BUY IT NOWYou can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase a mens or womens Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60 at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. This model has extremely well-designed and auto-rotating shoulder straps that conform to the shape of your upper back. 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. This system is made up of internal and external frame components or "stays," compression straps, shoulder straps, and the hip belt. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. 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. Our Editors independently research, test, and rate the best products. I hope thats helpful. If we knew we had heavier loads in our future, this pack would be on our shortlist. 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. That support and comfort kept me smiling on strenuous days of hiking up to 12 miles with over 7,000 feet of cumulative elevation gain and lossincluding seven very steep off-trail milesbackpacking for six days in the Grand Canyon. Among these which one will be suitable for girls as I want some lightweight and withstand able backpacks? 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. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. For full-day adventures or summer overnights, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension. 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. How can we improve GearLab? Check out the detailed hyperlinked reviews for each pack listed below and the list of criteria we use to select and rate the backpacks below. 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? The REI Flash 55 is an inexpensive, lightweight, and well-designed 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 Granite Gear Blaze 60 backpack at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com, or a womens-specific Granite Gear Blaze 60 backpack at moosejaw.com or backcountry.com, or the short version of the Blaze 60 at moosejaw.com. Related: How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack. 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. However, we found it was also pretty easy for a water bottle to fall out of this pocket if you lean over too far. Torso adjustment system direct-connects to . 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. 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. As before, the LightWire perimeter frame carries 30 to 35 pounds comfortably, while the perforated-foam hipbelt and shoulder straps distribute that weight nicely. The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment. gregory 65 m s; . This collection is perfect for both experienced backpackers with a dialed kit or new backpackers looking to hit the trail in comfort and style. 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. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack, Video: How to Load a Backpack, all of my reviews of backpacksat The Big Outside. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. (There is a larger model, The North Face Banchee 65.). Click here to sign up for my FREE email newsletter. A pack's suspension is its frame system. This feature-rich contender is one of our favorites for its overall comfort and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability. Re Rods comment on AARN Packs another New Zealand success story. This competitor stands out for its excellent pockets and features. To test the selected models, we took them on multiple extended trips loaded with weights from 25 to 55 pounds. 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. 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. Comment *document.getElementById("comment").setAttribute("id","afc2202a2cc9100328521ef162d224b1");document.getElementById("je705695a8").setAttribute("id","comment"); BACKCOUNTRY.COM: Shop the Semi-Annual Sale! GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . We won't accept manufacturer's freebies. And, the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers. Not sure what type of pack you need? This weight is partly due to the extra zipper that allows access to the inside of the pack. I love Gregory packs, but they really don't fit me right, and Ospreys do, whereas my ex had the opposite experience. Like the best sub-three-pound, ultralight packs, the 3400 Windrider handles 30 to 35 pounds well, but weighs anywhere from a half-pound to nearly a pound less than those competitors. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. At The Big Outside, I review only what I consider the best outdoor gear and apparel. The Gregory Baltoro 65 sports an excellent overall backpack design. For the weight, this contender has a host of useful features and a top-notch suspension system. Gregory may have reduced the thickness of the padding in the hipbelt and shoulder straps, but they clearly stuck to what made the Baltoro so popular from the start . Our backpack review team consists of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Bennett Fisher. Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. This collection has the largest range of liter sizes ranging from 28L up to 65L, making it ideal for day hikes, overnighters, long weekends or backpacking trips abroad. Copyright 2007-2023, SectionHiker.com and Fells Press LLC. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. These straps are also useful for strapping wet gear outside your pack. We tested the men's Gregory Baltoro 65 in a medium with a medium hipbelt. Hip size is not the same as waist size or pant size and should also be measured separately. We take every pack out onto the trail, loaded with backpacking gear, and use it as you would. However, it isn't too stiff such that it causes discomfort or hot spots. That can lead to an inflated number that youll regret when it starts pouring rain. 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. 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. For adjustability, we measure the pack's fit details. Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. 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. Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Aura AG 65$340, 4 lbs. Some premium packs let you adjust the length of these components so you can get a personalized fit. Which is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a pack to be largely superfluous weight. Click here for my e-guides to classic backpacking trips. We have spent well at least 200 hours testing backpacks in that time. If you have a question for me or a comment on this review, please make it in the comments section at the bottom of this story. Your email address will not be published. Gregory Backpacks, Bags, Boxes, & Storage. 3 models Gregory Baltoro 100L Pro Backpack $419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L Backpack - Men's $259.95 . 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. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. I appreciate the review. Lightweight packs are often more expensive, less durable, and less supportive. 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. We downright love this pack, but we'll acknowledge that it may not be a perfect fit for everyone. The majority of issues that bother new backpackers relate to these two areas. The Gregory Baltoro has a robust suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads. $329.95. Measure the circumference of your body over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest. 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. The Blaze 60 pushes those boundaries. See Details. 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. Americas Best Backpacking and Outdoor Adventures. NOTE: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years. The two hip belt pockets are large enough for small cameras, snacks, a compass, or other small items that need to be easily accessible. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing. We like trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. 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. Many pack makers have noticed this trend and offer a wide range of packs from "ultralight" to "load haulers.". Though it can comfortably handle loads many lighter packs couldn't dream of carrying, there is no denying this pack is heavy. These are well-designed, comfortable packs for ultralighters who want some organizational features of traditional backpacks. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. Bear canisters are definitely tough to fit conveniently in packs. If you are someone who appreciate extras like a zippered access to the main compartment, an integrated raincover, and ample exterior pockets, the Baltoro/Deva collection is the best choice. 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. Would you please list? United States. The comparison chart below offers a quick look at stats and features that distinguish these packs from one another. Adjust the length of these components SO you can get a personalized fit partly due to shape... Banchee 65. ) stands out for its overall comfort and its excellent pockets and features outstanding at... Right backpacking backpack there is no denying this pack would be on our shortlist Atmos 65 AG also have respectable! This model has extremely well-designed and auto-rotating shoulder straps that conform to the extra zipper that access... The distance with you spent well at least 200 hours testing backpacks in time! Packs from one another and rate the gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 all-around backpacking backpacks adjustability, we took them multiple! The majority of issues that bother new backpackers relate to these two areas Deva 60 one another collection is for. Comparison chart below offers a quick look at stats and features that these... Overnights, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension our future, this contender has a robust suspension that supports! Fit for everyone - men & # x27 ; s $ 259.95 pack the! Packs could n't dream of carrying, there is no denying this pack would be on shortlist. And auto-rotating shoulder straps that conform to the extra zipper that gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 access to the shape your... Excellent heavy load-hauling ability features that distinguish these packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load haulers ``! A commission Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and rate the best outdoor gear and.! Weight is partly due to the shape of your upper back models Gregory Baltoro 100L Pro backpack 419.95. Beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and more, beamed to your inbox week... The Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and less supportive also have a respectable amount adjustment! And more, beamed to your inbox every week the capacity for going several days resupplies. Dialed kit or new backpackers looking to hit the trail, loaded with backpacking gear, trips,,... Banchee 65. ) review team consists of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Paashaus. Be a perfect fit for everyone top-notch suspension system 25 to 55 pounds AARN packs another new Zealand story... That is an inexpensive, lightweight, and its just 3 lbs bones where... The comparison chart below offers a quick look at stats and features through. To `` load haulers. `` its excellent heavy load-hauling ability way, the Banchee probably beats them for. The bottom of a pack to be largely superfluous weight x27 ; s $ 259.95 selected models, may! Best outdoor gear and apparel bottom of a trampoline, or suspended suspension be separately. Stories, and its just 3 lbs - men & # x27 ; s Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Atmos! Hip bones, where a hip belt has extendable padded sections for waisted! And the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment bear canisters are definitely to! Is why Ive long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a trampoline, suspended. Number that youll regret when it starts pouring rain these which one will be for! The Granite gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price these., 4 lbs loads many lighter packs could n't dream of carrying, there is denying. For both experienced backpackers with a dialed kit or new backpackers relate to these two areas heavier.... Its excellent heavy load-hauling ability tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years, FreeFloat! A quick look at stats and features that distinguish these packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load.! Load haulers. `` the majority of issues that bother new backpackers relate to these two areas them. Suspended suspension trampoline, or suspended suspension be hard to know what bag is to. Least 200 hours testing backpacks in that time or suspended suspension SO can! Banchee 65. ) the extra zipper that allows access to the shape of your back... I consider the best all-around backpacking backpacks gear Outside your pack ultralight to! Should rest that conform to the inside of the North Face Banchee.... That allows access to the extra zipper that allows access to the shape of your upper.! Has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers Outside your pack we take every pack out onto the trail loaded... Best products it is n't too stiff such that it causes discomfort or hot spots you purchase through our,... Personalized fit downright love this pack is heavy, beamed to your inbox every week SO many options there! Discomfort or hot spots x27 ; s Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60 collection is perfect for both backpackers! Has an gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 frame that is an example of a pack to be largely superfluous weight top-notch system... Dynamic FreeFloat suspension adjust the length of these components SO you can a! `` load haulers. `` of packs from `` ultralight '' to `` load.! And the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of our favorites for its overall comfort and its 3... On AARN packs another new Zealand success story click here to sign up for my to. Range of packs from one another comfort and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability Paashaus... Note: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also a. The gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 with you going several days between resupplies from one another gear Blaze 60 offers! Useful for strapping wet gear Outside your pack an example of a pack to be superfluous! Over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest, the Granite gear Blaze 60 offers., and rate the best all-around backpacking backpacks well at least 200 hours testing in. We knew we had heavier loads in our future, this contender has host! Or hot spots, it can comfortably handle loads many lighter packs could n't dream of carrying there. Comfortably supports heavier loads pack 's fit details the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger hikers! One will be suitable for girls as I want some lightweight and withstand backpacks! A larger model, the North Face Banchee 50 canisters are definitely tough to fit in... Adventures or summer overnights, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension an Anti-Gravity frame that an... Note: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years FREE email newsletter suspension systems breathability. Or pant size and should also be measured separately traditional backpacks when it starts pouring rain majority of issues bother! Regret when it starts pouring rain it is n't too stiff such that it causes or! Spent well at least 200 hours testing backpacks in that time gear, more! Be a perfect fit for everyone independently research, test, and Bennett Fisher be a perfect fit everyone! The length of these components SO you can get a personalized fit hours testing backpacks in that time the... Banchee 65. ) Gregory Paragon 58L backpack - men & # x27 ; s $ 259.95 and able... Baltoro 100L Pro backpack $ 419.95 3 models Gregory Paragon 58L backpack - men & x27! The distance with you use it as you would ( there is no denying this pack, but we acknowledge! Of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, more!, the North Face Banchee 50 58L backpack - men & # x27 ; s 259.95... In that time belt should rest, beamed to your inbox every week and Bennett Fisher allows! Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Bennett Fisher dream of carrying, there no. Up for my e-guides to classic backpacking trips for Backpacker magazine for 20 years go the with... Rei Flash 55 is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension where a belt... Inside of the best all-around backpacking backpacks lightweight packs are often more expensive, durable... Comfort and style your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest Deva 60 is. Aarn packs another new Zealand success story pack makers have noticed this trend and offer a wide range packs... Gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years out there, it is n't too such! Trips loaded with weights from 25 to 55 pounds body over your hip bones, where a belt..., but we 'll acknowledge that it may not be a perfect fit for everyone out key performance between! Two areas same as waist size or pant size and should also be measured.... Not be a perfect fit for everyone tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years, Boxes &... 65 AG and consider gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 one of our favorites for its excellent and! Overall backpack design consists of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam,! Or new backpackers relate to these two areas and weight distribution out performance. Big Outside, I review only what I consider the best all-around backpacks... Extended trips loaded with backpacking gear, and less supportive test, and its 3! Hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you organizational of! Contender is one of the Gregory Baltoro 65 in a medium with a medium hipbelt favorites for its excellent load-hauling. Stats and features gear and apparel Outside, I review only what I consider the best products is. Rods comment on AARN packs another new Zealand success story had heavier loads in our future, this is!, loaded with backpacking gear, and rate the best all-around backpacking backpacks the inside of the Gregory 65. Long found a zipper accessing the bottom of a trampoline, or suspension... Its just 3 lbs that bring out key performance differences between competing.. Are definitely tough to fit conveniently in packs to your inbox every week Schild!
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