Gregory Wingate

I used this bag for a 10 day trip in Peru and a 5 day trip in the Smokey Mtns of North Carolina. Overall this bag is very well made, the reinforced bottom and straps showed no wear after decent abuse through the trails and airport.

Waterproofing - the bag claims to be waterproof and the zippers are closed to prevent rain; however on my recent trip some of my gear was a little damp after 3 days stuck in torrential downpour. This may have been due to the sheer volume of rain that the bag was exposed to or I may not have closed it properly. It appears that if the bag is not at least 90% filled that the inside contents can potentially get a little moisture based on the way the bag falls.

Fit - I had to switch out the belt since I required a Long bag with a Medium belt. If you tend to have a more lithe frame this bag tends to shift a bit. I found that depending on which shoulder I put on first the adjustable support back system shifted in that direction which resulted in a slightly skewed carrying experience. It wasn't horrible, but it appears that this problem would be less of an issue for some of a more average or stockier build. The bag also tends to be a little wider thus necessitating a wider frame to carry the bag.

This bag is perfect for some of medium build who does not want a taller bag and prefers to have the center of gravity of their load a bit lower. If you are tall and skinny, this bag may not be ideal since it tends to shift if you can't fill out the straps.

Overall the quality is fantastic and extremely durable. I found the side pockets a little on the shallow side (a 1L bottle fits in there at first but with some movement it tends to shift upwards a bit) and the front straps were limited in what they could carry (anything over 7" in diameter is tough).

It's a minimalist pack which fits well. Small volume (3800cc) but able to carry heavy loads without discomfort. Takes some an organized hiker to pack a week out of this pack. Owned for two years and have taken it out for multiple 3 to 7 day long treks in the Adirondacks and Green Mountains, typical weight 50-55lbs. Single stay with effective suspension system.

Pro: -Minimal but if you need it it's there ie: ski loops, ice ax loops, water bladder pouch. Strong seems, pulled taught many times.
-Suspension system works well and hip belt is comfortable. Overall the pack is highly adjustable and very comfortable to pack and carry.
-Compression straps in good location (also able to carry bed roll and tent poles under these) and no zip pockets to loose everything in, or to throw weight off. Access load from top or bottom. Side pouches for extra water etc. Lid with pouch for little things. to keep on hand.

Con: -Lumbar pad has rubberized mesh which on bare skin is irritating... mesh good, rubber bad. (thinking about cutting away because regular mesh is underneath).
-Stretch side pocket developed small tear after about a year. They could be slightly larger (or more stretchy).
-Pack requires map case or small pouch on belt or straps but Gregory does not have them readily to sell so it requires some improvisation.
-Lid could have a better shape for improved capacity and less dead space.

Overall: would buy again without hesitation and recommend to an organized, light packing, hiker.

I have only been using this pack since May. With that being said, it has seen 10 days in Yellowstone backcountry, and a few weekenders here in Florida. The pack is sleek with very minimalist features. It has the typical top and bottom access pockets, but no pockets on the outside. I went from a pack with several pockets on the outside to this and it took a little adjusting, but once I developed a system the pack is great. I carried 50lbs in Yellowstone for 10 days with no problems. This is due to the Response Suspension System in the pack. Great pack for 10 day trip!