User Review: Gregory Denali Pro

Gregory Denali Pro
Above: The current Denali Pro, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed November 10, 1999 by an anonymous hiker

Rating:
Design: Internal Frame
Size: approx., 6500(Med)
Number of Pockets: 1plus lid
Max. Load Carried: 64lbs
Height of Owner: 5' 11"
Price Paid: $460

If you are looking for a pack that can carry all your backpacking equipment, winter gear and/or mountaineering equip. -- this is it. The "frame" and suspension are second to none. Carrying 60+ pounds while snowshoeing in 3 feet of powder is hard work, but wearing this pack you won't experience sore shoulders or count how many times you have had to cinch up your hipbelt to keep the load from slipping down your body. I have taken this pack on several winter trips and most recently to the Smoky Mountains and never had sore shoulders/back. The shoulder padding is excellent (the suspension automatically pivots to the taper of your shoulders) and the hip belt really keeps the load on your hips (it is adjustable to match the angle of your Iliac crest). With this pack it is easy to carry too much, but the side compression straps can be used to keep the load to sane levels. The "technical" features are well thought out - dual axe loops make organizing easier and the tough crampon patch up top eases my worries about the damage that my crampons can cause. The HUGE front pocket has a mesh "wall" that unzips and gives access to the main compartment. The super tough sleeping bag compartment bottom has survived several scuffs and drags without showing any significant abrasion marks. I have tried the EMS7000, Dana Designs, Lowe Alpine, Mountain Smith and a few others, but none even came close to the "off the shelf" fit of the Gregory. I like it so much I bought my fiancee' the Petit Dru Pro - and she loves it too. Spend the money - you'll not regret it.