Gregory

I backpack the Long Trail in Vermont, The Adirondacks and the White Mountains each summer. It's a great pack for a week or longer trip

Have only used it once so far - ~ 35 mile o/n hike. So, the pack was very comfortable. Gregory's claims of comfort seem true. Has a VERY durable/water-proof bottom [nice feature compared to other bags]. Supposedly, Gregory's adjustable hip-belt and suspension causes the bag to have lower max carring weight ~ 40lbs. I never really got close to that, so I can't comment, just be aware in case you're one of those "over-packers." Great deal and price for a solid Gregory pack [...]. Would make GREAT first pack.

This pack has Gregory's award winning Response suspension system (same as in Deva, etc), but on a much smaller pack, thus making it a good middle of the road pack (i.e. you can load it up with heavy stuff and it will support the weight, but its a good size for an overnight trip, if you don't mind the extra couple of pounds of the heavy suspension).

Very lightweight but durable pack with useful external pockets and attachment points. Effective lower shoulder strap adjustment system reduces strain compared to others. Main bag smooth fabric sheds water better than others but emits plastic coat like noise when moved.

A very user-oriented desing and great briefcase I ever had.

The first trip I took this pack on, we hiked 17 miles through southwest Georgia in early April. It easily held a 1-man tent, sleeping pad, sleeping bag, ground tarp, 3 days worth of food, rain jacket, and additional odds and ends. About 5 miles of that was hiked in light to moderate rainfall, and the only part that was even moist inside the pack was around the small area where the logo is stitched on the top cover. The straps do a great job of compressing the pack to minimalize bulk, and there is plenty of exterior storage, although I do wish there were more small compartments rather than a few large ones. Weight is distributed very well across the lumbar section. Shoulder pads could maybe use a little more padding, but otherwise it is very comfortable. I'm 6'1", and the size large I ordered fit great.

Used for several day outings. Perfect for 3-7 day long trips. Comfortable on the waist.

I have not yet used this pack - just got it yesterday so my opinion can only be taken with a grain of salt. The pack is great except for a few things which I am concerned about. I have a 31 inch waist/36 inch hip & the front of the waistband digs into my tummy. Not the high padded part, but when that part runs out right at the front where it's just the strap & the buckle. I weigh 140 lbs but i think if I was maybe 10 pounds lighter and had a little less chub in the front it wouldn't be a problem. :) The zippers have a rubber seal over them which make them more difficult to open (for waterproofing purposes0 but my husband who has a gregory pack said they will get easier to zip/unzip with use. The plum colour is a little bit darker than I thought it would be, but I still like it. The bottom of the internal frame is uncovered inside the pack so I have a small concern about clothing getting caught on it's edges.

No laptop sleeve, and the top PDA pocket is soft, but gets squeezed by the other gear in the bag. Looks good and more comfortable that the backpack. If i need the added stability the waist strap is a nice feature.

using this pack for Philmont scout trek, and adventures beyond!!