Reader Reviews

Rating: 4 / 5

Overall this is a very good pack. I have used it on several trips. I don't really understand the wraptor suspension system, but it does hold a load relatively comfortably. I usually carry 16-24 lbs in it. However, I have sometimes gotten a sore back and sore shoulders. This might have partly been my fault for not knowing the correct way to adjust an internal frame suspension.
The pack is a little heavy on the weight at 3lbs 5oz. Gregory was definitely concerned with making a comfortable pack. It has a good frame, and I can tell that it is built to be very durable. If you want something that is a step up from ultralight packs or you want something that will last, this is a good pack.
I will sometimes be carrying extra, heavy gear such as camera equipment, snow shoes, snow shovel, or a an axe, so I wanted something a little better than some frameless thing. It might also be good for carrying large amounts of water, as water is very heavy for how small it is in bulk. Anyways, this is a solid pack with a solid frame for minimalists and ultralighters who don't want to screw around with frameless packs.
This pack works perfectly as a 3 season overnighter or possibly for 2 days. In the warm and stable california summers, I am just carrying a poncho liner for a blanket and a USGI poncho to use as a shelter. With all that reduced bulk, this thing turns into an extended trip bag. I could probably fill this to 5 full days in the summer if I packed right.
That being said, the pack doesn't have the greatest ventilation for the summer. It is doable, but something like the osprey packs with their open back panels would be nicer. That being said, there are lots of other packs with the same amount of ventilation, so this one isn't necessarily standing out from other packs in that respect.
Overall it's a good pack for lightweight backpackers who seen themselves carrying around a 20-25lb. If you are packing a tent, air mattress, and full sized cook kit, this will be far too small. Ultralighters might be put off by the pack weight. But consider that half a pound of extra support might make your pack feel and handle 5 lbs lighter. And it's durable. So it could work well for ultralighters, so long as you aren't nuts over the actual numbers.

As for features, it comes with the standard ice axe loops. I have used those to carry a snow shovel and 3/4's axe at the same time. They would work fine for trekking poles as well. It has one top compartment and one center compartment. They are perfectly sized, and hold any small stuff you wanted. It is a top loader. You may like that or not, it's up to you.

One last note. You can't use this pack wearing no t-shirt. It will rub your bare skin shoulders raw. I have not worn many other packs without a shirt, so I can't say if this is unique to this pack.