Americas Best Backpacking and Outdoor Adventures. Read my complete review of the Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Windrider. This pack is one of the most comfortable in our review and is comparable to other top performers. The packs we've selected are ideal for typical backcountry trips, but most of them are versatile enough to handle general mountaineering or world travel type "backpacking." For carrying loads of 50 pounds or more, I want a pack thats supportive, comfortable, and tricked out. It's an impressive pack in both weight and weight capacity. 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. 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. For folks who love to stay super organized, the Gregory Zulu 55 and Baltoro 65 offer excellent gear access and the ability to get to your items quickly without having to remove anything. The Mystery Ranch Sphinx also has an excellent wide-mouth top lid opening. But no matter which type of backpacker you are, this review covers the best packs in each of those categories. The Baltoro 65's suspension was comfortable all day. That seems like a bonus for a backpack with a customizable fit and high functionality that carries a modest weight and price. The big difference here is that these models are more comfortable for people without a base pack weight below 20 pounds. The North Face Banchee 50$230, 3 lbs. $159.95. He has since trained dozens of guides to do the same with over 1,000 participants while ensuring that they all have the appropriate, properly fitted gear for their adventures. Keen to make ultralight backpacking more enjoyable? The Baltoros and Devas FreeFloat suspension system, updated in 2022, has 3D mesh and a foam-free design that improves air flow across your back; more adjustability in the torso length (in three sizes for men and women), shoulder harnesses, and hipbelt (and the latter two pivot independently, enhancing comfort); enlarged hipbelt pockets; an attachment for a bear spray holster; and a lighter carbon footprint with 31 percent less plastic. This metric evaluates how easy it is to pack and retrieve items from these backpacks, paying particular attention to the design of the main compartment, pockets, lid, straps, and other unique attributes. Of the three big packs for big loads on this list, the Sphinx 60 stands out for its full-length front zipper that completely fillets the pack bag open and coming in four sizes in mens and womens packs, along with substantial adjustability to dial in the fit. If you are looking for a backpack that offers a good balance between features, weight, suspension, and price, this is the pack for you. For a full list of weights according to collection and liter size please visit the product pages on our website. We looked at each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more organized? If you plan to haul loads of 45 pounds or more consistently, you should consider a different model this pack doesn't handle heavy loads as well as a pack that's close to 5 pounds probably should. This pack gave the Blaze 60 a serious run for its money. The sizable zippered lid pockets of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG are next level. This contender is on the less expensive side of the models with similarly robust suspension systems. After a decade of testing close to 60 different models, our expert reviewers purchased 16 top packs available today for a meticulous side-by-side comparison. By the way, the Banchee probably beats them all for weight-carrying capacity, and its just 3 lbs. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? And the high-strength aluminum perimeter frame delivers serious support. Read my complete review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60. By the way, for a day on the trail, I do carry food I intend to eat during the day elsewhere in my pack and stuff my canister only with food I dont need until dinnertime or later, and fill in any unfilled space in the canister with cooking gear or clothing I wont need during the day. This collection focuses on simplicity without compromising durability. 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. Backpackers who are willing to accept a reasonable weight penalty for some organizational features of traditional backpacks and the support to carry up to 35 pounds will like the top-loading mens Focal and womens Facet. Since REI no longer carries the Flash 65 backpack, you must have an older model. 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. Hyperlight Mountain Gear, Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making the best backpacks. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58$260, 58L/3,539 c.i., 2 lbs. 14 oz.osprey.com. Thanks, Julie. Searching for the perfect pack? $329.95. After putting on some serious miles with the Gregory Baltoro 65 in Utah's Canyon Country, we can attest to its high level of comfort. Ps- wasnt thunder springs amazing? Heck, for an upcharge, they will even embroider your trail name on their packs. One reason for the lack of hot spots is the heavily tapered padding in the straps and waist belt, which provide the thickest cushioning where you want it the most, like on top of your shoulders. BUY Gregory 65 Liters Zulu FreeFloat Daypack. Granite Gear Blaze 60$300, 3 lbs. Men and women have very different anatomical needs when it comes to fitting a backpack. These are well-designed, comfortable packs for ultralighters who want some organizational features of traditional backpacks. 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. All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. For bigger girls/teenagers who are approaching or at the size of an adult, nine of the pack models reviewed here come in womens sizes or womens-specific models. Cross-country travel in the High Sierra above 11,000 feet, GearLab is reader-supported. The Gregory Zulu 65 has an unmatched value; it is a bag that testers would refer to personal friends. Join The Big Outside to get full access to all of my blogs stories. Mystery Ranchs Adventure Frame carries 45 to 50 pounds comfortably. Different people have different styles of packing needs. More sizes mean it could work for a broader range of users. This pack also has no top lid, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items. 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. Deal Of The Week. We concluded that we generally favor packs with a handful of straps for crampons, ice axes, sleeping pads, flip-flops, or other items because it adds to the pack's overall versatility. 4.8 out of 5 stars 43. 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. 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. The latest gear, trips, stories, and more, beamed to your inbox every week. It's loaded with features and provides incredible back ventilation while weighing in at 4.5 pounds. I think womens-specific models generally are preferable for any teenage girl or woman who finds she doesnt easily fit into standard sizes. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. 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. One of my favorite parts of the canyon. These are required if you want a backpack that has load lifters. They also feature roughly four inches of vertical adjustment and are available in a variety of sizes. The Gregory Baltoro 65 Also has a very wide opening zipper on its lid. Let us know! Comparison Table. It's a medium-sized pack that's perfect for hiking. This pack is somehow able to comfortably support up to 50 pounds while only weighing 3.0 pounds itself. Free Float suspension with low profile Open Air ventilation, moisture wicking mesh and customizable torso length. Entire Store; Camp & Hike; . Shop All Backpacking Packs. When Adam isn't thru-hiking with his family, you can find him trail running, rock climbing, planning his next trip, or scouting the next place to call home. Some prefer lots of pockets for organizing their gear and others dont. The biggest downside of this pack is its substantial heft. 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. We also research how many different sizes each pack comes in. Our experts test thousands of products each year. When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. They sport six external pockets, including two on the hipbelt and a large, stretch-mesh front pocket, and useful features like good compression and attachments for trekking poles or an ice axe. I have a REI flashpack 65 can you comment on this bag? Just real, honest, side-by-side testing. Thanks for the compliment and the good question. 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. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The two most important backpack sizing variables are your torso length and the circumference of your hips. BUY IT NOWYou can support my work on this blog, at no cost to you, by clicking any of these affiliate links to purchase a mens Gregory Focal 58 or Focal 48 at moosejaw.com, backcountry.com, or gregorypacks.com, or a womens Gregory Facet 55 or Facet 45 at moosejaw.com, backcountry.com, or gregorypacks.com. These days Ill just pack the can first to the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed everything for the day. Entire Store. Read more: Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst review. 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. 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. No Code Necessary. Free Shipping On All Orders - No Minimum! Every pack, other than the ULA Catalyst, has a top lid with a zippered pocket, and many of them can be removed and left at home to reduce weight. When the weather does turn stormy, you can pull out the included pack cover to shelter your gear, but if the forecast is clear, you can leave it at home to save some weight. The forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle very easy to remove. For the weight, this contender has a host of useful features and a top-notch suspension system. These advantages include a supportive suspension, foam stiffness, and well-designed shoulder straps and waist belts. 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. If youre considering a new pack and liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more. 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. 2. The Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory Focal 58, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension. Hi Garry, Ive used both the Aether and Xenith (and reviewed the Xenith here: https://thebigoutside.com/gear-review-osprey-xenith-88xena-85-backpacks/). 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. I also point out two excellent packs for kids and small adults (at the bottom of the Gregory Paragon/Maven review). 3 Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. The Flash 55 does a great job of keeping the price low, but the durability and support issues are still true. The Baltoro 65 weighs in at 4.9 pounds for a size medium. This system allows for adjustment of both the torso length and hipbelts, for a more custom fit to ensure optimal comfort. 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. The Baltoro 65 is available in three torso lengths with a highly adjustable hip belt that is sized relative to its size. We downright love this pack, but we'll acknowledge that it may not be a perfect fit for everyone. How you access the primary compartment on the backpacking pack is part of our Ease of Use metric and measures how easily we could grab a few items without unpacking the entire bag. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you. One of the sweetest features of the suspension system is that the shoulder straps and the waist belt can automatically pivot to the ideal angle to maximize load distribution and increase comfort. The high-quality and reinforced materials also add some extra weight, but these heavier materials are more durable. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. And theyre made with recycled fabrics. Hi Brad, those are good brands, Ive used packs made by some of them and may test and review a pack from at least one of these companies in the future. What are the most important features to consider when choosing a backpack? The larger versions have more pockets and heavier weight capacities. Each of my picks for the 10 best backpacking packs stands out for different reasons. The huge vertical adjustment range helps dial in your fit and makes it an excellent option for younger backpackers who are still growing. Need a headlamp? Read my complete review of the Granite Gear Perimeter 50. 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. Read my complete review of The North Face Banchee 50. Thin and flexible plastic frames sheets that are sewn into the back of a pack, but are not removable. It comes in three unisex and two womens sizes, all adjustable, and the fabric is bombproof. We tested our lineup of top backpacking packs in a variety of beautiful and remote places around the world. Overall, though, its a great backpack to get you through the mountain. FreeFloat offers a ComfortCradle system which floats independently from the movement generated by your body as you hike. 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. If they all fit you equally wellwhich isnt likely, but speaking hypotheticallythe pack capable of carrying the most weight may be the Flex Capacitor. GARAGE-GROWN-GEAR: Take 30% Off the Gossamer Gear Silverback 65 backpack at Garage Grown Gear. 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. For an extended wilderness hike requiring a week or more of food, parents carrying food and gear for young kids, trip leaders and others, the Mystery Ranch Sphinx 60 ranks among the very best big packs for comfort, access, and features. Want a well-priced, adjustable pack with a good fit and more access and features than these ultralight packs? gregory baltoro 75 m gregory gregory68 35 gregory maven zulu30 . Gregory Mountain Products Men/Unisex's Baltoro 65, Alaska Blue, Medium. The Granite Gear Blaze 60 is a pinnacle point of comparison when it comes to performance. Comparing the buckles on two waist belts. Please turn it on so that you can experience the full capabilities of this site. Spend the whole weekend in nature with everything you need right there. The Stout/Amber collection is designed with Versafit suspension, making it fully adjustable and offering wraparound padded hipbelt. They can usually be removed and bent to match your back shape. Most packs have zippers on the front or back of the lid, which means that it's not as easy to get inside them. A top-loader, it excels for organization, with nine pockets from the hipbelt to two capacious, zippered front pockets. From this I cant quite tell which you think is more comfortable. 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. Each pack review in this article links to that packs complete review at The Big Outside. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras. 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. The Blaze 60 ranks among the top all-purpose backpacks. Our testers enjoyed the two zippered pockets on the top of the lid. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. The Gregory Baltoro has a robust suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads. Granite Gear Perimeter 50$250, 50L/3,050 c.i., 3 lbs. Gregory Focal 58 and Facet 55$250, 2 lbs. We considered each pack's overall ergonomics in our fit metric. That massive zipper will add a lot of weight to the backpack. For example, many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts. Gregory Maven 65 Pack - Women's. (26) $279.95. Still, at a weight of 4.5 lbs, this pack approaches a mass that starts to feel slightly over-engineered. 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. Gregory Baltoro 65 and Deva 60$330, 4 lbs. The latest Flash packs have some improvements, most notably REIs UpLift compression system, mentioned in my review above. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable. 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. 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. They sport six external pockets, including two on the hipbelt and a large, stretch-mesh front pocket, and useful features like shoulder-strap attachments for trekking poles and sunglasses. The Baltoro has a mesh water bottle holder on one side of the pack and a stowable forward-facing bottle pocket on the other. We tested backpacking backpacks from Osprey, Granite Gear, Gregory, REI, and more to find the best models. Hi Colin, thanks for that question. Ive tested and reviewed dozens of backpacks over the past two decades, and Ive liked some ultralight packs; but they may not be as ideal for many users as they are for you, based on my personal experience and the clear demands of consumers. 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. The Xenith is obviously built for heavy loads, and theres no reason to carry a pack that heavy for lighter loads. The foam used in these straps is extremely dense and comfortable, too. 3966 cubic inches (65 liters) Top and front U-Zip access. The side bottle pockets are also the most easily accessible in the group. From the manufacturer. Your back rests against a mesh back panel, which is suspended over a more traditional frame. Shop All Backpacking Packs. Additionally, we compared the number and location of extra pockets and how useful our testers found them. Rigid perimeter frames that are internal (hidden) or external and can hold the most weight. 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. 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 Ospreymens Atmos AG 65 and womens Aura AG 65. See my review of the Gregory mens Zulu 55 and womens Jade 53. The face fabric is also among the best in the review and performed above average. 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. Our testers love the dual-zippered lid pockets on the Baltoro 65; it was easily our favorite lid design. The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment. Everyone sweats when they carry a loaded backpack. 65 s . You could stand upright with them and have the center of balance of a pack lower. 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. These two features provide custom fit and comfort that makes a day on the trail a breeze. I would not buy any of these packs. At once fully featured and streamlined, the Gregory Baltoro 65 Backpack is a versatile weekender pack that will have you crushing the miles in serious comfort. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. If you appreciate the breathability of a trampoline-style suspension, you will probably want to look elsewhere. 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. Camping gear has gotten much lighter, and this helps more backpackers go lighter, too. And yes, the Thunder Springs on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop is amazing, as are the waterfalls on Deer Creek. We tested how each pack handled small and large loads alike and figured out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for each. We like trampoline-style suspension systems for breathability and weight distribution. 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. See my 5 Tips For Buying the Right Backpack.. Makes your water bottle very easy to remove, beamed to your inbox every week a very opening! Still found ample storage for on-the-go items looking for a beginner who is looking for a pack thats,... S. ( 26 ) $ 279.95 love this pack gave the Blaze 60 a. Store ; Camp & amp ; Hike ; and have the center of balance of a suspension. The center of balance of a pack that still is very capable and durable felt they were one of Gregory! Garry, Ive used both the torso length a beginner who is looking for a friendly. An unmatched value ; it is a small but excellent feature to have reasons this pack, are! Backpackers go lighter, too from the movement generated by your body as you.. Suspension that comfortably supports heavier loads from this I cant quite tell which think... 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