Marmot Granite Backpack

The MARMOT Granite Backpack is identical to the Gunnison pack carried by a major sporting goods chain, and retailing for $90! Obviously, DERAILED gives you a better deal. Plus if you are going to use this pack in the field for hunting, birding, or just like to keep a low profile, gray is the color to get.

The Granite will keep you well supplied for an all day trail trek. If you are on campus, this will swallow a full course load, and provide extra space for your munchies and all of your toys. My primary use is for day hiking, for which this pack is ideal. The organization features 5 easy access outside compartments, two full length interior compartments, and there is sufficient padding inside and out to protect your camera gear, binoculars, etc. I am using this packs for full day excursions on the trail, and everything I need is organized and has a place. The pack is 32L, or 2,000 cubic inches. It will hold even more than this space suggests, as there is an outside compression fitted flap that will hold a rain jacket for fast access. The shoulder straps are also well designed and this backpack is very comfortable on the shoulders and back. There is also a sternum strap. Only caveat is a hip belt, even one that is minimalist, would help under load. However, properly adjusted and with the sternum strap in place, the pack is stable and does ride well. So the caveat is more of a nit pick. And it only applies when the pack is loaded to and beyond capacity, and you are hiking up and down a steep trail.

I have hiked for many years and am a minimalist, so this pack would work as an overnighter providing you can control your appetite for unnecessary baggage. A 2 pound down bag, and a 3.5 pound tent would fit inside, no sweat. The two side compartments, which I use for water bottles, zip closed. I have found that two 10 ounce Zojurushi bottles are ideal for a half day hiking, and they will allow you to zip up the bottle compartments.

Do I like this pack? NO. I love it. And there is no reason to pay more for it than you need to pay. This was my first purchase from DERAILED, and they delivered in a substantial box, and delivered it on time. Very impressed with this website and the Granite Backpack. You will not be disappointed.