This pack also has no brain on top, but we still found ample storage for on-the-go items. Most packs have zippers on the front or back of the lid, which means that it's not as easy to get inside them without removing the bag. But which brand is better? Of all the daypacks on the market, the Gregory Juno has one of the best-ventilated back panels. Tucked away on the underside of the top lid, the matching blue waterproof layer is quick and easy to deploy and fits snugly around the loaded-down pack. So that the load wouldnt shift much as you walk over difficult terrain, the shoulder straps are securely connected to the frame. Backpack Reviews Overview Compare Buying Advice How We Tested The 7 Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023 We tested backpacking backpacks from Osprey, Granite Gear, Gregory, REI, Arc'teryx, and more to find the best models By Sam Schild, Ian Nicholson, Adam Paashaus, Ben Applebaum-Bauch, and Bennett Fisher Thursday May 4, 2023 You will be spending time in your pack, so make sure it's right for you regardless of other people's comments. A lightweight pack like the ULA Catalyst can help increase your speed and mileage over long distance hikes. We compared the number and location of pockets and how useful our testers found them. MENUMENU Credit Cards Although this pack is incredibly light for its massive 75-liter capacity, it comfortably carries a hefty load for long stretches between resupplies. Tested: Gregory Mountain Katmai 65 versus Gregory Baltoro 65, Osprey Given its budget-friendly price, a surprise inclusion to the Gregory Paragon 58 pack is a built-in rain cover. This adds to the hip-hugging feel. I am a bit puzzled by the fact that the pack comes in only one size. Osprey has always done a good job of marrying durability, adjustability, and large load comfort, and the Osprey Aether 65 is the perfect example. In these conditions, I felt that the pack did a nice job wicking away moisture and encouraging airflow behind my back. After a decade of testing over 100 different models, our experts purchased the 15 top packs available today for a meticulous side-by-side comparison. However, its many features and tough construction make it one of the heaviest hydration packs Ive ever tried. September 12, 2022 by Leslie Gilmour Over the years, I've learned that the right backpack can mean the difference between an okay hiking trip and an amazing one. Its extra small/small size weighs 3.39 lbs (1.54 kg). Because they sit low on the pack, water bottles can easily be removed and replaced with one hand. Gregory was the first company to build packs in different harness, frame, and waist belt sizes. For example the Gregory Paragon 58 and Osprey Atmos AG 65.. I'm just getting into the world of backpacking and looking to upgrade from my crappy 45L Costco bag. Mesh-heavy build and adjustable shoulder straps and hipbelt do a nice job keeping the pack close to the body, which minimizes excess movement and inspires confidence over tricky terrain. All the features on the pack, including the full-function compression straps, are largely intuitive. When you design a product to be lightweight, it's common for performance to suffer in another way. They are wide, nicely articulated, and ergonomically shaped. The trend is toward lighter materials that still offer decent support, and waterproof boots Gregory is well-known for their comfort-oriented and feature-rich packs, and the latest Deva 70 carries the torch. This tends to provide more airflow, making these packs cooler and less sweaty, but typically less capable of handling heavier loads. Suspension dictates how effectively the weight of your load disperses throughout the pack onto the shoulder straps and waist belt. The adjustment options of the Osprey Aether 65 are also quite notable. Gregory Paragon 58 Backpack Review - SectionHiker.com Finally, Gregory makes the pack in a womens-specific version called the Maven, which is nearly identical to the mens design (more on this below). We considered other additional features' usefulness and evaluated them in the field during real-world testing. In the end, in Gregorys lineup we prefer the more well-rounded and comfortable Paragon. (size MD/LG) Fabric: Nylon (100D, 210D, & 420D) Capacities: 48, 58, 68L The ultralight Gossamer Gear Mariposa going into the Sierras. To help you figure out which brand to buy, Ill share my first-hand experience with Osprey and Gregory packs and compare their flagship products. Ospreys backpacks are built to last. It excels in nearly every performance metric. The Paragon also makes it easier to really customize the fitespecially with the adaptable hipbeltand we find the large mesh pocket to be more convenient for storage. The Baltoro 65 and the Atmos 65 are very similar in price on Amazon. The Deuter Aircontact Core has everything you'd want to stay organized on your next backpacking trip. More importantly, weight is distributed more evenly, producing fewer hot spots. Trampoline-style or suspended suspension systems feature a tensioned mesh back panel (like a trampoline) instead of a more traditional, single-stay, double-stay, or "Y" shaped frame. You can go lighter in the popular 55- to 65-liter range, but the Paragons 3-pound-9.3-ounce weight is nothing to scoff at. Best Overall Backpacking Backpack 1. Each of these models offers subtle advantages that will help transfer the load to your hips and keep you moving toward camp in relative comfort. Personally, I find Osprey to be a slightly better brand. Gregory Paragon 58 Backpack Review | Switchback Travel If you are sure you dont want a fully frameless backpack, but still want a lightweight backpack, the Exos is a solid choice. Luckily, Gregory didnt give up. Keeping in mind that all of this is coming from someone who always tries to pack light. The aluminum frame is pretty stout. My favorite thing about Ospreys All Mighty Guarantee is the fact that the company will repair any damage free of charge. The Gregory Paragon, which is the brand's men's version, also weighs less than the Osprey Atmos. We also looked at the range of torso lengths available. Essentially, this Gregory pack doesnt sacrifice anything to save weight. To help you keep your stuff organized, the Juno comes with a full array of intuitive pockets. This is a review of the Gregory Baltoro 65 vs Osprey Atmos 65, two high-end weekend backpacks. If you are a cyclist or daily bike commuter, you can use it to securely attach your helmet to the pack. Finally, while most users have a good experience with the Atmos 65 AG, some testers found the waistbelt confining and too "hug-like", especially when adjusting clothing. The back panel and shoulder straps are firm and supportive, remaining comfortable with loads up to a whopping 50 pounds. 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. You should consider a different model if you plan to haul loads of 45 lb or more very often. You can expect the models with this feature to work with just about any brand's 2 to 3-liter hydration bladder. And once you factor in the features often found on heavier, deluxe packs like the Paragons rain cover, full metal frame, and side zippered access to the main compartment, its weight is perfectly reasonable. The next time I go on an adventure that requires carrying lots of heavy gear, the Baltoro will likely be on my packing list. The Osprey Atmos 65 AG provides a snug ride with its trampoline-style suspension that spreads the load evenly across the body. The waist belt and shoulder straps are fixed. The shoulder straps and hipbelt can be adjusted quickly with a Velcro rip-and-stick design. Osprey Atmos AG 65 and Aura AG 65. After all, every outdoor lover has different needs and preferences. Theres also a key clip here, with enough space even with the rain cover inside for stowing items you dont need quick access to (I used it for my passport and a small first aid kit). See the Men's Gregory Paragon 58See the Women's Gregory Maven 55. Its certainly not a standout like Ospreys Atmos AG (which features a suspended mesh backpanel design), but the Paragon is perfectly serviceable in this regard. We consider price in our value recommendations but never let price color our testing or analysis of pack performance. As pack volume increases, access takes on greater importance. Comfortable carrying heavy or light loads. 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. That said, we found the Zulu to be fairly disappointing in terms of carrying comfort, and especially when hauling bulkier items (this was largely due to its shape, which is somewhat wide and short). The Exos is packed with many convenient features. But Ospreys All Mighty Guarantee is what seals the deal for me. This is something Ive rarely experienced with hip belt-equipped backpacks. Further, the updated mesh-heavy build and easy adjustability of the shoulder straps and hipbelt do a really nice job keeping the pack close to my back, which minimized excess movement and gave me a lot of confidence during river crossings and over more difficult terrain. Let's compare Osprey vs Gregory - two of the best backpack brands out there. When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Backpackers who get out a lot and occasionally need to haul a heavy load probably will prefer the Atmos as the better all-around pack, but the Paragon meets our weekend needs at a lower weight and friendlier price. If you want to buy this daypack, pay close attention to the size. The Aether has a reinforced stretch front pocket that is a great place for a wet ground sheet or other dirty gear. However, we've also seen these packs last thousands of miles. Though this isn't a high-tech, revolutionary pack, part of its appeal is its simplistic yet functional design. The waist belt and the shoulder straps are made of open mesh that wicks moisture and breaths well enough. The main differences between Osprey vs Gregory backpacks are: Gregory packs have a limited presence in most hiking and sporting stores, whereas Osprey tends to have a larger in-store selection, making it easier to try on several Osprey packs to find the perfect fit. The Talons flexible frame allows for a great range of motion. This line of backpacks was launched over two decades ago. If you are looking for a more affordable, but still highly functional backpack that will last for decades, go with Osprey. The Gregory Baltoro 65 also has a very wide opening zipper on its lid. Also, many side access panels are a pain to close when the pack is fully loaded. If your backpacking setup is dialed, you may benefit from a lightweight pack, but not necessarily. He has thru-hiked the Pacific Crest Trail, the Vermont Long Trail, the Colorado Trail, the Oregon Coast Trail, and the John Muir Trail. We've measured volume and weight and evaluated the usefulness of every pocket and feature. 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. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); CaminoAdventures.com is 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. Here we break down our findings by metric and dive into the nitty gritty of what makes each pack worthy of consideration. For hikes with loads under 40 lb, this is one of the most comfortable backpacks Ive tried. It weighs a mere 2.8 pounds. From short overnights to multi-day trips into the backcountry, every backpacker wants the right tools for the job. 15.7 oz. The Baltoro has fantastic accessibility and overall pack design. Ive used this backpack on numerous adventures, and I am yet to notice any significant wear or tear. It seems like an awkwardly-shaped item could easily put a hole in the mesh. We use affiliate links andmay receive a small commission on purchases. We tested our lineup of top backpacking packs in a variety of beautiful and remote places around the world. Its true that the side zip isnt as convenient as an opening along the front, but I quickly adapted and started placing items Id likely need during the day on that side. We downright love this pack, but we'll acknowledge that it may not be a perfect fit for everyone. Not as supportive for super heavy (45+ lb) loads. Ospreys warranty even covers packs that were made way back in 1974. A pack's suspension is its frame system. It cant accommodate thicker layers. The fit of the pack is excellent and the design is truly ergonomic. The 58 should hit a sweet spot for most backpackers, but for those hauling bulkier gear, the 68-liter model might be a better option. Our favorite pack, the Granite Gear Blaze 60, offers outstanding performance at an average price, making it a great value. 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. The REI Traverse 60 and Flash 55 are available in a unique extra size: a large torso with a small waistbelt, which is useful for those tall, skinny folks out there. The Osprey Atmos AG 65, Gregory Focal 58, and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 all have trampoline-style suspension. We enjoyed this pack's great features for its practicality and usability. This was a great feature as we were swapping out the pack between testers with differing 18- and 21-inch torsos, but its also a very practical solution for dialing in fit. You do lose some ankle support when carrying a heavy pack or traversing rocky trails A great pair of hiking pants provides comfort, freedom of movement, the versatility to perform well in a range of environments, and durability over the long haul. Still, at a weight of 4.6 pounds, this pack approaches a mass that starts to feel slightly over-engineered. Rating: (4.7/5) See the Men's Gregory Baltoro 75 See the Women's Gregory Deva 70 Privacy | Cookies | Terms. Our wide and varied backpack review team is led by Sam Schild, a backpacker, trail runner, and mountain biker based in Colorado. Mike Pfotenhauer founded Osprey in 1974 in California. As a dedicated day hiker, I appreciate the well-ventilated back panel and the carefully tailored features. Ian has guided over 1,000 clients and helped them select and fit packs for their adventures. It has great organizational features, including three separate ways to access the main compartment. The big side pockets can easily accommodate two 1L water bottles. Ospreys LidLock system is one of the best features of the daypack. This pack includes zippered hip belt pockets, an external zippered valuables pocket, and a front zippered compartment in addition to the big main compartment that houses the removable tool pouch and bladder. ), and its a near match to Ospreys Rook 65 (3 lbs. Other than this, I have no complaints. 9.8 oz. However, it comes in three different sizes. The AeroSpan suspension also allows heat to escape from the back panel. However, some of the more expensive packs did score quite well overall. If youre thinking about buying gear that weve reviewed on Switchback Travel, you can help support us in the process. The Deuter Aircontact Core 65+10 is a great pack for those who want options for staying organized on the trail. The Gregory Focal 58 also stood out for its value: it's more comfortable than most backpacks we tested and costs less than most. Id also say its the best Osprey backpack overall. (size MD/LG)Fabric: Nylon (100D, 210D, & 420D)Capacities: 48, 58, 68LWhat we like: Very well-balanced design at a great price.What we dont: Thin hipbelt padding has a modest impact on carrying capacity. Your back rests against a mesh back panel, which is suspended over a more traditional frame. FreeFloat breathable suspension with dynamic flex panels that move with the natural movements of your body. In truth, both are solid options for the majority of overnight and weekend backpackers, and a final decision should come down to features, durability, and how much you plan to carry. Additional storage includes a large mesh shove-it pocket along the front of the Paragon, which is very stretchy and a great place to keep items you want handy, as well as separating wet or smelly gear. 4.7 out of 5 stars 102. For those who dont need the extra room, the Paragon 48 appeals more to weight-conscious backpackers taking on shorter trips($200; 3 lbs. What we don't: Pricey and fairly heavy at over 4.5 pounds. The pack keeps the weight close to your back, so no feature can magically create more airflow. If you want serious volume without serious weight, the Catalyst is a superb option and one of our favorite packs for long-distance hikes. The lightest version of the Osprey Men's Exos 58 Pack weighs 30 ounces less than the lighest version of the Osprey Men's Atmos AG 65 Pack. Built-in rain cover and side zippered access to the main compartment are nice additions for a pack in this price and weight range. At $230 and around 3.5 pounds, the Paragon is affordable and reasonably light but still fully featured and durable. 11 oz. It's lightweight and full of features that can be added, moved, or removed as needed, all for a reasonable price. The narrower shoulder straps make this heavy-duty backpack a great choice for smaller-framed women. Although I was skeptical at first, the shoulder straps and the waist belt proved to be quite cozy. This pack has our favorite external stretch mesh back pocket of any ultralight model. But, if you consider both of these brands to be out of your price range, check out my post on the best backpacks for the Camino. Weighing in at 2 pounds, 10 ounces, this pack is one of the lightest of the bunch, almost qualifying as a true ultralight pack. The Exos is not adjustable. The high-quality and reinforced materials, as well as additional features, add extra weight. Effectively balancing weight, carrying comfort, and features is a tall order, but Granite Gears Blaze 60 pack manages to do so with very few compromises. In choosing the right backpacking tent, you have a wide range of options from minimalist ultralight shelters to inexpensive and heavier entry-level models. It is great for awkwardly-shaped items such as fuel bottles and camp sandals. Its one of the most comfortable daypacks Ive tested, and It just keeps getting better and better. Within Gregorys own lineup, we also like their Zulu 65, which costs the same as the Paragon at $230. The Arc'teryx Bora AR 65 has front pocket that zips open but can also be accessed from the top of the pocket without unzipping it. These openings enable access to a part of the pack that is hard to get at from the top without unloading it all on the ground first. To ensure the highest quality, Gregory field tests every single product. The lightest packs in our review, by a significant margin, are the REI Flash 55, ULA Catalyst, Gregory Focal 58, and Granite Gear Blaze 60. And for those that dont need the cover, you can leave it behind and use the zippered pocket for storage. The Syncro impressed me straight away with its high-quality construction and versatile design. 8.5 oz. The warranty doesnt cover normal wear and tear, but Gregory will quickly repair any damaged pack for a reasonable fee. Price: $230Weight: 3 lbs. Packs that weigh more will have more pockets and often have a more robust frame, making a heavier load feel more comfortable. On one multiday trip in Parque Patagonia, I started out with a load of about 40 pounds and it felt like I was right at the max. See the key differences: Weight See the weight difference between the Osprey Men's Exos 58 Pack vs Osprey Men's Atmos AG 65 Pack. I have mixed feelings about the mesh water bottle pockets. Best Backpacking Backpacks of 2023 | Switchback Travel They conform to my shape without being too soft. The Flash 55 was one of our favorite packs to test. Granite Gear keeps things simple, and by using some of the lightest and most durable fabrics available, they manage to keep the pack light and strong. This boosts its carrying capacity and all-around support considerably (many lightweight designs compromise here with less metal in their overly flexible constructions). Read more: Ultralight Adventure Equipment Catalyst review. The Optic also includes a storm flap. Osprey Atmos AG 65 vs Gregory Paragon 58 (2017) Gear Questions I'm just getting into the world of backpacking and looking to upgrade from my crappy 45L Costco bag. With all of this said, I am sure that you wont be disappointed no matter which brand you choose. The Packmod system enables you to customize the pack for your needs by moving or eliminating virtually all external pockets and straps. Along with a tailored backpanel that has a substantial lumbar support, the pack hugs you more than you would expect at this $230 price point. At the same time, thinner padding in less important areas reduces chafing. If you're so inclined, there are many customized options, including some fun color combinations. On the contrary, if you overload a lightweight pack that isn't designed for a heavy load, it won't be comfortable. Truth be told, I find this feature to be a bit gimmicky. Osprey Exos 58 vs Atmos AG 65: Pack Comparison (2023) We've ventured all over the world with these packs on multiple extended trips, from sweaty Appalachian slogs to hot and dry Mojave crossings to alpine rambles. At the end of the day, the adjustability and excellent suspension system of the Atmos make it one of the most comfortable backpacks we've tested. Material on GearLab is copyrighted. They have the most significant impact on a pack's comfort (or lack thereof). The new version of the pack comes with an upgraded back panel. Gregory Paragon 58 Pack - Men's. Members get an estimated $26.00 back on this item. The plush, breathable foam shoulder straps are my favorite detail. It features horizontal channels that allow vertical flex. It runs almost the entire length of the backpack. The same size Aura clocks in at 3.837 lbs (1.740 kg). Weight Below we cover all the gear you need for your backpacking adventures, including detailed round-ups, reviews, and Gone are the days when backpacking consisted of strapping on a huge external frame and lumbering through the forest with an aching body. It is the right choice for hikers who prioritize security and comfort. Osprey Atmos AG 65 vs Gregory Paragon 58 (older version) : r/backpacking 3 yr. ago Posted by yaboireeee Osprey Atmos AG 65 vs Gregory Paragon 58 (older version) Hey r/backpacking! It's an impressive pack in both weight and weight capacity. Nylon/polyester. If you want a bigger backpack that can carry heavier loads, I think Gregory is the better option. Arguably the biggest addition to the latest version was zippered access to the main compartment. Tipping the scales at just 2.8 pounds, the ULA Catalyst borders on being an ultralight pack and is an excellent option for lightweight enthusiasts. Having straps for a sleeping pad or other oddly shaped items is a small but excellent feature to have. The hip belt is of a one-piece design that holds the backpack weight close to the torso and wraps smoothly around the hips. Last but not least, an interesting budget option to the Paragon isREI Co-ops $199 Flash 55. I tried the pack on a hot summers day and it did a good job of keeping my back cool. It makes it very easy to fill or replace the water reservoir. The Aircontact Core has great features to keep us organized at a reasonable price. A pack with a good hip belt is critical; pockets can make or break a hip belt. Most pack manufacturers are pretty accurate with their volume claims. I found it to be great for backcountry trips. I used it for my frying pan and flip-flops. We really liked the original, and they recently updated the design with a mesh-heavy suspension system and side zippered access to the main compartment. It exhibits all the qualities Ive come to expect from the brands products. Along with improved access to the main compartment, Gregory addressed another of our complaints with the original Paragon: ventilation. Key to the Paragons ability to carry weight efficiently is the highly adaptable fit. Some are light and relatively soft, while others swivel and are well-padded yet rigid to carry heavy loads. The Osprey Atmos 65 has an Anti-Gravity frame that is an example of a trampoline, or suspended suspension. What sets the Atmos 65 AG apart the most, though, is Osprey's innovative anti-gravity (AG) suspension, which helps spread the load more evenly across your hips and shoulders while also venting excess heat that tends to build behind your back and under the hip belt. The Maven is a lightweight backpack that offers a comprehensive feature set and supportive suspension. In most facets, the Paragon has good durability among lightweight packs. Got feedback? However, I didnt find it to be as supportive for super heavy loads. For this review, we took the Paragon 58 trekking in Patagonia, and Gregory makes the same pack in 48- and 68-liter capacities. 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. Editor's Note: We updated this article on May 4, 2023, to reflect the newest version of the REI Flash 55 and to add three new packs to the lineup, from Deuter, Arc'teryx, and ALPS Mountaineering. Backpack Reviews Backpacking Packs for Men Gregory Paragon 68 Review A solid, versatile, and low weight backpacking pack that is a great option for a variety of trips $210 at Backcountry $211 at Amazon Price: $270 List Manufacturer: Gregory By Ian Nicholson Review Editor Nov 5, 2019 70 OVERALL SCORE Suspension and Comfort - 45% 7.0 There are a couple of attachment points that allow you to carry extra gear, a rain cover, and a large sleeping bag compartment. If you want a ton of space to store your bulky items, the ALPS Mountaineering Cascade 90 and Mountain Hardwear PCT 70 had some of the largest main compartments along with tons of external storage.