By: David Gladdish
Think of a flow chart with a start and end point. Some flow charts can help you reach a conclusion based on a series of yes or no questions that lead you to making the best decision possible. There are no right or wrong answers, but each decisions leads you down a particular path. Think of choosing a backpacking pack the same way. When selecting your Gregory bag of choice for an overnight trip, there is no right or wrong, simply which one suits your needs and your activities best. Let’s take you through each bag to help you choose what’s best for you.
What?
The Baltoro/Deva are the king and queen of overnight bags. Three torso lengths and the ability to make micro-adjustments by sliding the backpanel up and down and the hipbelt side to side make it easy to dial in the perfect fit. The AirCushion ventilation system gives you the feeling of a fully ventilated pack while remaining closer to the back, providing the best of both worlds. The FreeFloat hipbelt system makes a dynamic connection between the hipbelt and the frame, meaning the pack moves with your body down the trail more efficiently. The auto-rotating shoulder harness moves and flexes with your natural walking movements instead of fighting against your body.
Why?
When you want the most efficient load hauler on the market, the Baltoro/Deva is the answer. The burly steel frame holds maximal weight while the fully cushioned shoulder harness and hipbelt provides supreme comfort. With carefully thought-out details such as the easy access water bottle pocket and front access to the internal compartment, you can have all the bells and whistles too.
What?
The Katmai/Kalmia is all about comfort and control. Two torso lengths, the FreeFloat suspension system, and a Polygiene odor control fabric treatment, give these bags a leg up over the competition. The auto-rotating shoulder harness moves with your body and the alloy frame holds weight like a boss. The pack itself weighs slightly less than the Baltoro/Deva though the load capacity isn’t as high. These larger volume bags are offered in Plus Size too!
Why?
You want a pack that is comfortable, simple, and efficient. You like the off the back ventilation system and you don’t need to carry as much gear as the Baltoro/Deva handles. You want a pack that moves with your body and has great organization. You’re an experienced hiker looking to level up your bag.
What?
The Paragon/Maven are the stepchild of the Baltoro/Deva. With similar features like the FreeFloat suspension system but without the AirCushion ventilation, and auto-rotating harness, this pack is more cost-effective while remaining comfortable and body hugging. The side zip pockets and front stretch mesh pouch make storage easy and simple.
Why?
You want a pack that is simple, streamlined, and cost-effective. You want to be comfortable carrying heavy loads but may not need as much ventilation. You love the feel of a pack that contours and wraps around your hips.
What?
The Zulu and Jade take ventilation up a notch. The 3D foam breathable backpanel gives superior airflow and the moisture wicking mesh keeps sweat off your back. These packs have the same FreeFloat suspension and adjustability as the Paragon/Maven and Katmai/Kalmia. The U-Zip front access pocket makes getting to the guts of your pack easy.
Why?
You want the most ventilation possible while still having a solid connection with the pack, avoiding that dreaded trampoline effect that causes the weight of the pack to bounce on the trail. The ability to store gear easily and access things quickly keeps you hiking on the trail longer.
What?
Just getting into backpacking and don’t want to spend the extra money? These bags are a perfect way to start. One torso size with and one hipbelt size, each with 4 inches of adjustment gives you the ability to find your correct fit. A simple 3D foam breathable backpanel and comfy closed cell foam give this pack a premium feel.
Why?
You want a pack that is very comfortable for the money and easy to adjust. You may not be ready for an Appalachian Trail thru-hike, but you want to feel good carrying your gear into the backcountry. You don’t need the maximal ventilation, but you still want to feel cool and collected.
What?
The Focal/Facet are ultralight packs that still carry weight effectively and efficiently. Weighing in at only 2.54 lbs. for the Focal 48 and 2.38 lbs. for the Facet 45, these packs are uber light. Yet, they carry weight like a heavy-duty pack due to the strong aluminum perimeter frame. The FreeFloat suspension connects the hipbelt to the frame and with the option for stripping the pack, you can cater to your ultralight needs.
Why?
You are a minimalist but still want to be comfortable. You worry about grams and ounces, but you don’t want to sacrifice comfort. This pack feels like nothing but punches above its weight class, meaning you can be efficient on trail without cutting off your toothbrush handle.