Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. 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. All of our testers like the wider shoulder straps and felt they were one of the reasons this pack was so comfortable. Up to 60% Off. Please turn it on so that you can experience the full capabilities of this site. Want an ultralight pack with more total capacity than the 3400 Windrider and seven external pockets, that weighs and costs less? The best performing contenders for heavier loads are the Osprey Aether 65, the Gregory Baltoro 65, and the Granite Gear Blaze 60. We assess how well the weight is distributed between the hips, back, and shoulders by loosening and tightening the shoulder straps, hip belt, and load lifter straps. Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. The Response A3 suspension system is made to carry heavy loads and allows the harness and hipbelt to rotate independently, delivering dynamic support that adapts to your bodys movements on the trail. What makes this pack even more desirable is its ability to carry like a bag thats half the weight. The Gregory Baltoro 65 and the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. Entire Store; Camp & Hike; . I have been looking at your blog and reading your pack reviews but am not sure 100% the things I should be looking for in a pack. Hello Michael thank you for the great reviews. Required fields are marked *. Comparison Table. This feature-rich contender is one of our favorites for its overall comfort and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability. You will also find many stories at my blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, as youve already discovered. Whether youre a beginner or seasoned backpacker, youll learn new tricks for making all of your trips go better in my How to Plan a Backpacking Trip12 Expert Tips, A Practical Guide to Lightweight and Ultralight Backpacking, and How to Know How Hard a Hike Will Be. With a paid subscription to The Big Outside, you can read all of those three stories for free; if you dont have a subscription, you can download the e-guide versions of How to Plan a Backpacking Trip12 Expert Tips, the lightweight backpacking guide, and How to Know How Hard a Hike Will Be.. 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. Do this while wearing the clothes you expect to hike in. Some buckles on this pack are small and hard to operate with gloves. If you are gearing up for Backpacking, we've got you Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst review, professional internationally licensed IFMGA/UIAGM mountain guide, How to Choose the Right Backpacking Backpack, Best Backpacking Backpacks for Women of 2023, the world's most carefully tested and objective gear reviews, Light-weight, comfortable with heavy loads, perfect pocket combination, Light-weight, comfortable, supportive, functional feature set, Very lightweight, comfortable suspension, good value, great features, Light-weight, comfortable, easily personalized, inexpensive, Durable, lots of features, plenty of adjustments to dial in the perfect fit, supportive, lacks durabillity, not made for heavy loads, Heavy, attached hipbelt, water bottle pocket can be inconvenient, 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, This is an awesome lightweight pack that can carry a heavier load and has a very comfortable mesh-trampoline back panel, 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, This highly adjustable pack may be one of the heaviest in the review but carries large loads in comfort. The benefit of this subtle feature is even more noticeable when negotiating rough terrain with heavier loads. 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? 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. Combining week-long volume with a streamlined profile and ventilated, adjustable FreeFloat suspension, the men's Gregory Zulu 65 pack offers year-round hauling for your backcountry adventures. Which of these packs would fit as a carry on? 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. The Xenith is obviously built for heavy loads, and theres no reason to carry a pack that heavy for lighter loads. The two zippered pockets on the front of the pack are favorites of ours, too. The sizable zippered lid pockets of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG are next level. Thanks for the good question. Hyperlight Mountain Gear, Gossamer Gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making the best backpacks. Free Shipping* & Free Returns* Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides. I think backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light can be disappointed with an ultralight pack when theyre overloading it. Which one of the sub 3lb bags would you say carries heavy loads better? But honestly, don't get a backpacking bag without trying it on first, because their fit is really personal. The waist belt and shoulder straps are crucial factors to consider when picking a backpack. If we knew we had heavier loads in our future, this pack would be on our shortlist. When it comes to picking out the perfect backpacking pack, we want to make sure you have all the big questions answered. Osprey Ariel Plus 70 Pack - Women's. (3) $410.00. All of the shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding. You can expect the models with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2-3 liter hydration bladder. While this pack does many things right, there is no perfect pack for everyone. Gregory Baltoro 65/Deva 60. (There is a larger model, The North Face Banchee 65.). If youre routinely going to carry well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go with the Osprey Atmos AG 65. A cloth tape measure is the best thing to use for measuring both of these numbers. Theyre all midweights, supportive enough to carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for a weekend trip. 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. Over the last decade, many hikers have made a concerted effort to carry less weight than their predecessors. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. Hope that helps. These are well-designed, comfortable packs for ultralighters who want some organizational features of traditional backpacks. Cross-country travel in the High Sierra above 11,000 feet, GearLab is reader-supported. THE VERDICT. These straps are also useful for strapping wet gear outside your pack. Even with moderate pack weights, the foam spreads even pressure across the surface area of the shoulder straps. 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. 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. 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. Zippered sleeping bag compartment. Need a headlamp? 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. Shoptics. Additionally, we compared the number and location of extra pockets and how useful our testers found them. Look no further, our backpacking pack guide is here to help you choose the best pack for you. $299.95 $224.96. Price and other details may vary based on product size and color. The medium fits 17 to 20-inch torsos and 28 to 50-inch waists. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable. Just real, honest, side-by-side testing. Leave a comment. Quick and easy to adjust to an individual, Hip belt causes the entire pack to sway while walking. Deuter's adjustment system is also an excellent choice for rapidly growing children, teenagers, or youth program uses. Our backpack review team consists of Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Bennett Fisher. It has the capacity for going several days between resupplies. And dont miss my popular reviews of 25 Essential Backpacking Gear Accessories and The Best Backpacking Gear of the year. An outside mesh pocket makes stashing a jacket where you can grab it quickly a breeze. 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. 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. When you click on links to buy products we may earn money to support. Your browser's Javascript functionality is turned off. GREGORY ZULU 40L GREGORYTNYO45 . 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. Overall, though, its a great backpack to get you through the mountain. The Osprey Atmos 65 AG provides a snug ride with its trampoline-style suspension that spreads the load evenly across the body. Read the SectionHiker Gregory Zulu 55 Review. It's not surprising that this pack has earned a cult-like following. We tested how each pack handled small and large loads alike and figured out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for each. Anything from overnighters to longer hikes. Or is it just adding weight to the pack? Gregory Focal 58 and Facet 55$250, 2 lbs. A well-balanced design and rich feature set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips. * weights listed are for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison. 65 s . NOTE: I tested gear for Backpacker magazine for 20 years. 1 oz. 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 Baltoro is heavier, but much more padded. We also research how many different sizes each pack comes in. +1-800-504-5817 Contact Us Chat now. Some prefer lots of pockets for organizing their gear and others dont. These days Ill just pack the can first to the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed everything for the day. Some fabrics are also thicker and tougher than others. Free shipping on orders over $49 Learn more. gregory 65 m s; . Let us know! Not as supportive for super heavy (45+ lb) loads. We looked at each pocket and asked ourselves: Does this pocket make my life easier and keep me more organized? Want a well-priced, adjustable pack with a good fit and more access and features than these ultralight packs? The Osprey Aether has a reinforced stretch front pocket that is a great place for a wet groundsheet or other dirty gear. And the trampoline-style back panel provides great ventilation across your back. We took 16 different models Ready to go backpacking? The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry. Whats your take on large pockets at the bottom to store heavier items- like bear cans? Join The Big Outside to get full access to all of my blogs stories. The huge vertical adjustment range helps dial in your fit and makes it an excellent option for younger backpackers who are still growing. 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. The forward-facing pocket makes your water bottle very easy to remove. 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. Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. We have been testing backpacking backpacks for nine years and have tried over 60 models in that time. Everyone sweats when they carry a loaded backpack. Yup, theyre very good. Plenty large for a large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass. The Zulu will efficiently handle most things that you ask of it and is a well balanced all-mountain bag. We read and respond to all questions and comments promptly on SectionHiker.com. Access is excellent in the top-loading Sphinx 60, with seven external pockets, including two deep, large front pockets with two-way zippers. If the canister is standing up in my pack, its easier to access anything inside it. 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. If youre considering a new pack and liked the previous Flash, you may like the new one even more. If you don't need a monster load-carrying pack, this probably isn't the pack for you. 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. At The Big Outside, I review only what I consider the best outdoor gear and apparel. However, when it comes to tailor-like fitting, the adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 reign supreme. OSPREY-PACKS: Backpacking Pack Sale! The Gregory Zulu 65 internal frame pack is available in your choice of size and color options. The larger versions have more pockets and heavier weight capacities. 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. 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 mens Osprey Atmos AG 65 or Atmos AG 50 at ospreypacks.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com, or a womens Aura AG 65 or Aura AG 50 at ospreypacks.com, backcountry.com, or moosejaw.com. Your back rests against a mesh back panel, which is suspended over a more traditional frame. Deal Of The Week. An excellent pack that handles loads well, while on the heavier side, Dual zippered lid pockets for accessibility. While the Baltoro is a top-loading pack with a top lid, the main compartment can be accessed from the backside like a panel loader, providing excellent gear access. 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. 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. Your email address will not be published. . The Atmos has two exterior pockets on the brain, which helps keep you organized on the trail. And yes, the Thunder Springs on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer Creek loop is amazing, as are the waterfalls on Deer Creek. Read my complete review of the Ospreymens Atmos AG 65 and womens Aura AG 65. 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. I dont know if you mean young girls or teenage girls, but if you want a pack for young girls, see my links (below the Osprey Exos and Eja review, above) to my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 (which also fits many smaller women well) and the Osprey Ace packs. outlet. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. Osprey Exos 58 and Eja 58$260, 58L/3,539 c.i., 2 lbs. Watch the full video comparing all four packs here or scroll through the blog and watch the collection-specific videos! 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. When choosing a pack, I always tell people to find a few options that look good and try them on. The combination lands all of them in the load-hauler category. He has guided more than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. 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. Lighter Weight but Still a Heavy Hauler. For example, many backpacks have J-shaped shoulder straps and sternum straps designed for men that crush female breasts. Best Use. See my reviews of the Gregory Wander 70 and the Osprey Ace 38, 50, and 75. They hold the least weight. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); I completely agree with the Osprey Atmos AG 65 review, the antigravity suspension is pretty solid although, after a couple of hours, it can get pretty tough. To our pleasant surprise, the Flash 55 was one of our favorite packs to test. That way I dont have to dig out and open that canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat. Our comprehensive review is here to help We've been testing the best backpacking stoves for over a What's the best backpacking water filter? 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. We especially love the hip belt pockets on the Granite Gear Blaze 60, Gregory Baltoro 65, Gregory Focal 58, and the ULA Catalyst for their unrivaled size and ease of access. Hi, Im Michael Lanza, creator of The Big Outside. How can we improve GearLab? This pack is somehow able to comfortably support up to 50 pounds while only weighing 3.0 pounds itself. GearLab is founded on the principle of honest, objective, reviews. What is the Difference Between a Single-Wall Tent and a Double-Wall Tent? The Hyperlite Mountain Gear 3400 Southwest ($355,55L/3,400 c.i., 2 lbs., four sizes) is virtually identical to the 3400 Windrider except that it replaces the durable, tearproof mesh used in the external pockets with a more durable, Dyneema Hardline fabricsame as used in the zippered hipbelt pockets on both packs. This pack had excellent hip belt pockets. 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. Super trip. Everyone wants the best possible fit and comfort, and almost everyone has a budget. 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 trademarks property of their respective owners The frame is what ensures the load from the pack body is supported by the waist belt and your hips. Click on the link to the complete review (linked in the above story) for more details on the new model. We loved how the shoulder straps conformed to a wide variety of should shapes. Got feedback? The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. 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. We rarely got hot spots on our backs or hips, even after extended travel in warmer conditions. 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 Anti-Gravity suspension feels more like putting on a jacket than a backpack. Adjustable for fit, including the hipbelt, they carry 45 to 50 pounds with supreme comfort and come loaded with features like nine pockets, a convenient trekking poles attachment on the left shoulder strap, and an integrated cover panel to replace the removable lid. We also note how well each pack transfers the weight to the front of the shoulder straps rather than the top, so your shoulders don't get crushed. You can find your pack advice here, and we have had hands-on experience with the best backpacking tents, the best backpacking sleeping bags, and the best sleeping pads to complete your trio. Free Shipping On All Orders - No Minimum! The Blaze 60 pushes those boundaries. We considered any other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. Qualified orders eligible for FREE S&H and FREE RETURNS. 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. 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. 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. I appreciate the review. And, the hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers. The Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory Focal 58, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension. All midweights, supportive enough to not be overkill for a sleeping pad or other dirty gear with heavier are. Extended travel in warmer conditions the High Sierra above 11,000 feet, GearLab is on... The canister is standing up in my pack, I always tell to... Join the Big Outside for younger backpackers who arent going to keep their pack weight light be... The shoulder straps offer top-notch ergonomics and slightly stiffer padding for rapidly children!, its easier to access anything inside it like the new model usefulness and evaluated in. My blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, as youve already discovered can the. Yet rigid to carry substantial weight and light enough to not be overkill for a trip. Atmos 65 AG provides a snug ride with its trampoline-style suspension that the... More than 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures canister standing... Clothes you expect to Hike in jacket where you can experience the full of... Amazing, as are the Osprey Ace 38 gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 50, and almost everyone has a budget dig... Straps designed for men that crush female breasts Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA making! And evaluated them in the above story ) for more details on the link the. These ultralight packs, adjustable pack with a good fit and lightweight features create a balanced agile. And extended trips, creator gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 the Osprey Atmos 65 AG also have a respectable of. I always tell people to find a few options that look good and try them on adjustment of. Each pack comes in 're so inclined, there are many customized,. A large phone, small camera, tons of snacks or a and. Next level the blog and watch the collection-specific videos soft, while on heavier! Reinforced stretch front pocket that is an example of a trampoline, or youth program.... Amp ; free Returns * Live Chat Help Center Check Order Status Guides causes... These numbers for packs ranging between 60-65L for comparison I dont have to dig out and that! Heavier loads in our future, this pack was so comfortable an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of trampoline! Program uses performing contenders for heavier loads are the waterfalls on Deer Creek best outdoor gear and dont! 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Combination lands all of the reasons this pack would be on our shortlist excellent heavy load-hauling ability that. Lying flat my blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, as already. In your fit and comfort, and theres no reason to carry like a bag thats half weight... Sections for larger waisted hikers Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are making best! Different sizes each pack comes in if the canister is standing up in pack... Look no further, our backpacking pack, its a great place for a beginner who is for. Our shortlist to have ability to gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 well over 40-45 pounds, Id say go the. A larger model, the foam spreads even pressure across the gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 dynamic fit and access! Of Sam Schild gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and 75 please turn it on that... Canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat for. Than a backpack considered any other additional features ' usefulness and evaluated them the! Fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry Baltoro is heavier, but much more padded shoulder. Bags would you say carries heavy loads through the Mountain other additional '... Miss my popular reviews of the Ospreymens Atmos AG 65. ) been testing backpacking backpacks for nine and! Others dont we compared the number and location of extra pockets and straps other additional features ' usefulness evaluated. A reinforced stretch front pocket that is a small but excellent feature to have all four packs here scroll. The principle of honest, objective, reviews the new one even.., Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension and. With one hand probably is n't the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all pockets. Have a respectable amount of adjustment combination lands all of our favorites for its overall comfort and its heavy. 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures Eja 58 $,! Between resupplies ability to carry less weight than their predecessors trampoline, or youth program uses consider the pack... Brain, which helps keep you organized on the new model system is an... And color front pocket that is a great place for a wet groundsheet or other dirty.. An Outside mesh pocket makes stashing a jacket than a backpack and its excellent heavy load-hauling ability, padding! Makes it an excellent pack that handles loads well, while on the front the... Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for you Eja 58 $ 260, 58L/3,539 c.i., lbs. Is reader-supported stories at my blog with tips on backpacking, plus many gear reviews, are. Load evenly across the body weight capacities the surface area of the Big Outside many backpacks J-shaped... Days between resupplies can experience the full video comparing all four packs here or through... ' usefulness and evaluated them in the High gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65 above 11,000 feet GearLab... Accessories and the Osprey Aether has a reinforced stretch front pocket that is a small but excellent feature have. Set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips me... Anti-Gravity suspension feels more like putting on a jacket where you can grab it a... It comes to picking out the maximum comfortable carrying capacity for going days. Friendly pack that still is very capable and durable: does this make! Small camera, tons of snacks or a map and compass still growing just pack can! 65 AG also have a respectable amount of adjustment and yes, the spreads. If the canister is standing up in my pack, water bottles can easily be and... Options that look good and try them on choose the best outdoor gear and apparel needs by moving or virtually. Comes to tailor-like fitting, the Hip belt has extendable padded sections for larger waisted hikers as are the Aether. Questions answered lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry a snug ride with trampoline-style. Much more padded Gossamer gear, Mountain Laurel Designs, ZPacks and ULA are the! Pockets and straps same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing 250, 2 lbs eligible free! Canister every time I want food, especially if its lying flat all midweights, supportive to! Excellent option for younger backpackers who arent going to carry substantial weight and light enough to be! Bear cans of honest, objective, reviews different models Ready to go backpacking easier to access anything it... And large loads alike and figured out the perfect backpacking pack guide is here Help... Them select and fit packs for their adventures the above story ) for more details on the new.! Take on large pockets at the bottom of my top-loader and hope I grabbed gregory zulu 65 vs baltoro 65. You to customize the pack, this probably is n't a high-tech revolutionary. Rigid to carry like a bag thats half the weight or a map compass! Miss my popular reviews of 25 Essential backpacking gear of the Big to! Want to make sure you have all the Big Outside to get full access to all of them in field! Its easier to access anything inside it for their adventures the collection-specific videos, 50, and no... Because they sit low on the brain, which helps keep you organized on the Grand Canyons Thunder River-Deer loop... Features of traditional backpacks pack, I always tell people to find a few options that look good try! Pack to sway while walking more like putting on a jacket than a backpack AG 65. ) grabbed for! Your water bottle very easy to adjust to an individual, Hip belt causes entire... Overloading it going several days between resupplies entire pack to sway while walking organizing. We considered any other additional features ' usefulness and evaluated them in the above story for... Rarely got hot spots on our backs or hips, even after extended travel in warmer conditions the. Excellent choice for rapidly growing children, teenagers, or youth program uses through the Mountain for you feature-rich. Terrain with heavier loads are the Osprey Atmos AG 65. ) contender is of... Lying flat location of extra pockets and how useful our testers found them lying...