How to Choose a Backpack

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Backpacker April '08 calls the Gregory Deva pack ''...a load monster that fits like a dream.''
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| Best Use | Backpacking |
|---|---|
| Frame Type | Internal Frame |
| Gear Capacity (L) | 59 liter |
| Gear Capacity (cu. in.) | 3,600 cubic inches |
| Weight | 5 lbs. 6 oz. |
| Adjustable Torso Length | Yes |
| Fits Torso Length (in.) | 16 - 17.5 inches |
| Fits Waist/Hips | 22 - 28 inches |
| Material(s) | Nylon ripstop/thermoplastic elastomer |
| Frame Material | Thermomolded polypropylene/aluminum |
| Number of Stays | 1 |
| Suspended Mesh Back Panel | No |
| Pack Access | Top/front/bottom |
| Number of Exterior Pockets | 6 + main compartment |
| Sleeping Bag Compartment | Yes |
| Gender | Women's |
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This is the best bag I have ever owned and purchased. When I first started getting into what i call "The Nature" I didnt even know what backpacking meant. I have extremely weak shoudlers and instant neck pain if even the slightest pressure is applied. After trying out about 4 backpacks, I came across this one, and at first I saw the price and went out of the roof, but it was the extra padding that got me to try it on. I walked around the store with just 35 pounds and I forgot I had the bag on and started to shop. Seriously! Its super durable, water proof, zipper is awesome and I highly recommend it to any girl with a small torso and hates to feel pain on her shoulders.
I purchased this bag on sale right after Christmas and immediately took it to death valley and then to Zion National Park a few months later. I'm 5'3" and it fits perfectly. I love the rotating belt that moves with you. I also love the pockets - they help organize all your things. The sleeping bag compartment could be larger and the zipper is frustrating at times, but it works. The water bottle pockets are perfect. I think eventually I might want a larger bag to carry more on longer trips, but if you're going for a week with a few other folks to help carry tent and food - you should be fine. I certainly packed mine to the rim and then some and it was still comfortable. It is a great bag for the money.
I'm an outdoor rec guide, and could not ask for a better backpack. Its excellent for trips up to 4 or 5 nights, but I wouldn't push a 60l past that. There are lots of great pockets in this bag, the best of which are located on the hips. They are perfect for storing a camera, cellphone, chapstick or even a small radio or GPS signal. There are some great pockets on the sides where you can stick a nalgene or you have the option of sliding a bladder in another pocket. I've heard complaints that it can be pretty heavy, but I've never found it so. Highly recommended.
I have the 2005 version of this pack, and it is wonderful, too! I've taken it out with anywhere from 18-55 pounds, and it never hurt my back with its ample padding. It has tons of pockets to keep things easily organized and great inner access, which I find invaluable when I'm on a long trip alone. It keeps out the water pretty well and is tough as nails. I love that it's completely adjustable, which may seem a little difficult for beginners, but it's a wonderful problem to have. I love this pack so much I bought the larger version for my more extended hikes!
I have the 2007 version of this pack, and it has stood the test of time. Its easy to pack, well made and can hold all of my things. I love everything about it. You can also size it to your body's dimensions; I got a short bag, but with a medium waistband. The store had NO problem changing out the components. My only con: I went through two other bags before I got one that could actually go on a hiking trip. The first bag arrived missing a grammot on the waist band attachment on the bag. The second had a zipper that couldnt open, regardless of how much 'encouragement' I gave it. The store was very flexible, but it still took 2 months of trials, returns and waiting for a replacement. In the end, I'm thankful I went through it though as I love the bag.
I never took this bag on a backpacking trip. I had women's small size. I ended up returning it. I did take this bag out on a 6 mile trail day hike to test the fit. Good things: Lots of cool bells and whistles, pockets, etc Wonderful fit Bad things: Sleeping bag compartment is way to small Zippers on this compartment are difficult Not enough room for me I have a dog so I have some extra gear then most might have. I would say the main reason I returned it is because of the sleeping bag compartment. I struggled to the point of frustration after packing and re-packing in the house. It was so bad I just couldn't see myself doing this out on the trail at camp. The best thing about this bag is the fit and I think I would just like to upgrade to the Deva 70. My old outdated pack is a 70 and realized I really need it. I would upgrade because the fit was so good. I am 5'2. Also love all the various pockets on the outside. If you have treking poles, also has special hitches for those.
I chose this back for the Wonderful way it fit my back. That padding and shape in the lower back is just superb. It also holds a ton...you can go well over a week without resupply, eating well, using the Deva 60. Lots of pockets, great organization potential. Highly adjustable depending on your load. However, it is HEAVY. Three weeks on the AT, and I think I had the heaviest bare pack out there, no lie, large males included. I love the pack, but the weight it ridiculous, and I'm going for a lighter one.
Great pack. I'm about 5'1, and the XS fits me well. I purchased the 2005 version and the bag has gone through many a beating, and no problems whatsoever. On average, I carry about 30 lbs, and the bulkier items that won't fit in mine, my husband carries. --good for a 3-4 night trip.
I really like this pack. I used it on a trip to Europe, and it was the only thing I brought with me. I had to get a rain cover for it there, which also helped with people not stealing things.. I've also used it wilderness backpacking, and I like it for that too. I like the front load, though my winter sleeping bag doesn't fit in it, I can get to think that I want quicker than if I had to open the bag and get to the bottom.
I am an outdoor adventure guide trainer and I have used many different packs (including Osprey, Northface, and Kelty) and this one is the most comfortable. I really wanted an Osprey pack, but when I went to REI the Deva fit like a glove. It has adequate space, pockets, and adjustment straps. The main use for this pack is a 6 day hike in New Mexico that I do twice a year. This pack is so great I plan on using it for a 2 month shindig of travel in Europe. I carry a good amount of weight on my trips and I didn't feel the back strain that I did with my other packs and my hips were not visibly bruised. The pack repels water well, is durable, and cleans up easily. I'm not in favor of the muted tope color that I got [...] I love the new bright blue it comes in but I have a feeling this pack is going to last a looong time and I won't be getting a new one anytime soon.