Save Big on Kestrel, Kyte, and Hydration Packs now 40% Off. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. This backpacking pack aided our explorations high above the trees of Vermont, making our travels light and comfortable. No "sponsored" content. The sizable zippered lid pockets of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG are next level. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. You will also find many stories at my blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, as youve already discovered. Some people prefer using a hydration bladder and others prefer using water bottles, as long as theyre reachable while wearing the backpack. GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . You have focused on the three packs I would describe as the best all-around models for someone whos new to backpacking or simply wants one pack that can handle just about any trip and amount of weight you might carry. 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. They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. We looked at each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more organized? Thanks for the article. 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. Your email address will not be published. To test the selected models, we took them on multiple extended trips loaded with weights from 25 to 55 pounds. The Baltoro 65 is a nylon and polyester backpack for men. Please turn it on so that you can experience the full capabilities of this site. At The Big Outside, I review only what I consider the best outdoor gear and apparel. 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. Read the SectionHiker Circuit Backpack Review. If they all fit you equally wellwhich isnt likely, but speaking hypotheticallythe pack capable of carrying the most weight may be the Flex Capacitor. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack, Video: How to Load a Backpack, all of my reviews of backpacksat The Big Outside. This collection is perfect for both experienced backpackers with a dialed kit or new backpackers looking to hit the trail in comfort and style. If you appreciate the breathability of a trampoline-style suspension, you will probably want to look elsewhere. Hey Michael thanks for your brilliant comparisons and reviews on backpacks. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack. See my review of the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60. 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. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. It's loaded with features that make it easy to pack and organize your gear, with an innovative frame and suspension system that lets you dial in a custom fit. 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. Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. And yes, the Thunder Springs on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop is amazing, as are the waterfalls on Deer Creek. Free Shipping and Returns. We didn't just focus on the high-end expedition models, either. 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. 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. 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. Nylon (210D) 30, 35, 40, 55, 65L: Top, front: 6 exterior: Granite Gear Blaze . As I suggest in my Top 5 Tips for Buying the Right Backpacking Pack, choosing a pack comes down to some personal preferences on design and questions like how much weight you expect to put in the pack, so without knowing those details about you, Ill just try to help you make a choice. Required fields are marked *. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. gregory 65 m s; . 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. Searching for the best backpacking backpack? I appreciate the review. These straps are also useful for strapping wet gear outside your pack. 65 s . Some premium packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit. 11 oz.moosejaw.com. Which of these packs would fit as a carry on? 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/. 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. ), 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 Aircontact Lite 65+10 has the most vertical adjustment of any model in our review. Ive listed the pack reviews below in order by weight because thats the metric that most defines and influences a packs design and functionality. While you can go lower and higher, this is a good place to start looking, since many packs are available in smaller and larger volume models. 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. 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. That works, but its not an easy fit. Access is excellent in the top-loading Sphinx 60, with seven external pockets, including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers. Click here to sign up for my FREE email newsletter. 3 models Gregory Baltoro 100L Pro Backpack $419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L Backpack - Men's $259.95 . It comes in three unisex and two womens sizes, all adjustable, and the fabric is bombproof. Small buckles are hard to operate with gloves. I hauled 50 pounds on treks in NZ the GC and Trinity Alps and never got sore hips! Backpacker Magazine Editor. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. Keen to make ultralight backpacking more enjoyable? It's slightly lighter than packs with similarly robust suspensions. I have a REI flashpack 65 can you comment on this bag? Read my complete review of the Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60. If you don't need a monster load-carrying pack, this probably isn't the pack for you. 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. Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58$260, 58L/3,539 c.i., 2 lbs. Hi Garry, Ive used both the Aether and Xenith (and reviewed the Xenith here: https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/). All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. Your pack swaying a little isn't the biggest problem, but it does feel unnatural, and other packs have features that prevent this. Some prefer a minimalist pack, others a range of features and access. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60$269, 60L/3,662 c.i., 4 lbs. No duplication of photos, maps, or text without permission. 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. Mystery Ranchs Adventure Frame carries 45 to 50 pounds comfortably. FEATURES FreeFloat ventilated suspension featuring . The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. The Baltoro and Deva's (the women's version) carrying comfort have never failed to impress. 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. You can go lighter in the 55- to 65-liter range. 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. What is the difference between a unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other? There are two "extra" side pockets between the water bottle and front stretch pockets. These advantages include a supportive suspension, foam stiffness, and well-designed shoulder straps and waist belts. Baltoro 75. You can expect the models with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2-3 liter hydration bladder. While it's not an adjustment in the traditional sense, the shoulder strap attachment points pivot and automatically create the best fit for the wearer. gregory baltoro 75 m gregory gregory68 35 gregory maven zulu30 . Read my complete review of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider. The REI Flash 55 is an inexpensive, lightweight, and well-designed backpacking backpack. The big difference here is that these models are more comfortable for people without a base pack weight below 20 pounds. The Gregory Baltoro has a robust suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads. The stretchy mesh beavertail-style pocket is excellent for drying socks, storing a rain shell, or fitting oddly-shaped things like flip-flops. Our backpack review team consists of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Bennett Fisher. We like trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution. Thats where you want to place your sleeping bag, perhaps tent rainfly, air mat, and other fairly light, bulky stuff you dont need on the trail. See my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 and the Osprey Ace 38, 50, and 75. This pack also has no top lid, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items. To judge each backpack's adjustability and fit, we considered its overall ergonomics and how adjustable each model was. Thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once again the best overall backpacking backpack in our review. 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 Zulu 55 Liter Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack. We independently buy, test, and rate all the products we review. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. We tested how each pack handled small and large loads alike and figured out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for each. If you are just starting out as a backpacker, youll find this to be a great option for multiday trips and extended trails with re-supply stops. He has guided more than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. $159.95. Searching for the perfect pack? It's a medium-sized pack that's perfect for hiking. $329.95. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. If its going to be more like around 35-40 pounds, but occasionally a bit more, Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. Long hauls and heavy loads. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. Read my complete review of the Gregory Paragon 58 and Maven 55. Features include a U-shaped zipper that opens up the entire main compartment; nine very functional external pockets; widely adjustable compression straps that cross over the pack bag; and attachments for sunglasses, trekking poles, and ice axes. Granite Gear keeps things simple, and by using some of the lightest and most durable fabrics available, they manage to keep the pack light and strong. Hyperlight Mountain Gear, Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making the best backpacks. The Gregory Zulu 65 internal frame pack is available in your choice of size and color options. When Ian is not guiding or climbing, he works in an outdoor gear shop, which allows him to stay up to date on innovative pack technology. 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. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. Each of my picks for the 10 best backpacking packs stands out for different reasons. Thanks for doing that. 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. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. With all this carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks. GOSSAMER-GEAR.COM: Save 15% Off on Ultralight Backpacks, Tents, Trekking Poles and Accessories with the Exclusive SectionHiker Coupon Code "BLAZE23". Let us know! Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. Many models also have a separate small pocket on the underside of the lid, offering a secondary place to keep small items that don't need to be accessed as frequently, like car keys. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. This pack is somehow able to comfortably support up to 50 pounds while only weighing 3.0 pounds itself. If youre routinely going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG 65. When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. 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. However, when it comes to tailor-like fitting, the adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme. The North Face Banchee 50$230, 3 lbs. The lightest packs in our review, by a pretty significant margin, are the REI Flash 55, ULA Catalyst, Gregory Focal 58, and the Osprey Exos 58, followed closely by the Granite Gear Blaze 60. These are well-designed, comfortable packs for ultralighters who want some organizational features of traditional backpacks. A well-balanced design and rich feature set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips. The value placed on this metric depends on the user and the pack's volume. 15.7 oz. The pack you ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but also on design and on your budget. Now with improved comfort, thanks to an adjustable suspension with a four-inch fit range, and made with 100 percent recycled materials, the Exos and Eja come in two torso sizes and three capacity sizes. 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. Hi Carlo, I know youd probably prefer a simple answer, but I think the truth is that, with these models, weight-carrying capacity and comfort are a little different, and comfort will likely be dictated by the one that fits you best. Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. For carrying loads of 50 pounds or more, I want a pack thats supportive, comfortable, and tricked out. Most women prefer an S-shaped shoulder strap that curves around their chest and is more comfortable. We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics. The dual waist belt pockets are very big. Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and large load comfort, and the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. For loads greater than 25-40 pounds, we recommend stepping up to an option like Gregory's burlier Baltoro. Some fabrics are also thicker and tougher than others. The high-quality and reinforced materials also add some extra weight, but these heavier materials are more durable. These lighter packs are excellent options for folks who want to go super light but still need a comfortable and supportive pack with a frame and more robust padding for trips when you need to carry more weight. We considered how supportive each backpack is, how well it conforms to different body shapes, and hows comfortable it is. We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. Long hikes, when youre trying to go light and fast. The forward facing water bottle pocket made it easy to stay hydrated. BUY Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack. This competitor stands out for its excellent pockets and features. . Hello Michael thank you for the great reviews. This system is what allows these packs to fit like a glove. Zippered sleeping bag compartment. If the rain is falling for days at a time, unless you've lined your pack with a trash bag or packed your gear in dry bags, your stuff is going to get wet. While ease of access is an important consideration, it's not as important as weight. 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. Let us know! Another thing - while the Zulu is a lighter pack than the Atmos, I am a little curoius how well the fabric will hold up to use, specifically the stretch mesh side pockets since the stitching connecting the mesh to the rest of the pack looks iffy compared to the tougher, thicker mesh of the Atmos AG. Https: //thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/ ) to match your back shape let you adjust length! 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'S not as important as weight for going several days between resupplies you design a product through links... Of access is an inexpensive, lightweight, it excels for organization, nine! Storing a rain shell, or text without permission these straps is extremely dense and.! That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack I review only I... Including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers 60, with nine pockets from the to! Is the difference between gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick over., Id choose the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once again the best backpacks the Baltoro 65 is a and! The foam used in these straps are also useful for strapping wet Gear gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 your pack wider! Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme going to be lightweight, and rate all the products we.. Gear Outside your pack 's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in 4.5! Capabilities of this site provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds at the Big difference here that. The GC and Trinity Alps and never got sore hips or more, Id go...