Gregory Z65

Summary

Great weekend pack that is super comfortable on summer hikes.

I'm 5'11" and 190 pounds, with a 18.5 inch torso.  I've used my Z65 as my primary pack for a wide range of weekend and multi-day excursions.  The suspension is comfortable and supportive at loads up to and slightly over 30 lbs. 

Although this isn't a ultralight pack, the fabric and build have performed well over nearly four years of monthly use (abuse?) without a tear, broken strap or hardware failure. 

Summary

Great hauler of loads under 45 lbs loads.

Fit: Sizing is true to form for Gregory, as usual measured my torso and found appropriate size on the chart and bam it fit.

Comfort:  The ventilation is fantastic when doing summer trips in the RRG Kentucky.

Capacity: I had it packed for a fall fly fishing trip and I topped out at 47 lbs and it was a little rough the first couple days. Since that time I have kept all my loads under 35 lbs, which it preforms remarkably well

Organization & Accessibility: Having the two entry points allows for easy packing opportunity and load balance (you don't have to worry where you put things you can go by weight) thanks to the panel entry. I also enjoy having the large pocket on the back for items that i need to get to quickly and do not want to mess with re-compressing my pack.

Ride: It is remarkable balanced and stable with loads under 45 lbs, loads under 30 you don't even know it's there.

Compression: The compression strap were designed with thought in mind and usability.

Ease of Use: No torso adjustments, just measure, find your size, packet it up, put it on and rock out.

Features: The only downside I have had is the hip belt pockets are smaller than other pack companies provide, which is not that big an issue but a little more space would be appreciated.

Summary

Loaded weight was at 31#, and it was like nothing on my back. I put the same things in two other packs and both hurt within minutes.

What was most impressive was after an all day hike I was checking out tents sites before dropping my pack, which has never happened before. This pack is a real keeper.

As an update after several years use this is still an awesome pack, it did start squeaking in the waistbelt but Tim at my local REI store was able to remedy that problem.

I just got this pack in March, and have only used it once so far, on a one-night snow-camping trip. The trudge up was only 2.5 miles, but had a 2000' elev gain, and much of it was through deep snow, being rained on.

This pack is so comfortable, I thought I must have forgotten a bunch of gear, or something; but no. It's roomy enough so I don't have to be too clever in packing. The air-flow through the low back section seems to be a great thing (although I was plenty cool enough in the weather we had). The pack conforms to my body really nicely too, so it feels like an extension of my body, even loaded.

Only reason I didn't give it 5 stars is because I haven't used it much.

Here's something else, though. I've been a little worried that the waist buckle system is a bit wimpy, and might snap - a horrifying thought! I emailed Gregory, and they immediately offered to send a replacement, just in case, free of charge. Having that extra buckle along will be a great weight off my mind (and shoulders, if I have to use it!). I thought that was very good customer service.

I have had this backpack for a couple of months now. I have been highly satisfied with this pack, so far it is really comfortable and lightweight.

This pack is great for a weekend hike in the spring through the early fall. I would recommend this pack to anyone who has been thinking about purchasing it. When fully geared up the pack is comfortable and snug make sure to get the correct size I am a large it most everything I wear but the medium size fit great.

The only downside to this pack is the foam material used in the straps is very thin and lightweight so if your pack is heavy you will notice it when hiking for a long distance but nothing to unbearable to overcome mind over matter.

The longest trip I have taken this pack on was in the Blue Ridge mountains on the parkway at the Three Ridges Wilderness 14 mile trip pack was doin great.

Purchased the large olive color Z65 last year. Was great for a 6-day hike from Onion Valley down the JMT, a five day trek over the Teton Crest Trail, and a four day hike from the Hermit Trail.

This pack is very comfortable and will sit solid. The design of the hip strap and padding was a dream. The designed space between your back and the pack allows good ventilation. Love the front (actually the back of the pack) access! My previous pack only had the top access- bummer. Just the right size and weight. My bear canister stowes easily.

The Z65 is a rock-solid pack that can take a punch. My search for my perfect pack is over. Thanks Gregory and Moosejaw.