How to Choose a Backpack

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The light and streamlined Gregory Zulu 55 pack features a redesigned, low-profile CrossFlo suspension, improved harness and updated lumbar platform that provides increased comfort in all terrain.
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View the Gregory Zulu Product LineView all Gregory Backpacking PacksBest Use | Backpacking |
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Frame Type | Internal Frame |
Material(s) | Body: 210-denier nylon; lining: 200-denier embossed polyester |
Frame Material | 5mm spring Steel/HDPE |
Number of Stays | 1 |
Reservoir Compatible | Yes |
Suspended Mesh Back Panel | Yes |
Pack Access | Top/panel |
Number of Exterior Pockets | 7 + main compartment |
Sleeping Bag Compartment | Yes |
Raincover Included | Yes |
Dimensions | Unavailable |
Gender | Men's |
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After trying out a lot of bags at the store and debating about shifting to an ultralight setup I decided to order this on a whim. I'm super happy I did. Things I like about it (so far): The CrossFlo suspension system is just as comfy as the Osprey Atmos' but distributes weight better. It helps keep the weight over my feet, whereas I found the Atmos to pull me back. I also like the hip belt feel and fit more. I've loaded it up to 40lbs and it still felt great. The bladder sleeve is fully removable and doubles as a lightweight backpack (straps included). No more removable brain fanny pack in my future! The stretch-mesh is very durable and swallows a ton of gear. The U-zipper makes accessing gear underneath the front pocket really easy (though the compression straps are sort of in the way).
I recieved this pack new from the manufacurer in 2014 for $115, and I will say that it is fantastic. It is a touch heavier than what the specs say on the site, coming in at 4lb 2oz without the included sack pack and waterproof bag cover. For a 55L bag this isn't that bad at all. Besides this oversight, the design features are well thought out. I use this bag for winter backpacking, and a gossamer kuma (I think it's called) for the other 3 seasons. I like ultralight for 3 season (6.8lb base weight including pack), but during winter I will gladly trade in an lb or two for added comfort. My winter base weight is around 13-15lbs depending on activities, so this pack is great for my needs.
The first time I took this pack was on a 4 day backpacking trip in Colorado in November. Even with 45lbs of food and winter gear (5lbs above their recommended load), the pack performed fantastically. Considering how durable the pack is, it's also very light and packs down small for those smaller trips where you don't need to fill it up. The ventilation is superb and the pack is quite comfortable. The materials are high quality and the padding is very firm and supportive with lots of on-the-go adjust-ability. I've used it in snow, desert, and swamp and it has performed admirably in all conditions and was very comfortable and adjustable. I've listed some small things to consider below: 1. The mesh pockets don't seem particularly durable, so I am careful not to stick anything too sharp into the pockets and am a little gentler when I lay the pack down. This could be a problem if you plan on using any of the mesh pockets for gear storage as the bottom of the pockets don't feature any external or internal support. I haven't taken off a star for this because I have stored camera gear, snow shovels, and trekking poles in the pockets with no damage, but I strongly believe this could be a problem for those who plan on relying on the pockets for anything more than small items or water containers. 2. The pack, due to the suspension, sits about an inch away from your torso at all times. I found that with larger loads that the pack felt more back heavy than my other packs without suspension. The pack puts significantly more weight on your shoulders when the weight starts to exceed 35lbs vs heavier hauling packs. 3. Because of the shape of the bag, the sleeping bag compartment is rather small. I managed to fit my Marmot Sawtooth 15 Down bag in there, but I think anything larger and you'll start to run into problems with fitting.
We bought this as a gift for our soon-to-be son-in-law, then found out he had a nice pack... so it became my Christmas gift (thanks, Casey!!). I was first impressed by the consistent quality of the seams, sewn-on tabs, and straps. Then I was impressed by all the options and adjustments for packing and carrying. The real proof came on a 4-day hike in the Sipsey Wilderness in northwest Alabama. We had gotten a lot of rain, so the trails were often muddy and slippery and water crossings high. This pack offers many adjustments to the belt and straps so I could experiment and make adjustments while hiking. It held closely to my back and never shifted as I ducked under fallen trees, recovered from slips, or scrambled over boulders or trees. The extra daypack/hydration bag holder proved very helpful when exploring or carrying water bottles and filters down to water sources for refilling. This is a very well thought-out pack that I look forward to using for many years.
I probably have 100+ miles with this pack now and while I enjoy its back support, ventilation, and mesh pockets, it really has more zippers, cinches, and loops than one needs. All of those items add up to more unnecessary weight for a pack that's already on the heavy side for its carrying capacity. I will probably remove some unnecessary pieces and get some more miles/years from the pack.
Wonderful product for Multi-day or weekend trips. I purchased a small/medium and was able to achieve a perfect fit for my 5'7'' 145 lb frame. Took it out for a packrafting and hiking trip and absolutely love everything about this pack. This will be my go to pack from now on.
I have backpacked with this product for about 14 days so far. It is a solid bag.