User Review: Gregory Reality

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

Reviewed May 24, 1997 by Joel Dobson

Rating: rated 4 of 5 stars
Design: Internal
Size: 4050 cu in
Number of Pockets: 2
Max. Load Carried: 40 lb
Height of Owner: 6' 1"
Price Paid: $200

The Reality is the most comfortable pack I've used in about 35 years of toting packs around in the woods. I like minimalist backpacking, but with max comfort. I will sacrifice weight only for very important (to me) comfort gains. I refuse to carry more than 32 lbs (exclusive of water) on my back for any trip of four days or less. My criteria for buying a three day pack then, are: 4000 cu in max, less than 5 lb., and excellent fit/comfort.

What I like about the Reality:

1. The molded back conforms very nicely to my back.

2. There is a very large front cargo pocket that will hold a rain shell, a water bladder, etc. When you open this cargo pocket you can see most of what's inside the main compartment because the two are separated by a heavy, wide-mesh divider that zips open giving you access to the main compartment. This is a god send.

3. The waistbelt is very comfortable as are the shoulder straps.

What I think could be improved:

1. Where the shoulder straps return to the lower part of the pack, they are too tight to my ribs. It doesn't cause a significant problem, but it is a little annoying.

2. The lid pocket opens only from the front of the pack (nearest your head).

3. The net pockets on either side of the pack are obstructed by adjustment straps that make these pockets unusable.

Overall: When shopping for a pack in the 4000 cu in category I compared the three packs I determined were most comfortable and servicable: the Reality, the Dana Bridger, and the Osprey Impala. In the store the Gregory won out for practical design, apparent comfort, and utility. Since using it, I find it to have been an excellent purchase.

One caution: keep the load under 40 lb; one time I was carrying a couple of full water bladders in addition to my normal 32 lb and I felt that I had exceeded the ability of the suspension system to give comfort.

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