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04/16/23
I like it
Likes
I used it this weekend on 15 mile backpacking trip. It is so light! The roll top is great, and the design of the securing strap makes for a nice gear loop if you don't have the bag filled too high. I strapped it over a 2 person tent and still had enough of the loop hanging down under the lid to hang a pair of shoes from it. My gear weight was right at 23lbs, and I didn't have the discomfort issue others seem to have had. It certainly wasn't as comfortable as a rigid frame bag with an adjustable suspension, but "uncomfortable" isn't what I would call it. The stitching and materials all seem good, but the bag is so basic there's really nothing unique or innovative to like about it. It just needs to do it's job and not fall apart in the process.
Dislikes
It would absolutely benefit from more gear loops and their weight would be a nonfactor. All you get are the two on the bottom and they don't even have the straps to make them worth having. The lid has four tiny ones, but their usage is severely limited. I've got half a mind to cut the loops off the bottom and resew them on the top somewhere. The bag squeaks. Not loudly, but you can hear it rubbing around when you walk. My guess is it's the back material rubbing on the frame sheet. If you're handy with a sewing machine you might be able to make a sleeve for it to shut it up. Even spraying it with some silicone might do the trick. There is near zero ventilation with this thing and I'm pretty sure the padding is only there to prevent gear from bulging out into your back. Also, mine doesn't have the mesh cover. It's just padding, but whatever. The load lifters are fiddly. Because the frame sheet isn't rigid the whole bag likes to pull when you tighten the lifter straps. They'll get (and stay) tight, but you have to work at it. None of these things make me dislike the bag, though. It's superlight, does what it's supposed to and does it acceptably comfortably, and it doesn't feel cheap.
08/08/20
Light pack with loads of volume
Likes
Lots of room, durable materials used, comfortable, you can remove the brain and clips completely, adjusting hip belt
Dislikes
Shoulder straps a bit stiff, side pockets difficult to access when the pack is on
07/28/20
Great pack, one limitation
Likes
Size, weight, ability to lighten pack weight by removing the lid and/or frame sheet, expandable 'collar' that turns an essentially 40 L pack into a 60L, like having two different size packs, , roll-top closure, ability to carry load comfortably, adjustable waist belt, a sternum strap that is actually useful, good looking pack. Very easy carry.
Dislikes
When expandable collar is fully deployed it can make weight off balance that effects hiking and river crossings since it is not under the frame's control.
03/18/19
Solid sub 3 lb option that can still carry 20-25 lbs comfortably
Likes
Removable lid can drop some weight. Ample hip belt pockets are enough for phones etc. Nice stretchy back pocket is great for day layers and the such. Roll top closure on main compartment. V-strap on top gives the option to carry a bear canister externally. Adjustable hip belt length is really nice for folks with fluctuations in weight. Available in subtle colors
Dislikes
Unable to reach a water bottle in the side pockets while wearing the pack. The channels along your back are better than nothing, but not as vented as the trampoline style packs. No shoulder strap pockets. Like other Granite Gear packs I’ve owned, the shoulder straps are a bit stiff.
09/04/18
Like the way it’s superlight
Likes
Ultralight, load adjustable, removable head.
Dislikes
Not very supportive, may not be fitting well if you have a short torso.
06/28/18
Best combination of traditional and lightweight packs!
Likes
Lightweight, great suspension system, flexible yet sturdy back support, comfortable fully loaded, big side pockets, useful front stretchy pocket for smaller items readily accessible or gear that needs to air out, minimal fancy features, roll top closure, easily expandable, removable brain, great natural colors
Dislikes
No sleeping bag compartment, side pockets are a little too high for water bottles, no side entry to access inside of main compartment, wish the foam for the lower back was softer, not the best ventilation on the back
04/11/18
Great Pack
Likes
Light weight, nice features
Dislikes
The best features are on the packs that weigh greater than 5 lbs. There is always a trade off.
03/25/18
Overall good pack
Likes
Excellent hipbelt, good hipbelt pockets, and nice wide pack circumference that even easily accommodates a Bearikade Expedition bear canister.
Dislikes
Bottom of the pack is a little too wide. The pack would carry better with a tapered design (wider at the top and narrower at the bottom). While the hipbelt is amazing, the shoulder straps are kind of blocky and firm - they're not uncomfortable, but they could be better.
12/25/17
Great Backpack
Likes
Ample storage space; great for multi-day or thru hikes; Comfortable hip belt & shoulder straps
Dislikes
Water bottle pockets could be a little shorter for better re-entry
04/07/17
Excellent Lightweight Purpose Built Pack
Likes
I enjoyed using this pack last week as I hiked in the Appalachians. I used the pack with an early spring load-out (few warm items and an extra set of dry clothes) weighing in between 18-25 lbs depending on my trips. I love how light it is overall and it carries nice and close to the body. I used it to cross a roaring river 15-30 times and it clung to me like a little comfortable alien on my back! I love the lid because I need it for hygiene, maps, etc. Love it. Nice color too to blend in. Very well thought out.
Dislikes
The waist belt is fairly thin and wimpy, but this is a minimalist design. It was comfortable with the weight I had, but could perhaps go a little thicker there. Also the hip belt pockets are not waterproof so that would be a nice touch for valuables if they were.
