Gear Review: Gregory z35 Daypack

I get to test a lot of different backpacks in my job, and one of my favorite pack-making companies has always been Gregory. They’ve been in business for 30 years, and always seem to be at the head of the pack (pun intended) with innovative new models. Check them out at gregorypacks.com – they have packs you can use in just about any situation.

The last couple of weeks I’ve been checking out their Z35 – it is very comfortable, with what they call an “Auto-Fit” harness system, which is padded and has a mesh surface to wick away moisture. The suspension system, also with mesh to wick away moisture, does a good distributing the load. The pack has a huge main compartment, with a divider; it’s accessible from the top or the front, via a handy zipper; a large front pocket; some mesh pockets on the waist belt; compression pockets on each side; plus it’s got a waterproof cover. The pack I’m using has a capacity of 2320 cubic inches, though there is a smaller one in the line that holds 2074 cubic inches.

This thing is a steal at $150. My only question, and I had the same complaint on the last item I reviewed, is why doesn’t Gregory have any camo packs in their line? I would definitely take this hunting if it were camo. Since it isn’t, I limit it to day hikes. Come, on Gregory, let’s wake up on this one. – Jay Cassell