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Granite Gear Vapor Ki

Hiking & Camping > BackpacksRated: ***** by 16 reviews.

REI

A truly ultra-light pack designed just for women! Weighing in at just over 2 lbs., it handles enough gear for trips from a few days to thru-hikes!

  • Flexible HDPE plastic frame sheet with soft foam padding and padded ergonomic shoulder harness offers enough support for loads of 30 lbs. or less
  • Using plush dual-density foam, women-specific hipbelt is sculpted to fit the increased angle of women's hips
  • Uses a compound-pull hipbelt tightener so you pull straps forward rather than backward, a more natural motion that increases leverage to get belt snug
  • Top-loading pack omits a lid and uses a drawcord lock to close extension collar, and an adjustable buckle strap to compress and secure load
  • Durastretch side pockets are large enough for quart water bottles or fuel bottles and do not snag on brush
  • Two top stretch side pockets have water-resistant zippers, keeping smaller essentials close at hand and protected from the elements
  • Front straps let you lash on camp chair, sleeping pad or other bulky items
  • Dual ice axe loops for strapping on tools and trekking poles
  • Side compression straps double as extra lash points for tent poles, camp trowel or trekking poles
  • Hydration-compatible design features reservoir pocket and drink tube exit port for on-the-go hydration (reservoir sold separately)
  • Pack body is a silicon-coated 70-denier ripstop nylon; backpanel and the arches are Rex Twill nylon/polyester blend
  • Specifications for torso / waist and hips / base volume (cu. in. and liters) / average weight are as follows:
  • Short - 14-18 in. / 26-30 in. / 3,300 cu. in. / 54 liters / 2 lbs.
  • Regular - 18-22 in. / 30-34 in. / 3,600 cu. in. / 59 liters / 2 lbs. 2 oz.

Rock/Creek Outfitters

The Vapor KI Backpack by Granite Gear is for the female backpacker ready to take the next step. The perfect pack for when you have gotten your pack weight down to 30 pounds or less. Made with a high-density polyethylene frame that helps distribute the load evenly over your back and onto your hips so you stay comfy and supported without the pack being extra heavy or burly. 
This pack has fixed (not interchangeable) shoulder straps that are well padded and it comes standard with the Ultralight Packer hip belt available in a range of sizes for men and women. The pack is fully hydration compatible with an internal sleeve and port. Reports from Granite Gear's AT thru-hiker testers suggest that by the end of last season roughly 40% of AT thru-hikers were carrying the Vapor Trail, largely due to its exceptional comfort.
The Vapor Trial was chosen by Backpacker for their prestigious Editors' Choice award in 2003.

Features:

  • Hydration compatible
  • Interchangeable belt
  • Optional lid
  • Zippered external stash pockets for must haves

Campsaver.com

The Granite Gear Vapor Ki 3600 pack is the women's version of the award winning Vapor Trail (2003 Backpacker Editor's Choice) pack, the Vapor Ki is designed for the serious woman ultralight hiker. With a fully padded women-specific hip belt, and the ultra sturdy Vapor Suspension the Vapor Ki is rated to carry up to 30-pound loads in amazing comfort, making it the perfect choice for those who have made the ultralight committment. The Ki includes two low profile side stretch pockets for 'must-haves' that need to be easily accessible.

Features:

  • Carry up to 30lbs comfortably
  • Hydration bladder sleeve and hose exit ports
  • Hydration compatible
  • Interchangeable belt
  • National Molding Duraflex® Buckles Simply the best! The best designs molded with the best plastics. You can count on Duraflex® buckles to work in the harshest, coldest environments.
  • Optional lid
  • YKK Zippers
  • zippered external stash pockets for must haves

ProLite Gear

Based on Granite Gear's award winning Vapor Trail (2003 Backpacker Editor's Choice) pack, the Vapor Ki is designed for the serious woman ultralight hiker. With a fully padded women-specific hip belt, and our Vapor Suspension our Vapor Ki is rated to carry up to 30-pound loads in amazing comfort, making it the perfect choice for those who have made the ultralight committment. The Ki includes two low profile side stretch pockets for 'must-haves' that need to be easily accessible.

Specifications
  • Sizes: Short and Regular
  • Weight: 2 lbs 2 oz.
  • Cubes: 3600

Features:

  • Fully hydration compatible
  • Lateral panel small zippered pockets with waterproof zippers.
  • Load stabalizing straps
  • Roll top, double cross buckle top closure
  • Sternum strap
  • Two compression straps each for sides and rear panel, with buckles
  • Two flexible, yet slim side pockets (ideal for maps and small items, rather than water bottles)
  • Two ice axe loops

Backcountry.com

Keep your next overnighter super light with the help of the Granite Gear Women's Vapor Ki 3600 Pack. The women's-specific waist belt and framesheet makes those quick hikes even quicker. The Vapor Ki pack stows loads up to 30 pounds without a problem. Granite Gears Vapor suspension caters to women's frames and the compression system locks your gear down tight for a comfortable ride. Stash your energy bars and other small necessities in the Vapor Ki's two side stretch pockets and get yourself as far away from pavement as possible.


Moosejaw

No description provided.

Access / Loading:Top
Access Types:Top
Adjustable torso:No
Approximate volume:3,600 cubic inches
Approximate volume - metric:59 liters
Average weight:2 lbs. 2 oz.
Average weight - metric:0.96 kilograms
Backpack style:Ultralight backpack
Country of Origin:Vietnam
External Pockets:1 Lid, 2 side
Fit:Women's
Fits torso:18 - 22 inches
Fits waist/hips:30 - 34 inches
Frame material:HDPE/foam
Frame type:Internal
Gear Loops:2
Hydration Compatible:Yes
Ice Axe Loops:None
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:Cordura nylon and Sil-nylon
Number of pockets:2 + main compartment
Number of stays:0
Rain Cover:No
Recommended Use:Day hikes, ultra-light backpacking
Shovel Pocket:No
Ski Carry:No
Sleeping bag compartment:No
Snowboard Carry:No
Suspension:Padded framesheet, molded back panel
Volume:3600cu in (59000cu cm)
Waist-belt:Yes
Weight:2lb 5oz (1kg)

View other products from Granite Gear classified in Hiking & Camping > Backpacks.

View all products from Granite Gear.
View other products classified in Hiking & Camping > Backpacks.

Sometimes, we can't be sure that the product is the same across the stores that offer its, so you may find the same product listed more then once on GearBuyer.com, we these list highly similar products below.

Granite Gear Vapor Day KiGranite Gear Vapor Day Ki$103.98 - $129.95
Granite Gear Meridian Vapor KiGranite Gear Meridian Vapor Ki$155.98 - $199.95
Granite Gear Vapor Flash Ki PackGranite Gear Vapor Flash Ki Pack$143.98 - $179.95

Option Availability:

Use this chart to find which retailer offers this product in the size, color or other options that you desire. Click on the price to purchase.

SizeColor
Dahlia / Moon
Dahlia / Moon
Dahlia
Dahlia
N/A
Short135.95152.95169.95169.95169.95
Regular152.95169.95169.95169.95
Reg.135.95  
Short Torso  127.98
Regular Torso  127.98

Legend

  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters
  •     - REI
  •     - Backcountry.com
  •     - Campsaver.com
  •     - Moosejaw
  •     - ProLite Gear

Granite Gear Vapor Ki Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****8
****5
***1
**2
*0
To see how this product compares to others view Backpack Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

almost perfect little pack

Rating:*****

This is a fun pack to use. I used it for fieldwork- dayhikes packing in a lot of gear, hiking on trail and cross-country. The pack expands/compresses nicely so it is not flopping around when you have your gear out and still want to wear it.

For backpacking I really liked it as it is the first pack I have had that has had just the right balance between the weight resting on the hips and on the shoulders. I would slightly adjust the shoulder straps a few times a day to put the weight slightly more on the hips v. the shoulders and then back again so that my body would not get tired.

The two drawbacks are 1)that there are a lot of flappy straps that hang down- it was very windy and I got nailed in the face by a few good whips of a long strap- ouch. But I suppose you can easily remedy that by rolling them up with a hair band or something and 2) I ordered the size "short" as I fitted their sizing chart as a short (measured by inches from your neck to hips) but when I received the short it was waaaay too small and I still need to return it. The size "short" is extremely small. The back (the part that lies against the wearer's back) almost looks like the back of a small Jansport school backpack.

The single compartment might not be for everyone but I liked it. there are two side pockets and two smaller zip pockets for snacks etc that do just fine.There is just enough support in the frame in the back (part that rests against the wearer's back) that you are not poked by your gear.

An extra star for Granite Gear, as I noticed that two things that were criticized before I bought this backpack were fixed by the time I received mine: 1) the too-small hole for the hydration tube was made bigger and placed on either side of the pack and 2) the side compression straps that cinch down over the side pockets were made so that they don't go over the pockets (rendering the pockets unusable) but rather go through the pockets, still compressing the bag.

Using this pack inspired me to go light and I gave that a try and had a super fast backpacking trip- plus I think the weight in this pack is carried very nicely on the body.

reb3193334 at Backcountry.com on 08/28/2009

my favorite pack

Rating:****
I really love this pack. I've used it for long section hikes on the AT and also for weekend trips. The stretch pockets on the sides at the top and bottom are an amazing idea and work well for many uses...my jetboil stove and water filter fit nicely in one side and my tent on the other. I love the top load and zippers that open vertically all the way from the top or bottom...convenient and user friendly. My ultralight thermerest fits perfectly strapped to the outside. The opening for the camelback hose had to be sliced a bit to ease the removal and insertion process---not a big deal in my eyes. The only thing granite gear could/should improve on is the part of the shoulder pads that attaches to the pack: it often flips up and the head of the screw will stick into my back. As long as I'm careful about putting my pack on and/or I have a friend make sure they the flap is in the proper place, I'm comfy...but I do think that granite gear should add some foam/padding/etc. to alleviate this glich.
naturegirl at REI on 09/12/2007

Great pack

Rating:****
I recently used this pack for 20 days of continuous trekking at high altitude. I decided on this pack because of its light weight and simplicity. I was not disappointed with the pack. It's very versatile. I bought the short size but the pack sizes a bit small. One thing I don't like about the pack is the bulky hip belt. I understand it's for comfort but I have bigger packs handling heavier loads without such a bulky hip belt. That belt turned out to be uncomfortable at times. I purchased the top lid but the top pockets are actually sufficient and never really used the top lid. I find it difficult to get something quickly out of the pack because it's hard to see inside. The fabric is always on the way. It can be cumbersome to deal with the top buckles. If you are not in a hurry, that's fine.
Overall it's a great pack. I loaded it with anywhere from 15 to 30 pounds and it felt great.
ninette the hiker at REI on 10/07/2007

Love this pack

Rating:*****

I used this pack for most of my AT thru hike and it was great. I started with the osprey ariel but decided to go lighter and got this pack. I love how basic and light this pack is but it is still very comfortable and has plenty of padding. I found that the hip belt on this chafed a lot less than the moldable hip belt on the osprey. The suspension system did a great job of distributing the weight between my hips and shoulders. It also has plenty of room for a 5-6 day trip. . The side pockets were possibly one of my favorite features. I could stuff a days worth of snacks in them and could reach them without having to take my pack off. Another great feature with this pack is that it compresses down to the size of a day pack. I use a short and am 5'5". I thought it looked really small, but it fits perfectly.

Shannon at Backcountry.com on 10/05/2009

Short and Sassy

Rating:*****
I have a very short torso at barely 15 inches but have wide shoulders and a not so tiny waist. Most gear manufacturers seem to think if you are short you are a size 0. This pack is the exception to this rule. I bought it on a whim looking for a smaller pack for shorter trips. I carried it for the first time on a three day trip this summer and was impressed. It carried well and was very comfortable. It had enough adjustment to fit my frame well. The only drawbacks I would note are that it can be uncomfortable if overloaded as the shoulder straps will dig in and it could use another pocket on the outside or a zipper to access the bottom of the pack. With careful planning I could carry enough for up to five days in warm weather if water was in good supply along the trail.
Micatlady at REI on 09/12/2007

"An awesome pack - only packs to use on a thru-hike"

Rating:*****
I have had a Granite Gear pack for years. I used it during my 2006 thru hike of the AT HighTech '06 - GA-ME. The pack was awesome and when I had a problem with it a slight tear, Granite Gear got it fixed right away, for free. So, when I went looking for a pack for my girlfriend, I was definitely interested in getting a Granite Gear for her. We looked at lots of packs first. Gregory, Osprey, REI. None of them fit quite right. Then we looked at the Vapor KI, and it fit her perfectly. It was under the Christmas tree for her this year, and there was big smile on her face when she opened it Needless to say, this family will be spending a lot of time in the wilderness this year!
C David at Moosejaw on 01/09/2008

great backpack

Rating:*****
I bought this to replace my 5.5 pound internal frame pack and help lighten my load. I usualy carry between 20-25 pounds on 2-5 day trips and have found this to be the most comfortable pack I have ever carried. There is enough room that I could pack for a week, and I have tried it with 30 pounds and found it still carried well. I found it to be quite durrable for such a light weight. The top side pockets are nice for small things, the bottom pockets fit a water bottle, rain jacket and my fuel bottle. The compression straps work very well I can set up camp and just carry lunch and a jacket and it tightens up enough that the load wont move around. Definately my favorite pack.
jam at REI on 10/07/2007

Even works in Bear country

Rating:****
I've had this pack a few seasons. Works great, with a little extra planning before packing it. The fabric is not heavy, but easily repaired. The bear canister and a rock caused a few tears my first trip.

The Garcia Bear canister fits inside the main compartment with a little careful planning. Since most of my trips are in the Sierras that is very important. I just load if according to what will be needed before setting camp. The days food easily stores in the outside pockets for quick snacks. It's easiest if you can load the water bladder first, as things get tight if you wait until the end.
Suzee_ku at REI on 11/28/2008

Waistbelt too large, otherwise great

Rating:****
Thru-hiked the Pacific crest trail with this pack. It is lightweight and has nicely padded straps and back. The side pockets are nice and so are the clips across the front of the pack (much easier for unloading). I also liked the slim profile of this pack, as I am a small person. The pack is extremely durable. However, the waistbelt is sized way too big. The medium (women's) fits a 6' man. The women's small waistbelt was still too small for me which caused the chest strap to be way too high when the pack had a few days of food.
plantgeek at REI on 11/30/2008

"Light, uber comfy, and great expansion. Diverse from day to overnights."

Rating:*****
I can't believe this pack is just over two pounds and can carry so much! The extra straps around it are great for attaching little bags to. The padding is awesome, especially on the framesheet. It's super light weight too, so it doesn't feel like you are giving up ounces for comfort. A great buy, plus cleaned up very nicely after being in the dusty desert for a week.
Laura at Moosejaw on 03/21/2008

Negative Reviews:

Annoying to get in and out of

Rating:**
I took this pack on a test run and I am returning it. I liked the compression straps and the weight. BUT since there are no large external pockets, I found myself using the main compartment for layers I would normally put in a top pocket. That would have been OK, except the main compartment was really annoying to get into and close up. I think a side zipper would really be essential for this pack if quick transitions are important. Also, I got a regular and it was way too short for my 21" torso.
alli in alaska at REI on 06/22/2008

Truly Lightweight

Rating:**
Since I've reached age 50+, I've needed to lighten my load and this was the best pack I found. No extra zippers and fasteners - just the basics with easy loading. I'll miss the detachable pocket on top, but that's where the weight was saved, I think. The suspension system feels good, but I haven't field-tested it yet.
Betsie at REI on 01/14/2008

Neutral Reviews:

Great but fragile....

Rating:***
I absolutely loved this pack from the first minute I put it on on a 5 day hike through Isle Royale. It was perfect, good weight for a solo hiker carrying a tent and gear. I still love this bag, but not as much as I used to. The seams on the top pockets ripped on my third trip out and less than a year old. Both of them. And I didn't discover this until day 2 on a 7 day hike in Patagonia. Luckily they ripped through into the main compartment so I didn't loose any gear, but it's still sad. Other than that I love the weight, the fit and the style. My only other dislike is the harness (which is well padded) gets stinky after a hike or two.
rwaller at REI on 05/10/2009