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Gregory Zulu 45 Pack - Men's
$229.95
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Big enough for sunup-to-sundown treks and overnights, the men's Gregory Zulu 45 pack is light and agile thanks to the FreeFloat dynamic suspension—letting your back breathe, summer or winter.
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- FreeFloat dynamic suspension system with independent, floating 3D lower back comfort cradle balances heavy loads with ease
- Fully adjustable torso length with open-air ventilated back panel offers a customizable fit and exceptional breathability
- Designed around the architectural principles of tension and compression, the perimeter frame provides stable yet flexible support to comfortably carry the load on your back
- Pack body fabric is 40% recycled 400-denier ripstop polyester with a PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR); pack bottom is 420-denier nylon with a PFC-free DWR
- Sunglass QuickStow system on shoulder harness allows for quick, secure access to your shades
- Sternum strap buckle has safety whistle and hydration tube hose clip
- Oversize zippered hipbelt pockets provide easy access for must-haves on the trail
- Dual stretch-mesh side pockets allow you to grab your water bottle on the go
- Top zippered quick-access pocket and interior zippered pocket with key clip help you organize essentials
- Front heavy-duty stretch-mesh stash pocket holds an extra layer
- Signature U-zip panel provides easy access to all of your gear, regardless of location
- Adjustable bungee attachment lets you secure trekking poles or ice axes
- Lower side compression allows you to balance and stabilize your load
- Custom-molded zipper pulls offer comfortable grip
- SpeedClip attachment system is compatible with Gregory 3D Hydro reservoir (reservoir not included)
Imported.
View the Gregory Zulu Product LineView all Gregory Backpacking Packs| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Frame Type | Internal Frame |
| Gear Capacity (L) | S/M: 43 liters M/L: 45 liters |
| Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | S/M: 2,624 cubic inches M/L: 2,746 cubic inches |
| Weight | S/M: 3 lbs. 8.3 oz. M/L: 3 lbs. 11.4 oz. |
| Adjustable Torso Length | Yes |
| Fits Torso Length (in.) | S/M: 15-19 inches M/L: 18-22 inches |
| Fits Waist/Hips | S/M: 25-48 inches M/L: 27-53 inches |
| Material(s) | 400-denier ripstop polyester (40% recycled) with PFC-free durable water repellent (DWR); lining: 135-denier polyester (40% postconsumer recycled) with PFC-free DWR; suspension: Lifespan EVA foam |
| Frame Material | Alloy steel |
| Number of Stays | 1 perimeter wire |
| Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
| Suspended Mesh Back Panel | Yes |
| Pack Access | Top/panel |
| Number of Exterior Pockets | 6 + main compartment |
| Raincover Included | No |
| Hipbelt Pockets | Yes |
| Dimensions | S/M: 23.2 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches M/L: 24.4 x 13.8 x 9.1 inches |
| Gender | Men's |
| Sustainability | Contains recycled materials |
Buying Advice
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Most Helpful Favorable Review
Very comfortable pack
Anonymous2 years ago
I am female, but purchased the men's pack because the fit was better overall for my torso. Many thanks to the REI staff that helped me find the best fitting pack. I wore this for hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, a 10 day hike over 100+ miles in the mountains. The 45 was the perfect size for carrying my clothes, outerwear, and snacks/lunch for the day. We stayed in hotels or refuges that provided breakfast and dinner so didn't need to carry a lot of food. I added the 3 liter Gregory water reservoir, which worked great as well. The pack is very comfortable as it was barely noticeable even hiking up and down mountain passes day after day. I trained with it loaded, which definitely helped me become confident it was the right choice.
Anonymous
Madison, WI
7 people found this review helpful
Most Helpful Critical Review
A few design flaws
Norman1 year ago
I used this pack on a trip to South America. I discovered one major design flaw. The chest strap, which is essential to properly distribute the pack weight, is attached to the shoulder straps with a sliding mechanism (so as to adjust the vertical position of the strap). This pulled free about the 20th time I tightened the strap. There is no easy way to re-attach it once this happens; furthermore, once it is detached, it es easy to loose, which I did. I spent most of my trip with a jerry-rigged chest strap consisting of a camera strap wrapped around the shoulder straps. This was cumbersome and inconvenient. I have sent in the pack for repairs, but shipping was $30, and the pack will still have the same design defect when it is returned.
Another somewhat annoying feature is the mechanism for adjusting the hip belt. Instead of being near the front buckle, like every other pack I have had in the past 50 years, It adjusts in the rear at the pack itself. This is always difficult to reach, especially with both hands, which it is what is necessary to loosen it. I found this very annoying every time I put on the pack.
Norman
Denver, CO
6 people found this review helpful
Customer Images
Anonymous
Madison, WI
Very comfortable pack
2 years ago
I am female, but purchased the men's pack because the fit was better overall for my torso. Many thanks to the REI staff that helped me find the best fitting pack. I wore this for hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, a 10 day hike over 100+ miles in the mountains. The 45 was the perfect size for carrying my clothes, outerwear, and snacks/lunch for the day. We stayed in hotels or refuges that provided breakfast and dinner so didn't need to carry a lot of food. I added the 3 liter Gregory water reservoir, which worked great as well. The pack is very comfortable as it was barely noticeable even hiking up and down mountain passes day after day. I trained with it loaded, which definitely helped me become confident it was the right choice.
Age:55–64
Weight:125–150 lbs.
Height:5'9"
Yes , I recommend this product
Tinker
Tennessee
Pack failed on trail within 14 months of purchase.
2 months ago
I purchased this backpack in April 2024 while on a 2 month AT hike. I liked the size and fit. In May 2025 in the middle of a 2 week AT hike the pack failed on trail. The seam holding the shoulder strap to the pack failed when I was two days away from a town stop. After my hike I contacted Gregory about the lifetime guarantee and was informed to have them repair it I had to pay the shipping to get the pack to them. This is ridiculous.
Age:55–64
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:6'0"
No, I do not recommend this product
Stuart B
A good upgrade from a Zulu 35
8 months ago
I wanted a slightly larger pack for winter as I end up carrying more things, and this fits the bill! It has a different design compared to the Zulu 35, and the pouches and pockets are slightly different, but overall, this makes it easier to use. I did notice that the glasses holder on the shoulder strap has been deleted, which is a shame, but overall, this is a great pack to add to the gear closet and trails!
Originally posted on ExpertVoice.com
Norman
Denver, CO
A few design flaws
1 year ago
I used this pack on a trip to South America. I discovered one major design flaw. The chest strap, which is essential to properly distribute the pack weight, is attached to the shoulder straps with a sliding mechanism (so as to adjust the vertical position of the strap). This pulled free about the 20th time I tightened the strap. There is no easy way to re-attach it once this happens; furthermore, once it is detached, it es easy to loose, which I did. I spent most of my trip with a jerry-rigged chest strap consisting of a camera strap wrapped around the shoulder straps. This was cumbersome and inconvenient. I have sent in the pack for repairs, but shipping was $30, and the pack will still have the same design defect when it is returned. Another somewhat annoying feature is the mechanism for adjusting the hip belt. Instead of being near the front buckle, like every other pack I have had in the past 50 years, It adjusts in the rear at the pack itself. This is always difficult to reach, especially with both hands, which it is what is necessary to loosen it. I found this very annoying every time I put on the pack.
Age:65–74
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:5'11"
No, I do not recommend this product
Camping Tom
Seattle WA
Solid Backpack
1 year ago
I have had Gregory bags in the past and mostly liked them. I keep coming back because they are moderately priced and decent quality. Not as spendy as Osprey and a little more than the REI brand or others. I like the Zulu because it's the perfect size for a 1-2 night backpacking trip. It has good support and enough organization for me. it's not my most favorite bag, but it was a pretty good price and gets the job done. I also think it should hold up pretty well over time based on my other Gregory bags.
Age:25–34
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:5'9"
Yes , I recommend this product
Anonymous
San Antonio, Texas
I Do not recommend Gregory Zulu 45
1 year ago
Love the pack but the chest strap is cheaply made. Wish I had checked the reviews before purchasing . I definitely do not recommend this product. I also have the the Jade 38 and pray that the strap is better made than the Zulu 45
No, I do not recommend this product
Originally posted on Gregory
Response from Gregory
Gregory Sales Support
1 year ago
Thanks for leaving the review. A broken sternum strap is covered under our warranty policy. Please contact our customer service team so we can take next steps.
Tinker
Tennessee
Seam failure
2 months ago
I bought a Zulu45 in April 2024. I used it on an AT hike. In May 2025 the seam attaching shoulder strap to pack failed while I was in the middle of a two week AT hike.
No, I do not recommend this product
Originally posted on Gregory
Jimmyd
New Hampshire
Great mid-sized pack
6 months ago
I was already partial to Gregory having used a z30 for years. I needed a bigger pack for a hut to hut trip. I was only carrying 25 lb for most of the trip, but this pack made it feel like nothing. Super comfortable waist strap. I like the design of the top hat being attached on one side with detachable straps on the other. Very rational cinching system along the length of the bag. I also like the option of the zip open back for access to the main cavity. Pockets on the waist strap are generous (on the z30, they are too small). Contrary to some other comments, I had no issue with the waist cinching system and don’t miss the rain cover ( they barely work in the best of times). Also has two loops on the draw string top, pull the two loops and the top is wide open ( removes one of my big complaints about draw string tops!). This will become my go to bag for winter hikes in the whites.
Age:65–74
Weight:175–200 lbs.
Height:5'11"
Yes , I recommend this product
Garrett
Grand Canyon Rim to Rim.
10 months ago
Hiked across the Grand Canyon with this pack and was very satisfied. The only problem I had was with the zippers on the hip belt pockets. They aren’t easy to open or close. Seems to be a problem with the Zulu and Jade packs. Other than that very comfortable and held all my gear for 2 nights.
Age:25–34
Weight:200–225 lbs.
Height:6'1"
Yes , I recommend this product
Jordo
Washington State
Simple done well.
11 months ago
I bought this pack for my son’s 15th birthday, and we just finished a 37 mile backpacking trip in the Alpine Lakes Wilderness in Washington state. He said the comfort was amazing under even under a 40lb load and he loved how simple but well built it is. It’s a great price for the quality and comfort. The water reservoir clip is pretty clutch and the front access flap makes it easier to get at gear without popping the top. The materials are pretty durable and ventilation along the back worked perfectly.
Age:Under 18
Weight:125–150 lbs.
Height:5'9"
Yes , I recommend this product
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