User Review: Gregory Z55

Gregory Z55
Above: The current Z55, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed October 10, 2009 by D&G in the Smokys

Rating:
Design: Top loading main(with side entry) Internal
Size: 55L/3300 CU IN
Number of Pockets: 1 main, 2 outer/lid, 1 shove-it, 2 hip-belt, w/hydration sleeve
Max. Load Carried: 26lbs
Height of Owner: 5'7"
Price Paid: $190

I have put this pack through more than 20 miles of Smoky Mountain hiking, even in a light rain. This pack is awesome. I originally had the Osprey Atmos 50, but the lower frame bars poked my kidneys bad. No issues with the Z55, with the "jet stream" air gap design the frame comes nowhere near discomfort. At first I thought the lower lumbar pad was going to be uncomfortable....until I got on the trail about 8 miles in, it is great.

The pack is very light and has a top and side entry into the main compartment which is definitely a plus. The material is lightweight, yet feels very durable and rugged. It has a somewhat stretchy shove-it pocket which is also very nice.

I do however wish that it had the two outer pockets like the Atmos 50....those were perfect stowage of sorts. Instead it has one fairly small sealed-zipper pocket good for maps and other small carry items. It has a hydration sleeve which is nice, but the slot where the mouth-piece comes through makes a very tight fit.

The hip-belt is well padded and has the benefit of two storage pockets on each side. The shoulder straps are very comfortable and don't dig in even after 10 miles with no resting. I am 5'7" and the medium size fits like a glove. This pack has a lot of adjustability and is easy to adjust on the go.

All-in-all, this is a very nice pack, again my only complaint (very minor) is the outer pocket. Other than that I would most definitely recommend this pack to a friend or anyone for that matter!

User Review: Gregory Z55

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