User Review: Gregory Baltoro 70

Summary

This is the most comfortable pack I've ever worn. At 70 liters it is a good for 4-5 days, with plenty of additional compartments if you are an organizer like me.

This award winning backpack is a dream to wear. The belt and shoulder straps use a swivel attachment mechanism that ensures both comfort and optimal support. There is a trampoline divider in the main bag expressly designed to separate sleeping bag/pad from the other gear stored above. To make this of practical use there is a separate zip opening in the bottom below this divider. There is also access from the top of the bag and the front. There are side and front pockets as well as a top cover with a built in water resistant zippered pouch. The hip belt has a mesh pocket on the right and left hand sides.

As if this wasn't enough there is a pop out water bottle pouch, and gear loops on the outside of the bag. There are two toward the bottom that work perfectly for holding trekking poles when not needed. There are also several compression straps to snug up the pack. It also is hydration system ready with bladder holder and hydration tube ports on the left and right side of the pack.

This model has been an award winner since its introduction years ago. Gregory has continued to upgrade this pack since then, but it is essentially the same award winning bag as it was when created. It's hard to praise this pack too much. Features like the dual top collars with it's own compression strap meant illustrate the attention to detail that has gone into this pack. I use the two side, front and top pockets to sort out small items that need to be kept close at hand.

This pack has been through rain and mud, snow and dust. I have not pampered it in the field one bit. With all that normal rough trail use it looks today the same as it did three years ago when I bought it. I know people say that compared with today's lightweight bags it is a bit of beast. I say right back that when I find a lightweight bag that is as comfortable as this one I'll buy it. Hasn't happened yet.