Backpacks and Backpacking

[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="194" caption="Revolutionary War Soldier prior to modern backpacks."]Backpack for Revolutionary War Soldier was a "sidepack".[/caption]

Since the dawn of time, man has used some form of a pack to carry things like fresh killed game back to his base or home.  Putting the load on his back allowed him to carry a larger load than if it were just in his hands.  Gradually, over time, and frequently dictated by the needs of soldiers in the field, the backpack evolved from a simple open sack to the complicated external and internal frame backpacks of today.  During the Revolutionary War, there were a combination of simple knapsacks and bags that were carried more like a large purse, slung over the shoulder.  By the time of the Civil War, soldiers carried their gear on their backs in a simple knapsack with straps over both shoulders and the weight of the load carried on the shoulders.  A chest or waist band was sometimes used to keep the load tighter to the body.  The actual term, “backpack” didn’t come into use until 1910.  The basic design didn’t change until 1920, when Lloyd F. Nelson developed the wooden pack board for backpacks. This innovation both stabilized the load and moved it away from the body.

Nelson's wooden packboard with canvas sack attached.

The pack board eventually evolved into the external frame backpack we know today.  The frame is now made of aluminum or other lightweight material.  It also has a waist belt that shifts the weight of the load to the hips, which are better suited, and stronger, than the shoulders, for carrying the weight.  In 1967, Greg Lowe invented the internal-frame backpack that moved the entire load to the hips.

The activity that we know today as “backpacking” began to become popular after World War II and was given a big boost in 1968 by the passage of the National Trails System Act of 1968, along with National Scenic Trails and National Historic Trails.  The first trails to be so designated in 1968 were the Appalachian National Scenic Trail and the Pacific Crest National Scenic Trail.  These trails, and many others, both federal and state sponsored, have made it relatively easy to get out into the wilderness.

Today, backpacks come in three basic types:

  • Daypacks

    [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="440" caption="Example of a daypack - Arc'teryx Aerios Daypack 10"]Arc'teryx Aerios Daypack 10[/caption]

  • Internal frame backpacks

    [caption id="attachment_242" align="aligncenter" width="300" caption="Internal frame backpack - the Gregory Baltoro 75"]Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack[/caption]

  • External frame backpacks

    [caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="440" caption="Example of external frame backpack - Kelty Trekker"]Kelty Trekker Backpack[/caption]

Daypacks are used for single day trips, whether a hike, climb, or bike ride.  They are frameless and are intended for light loads.  They are lightweight and usually include a strap at waist level to hold the pack tight to the body so it won’t bounce around with each stride.  They are also frequently used as book bags by students.  They generally have a capacity of less than 2,500 cubic inches (40 liters).

External frame backpacks, whose origins date back to the 1920’s with the original pack board packs, are used for large loads.  They are best suited for walking on trails, rather than climbing or skiing.  The pack sack itself is attached to an aluminum frame that keeps it away from your body.  The frame also accommodates things like sleeping bags attached outside the pack sack.  The pack sack usually has several outside pockets to more easily organize your equipment.  External frame backpacks have a higher center of gravity than the internal frame pack which allows for good weight transfer to the hips and a more upright posture than is possible with a fully loaded internal frame pack.  It also allows for better air circulation between the pack and your back, which can make a difference in hot weather.

Internal frame backpacks hug your back – clasping the load next to your backbone.  They are “worn”, rather than carried and need proper fitting for comfortable use.  The internal frames are made of aluminum stays, plastic framesheets, curved Dulrin rods, or a combination of those things.  The length of your back determines the size internal frame backpack you wear.  The hip belt is also of prime importance, since this where the weight is carried.  Since internal frame packs are narrower and fit closer to your back than the external frame packs, they are better suited for activities that require the use of your arms and also a tight center of gravity.  Bushwhacking, climbing, or skiing are examples of the type of activity where an internal frame pack is the better choice.  For hot weather backpacking, there are “ventilated’ internal frame backpacks that have a breathable mesh across the frame that allows air to circulate between the pack and your back.

There are three general categories of backpacks based on the capacity of the pack.

  • Weekend packs have a capacity of 2,500 to 3,999 cubic inches (40 to 65 liters). They are designed to hold everything needed for a week end in the backcountry.
  • Weeklong packs have a capacity of 4,000 to 5,999 cubic inches (65 to 95 liters).  They can carry whatever you need for an entire week in the wilderness.
  • Expedition packs have a capacity of greater than 6,000 cubic inches (95 liters).  They are intended to carry extra gear, over and above what is in the weeklong pack, like mountaineering equipment or bear canisters (sealed food containers needed in bear country).

There are also separate categories of backpacks for men and women.  Because of the difference in male and female anatomies, the better quality backpacks are adapted to fit these differences.

On the succeeding pages are reviews of some of the finest quality backpacks for your consideration.  Enjoy!

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Backpacks and Backpacking

Is The Gregory Baltoro 75 The Right Backpack For You? – a backpack review

Is The Gregory Baltoro 75 The Right Backpack For You? – a backpack review

Here is a backpack review of the updated version of Backpacker Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for 2008 (Gregory Baltoro 70).  The Gregory Baltoro 75 is a winner for a weekend trip or for an entire week long trek.  Gregory Packs got their start when Wayne Gregory was a 14 year old Boy Scout with a project to design a backpack.  He became intrigued with the project back in the 1960’s and has continued to improve on his packs ever since.  From the start, Wayne Gregory realized that you wear a pack like you wear your boots, so how it fit your body was all important.

Gregory Baltoro 75 backpsck

Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack

Comfort and fit are what this pack is all about.  With The Gregory Baltoro 75, you get a pack that has a unique waist-belt system that adjusts to fit all different hip angles, which automatically improves load transfer.  The Response Auto Fit Suspension (AFT) puts the weight of the pack where it belongs.  In addition, there is easy access to small pockets for things like maps and other small items and a large side pocket for your water bottle.  Another easy access pocket on the front can hold things like flashlights, compass, camera etc.  It has a bottom accessed compartment for your sleeping bag, pad, and even cookware.  The top lid becomes a removable fanny pack for short off trail jaunts.

The Gregory Baltoro 75 has a (large size) capacity of  4,760 cu. in.  The small version has room for 4,455 cu. in.  The shoulder straps and waist-belt are made of LifeSpan EVA foam.  It will carry up to 50 lbs.  There is a lifetime manufacturer’s warranty.

If you are looking for a great backpack for overnighters or even a weeklong trip, the Gregory Baltoro 75 is a great choice.  You won’t go wrong buying this pack through this link right here.

==>Gregory Baltoro 75<==

Gregory Denali Pro 105 review – Best Expedition Backpack

Gregory Denali Pro 105  review – Best Expedition Backpack

The Gregory Denali Pro 105 backpack is the ultimate expedition backpack.  With a potential volume of 7,000 cu. in. in the large size, this internal frame backpack is ideal for extended backcountry backpacking or mountaineering.  It earned Backpacker Magazine’s Editor’s Choice Gold Award back in 2000 and has been recognized as a top quality backpack ever since.  With the innovative Gregory suspension system which is designed to conform to your back and torso, the Gregory Denali Pro 105 is comfortable when carrying loads in excess of 65 lbs. on the most extreme backcountry trip.  Gregory backpacks have a well deserved reputation for durability, quality, and unequaled load support.  This backpack has truly withstood the test of time.

From a technical point of view, the Gregory Denali Pro 105 features an Auto-Cant harness system, Adjust-A-Cant waistbelt,  Flo-Form II waistbelt padding, Flo-Form II shoulder harness, full length FOAM-X Flex framesheet, two 7075-T6 stays, and a Flo-Form I backpanel.  It has top, front and bottom access.  It has a Shelter-Rite bottom and is made of 500 dernier Cordura nylon and Spectra fabrics.  It has side pockets with ski tail pass-throughs and the top pocket converts to a removable lumbar (fanny) pack.  A full compression system lets you reduce extra space in the pack and reduce weight shift for better balance and maneuverability.  A lashed divider separates the lower compartment from the main compartment, but it can be removed if you so choose.  There is an integrated hydration sleeve in the main compartment.

The Gregory Denali Pro 105 backpack features all of Gregory’s cutting edge technology.  It is one of the best expedition backpacks ever made.  It is a perennial best seller and certainly one you should consider if you are looking for an expedition size pack.  It is truly a premier backpack!

==>Go here to buy the Gregory Denali Pro 105<==

Gregory Mountain Products’ largest “backpacking” backpack – the Gregory Whitney 95

Gregory Mountain Products’ largest “backpacking” backpack – the Gregory Whitney 95

Called a “backpacking” backpack to distinguish it from a mountaineering backpack like the Gregory Denali Pro 105 and the smaller and lighter hiking backpacks which are intended for short 1 to 2 day trips, this pack is the largest of the ”backpacking” backpacks in the Gregory line.  Best for extended trips and heavy loads, the Gregory Whitney 95 carries as much gear as anyone could want for a week long trip into the backwoods.  The Small size has a capacity of 87 liters (5309 cubic inches) and the Large holds a huge 103 liters (6285 cubic inches). Gregory-Whitnery-95-backpack

Gregory backpacks are famous for their comfort and fit, and this one doesn’t disappoint.  These packs are used by everyone from novices to expedition leaders.  The convenience of a separate lower compartment and a removable upper compartment that converts into a fanny pack, make this one versatile backpack.  It also has a separate front pocket and twin side pockets.  There are dual hydration ports and sleeve.

On the technical side, the Gregory Whitney 95 has the Response™ CFS Suspension, 3D pre-curved harness and waistbelt components, and Quick-adjust 5 point angle waistbelt adjustment.  It also has an Auto-cant harness, anti-barreling cross stay, dual-density, ventilated, molded foam back panel with a co-molded, anti-slip lumbar pad.  There is also a hideaway side water bottle holder and dual waistbelt pockets.  It is made of 210d HT double diamond ripstop nylon and broken twill nylon fabrics with a water and wear resistant bottom panel. This backpack comes in Humboldt Green and Trinidad Blue.  Which color do you want?

==>Here’s where to buy the Gregory Whitney 95 backpack<==

The Gregory Palisade 80 Backpack –A Great Choice

The Gregory Palisade 80 Backpack –A Great Choice

If you are looking for a backpack that will hold enough for more that just a weekend without going all the way up to a full expedition backpack, this could be the one for you.  Its capacity ranges from 77 L in the Small to 82L in the Medium and 88L in the Large.  That contrasts with the Gregory Denali Pro 105 that has a capacity of 100L in the Small up to 115L in the Large.  This is the second largest backpack in Gregory’s “backpacking” line after the Gregory Whitney 95, which has a capacity of 103L in the Large size.  It has all the features you would expect from a Gregory backpack, including the top compartment which converts into a fanny pack for day hikes.  The rest of the features include:

A superb "backpacking" backpack from Gregory

The Gregory Palisade 80 Backpack

  • Response™ CFS Suspension
  • 3D pre-curved harness and waistbelt components
  • Quick-adjust 5 point angle waistbelt adjustment
  • Auto-cant harness
  • Anti-barreling cross-stay
  • Dual density, ventilated, molded foam back panel
  • Co-molded, anti-slip lumbar pad
  • Hideaway side water bottle holder and dual waistbelt pockets
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Water-resistant zippers
  • Water and wear-resistant bottom panel
  • 210d HT double diamond ripstop and broken twill nylon fabrics

Given the quality of all of the Gregory backpacks, it is more a question of carrying capacity than anything else in deciding which is best for you.  The Gregory Palisade 80 comes in two colors – Iron Gray or Cinder Cone Red.  Take your choice!

==>Go here to buy the Gregory Palisade 80 backpack<==

The Gregory Deva 85 – A Top Women’s Backpack reviewed here

The Gregory Deva 85 – A Top Women’s Backpack reviewed here

Winner of Backpacker Magazine’s 2008 Editor’s Choice Award, the Gregory Deva 85 women’s backpack comfortably carries all the gear you could possibly need for your outdoor adventure.  The Deva 85 with Response™ CFS Suspension is ideal for every woman’s wanderlust. There is no better way to comfortably carry all the gear you need for your most challenging outdoor adventures. Women’s specific suspension, all angle access, and sleek styling make this pack a friend for life.  Ranging in size from XS(mall) to M(edium), it has a capacity from 4882 cu. in. to 5492 cu. in.  If you want to carry 50 lbs., this backpack can handle it.  The technical features include:

Gregory Deva 85 women's backpack

The Gregory Deva Backpack for Women in Calistoga Blue

  • Response™ CFS Suspension
  • Women’s specific fit
  • 3D pre-curved harness and waistbelt components
  • Quick-adjust 5 point angle waistbelt adjustment
  • Auto-cant harness
  • Anti-barreling cross-stay
  • Dual density, ventilated, molded foam back panel
  • Co-molded, anti-slip lumbar pad
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets
  • Top pocket converts to a fanny pack
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and dual waistbelt pockets
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Water-resistant zippers
  • Water and wear-resistant bottom panel
  • 210d HT double diamond ripstop and broken twill nylon fabrics

All in all, the Gregory Deva 85 is one of the finest women’s backpacks available.  It comes in Calistoga Blue and Bodic Sage.  Which color do you want?

 

Here’s where to buy the Gregory Deva 85 for women

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The Gregory Petit Dru ™ Pro 85 for Women

The Gregory Petit Dru ™ Pro 85 for Women

The Gregory Petit Dru™ Pro 85 is Gregory Backpack’s mountaineering pack designed specifically for women.  It has their strongest suspension system and is made of the finest, toughest materials. It is the most fully featured women’s specific expedition backpack available.  It carries a volume of 4400 cu. in. in the XS up to 5700 cu. in. in L.  The features of this backpack are:

  • Women’s specific fit
  • Auto-Cant™ harness
  • Adjust-A-Cant™ waistbelt
  • Flo-Form® II waistbelt
  • Flo-Form® II women’s specific shoulder harness
  • Flo-Form® II backpanel

    Gregory Petit Dru Pro 85

    Gregory Petit Dru Pro 85 backpack for women

  • Full length flex framesheet
  • Twin 7075-T6 aluminum stays
  • Top, front, and bottom access
  • Front pocket provides additional storage and pack access
  • Top pocket converts to a fanny pack
  • Side mesh pockets with ski tail pass-throughs
  • Vinyl reinforced gear loops
  • Full compression system
  • Dyneema and 500d Cordura™ nylon fabrics

The Gregory Petit Dru™ Pro 85 is the obvious choice for women on serious expeditions and extended backcountry trips.  Gregory gives a lifetime warranty on this backpack.

==>To buy the Gregory Petit Dru 85  for women, go here<==

Gregory Targhee Backpack Review

Gregory Targhee Backpack Review

This is a backpack review of the Gregory Targhee backcountry pack.  The Gregory Targhee won an Outside Magazine 2009/1010 Gear of the Year Award.  The Gregory Targhee is the first ski and snowboard specific pack that ties the ski and snowboard carrying system to the pack’s basic load carrying system for the best load transfer.  Its capacity ranges from 1900 cu. in. in the Small size up to 2200 cu. in. in the Large.  Its technical features include:

Gregory Targhee Backpack Review

A Backpack Review of the Gregory Targhee – A Backcountry Winter Pack

  • All-terrain harness
  • Molded backpanel
  • Zippered top and side loading access
  • Full access with skis or snowboard on
  • All-terrain waistbelt with stash pocket and gear loop
  • Optional snowboard/snowshoe carry option
  • Full drainage system
  • Continuously insulated tube sleeve runs from inner pack body thru shoulder harness to help prevent freezing
  • Quick access avvy probe and shovel handle side pocket

The 210dHT double diamond ripstop and 630d nylon fabrics make this backpack incredibly tough.  For backcountry winter use, the Gregory Targhee is the obvious choice for its versatility and durability..  It comes in Granite and Curry (pictured) colors.

==>Go here to buy the Gregory Targhee backpack<==

Arc’Teryx Altra 75 – a Backpack Review

The Arc’Teryx Altra was picked as Backpacker Magazine’s Editor’s Choice for 2010.  Their comment – “the best hipbelt we’ve ever tested.”  The Arc’Teryx  75 model is the largest of the three versions.  It’s large, tall pack has a capacity of 5,000 cubic inches (86L), extended.  There is also an Arc’Teryx  Altra 65  version (4,394 cubic inches) and an Arc’Teryx 62 women’s version (4,211 cubic inches).  Arc’Teryx is a Canadian company that boasts of doing all it’s design and product development in house.  It also has a 30,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Vancouver, BC.  The name Arc’Teryx comes from Archaeopteryx Lithographica – the “first” reptile with feathers – the transition from reptile to bird.

The Arc’Teryx Altra 75 backpack is a top loading pack with a large inverted U-shaped wraparound zipper on the front.  The breathable shoulder straps, hipbelt, and backpanel made of Spacermesh give comfort in warm weather. The hipbelt pivots on the Load Transfer Disk allowing the to rotate with your hips as you walk or climb.   The rigid framesheet has two removable aluminum stays additional support.  It has the Arc’Teryx AC2 (Advanced Composite Construction) suspension system.    Comfortable shoulder strap fit is achieved through the Gridlock adjustment system.  There are four compression straps with padded wings that let you attach extras to the outside of the pack.  The fabric is ripstop nylon with silicone and PU coatings and is waterproof, although the U zipper can leak.  It also lacks a separate sleeping bag compartment and a detachable day pack.

Tha Arc’Teryx Altra 75 backpack’s biggest virtue is its comfortable fit and the fine craftsmanship of its construction.  Backpacker Magazine said of the Arc’Teryx Altra – “Until they make a pack that walks behind you, get the Altra.”

 

It comes in raven and fireweed (pictured) colors.

 

==>Get it here<==

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