Gregory Backpacks

Gregory backpacks, often simply known as Gregory packs, are high end backpacks that are available in the United States, Canada and Japan. They are specifically for long-term wear on hiking and camping trips.

Gregory packs are good for long hikes

Founder Wayne Gregory focuses on comfort, which makes carrying heavy loads as easy for travelers as possible. According to the GregoryPacks website, Gregory was the first company to produce packs in a variety of waist belt, harness and frame sizes so that they would fit most all people well, and the company continues to innovate.

Gregory backpacks are not one size fits all. They are available in numerous types, with different sizes, styles and uses. The main varieties of packs available are as follows:

• Mountaineering packs
• Backpacking packs (ventilated and non-ventilated)
• Ventilated hiking packs
• Technical day packs
• Active trail packs
• Winter packs
• Lifestyle packs for everyday wear

All packs have multiple storage compartments.

Gregory manufactures over two dozen different individual backpack models, in both men’s and women’s options. Women’s packs are designed differently than men’s packs to ensure a comfortable fit. Packs are available in small, medium and large. The heaviest pack weighs eight pounds when empty and is adjustable to between 20 inches and 22 inches in length. Many, such as the Alpinisto 55, have detachable parts so users can further reduce weight as needed.

An important step to choosing a mountaineering or backpacking pack is selecting the proper fit. To do so, you can follow these steps:

1. Use a tape measure to determine the length of your torso and choose a frame that is proper for that length.
2. Put the shoulder harness in the correct slot, based on the length of your torso.
3. Insert 20 pounds of items into the pack, with weight evenly distributed.
4. Place the pack on your back, tightening the waistbelt and the shoulder straps.
5. Check to ensure that the pad of the waistbelt is in proper position, right where the hip and pelvis meet.
6. Bend one leg at a 90 degree angle at the thigh, making sure the waistbelt hits at this point.
7. Ensure that the shoulder harness’s curve is right at his or her armpit.
8. Tighten the shoulder straps only enough to feel a little tension, leaving two inches loose at the bottom of each.

If any of these steps is difficult to do, this is a sign that the pack purchased is not of the right size. It’s important to exchange the pack instead of trying to make do. Using an improper pack can ultimately lead to neck and back pain.

Gregory backpacks are available at the following online stores:

• REI
• Summit Hut
• Mountain Gear
• Moosejaw
• Backcountry.com
• eBags
• Hudson Trail Outfitters

They are also available in several brick and mortar shops, including Eastern Mountain Sports, REI, Redwood Trading Post, Wilderness Exchange and Half Moon Outfitters. This is not an exhaustive list of where to buy Gregory backpacks. To find more places to shop for them, check the online store locator.

Note that they are not available at mass market outlets, such as Target, but only at backpacking specialty shops, and the price for all but the smallest of the packs is well over $100. However, they are designed to be durable and high quality. The May 2009 issue of Backpacker magazine gave the Gregory Z35 4.4 stars out of five, calling it a “workhorse.”

In addition to packs, Gregory makes duffel bags, messenger bags and fanny packs. It also sells pack accessories; mainly extra pads for the straps and rain covers to protect them from the elements.

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