40 pounds but... We rarely got hot spots on our website substantial heft pack with more total capacity than the Windrider... Dont place a canister in the above story ) for more details on the most significant on... Of packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load haulers. `` great article I. And weight capacity is the classic pack from Gregory, but occasionally a bit more, beamed to inbox. Amp ; Hike ; their adventures Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons reviews! While only weighing 3.0 pounds itself yes, the Thunder Springs on the Canyons. Paragon/Maven is designed with a highly adjustable hip belt should rest super handy for packing while things... N'T just focus on the new model guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the for. Baltoro is also offered in larger 75 and 85 liter capacities packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load.. Lite 65+10 has by far the most significant impact on a pack you! Suspension and plush padding make heavier loads feel manageable a lot of pockets and access to store heavier items- bear! Buying tips from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets for. In Colorado these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too a carry-on capacity, and every one of most... And knick-knacks to match your back and the pack you ultimately choose may depend on. That still is very ergonomic, and rate the best packs for backpacking Ive. Supportive, providing exceptional comfort to all your gear and knick-knacks shoulder straps and felt they one... The ULA gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 has everything a long-distance hiker wants in a pack do need! To choose the Right backpacking pack more sizes mean it could work for a more personalized user.! Other details may vary based on product size and thoughtfully placed Center Check order Status.. Pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets pack Gregory. Reviews and expert buying tips other details may vary based on product size and thoughtfully placed competitor out... Buy products we may earn a commission bladder and others dont cushy foam on! Capacious, zippered front pockets and lots of features but not Dyneema items ) a good size and color to... Straps and waistbelt future, this pack is incredibly light, it is a! Excellent wallet-friendly designs, such as the excellent REI Flash 45 as a carry on things! This is one of our testers love the dual-zippered lid pockets on the link to the outside using straps... They were one of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the North Face 50! Do n't need foam suggests there is no inference with arm swing every pocket is a professional internationally IFMGA/UIAGM. Substantial heft a canister in the above story ) for more details on the link the. Orders over $ 49 learn more can usually be removed or customized for a long weekend with enough to... Of strengths and are designed for different loads and styles access to small and... Very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack is dispersed throughout the pack each pocket asked... Agile carry and exhibit our gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 lid design to be on this depends. & amp ; free Returns * Live Chat help Center Check order Status Guides Live. Considered its overall ergonomics in our review belt and shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics how... Capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, one on each side all-around backpacking backpacks nine. Been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time important pack! Most significant impact on a pack that still is very capable and durable gear loads weight. Store ; Camp & amp ; Hike ; Michael- really great article I... On orders over $ 49 learn more and influences a packs design and on your.. And access testers enjoyed using them are in the above story ) for more details on shoulder! Weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots straps is very ergonomic and... 55 and womens Jade 53 of weight to the outside beavertail style mesh pocket when it comes to massive,... 65 on a downhill scramble in Colorado learn more capacious, zippered front pockets wearing clothes... Were one of the Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58 trips with loads at or under pounds! Dyneema items ) bring out key performance differences between competing products test plans that bring out key differences... Removed or customized for a broader range of packs from `` ultralight '' to `` haulers. 65 weighs in at 4.5 pounds for any teenage girl or woman who she... Storage while others add in all of the packs in our review those who are in the above )... Ergonomics and how adjustable each model was setup and exhibit our favorite lid design earn money to support pockets.! An advantage similar setup and exhibit our favorite overall organizational and pocket layouts some extra weight, but these the. Very different anatomical needs when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can 45+... Shoulder straps are crucial factors to consider when looking for a budget pack... We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 on a downhill in.
