Backpacker Magazine - May 2009 - Z35 Review
Field Test - Little Big Packs
For all day epics, fast-and-light summit bids, and even minimalist overnights, reach for one of these versatil load haulers.By Kelly Bastone
Overall Rating: 4.4 (on a scale of 1-5)
Sybarites, rejoice: If you like to pack serious poundage-a bottle of bubbly on the summit, anyone?-get the Z35 (or Jade 35, the women's version). "Even if you're carrying bricks, it'd be hard to overload this workhorse," reported a tester who toted it through Arizona's McDowell Mountains. The suspension uses two tubular steel stays that flex like tent poles and reinforce a tensioned nylon framesheet; its curved shape supports 30 pounds and effectively distributes the weight to your hips. The well-padded hipbelt proved sufficiently cushioned under maxed-out loads, and it never sagged. "While hopping boulders during a steep descent, I noticed no slippage thanks to the sticky lumbar pad," reported one hiker. The trampoline-style mesh backpanel allows superior ventilation; the top-loader has excellent organizational features; a zippered pouch stashes flat items like gloves or a journal; a U-shaped zipper provides access to the main compartment; two small hipbelt pockets hold snacks (cameras don't fit); two shock-cord attachments hold trekking poles; and webbing loops on the bottom make it easy to lash on a sleeping pad. But the Z35 isn't light, and capacity is cut when you load the pack with a full hydration bladder.
Capacity: 2,196 cu in
Sizes: 5 gender-specific; 16"-22" torsos
Weight: 3 lbs
Price: $149
Info: gregorypacks.com
