When it comes to picking out the perfect backpacking pack, we wan’t to make sure you have all the big questions answered. With SO many options out there, it can be hard to know what bag is going to go the distance with you.
That’s why we’ve put together a guide to help you determine which of our backpacking collections is the perfect fit for you.
We teamed up with Ambassador Where To Willie to walk through the differences in our four major backpacking collections. Watch the full video comparing all four packs here or scroll through the blog and watch the collection specific videos!
QUICK COMPARISON CHART
| Men’s Baltoro/Women’s Deva | Men’s Paragon/Women’s Maven | Men’s Zulu/Women’s Jade | Men’s Stout/Women’s Amber | |
| Price | $299.95- $379.95 | $199.95 – $249.95 | $149.95 – $229.95 | $149.95 – $209.95 |
| Suspension Type | Response A3 | FreeFloat Dynamic Suspension | FreeFloat Ventilated Suspension | VersaFit |
| Great For | Heavy Loads & Long Hauls | Experienced backpackers or new backpackers looking to hit the trail in comfort and style | More advanced or longer hikes | Those who are just getting into backpacking |
| Liter Sizes | Baltoro (M) 65L – 75L – 85L – 95L Deva (W) 60L – 70L – 80L | Paragon (M) 48L – 58L – 68L Maven (W) 45L – 55L – 65L | Zulu (M) 30L – 35L – 40L – 55L – 65L Jade (W) 28L – 33L – 38L – 53L – 63L | Stout (M) 35L – 45L – 60L – 70L Amber (W) 34L – 44L – 55L – 65L |
| Included Raincover | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Removable Daypack | Yes | No | No | No |
| Backpack Weights (60-65L) | Baltoro 65L 4.84Ib Deva 60L 4.61Ib | Paragon 68L 3.71Ib Maven 65L 3.51Ib | Zulu 65L 3.71Ib Jade 63L 3.51Ib | Stout 60L 3.56Ib Amber 65L 3.45Ib |
BALTORO/DEVA
BEST FOR…
Long hauls and heavy loads. Expedition style backpack with all the bells and whistles. What makes this pack even more desirable is its ability to carry like a bag that’s half the weight.
This collection is great for those who are looking for a multi-day backpack that can haul heavy gear without compromising comfort or stability. 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.
“I hauled 50 pounds on treks in NZ the GC and Trinity Alps and never got sore hips!”
– Backpacker Magazine Editor
THE NITTY GRITTY…
The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 The Baltoro/Deva collection is designed with a Response A3 suspension. This system is what allows these packs to fit like a glove. 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 body’s movements on the trail.
FEATURES…
- Included day pack
- Included raincover
- Trail access water bottle holder (tucks away when not using it)
- Organization: double barrel top pocket, 3 entry points, WeatherShield hipbelt pocket
- Front U-Zip opening
- Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment
- 3 entry points: top, u-zip and bottom
- 9 exterior pockets
- Dynamic suspension, rotating hipbelt and harness
- Bear canister friendly wide shape
PARAGON/MAVEN
BEST FOR…
Long hikes, when you’re trying to go light and fast. This collection is perfect for both experienced backpackers with a dialed kit or new backpackers looking to hit the trail in comfort and style”
A well-balanced design and rich feature set make this collection a perfect companion for both quick overnighters and extended trips.
With an easily adjustable torso length, extended, wraparound hipbelts, and a dynamic, breathable backpanel to keep you cool; this award-winning collection offers optimal comfortable and dynamic fit.
THE NITTY GRITTY…
The Paragon/Maven is designed with a hybrid dynamic suspension known as FreeFloat. This system allows for adjustment of both the torso length and hipbelts, for a more custom fit to ensure optimal comfort. FreeFloat offers a ComfortCradle system which floats independently from the movement generated by your body as you hike. At the same time, the close fitting upper backpanel keeps the bulk of the weight close against your back to help you save energy along the way.
FEATURES…
- Included raincover
- Internal hydration sleeve and SpeedClip attachment
- Organization: 3 entry points including full-length side zip
- Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment
- Front oversized mesh pocket for all liter sizes
- Dual mesh pockets for water bottle
- Oversized hipbelt pockets (store phones, snacks etc.)
- Breathable backpanel for airflow reducing sweat and moisture
- Bear canister friendly wide shape
- FreeFloat Suspension
ZULU/JADE
BEST FOR…
Anything from overnighters to longer hikes. Comfortable and lots of features but not too heavy. This collection fits a perfect midpoint between those who are trying to go light and fast (Paragon/Maven) and those who prefer all the bells and whistles.
If you are looking for a backpack that offers a good balance between features, weight, suspension, and price, this is the pack for you. Perfect for those who are in the market for a pack with all the features you need with no extraneous extras.
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.
THE NITTY GRITTY…
The Zulu/Jade collection is designed with FreeFloat suspension. This unique system has flex panels that allow for harmonized movement between you and your pack – actively flexing with your body’s natural movements on the trail. The combo of dynamic fit and lightweight features create a balanced and agile carry.
FEATURES…
- Internal hydration sleeve and SpeedClip attachment
- Organization: 3 entry access points including a front U-Zip *excluding smallest liter size
- Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment
- Front oversized mesh pocket
- Floating top pocket
- Dual side stretch mesh pockets with pass-through for over or under compression
- Open air moister wicking ventilation
- Included raincover
- FreeFloat suspension
STOUT/AMBER
BEST FOR…
Someone who is just starting to get into backpacking. A great option for a beginner who is looking for a budget friendly pack that still is very capable and durable.
This collection focuses on simplicity without compromising durability. If you are just starting out as a backpacker, you’ll find this to be a great option for multiday trips and extended trails with re-supply stops.
THE NITTY GRITTY…
The Stout/Amber collection is designed with Versafit suspension, making it fully adjustable and offering wraparound padded hipbelt. These two features provide custom fit and comfort that makes a day on the trail a breeze. The lightweight alloy frame is connected to the hipbelt providing a soft breathable platform to carry the packs weight but still allows you to be quick and nimble on your feet.
FEATURES…
- Floating top pocket
- Included raincover
- Adjustable suspension
- Integrated safety whistle
- Zippered bottom sleeping bag compartment
- Dual side mesh pockets with top and bottom compression straps
- Front oversized stretch mesh pocket with durable fabric panel
If you have any questions or need additional help with your pack selection, hit up our customer service team!
Give us a call: 1.877.477.4292 Mon – Fri 9 AM – 6 PM EST
Send an email: https://www.gregorypacks.com/contact-us
Explore our website: https://www.gregorypacks.com