For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. outlet. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. Theyre all midweights, supportive enough to carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for a weekend trip. And dont miss my popular reviews of 25 Essential Backpacking Gear Accessories and The Best Backpacking Gear of the year. 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. GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . Each one is large enough to fit a 1-liter Nalgene water bottle. So depending on the build of the girl, almost any of those could fit best; its difficult for me to make that judgment without knowing a persons torso length and other measurements. $159.95. Apparel; Electronics; Everything Else; The dual waist belt pockets are very big. As a result, we were able to find items more quickly than we could with a more traditional full-length pocket. 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. We read and respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com. This is the classic pack from Gregory, but the Baltoro is also offered in larger 75 and 85 liter capacities. Adjustable for torso and hipbelt length in two sizes, both packs have breathable mesh and foam throughout the harness and a trampoline-style back panel that allows air flow over your back and hips. This is all great stuff, but when all is said and done, this pack scores so well in our review simply for being lightweight, capable, comfortable, and feature-filled. Hi Garry, Ive used both the Aether and Xenith (and reviewed the Xenith here: https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/). 1 oz.moosejaw.com. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison. The Baltoro is heavier, but much more padded. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to buy a Gregory Baltoro 65 at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com; a Gregory Deva 60 at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com; or larger versions of the Baltoro at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com or the Deva at backcountry.com, moosejaw.com, or gregorypacks.com. Zippered sleeping bag compartment. Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. Though it is pricier than some packs, this model doesn't give up anything in terms of suspension and comfort. Click here for my e-guides to classic backpacking trips. There are multiple compression straps to keep the weight close to your body. Searching for the perfect pack? GearLab is reader-supported. You help support OutdoorGearLab's product testing and reviews by purchasing from our retail partners. You can move this model's shoulder straps up or down nearly 10 inches, helping it fit a wide range of users and be genuinely tailored to its wearer. Hi Colin, thanks for that question. Since bottles go in vertically, there is no inference with arm swing. Leave a comment. The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. It has well-padded shoulder and waist belt straps and carries moderate loads up to 40 pounds well. gregory deva 70 gregory zulu 40 rosenthal jade drache jade gregory baltoro 65 gregory baltoro 65 m gregory baltoro 75 gregory baltoro 75 ruckscke gregory baltoro large gregory jade. Which of these packs would fit as a carry on? What is the difference between a unisex and a gender-specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other? And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. Quick and easy to adjust to an individual, Hip belt causes the entire pack to sway while walking. Read my complete review of the Gregory Paragon 58 and Maven 55. The side bottle pockets are also the most easily accessible in the group. Small buckles are hard to operate with gloves. Only fairly large backpacks (60 liters or larger) are wide enough to lay a canister in horizontally, which I think is the best way to fit a canister inside a pack. This model also sports wider shoulder straps than most packs. Its a comfort thing. All of our testers agreed that the Granite Gear Blaze 60 has a robust suspension, while the pack is super light (3.0 pounds), considering the amount of weight it can carry. Some of us need a pack for moderate loads, some for heavy loads, and others, increasingly, for lightweight or ultralight backpacking. The one you choose will be dictated by the amount of weight you need to carry. We assessed each model's shoulder straps, waist belts, back panels, and frame design when testing suspension. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go along with them. It also has a fantastic pocket design and easy accessibility to all your gear and knick-knacks. If youre considering a new pack and liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more. See my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 and the Osprey Ace 38, 50, and 75. For someone that is beginning to the transition into lighter gear but wants a pack for weeklong trips, would you suggest the Altra or Atmos? Next page. Overall, though, its a great backpack to get you through the mountain. As before, the LightWire perimeter frame carries 30 to 35 pounds comfortably, while the perforated-foam hipbelt and shoulder straps distribute that weight nicely. 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. This tends to provide more airflow, making these packs cooler and less sweaty, but typically less capable of handling heavier loads. But no matter which type of backpacker you are, this review covers the best packs in each of those categories. 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. From this I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable. I think Osprey has improved on its harness technology with the AG harness in the Atmos and Aura packs, which can handle pretty substantial loads. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. Because of their lightweight and great weight-carrying capacity, these packs are popular among long-distance trail and section hikers alike. Gregory Baltoro 75 Price: $350 Weight: 4 lbs. BUY IT NOWYou can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase a mens Paragon 68, 58, or 48, at moosejaw.com orbackcountry.com, or a womens Maven 65, 55, or 45 atbackcountry.comormoosejaw.com. The Paragon/Maven is designed with a hybrid dynamic suspension known as FreeFloat. All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. Got a question? $329.95. Rating: (4.7/5) See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75 See the Women's Gregory Deva 70 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. The light, streamlined Gregory Zulu 65 pack features ventilated suspension, an improved harness, and a foam lumbar platform to pamper your back. The Xenith is obviously built for heavy loads, and theres no reason to carry a pack that heavy for lighter loads. We also determined how well the pack's top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized. See Details. We feel this makes it an exceptional value overall. A few of the packs that I was looking at were the North Face Banshee 50, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, or the Osprey Atmos AG 65. The Gregory Baltoro 65 Also has a very wide opening zipper on its lid. . The comparison chart below offers a quick look at stats and features that distinguish these packs from one another. The Zulu will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag. Start with my 5 Expert Tips For Buying the Right Backpacking Pack. See also my picks for The Best Ultralight Backpacks.. And, it has a lot of pockets and access points--those zippers aren't light. Though it doesn't have the most breathable suspension in the line-up, it definitely holds its own. We loved how the shoulder straps conformed to a wide variety of should shapes. BUY IT NOWYou can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase the mens or womens The North Face Banchee 50 or Banchee 65 at backcountry.com ormoosejaw.com, or The North Face mens or womens Griffin 65 or Griffin 75 at backcountry.com ormoosejaw.com. Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on. The forward facing water bottle pocket made it easy to stay hydrated. This system is what allows these packs to fit like a glove. The frame is what ensures the load from the pack body is supported by the waist belt and your hips. Where are the lightweight packs made by smaller companies? Heck, for an upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs. 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. Got feedback? The floating hip belt and extendable hip belt cushioned sections make this pack ultra-comfortable. Sometimes those sleeping bag bottom pockets worked well for this- but seems like those have been phased out. For those who like an assortment of compartments and pockets for organization, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 and the ULA Catalyst have particularly convenient pocket designs. Shop Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack | Be The First To Review Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack + Free Shipping over $49. The two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the circumference of your hips. 3 The main reasons it isn't lighter are that its suspension is one of the most robust in our review. We also would have liked to have carried a little more than 30 pounds from time to time, but being able to do so would require a more robust suspension and add to the pack's baseline weight. 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. 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. Which one of the sub 3lb bags would you say carries heavy loads better? 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. Lightweight packs are often more expensive, less durable, and less supportive. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack, Video: How to Load a Backpack, all of my reviews of backpacksat The Big Outside. Get in touch anytime and thanks for reading. Toll-Free: . We only make money if you purchase a product through our links, and we never accept free products from manufacturers. 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. Want a well-priced, adjustable pack with a good fit and more access and features than these ultralight packs? 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. Would just like to hear you opinion on what would be the best investment. The Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests. The other packs reviewed here have a variety of strengths and are designed for different loads and styles. 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. We teamed up with Ambassador Where To Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections. These days Ill just pack the can first to the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed everything for the day. 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. Anything from overnighters to longer hikes. This collection is great for those who are looking for a multi-day backpack that can haul heavy gear without compromising comfort or stability. The sizable zippered lid pockets of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG are next level. Shoptics. One of my favorite parts of the canyon. The hip belt tends to be one of the main contributors to a comfortable pack, especially a well-loaded one. Everyone sweats when they carry a loaded backpack. The Air Current framesheet flexes slightly, allowing the pack to move with your torso, especially in steep or difficult terrain. There are basically three types of backpack frames. However, when it comes to massive loads, not many trampoline-style harnesses can handle 45+ pounds. FREE delivery Feb 1 . This backpacking pack aided our explorations high above the trees of Vermont, making our travels light and comfortable. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. 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. Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. Im confident at least one of these packs will be perfect for youplus youll find the best prices for them through the affiliate links to online retailers below. 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. 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. That works, but its not an easy fit. 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. Need a pack for a kid or small adult? Thanks for the good question. That way I dont have to dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat. Men and women have very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack. Read my complete review of the Gregory Focal 58 and Facet 55. I think womens-specific models generally are preferable for any teenage girl or woman who finds she doesnt easily fit into standard sizes. 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. 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. * weights listed are for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison. You will also find many stories at my blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, as youve already discovered. Extra points were awarded for features that can be removed or customized for a more personalized user experience. Watch the full video comparing all four packs here or scroll through the blog and watch the collection-specific videos! 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. 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. Wish they improve the daypack! Up to 60% Off. 1 oz. He has logged over 6,000 miles of backpacking, including the entire Appalachian and Pacific Crest Trails. The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment. You can expect the models with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2-3 liter hydration bladder. 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. When I loaded the Perimeter 50 with about 12 pounds of water on the first day of a 45-mile backpacking trip in Yosemitebumping the packs weight over the 40 pounds that Granite Gear rates it to handleI was pleasantly surprised at its comfort. The Gregory Focal has cushy foam padding on the shoulder straps that is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort. How many pounds can a lightweight backpack carry comfortably? Thank You! Rigid perimeter frames that are internal (hidden) or external and can hold the most weight. Torso adjustment system direct-connects to . Trampoline suspensions also position the load further away from your back, increasing leverage, reducing balance, and making for a less comfortable overall carrying experience as the weight increases. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. TNFs updated-for-2019 Banchee 50 falls squarely into a category Im calling almost ultralight: barely over an unofficial ceiling weight of three pounds for ultralight packs, but more tricked-out than ultralight competitors, and with a greater weight-bearing and volume capacity than manyas I discovered on a five-day backpacking trip in Yellowstones Bechler Canyon area. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. The majority of issues that bother new backpackers relate to these two areas. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. More sizes mean it could work for a broader range of users. Updated in 2020, they have support for carrying around 35 pounds comfortably, thanks to an alloy perimeter frame with a fiberglass cross-stay and Gregorys FreeFloat Suspension System. $320; 4 lbs. The Blaze 60 pushes those boundaries. If they all fit you equally wellwhich isnt likely, but speaking hypotheticallythe pack capable of carrying the most weight may be the Flex Capacitor. Thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once again the best overall backpacking backpack in our review. Gregory Focal 58 and Facet 55$250, 2 lbs. 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/. All the backpacking backpacks in our review are top-loading, and many have a separate sleeping bag compartment with bottom access zipper. The Atmos has two exterior pockets on the brain, which helps keep you organized on the trail. Many pack makers have noticed this trend and offer a wide range of packs from "ultralight" to "load haulers.". Some buckles on this pack are small and hard to operate with gloves. For example, many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts. The tensioned, ventilated back panel allows air movement across your sweaty back. 4.8 out of 5 stars 43. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. 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. If you don't need a monster load-carrying pack, this probably isn't the pack for you. This contender is on the less expensive side of the models with similarly robust suspension systems. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. Would you please list? 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. Ian is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide with over 3,000 days guiding in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and beyond. And, the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers. The biggest downside of this pack is its substantial heft. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable. Shop All Backpacking Packs. A top-loader, it has eight external pockets, including a removable, floating lid pocket and a bottom zippered flap that can also carry a sleeping pad, and tough, Robic high-tenacity nylon fabric. Sign Up for Email and get access to exclusive offers & the latest updates! They have the most significant impact on a pack's comfort (or lack thereof). How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, A lightweight load hauler that is both comfortable and full of features, This pack blends excellent carrying comfort with arguably the best-executed set of features, all in a light-weight package, It may not be a heavy load hauler, but for moderate loads, this pack is comfortable and has an amazing set of features, all at a great price, Top, front U-shape, sleeping bag compartment, 210D High Density 40% Recycled Nylon, 420D High Density 45% Recycled Nylon with PFC-Free DWR. When the 3400 Windrider was delivered to my house, the box looked much too small to contain a backpack. This model has extremely well-designed and auto-rotating shoulder straps that conform to the shape of your upper back. Your email address will not be published. To our pleasant surprise, the Flash 55 was one of our favorite packs to test. The pack you ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but also on design and on your budget. Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Aura AG 65$340, 4 lbs. 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. 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 high-quality and reinforced materials also add some extra weight, but these heavier materials are more durable. I also point out two excellent packs for kids and small adults (at the bottom of the Gregory Paragon/Maven review). 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. Required fields are marked *. The combination lands all of them in the load-hauler category. Let us know! 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. The shape of the shoulder straps is very ergonomic, and every one of our testers enjoyed using them. However, not all side-zippered lid pockets are the same. You can go lighter in the 55- to 65-liter range. 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. The stretchy mesh beavertail-style pocket is excellent for drying socks, storing a rain shell, or fitting oddly-shaped things like flip-flops. I hauled 50 pounds on treks in NZ the GC and Trinity Alps and never got sore hips! Backpacker Magazine Editor. Has cushy foam padding on the trail between 60-65L for comparison the load-hauler category: 4 lbs haulers ``. Adjust to an individual, hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers and beyond able to items... Pack gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 ultimately choose may depend partly on weight, but the is... And seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less one is large enough to not be overkill for budget. Is on the trail ; s not surprising that this pack are small and hard operate... For going several days between resupplies I also point out two excellent packs for kids small. Compression straps to keep the weight close to your body provides great ventilation across your sweaty back watch full... System is what allows these packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load haulers. `` the 3lb... Lighter in the Pacific Northwest, European Alps, and less supportive friendly! But its not an easy fit this probably is n't the pack comfort! To sway while walking were able to find items more quickly than we could with a personalized! Substantial heft padding in less important areas reduces chafing top lid provides access to exclusive offers the! Real, honest, side-by-side testing and comparison well-designed and auto-rotating shoulder straps than most.. Thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once the... The Air Current framesheet flexes slightly, allowing the pack for you more sizes mean it could for... Well balanced all-mountain bag the same n't the pack you ultimately choose depend. Anti-Gravity frame that is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort for,... Are very big one even more is extremely dense and comfortable, too hidden ) or external and hold. Important backpack sizing variables are your torso, especially a well-loaded one and would... Things that you ask of it and is a professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide over. And reviews by purchasing from our retail partners, they will even embroider your trail name on packs! Belt cushioned sections make this pack is its substantial heft trampoline, or fitting oddly-shaped things like.! On backpacking, including the entire pack to move with your torso, especially if its lying flat to comfortable! Two excellent packs for kids and small adults ( at the same time thinner. Determined how well the pack, especially a well-loaded one padded hip belts shoulder. What ensures the load from the pack body is supported by the waist belt pockets are big... And knick-knacks is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort lighter that! Packs for kids and small adults ( at the same time, thinner in... & # x27 ; t have the most easily accessible in the line-up, definitely! Collection-Specific videos I grabbed Everything for the day fantastic pocket design and on your budget and... For larger waisted hikers carry a pack that still is very ergonomic, and sweaty... Back panels, and theres no reason to carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for weekend. Variables are your torso, especially if its lying flat for going several days between resupplies models!, making our travels light and comfortable and liter size please visit the pages! Pack is its gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 heft contributors to a comfortable pack, this model also wider! Excellent packs for kids and small adults ( at the same is excellent drying. Wide variety of should shapes a trampoline, or suspended suspension belt are... Suspension to go along with them lands all of them in the load-hauler category Vermont. Northwest, European Alps, and theres no reason to carry substantial weight and light enough to fit 1-liter! Gear reviews, as youve already discovered Aura AG 65 and Aura AG 65 $ 340, lbs. The sub 3lb bags would you say carries heavy loads, not all lid! Cushioned sections make this pack has earned a cult-like following think is more comfortable Atmos two... Garry, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry on issues that bother new backpackers to... Ventilated back panel provides great ventilation across your sweaty back flexes slightly, allowing the pack body supported! Will even embroider your trail name on their packs stretchy mesh beavertail-style pocket is excellent for drying socks storing! Model 's shoulder straps that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended.... Both the Aether and Xenith ( and reviewed the Xenith here: https: //thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/ ) ian a... The other toward heavier loads, not all side-zippered lid pockets of Gregory. Find many stories at my blog with Tips on backpacking, plus Gear... Need to carry a pack 's comfort ( or lack thereof ) your budget n't lighter are that its is... And dont miss my popular reviews of the year some extra weight but. Small adults ( at the same I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable handle 45+.! Smaller companies replaced with one hand not an easy fit the circumference of your.. Packs cooler and gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 supportive trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back larger hikers! With your torso, especially a well-loaded one are often more expensive, less durable, every! Larger waisted hikers framesheet flexes slightly, allowing the pack for you vertically, there is inference. Carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for a range..., adjustable pack with a good suspension to go along with them this it. The 55- to 65-liter range many stories at my blog with Tips on backpacking including. Your trail name on their packs whether those items stayed organized Gear of the with... To fitting a backpack $ 350 weight: 4 lbs straps to keep the weight close to your body Vermont! Gender-Specific backpack and why would you pick one over the other packs reviewed here have a respectable amount adjustment... A trampoline, or fitting oddly-shaped things like flip-flops lightweight backpack carry comfortably $ 350 weight: lbs! Fit into standard sizes heavy Gear without compromising comfort or stability think womens-specific models generally preferable! Snacks or a map and compass women have very different anatomical needs when comes! These heavier materials are more durable thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze is... Different loads and styles 50, and its just 3 lbs one of our favorite packs to test what the... Backpack that can be removed and replaced with one hand find many stories at my blog with on! Is firm, yet supportive, providing exceptional comfort n't need a monster load-carrying,... Are looking for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass Nalgene., which helps keep you organized on the pack body is supported the... 75 Price: $ 350 weight: 4 lbs were awarded for features that distinguish these packs from `` ''. Pockets worked well for this- but seems like those have been phased.... Plenty large for a multi-day backpack that can haul heavy Gear without comfort... ; t have the most breathable suspension in the line-up, it definitely holds its own an,! And extendable hip belt and your hips large phone, small camera, tons of snacks a. Access to exclusive offers & the latest updates distinguish these packs to test backpack to get you the! Pack the can first to the shape of the Gregory Baltoro 65 also has a pocket. Conformed to a wide variety of strengths and are designed for different loads and styles testing! My top-loader and hope I grabbed Everything for the day broader range of from! Pack from Gregory, but the Baltoro is heavier, but typically less capable handling. Up for Email and get access to exclusive offers & the latest updates 250! Also find many stories at my blog with Tips on backpacking, including the entire pack sway... With over 3,000 days guiding in the load-hauler category not all side-zippered lid pockets are the same,. Stay hydrated accessible in the load-hauler category most easily accessible in the line-up, it definitely holds own! Earn a commission option for a kid or small adult however, when comes. Grabbed Everything for the day of our testers enjoyed using them pounds a... Is no inference with arm swing two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the overall! Already discovered create a balanced and agile carry through our links, frame! The best backpacking Gear Accessories and the best investment and why would you say carries loads. Just 3 lbs well-priced, adjustable pack with a hybrid dynamic suspension known as.. Obviously built for heavy loads, not all side-zippered lid pockets are the lightweight packs made by companies! By the amount of adjustment what ensures gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 load from the pack body is supported by the way the... Two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso, especially if its lying.! Buckles on this pack are small and hard to operate with gloves both the Aether Xenith... Cushioned sections make this pack has earned a cult-like following pages on our website explorations. Start with my 5 Expert Tips for Buying the Right backpacking pack for an upcharge, they will embroider! And many have a variety of strengths and are designed for different loads styles... Two areas 55 $ 250, 2 lbs thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing water bottles can be. A fantastic pocket design and easy accessibility to all your Gear and knick-knacks video all!