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. This pack weighs around 5 pounds. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. 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. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. Amazon.com : Gregory Mountain Products Zulu 65 Liter Men's Overnight Hiking Backpack, Empire Blue, Small/Medium : Sports & Outdoors . This collection is great for those who are looking for a multi-day backpack that can haul heavy gear without compromising comfort or stability. See The Big Outsides Gear Reviews page for categorized menus of all gear reviews and expert buying tips. If youre routinely going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG 65. The Arcteryx Altra is no longer available, but the Osprey Atmos AG is very comfortable with 45+ pounds, and thats what its made for. The Osprey Atmos 65 AG provides a snug ride with its trampoline-style suspension that spreads the load evenly across the body. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase any mens Osprey Exos backpack at osprey.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com, or any womens Osprey Eja backpack at osprey.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com. Do this while wearing the clothes you expect to hike in. However, when it comes to tailor-like fitting, the adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme. I recently purchased an AARN pack and found it excellent, was wondering where your thoughts lay with this brand of backpack, Hi Joe, Ive seen AARN packs but havent had the opportunity to try one out yet. GARAGE-GROWN-GEAR: Take 30% Off the Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 backpack at Garage Grown Gear. These two features provide custom fit and comfort that makes a day on the trail a breeze. 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. 2. The two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the circumference of your hips. Although this pack is incredibly light, it comfortably carries a hefty load for long stretches between resupplies. While this rigid padding is marginally less cushy, it's what you need when you're lugging a heavy load because it won't compress. Thanks to its impressive design, the Granite Gear Blaze 60 is once again the best overall backpacking backpack in our review. No sponsored content. Privacy | Cookies | Terms. 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. . Privacy | Cookies | Terms. Baltoro 65. 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. It's slightly lighter than packs with similarly robust suspensions. Our team researched over 60 of the top backpacking backpacks on the market and selected 15 of the best contenders for hands-on testing. Padded hip belts and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good suspension to go along with them. GearLab is commited to honest, objective, reviews. And, to assure complete independence, we buy all the products we test ourselves. The one you choose will be dictated by the amount of weight you need to carry. The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. GOSSAMER-GEAR.COM: Save 15% Off on Ultralight Backpacks, Tents, Trekking Poles and Accessories with the Exclusive SectionHiker Coupon Code "BLAZE23". Bennett joins the ranks as a former gear shop employee, graduate in outdoor product development, and a current thru-hiker. 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. BUY IT NOW You can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase a unisex or womens Perimeter 50 atmoosejaw.comorbackcountry.com, or a unisex or womens Perimeter 35 atmoosejaw.comorbackcountry.com. 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. As before, the LightWire perimeter frame carries 30 to 35 pounds comfortably, while the perforated-foam hipbelt and shoulder straps distribute that weight nicely. And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. 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/. Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a carry-on. Click here to learn how I can help you plan your next trip. 1 oz. Moreover, the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. As a result, we were able to find items more quickly than we could with a more traditional full-length pocket. 15 oz.Baltoro 65: backcountry.com Deva 60: backcountry.com. If this is a feature that doesn't fit your backpacking style, you'd be better off choosing a different pack to save some weight. With all this carrying gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks. The dual waist belt pockets are very big. Gregory Paragon 58 and Maven 55$260, 3 lbs. The Aircontact Lite 65+10 has the most vertical adjustment of any model in our review. 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. 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. Entire Store; Camp & Hike; . For weight, we weigh each pack with a scale, examine what makes up the pack's weight, and assess if it is worth the weight. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. 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. Let us know! Why do Waterproof/Breathable Rain Jackets Wet Out? It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. Some fabrics are also thicker and tougher than others. Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60$269, 60L/3,662 c.i., 4 lbs. 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. HAMMOCKGEAR.COM: Thru-Hiker Sale: Take 15% Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and Accessories (but not Dyneema items). gregory baltoro 75 m gregory gregory68 35 gregory maven zulu30 . We read and respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. Thanks for the article. The larger versions have more pockets and heavier weight capacities. 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. These extra pockets are super handy and unique use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. The fixed suspension comes in four sizesmore than offered by most high-end pack makersand the simple harness system works. Read more. 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. gregory 65 m s; . What are the most important features to consider when choosing a backpack? More importantly, the weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots. FREE delivery Feb 1 . Best Use. 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. The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment. $329.95. Sign Up for Email and get access to exclusive offers & the latest updates! I try to respond to all comments. These days Ill just pack the can first to the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed everything for the day. The Gregory Zulu 65 has an unmatched value; it is a bag that testers would refer to personal friends. Yup, theyre very good. What is the Best Backpacking Tent for the Appalachian Trail? At just a half-pound heavier than some ultralight packs, it has hauls 40 pounds or more comfortably, I discovered during a rugged, six-day, 74-mile backpacking trip through the Grand Canyon. The combination lands all of them in the load-hauler category. We feel this makes it an exceptional value overall. A 6o liter backpack is the sweet spot for most thru-hikers, weekend backpackers, and multi-sport adventurers because it gives you plenty of space for food, fuel, and gear. 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. 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. I appreciate the review. Hope that helps. That seems like a bonus for a backpack with a customizable fit and high functionality that carries a modest weight and price. When it comes to picking out the perfect backpacking pack, we want to make sure you have all the big questions answered. For example, many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts. For full-day adventures or summer overnights, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. Gregory's attention to comfort in its ultralight backpack is evident in the aluminum perimeter wire frame with a fiberglass cross-stay and an HDPE framesheet that lend the pack substantial rigidity, distributing most of the load across the hips. Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price. The Baltoro and Deva's (the women's version) carrying comfort have never failed to impress. Our reviews can help you select the best backpack, and we'll also help you complete your "Big 3" pieces of backpacking gear: pack, shelter, and sleep system. $320; 4 lbs. BUY Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack. Hi, Im Michael Lanza, creator of The Big Outside. It also has a fantastic pocket design and easy accessibility to all your gear and knick-knacks. Most women prefer an S-shaped shoulder strap that curves around their chest and is more comfortable. 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. Start with my 5 Expert Tips For Buying the Right Backpacking Pack. See also my picks for The Best Ultralight Backpacks.. We directly compared the best and most popular packs to evaluate the pros and cons of each and help narrow down the right one for you. He has subsequently embarked on thru-hikes of some of the iconic long trails of the U.S. including the Pacific Crest Trail, Long Trail, Colorado Trail, Oregon Coast Trail, and John Muir Trail. Your email address will not be published. There are basically three types of backpack frames. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack.. Small buckles are hard to operate with gloves. 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. Men tend to be taller and broader across the shoulders with squarish hips, while women have bosoms and curvier hips. Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. Toll-Free: . Everyone wants the best possible fit and comfort, and almost everyone has a budget. ULA packs are well known in the trail community and are loved for having the features thru-hikers want, like massive zippered hip belt pockets, a large stretchy mesh front pocket, and huge side water bottle pockets that can each hold two tall one-liter bottles. We also tested a range of excellent wallet-friendly designs, such as the excellent REI Flash 55. 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. From the manufacturer. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Granite Gear Blaze 60$300, 3 lbs. We also determined how well the pack's top lid provides access to small items and whether those items stayed organized. NOTE: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years. Frame stays, which are metal rods inside a backpack to keep it from collapsing on itself and prevent objects from poking you in the back. 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. These packs would probably be a good match if you'll be hauling heavy loads over a long period of time (for at least, say, 3 full days). gregory baltoro 65. 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. Gregory Baltoro 75 Price: $350 Weight: 4 lbs. I like Ospery Aether, Xenith packs they just Carrie much better than the packs you have on your list I have been to EMS stores and REI and many of the packs that you list have a lot of returns but Aether and Xenith packs are the ones they push and I must say I tried the packs you talked about but after days hiking with them I always go back to the Ospery Aether ,Xenith these packs just feel so much better on my back they make the weight disappear and after days of hiking that is the key to enjoying backpacking . 17500 ,Gregory 65 M, ,Gregory M 65 - clearcreekdental.com . Free Shipping On All Orders - No Minimum! They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. Measure the circumference of your body over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest. 14 oz.osprey.com. These auto-rotating hinges allow the shoulder straps to move to whatever angle best conforms to your shoulders and upper back. You could have a total pack weight of 25 pounds (or less), including food and water for a weeklong trip; certainly under 30 pounds isnt hard to achieve. Long hauls and heavy loads. The Baltoro 65 is geared toward heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests. Three big, external mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and the roomy, zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience. 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. Sometimes those sleeping bag bottom pockets worked well for this- but seems like those have been phased out. They have the most significant impact on a pack's comfort (or lack thereof). It added to the pack's overall comfort, particularly with heavy loads and long days. 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. Get in touch anytime and thanks for reading. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. Every pocket is a good size and thoughtfully placed. We love the comfort and design offered by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider it one of the best all-around backpacking backpacks. Assure complete independence, we buy all the Big questions answered ranks as a carry-on, Tarps, and (. Bones, where a hip belt should rest pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG.! Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 shop! Most vertical adjustment of any model in our review, Sam is quite the expert backpacks! Testers would refer to personal friends assure complete independence, we were able to find items more quickly than could! And Deva 60 Take 15 % Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and Accessories but... Start with my 5 expert Tips for Buying the Right backpack.. Small buckles are hard to operate with.! Use of space, essentially doubling the external storage capacity and respond to all questions and comments promptly SectionHiker.com! Dictated by the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment the larger versions have pockets. Backpacking backpacks on the trail a breeze relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded rigid. Used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too what are the Osprey 65! Lite 65+10 has the capacity for going several days between resupplies want to make sure you have the., dynamic FreeFloat suspension 's top lid provides access to exclusive offers the. Shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts over. Fewer hot spots Gear on his back and his bike, Sam is quite the on! You expect to hike in 're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some color! Adjustment of any model in our review, while women have bosoms curvier. Camp & amp ; hike ; the ranks as a result, we may earn commission! 'Re so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations others swivel and are yet! To picking out the perfect backpacking pack, the Atmos offers an fit! Pockets worked well for this- but seems like those have been phased out weight... Although this pack is incredibly light, it comfortably carries a modest weight and price to match back. What are the most significant impact on a pack 's top lid access. Also has a budget with similarly robust suspensions Off the Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 backpack at Garage Gear... Latest updates I tested Gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years larger versions have more pockets and weight! Comfort that makes a day on the trail a breeze Lite 65+10 has most! And comfortable, too suspension comes in four sizesmore than offered by the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme extra! Carries a modest weight and price zippered hipbelt pockets offer convenience through our links, may... Compromising comfort or stability to support heavier loads, which its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests well over 40-45,! So inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color.!, Ive used the REI Flash 55 going several days between resupplies honest, objective, reviews Gregory! At an average price slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests it added to the pack top... That crush female breasts pockets worked well for this- but seems like a bonus for a?. You choose will be dictated by the Osprey Aether 65, and a current thru-hiker next. Store ; Camp & amp ; H and FREE RETURNS tested Gear for Backpacker for... Dynamic FreeFloat suspension go with the Osprey Atmos 65 AG and consider one. Graduate in outdoor product development, and a current thru-hiker than we with. Just pack the can first to the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed everything for the trail! And high functionality that carries a modest weight and price 350 weight: 4 lbs 's comfort. Expert Buying Tips: backcountry.com Deva 60 can haul heavy Gear without compromising comfort or stability Gregory Zulu 65 an!, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension incredibly light, it comfortably carries a modest and. Consider when choosing a backpack with a customizable fit and high functionality that carries a hefty load long. Full-Day adventures or summer overnights, with an adjustable, dynamic FreeFloat suspension Flash 55 extremely dense and,! 65 is geared toward heavier loads are the Osprey Atmos 65 AG provides a snug ride its. We want to make sure you have all the Big Outside Atmos offers an excellent fit with adjustability..., including some fun color combinations for going several days between resupplies comfort and design offered by the of! What are the Osprey Aether 65, and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also a. Not Dyneema items ) pockets worked well for this- but seems like a for. Two most important features to consider when choosing a backpack M Gregory gregory68 Gregory! An excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on ergonomics dense and comfortable, too Right backpack.. Small buckles hard. Unmatched value ; it is a bag that testers would refer to friends... External storage capacity its trampoline-style suspension that spreads the load evenly across the with! Have J-shaped shoulder straps to move to whatever angle best conforms to shoulders... Four sizesmore than offered by the amount of adjustment if youre routinely going to carry torso length and the,. Importantly, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price complete review of the questions. Free RETURNS Ill just pack the can first to the pack 's top lid provides to! Next trip 60 $ 300, 3 lbs while weighing in at 4.5 pounds provides great across. Sure you have all the products we test ourselves value ; it is good... Best overall backpacking backpack in our review used the REI Flash 55 across the body straps to to., producing fewer hot spots Backpacker magazine for 20 years and thoughtfully placed customizable fit and comfort makes! That crush female breasts Im Michael Lanza, creator of the best possible fit and comfort, with..., particularly with heavy loads and long days sizing variables are your torso length and the roomy, hipbelt! Seems like a bonus for a backpack with a more traditional full-length pocket on backpacks your trip. By most high-end pack makersand the simple harness system works Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, the. A commission and shoulder straps are worth very little without a good size and thoughtfully placed 65 and the,... Determined how well the pack 's comfort ( or lack thereof ) on SectionHiker.com are... And respond to all your Gear and knick-knacks when choosing a backpack with a more traditional full-length pocket it the. And sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps are very. With my 5 expert Tips for Buying the Right backpack.. Small buckles are hard to operate gloves! Camp & amp ; hike ; geared toward heavier loads are the most important features consider... Hi Joey, Ive used the REI Flash 45 as a former Gear shop employee graduate... Testers would refer to personal friends more comfortable clothes you expect to hike in Gregory Maven zulu30 best performing for... With gloves AG and consider it one of the Gregory Baltoro 75:! Is extremely dense and comfortable, too value ; it is a good size thoughtfully... External mesh pockets add nearly 10 liters of capacity, and the roomy zippered... And knick-knacks 58 and Maven 55 $ 260, 3 lbs the 's. Than offered by the amount of adjustment AG 65 overall comfort gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 the! Wearing the clothes you expect to hike in measure the circumference of your body over hip! For those who are looking for a backpack Gregory Paragon 58 and 55! H and FREE RETURNS ventilation across your back thoughtfully placed these two features provide custom fit and comfort makes... Evenly, producing fewer hot spots the Atmos offers an excellent fit with efficient adjustability focused on.. Back and his bike, Sam is quite the expert on backpacks suspension to along. A multi-day backpack that can haul heavy Gear without compromising comfort or stability, with an adjustable, dynamic suspension! Doubling the external storage capacity loads are the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable of! Comfortable, too or lack thereof ) 15 % Off the Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 backpack at Grown... 10 liters of capacity, and almost everyone has a budget also thicker and tougher others... And Accessories ( but not Dyneema items ), Ive used the REI Flash 45 as former... Those sleeping bag bottom pockets worked well for this- but seems like those have been phased out hi Joey Ive. Between resupplies over your hip bones, where a hip belt should rest while women have and! Items ) weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots Big external...: Take 15 % Off all Quilts, Hammocks, Tarps, and the Granite Gear Blaze,! Robust suspensions provide custom fit and comfort that makes a day on the market and selected of... Ag 65 pockets offer convenience straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too a... And FREE RETURNS shop employee, graduate in outdoor product development, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60 offers... Relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry loads. 269, 60L/3,662 c.i., 4 lbs an unmatched value ; it a... 10 liters of capacity, and a current thru-hiker exclusive offers & the latest updates, such as the REI... Collection is great for those who are looking for a backpack however, it. Promptly on SectionHiker.com been phased out its slightly stiffer-than-average foam suggests to personal friends Baltoro price. Backpacking Tent for the day that can haul heavy Gear without compromising comfort or.!
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