GearBuyer
Product Videos Product Reviews Buying Guides

Gregory Baltoro 70

Hiking & Camping > BackpacksRated: ***** by 48 reviews.

REI

Backpacker April '08 says the Gregory Baltoro pack ''...makes 50 pounds feel downright feathery.''

  • For comfort-seeking adventurers, the Gregory Baltoro pack has an updated design to lighten your load and a pivoting suspension system for smooth ride.
  • Response Active Fit Suspension™ system pivots to self-adjust its waistbelt to your hip angle; system also pivots to mirror your body as it moves
  • Natural pivot control lets you automatically adjust the amount of movement
  • Cross-over compression straps and side stiffening panels distribute compression over a wide surface to stabilize partially full pack
  • Design offers three ways to get at your gear with top-loading, front zip and bottom zippered access to the main compartment
  • Hydration-compatible design features a reservoir sleeve and dual drink-tube exit ports for on-the-go hydration (reservoir sold separately)
  • 3-D precurved waistbelt and harness use dual-density foams laminated to the surface fabric, resulting in cushioning without pinching or binding
  • A molded composite framesheet with an integrated single 7001-T6 aluminum stay helps support heavy loads
  • Features side stretch pockets, dual waistbelt pockets and a hide-away water bottle pocket and stash pocket
  • Top lid pocket lets you keep compass, maps, small essentials or raingear close at hand
  • Large capacity front pocket has a water-resistant zipper
  • Rubberlike thermoplastic elastomer covers the bottom of the pack to provide long-lasting wear and waterproof protection from the elements
  • New 210-denier Double Diamond Ripstop high tenacity nylon body with 210-denier high tenacity nylon twill for strength, durability and lightness
  • Specifications for torso / waist and hips / average volume / average metric volume / average weight / average metric weight are as follows:
  • Small: 16 - 17.5 in. / 22 - 28 in. / 4,149 cu. in. / 68 liters / 5 lbs. 5 oz. / 2.41kg.
  • Large: 20 - 21.5 in. / 34+ in. / 4,638 cu. in. / 76 liters / 5 lbs. 14 oz. / 2.66kg.

Mountains Plus Outdoor Gear

Designed for the backcountry adventures seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Baltoro 70 satiates with 70 liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive Response AFS™ (Auto Fit Suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way.
Features:
- Gregory's Response™ AFS suspension technology flows with the natural movements of your body; designed for loads up to 50 pounds
- Independently rotating waistbelt load transfer panels automatically register hip angle and maximize load transfer to take weight off of your shoulders
- Load transfer panels articulate your body's movements as you hike, climb, or ski
- Waistbelt load stabilizer straps control pack pivot as you move
- Ultra-soft precurved 3D waistbelt and harness provide maximum comfort by eliminating wrinkling and hot spots on main contact areas of the hips and shoulders
- Ventilated aeromesh backpanel
- Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay
- Anti-barreling cross-stay
- 210D double diamond ripstop HT nylon body with 210D HT nylon twill
- Gription mesh lumbar pad
- Top, front, and bottom zip-thru access
- Cross-over compression keeps the load stable as you move
- Large capacity front pocket
- Hydration sleeve; dual hydration ports
- Side stretch pockets; dual waistbelt pockets
- Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
Specs:
Weight:
S 5 lb. 5 oz.
M 5 lb. 9 oz.
L 5 lb. 14 oz.
Volume:
S 4,149 cu. in.
M 4,271 cu. in.
L 4,638 cu. in.

Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)

Designed for the backcountry adventures seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Baltoro 70 satiates with 70 liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive Response AFS™ (Auto Fit Suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way. New for 2008. Winner of Backpacker Magazine's 2008 Editor's Choice Award

Features:

  • Anti-barreling cross-stayR10D double diamond ripstop HT nylon body with 210D HT nylon twill
  • Cross-over compression keeps the load stable as you move
  • Gregory's Response™ AFS suspension technology flows with the natural movements of your body; designed for loads up to 50 pounds
  • Gription mesh lumbar pad
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Hydration sleeve; dual hydration ports
  • Independently rotating waistbelt load transfer panels automatically register hip angle and maximize load transfer to take weight off of your shoulders
  • Large capacity front pocket
  • Load transfer panels articulate your body's movements as you hike, climb, or ski
  • Side stretch pockets; dual waistbelt pockets
  • Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay
  • Top, front, and bottom zip-thru access
  • Ultra-soft precurved 3D waistbelt and harness provide maximum comfort by eliminating wrinkling and hot spots on main contact areas of the hips and shoulders
  • Ventilated aeromesh backpanel
  • Waistbelt load stabilizer straps control pack pivot as you move

Mountain Gear

Organize an entire weekend trip or an entire family's worth of daytrip gear in the multiple-access Gregory Baltoro 70 pack. Compression panels stiffen the load while the Response suspension mirrors your body's natural movement to evenly distribute weight and move with you all day long.

Features:

  • Access what you need more quickly through the top, side, or bottom zip-thru access panels
  • Be as comfortable on your 100th trail as on your first - the 3D precurved waistbelt and harness match your body's curvature with practically no "breaking in" time
  • By combining high-tenacity nylon fabrics, the pack body resists abrasion without weighing you down
  • By independently camming, the weekend-long comfortable waistbelt moves with your hips instead of staying static and creating heavy friction points
  • Never get parched - the dual hydration ports keep the H20 flowing
  • Set your pack down on damp ground without fear of soaking your sleeping bag - the tarpaulin bottom is waterproof
  • Stabilize the load with the cross-over compression straps and single aluminum stay
  • Store your gear in the large-capacity front pocket or smaller organizational pockets at the bottom, sides, and interior

Rock/Creek Outfitters

Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Gregory Baltoro 70 satiates with up to 70 liters of a highly organized backpack. Constructed with AFSresponse suspension which provides an independent camming waistbelt system that automatically registers hip angle, while customizable pivot control system that mirrors your body's movements, and evenly distributes weight, increasing both load support and comfort. 
The Baltoro 70 is made with a super durable ripstop nylon and has a dual layer, wear resistant bottom for extra support and long term use.  Access the inside of the pack through three different access points: top, front, and bottom.

Features:

  • 3D precurved harness and waistbelt
  • Auto cant harness technology
  • Auto fit waistbelt registers hip angle
  • Crossover compression
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear resistant bottom panel
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch, Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Top, front, and bottom access
  • Water resistant zippers

Paragon Sports

Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Gregory Packs Baltoro 70 satiates with 70 Liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive with Response AFS technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way and provides optimal organization and space for all your on-trail necessities.

Features:

  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panelR10d HT double diamond ripstop and broken twill nylon fabrics
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Response AFS Suspension
  • Top, front, side and bottom access
  • Torso Length: Small 16-18in.; Medium 18-20in.; Large 20-22in.
  • Volume: Small 4149 cu. in./68L; Medium 4271 cu. in./70L; Large 4638 cu. in./76L
  • Water-resistant zippers
  • Weight: Small 5lbs 5oz./2.41kg; Medium 5lbs 9oz./2.52kg; Large 5lbs 14oz./2.66kg

Campsaver.com

Update: The Gregory Baltoro has won the 2008 Editor's Choice award for packs from Backpacker Magazine! Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Gregory Baltoro 70 satiates with 70 Liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive Response AFS (Auto Fit Suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way.

Features:

  • 3D precurved harness and waistbelt
  • Auto-cant harness technology
  • Auto-fit waistbelt registers hip angle
  • Crossover compression
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panelR10d HT double diamond ripstop/Broken twill nylon
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Top, front and bottom access
  • Water-resistant zippers

Al's Sports

Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Baltoro 70 satiates with 70 Liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive Response AFS (Auto Fit Suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way.

Features:

  • Auto-cant harness technology
  • Auto-fit waistbelt registers hip angle
  • Crossover compression
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panelR10d HT double diamond ripstop/Broken twill nylonSD precurved harness and waistbelt
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Style number 5381
  • Top, front and bottom access
  • Water-resistant zippers

SummitHut.com

Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip through access points, the Baltoro 70 by Gregory has 70 liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive response AFS (auto fit suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way. Provides optimal organization and space for all your on trail necessities.

Features:

  • Cross over compression
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Hide away water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Large capacity front pocket
  • Received the Backpacker Magazine's Editor's Choice Award for 2008
  • Side stretch pockets
  • Top, front, and bottom zip through access
  • Water resistant zippers

Oregon Mountain Community

The Gregory Baltoro 70 Backpack satiates with 70 Liters of highly organized backpack. Exclusive Response AFS™ (Auto Fit Suspension) technology automatically delivers a custom fit while the updated design lightens your load in every way. This pack was designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points.

Features:

  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panel
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Response AFS Suspension
  • Top, front and bottom access
  • Water-resistant zippers

Backcountry.com

The Gregory Baltoro 70 Backpack is an ideal weekend pack for hikers who like to stay organized, thanks to its three access points into the main compartment and a large front pocket. This pack allows you to access gear through the top, the bottom or access it from the inside of the front pocket. Its pivoting Response frame moves with your body as you hike, comfortably carrying loads up to 50lbs. A waterproof bottom, stretch side pockets and hydration sleeve round out the features on this great pack.


TahoeMountainSports.com

The Gregory Baltoro excels at 3-5 day long weekends and overnights with its award winning design and suspension system
Designed for the backcountry adventurer seeking multiple pockets and zip-thru access points, the Baltoro satiates with 4300 cu. in. of highly organized backpack
Exclusive Response suspension technology automatically delivers a custom fit and compression stiffening panels stabilize the load
Features: Response Suspension System, 3D precurved harness, 3D precurved waistbelt, Single 7001-T6 Stay, Compression stiffening panels, Top, front and bottom zip-thru access, Cross-over compression, Large capacity front pocket, a Waterproof Tarp bottom


Rocky Mountain Trail

You don't win Backpacker Magazine Editor's Choice Award for best hiking backpack for nothing!

Features:

  • 3D precurved harness and waistbelt
  • Auto-cant harness technology
  • Auto-fit waistbelt registers hip angle
  • Crossover compression
  • Dual hydration ports and sleeve
  • Dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panelR10d HT double diamond ripstop/Broken twill nylon
  • Dual waistbelt pockets
  • Front pocket and twin side pockets with stash pouch
  • Hideaway water bottle holder and stash pocket
  • Top, front and bottom access
  • Water-resistant zippers
Access:Top, front and bottom access
Access / Loading:Top/front/bottom
Access Types:Top, bottom, front
Adjustable torso:Yes
Approximate volume:4,271 cubic inches
Approximate volume - metric:70 liters
Average weight:5 lbs. 9 oz.
Average weight - metric:2.52 kilograms
Back Panel:Padded
Backpack style:Deluxe backpack
Bottom Access:Yes
Capacity:4100 cu in (Small); 4300 cu in (Medium); 4600 cu in (Large)
Cargo Capacity:S 4,149 cu. in.M 4,271 cu. in.L 4,638 cu. in.
Cell Phone Pocket/Sleeve:No
Country of Origin:China
Detachable Pack:No
Dimensions:[M] 4300 IN3 / 70 L; [L] 4600 IN3 / 76 L
External Pockets:1 Front, 2 side stretch, 1 water bottle
Extra Small:Volume: 4000in³/66 liters Weight: 5lbs. 9oz./2.7kg Small Volume: 4100in³/68 liters Weight: 5lbs. 14oz./2.7kg Medium Volume: 4300in³/70 liters Weight: 6lbs. 2oz./2.8kg Large Volume: 4600in³/76 liters Weight: 6lbs. 7oz./2.9kg
Fabric:630 D / 210 D High Tenacity Nylon (Body); Tarpaulin (Bottom)
Fit:Men's
Fits torso:16 - 17.5 inches (Small); 18 - 19.5 inches (Medium); 20 - 21.5 inches (Large)
Fits waist/hips:28 - 34 inches
Frame Sheet:No
Frame Type:Internal
Frame material:Thermo molded polypropylene/aluminum
Front Access:Yes
Gear Loops:Yes
Hydration Compatible:Yes
Includes:Dual hydration ports and sleeve and Side stretch pockets
Large:Volume: 4600in³/76 liters Weight: 6lbs. 7oz./2.9kg
Load-lifter Straps:Yes
Manufacturer Warranty:Lifetime
Material:210d HT double diamond ripstop, broken twill nylon
Medium:Volume: 4300in³/70 liters Weight: 6lbs. 2oz./2.8kg Large Volume: 4600in³/76 liters Weight: 6lbs. 7oz./2.9kg
Number of pockets:main compartment + 5 pockets
Number of stays:1
Organizer Panel:No
Other Electronics Pocket(S):0
Pack Fabric (Primary):210D HT nylon
Padded Laptop Compartment:No
Primary Use:Backpacking
Rain Cover:No
Recommended Use:Weekend backpacking
Shipping Surcharge:Yes
Sizes:M, L
Ski Carry:No
Sleeping Bag Compartment:Yes
Small:Volume: 4100in³/68 liters Weight: 5lbs. 14oz./2.7kg Medium Volume: 4300in³/70 liters Weight: 6lbs. 2oz./2.8kg Large Volume: 4600in³/76 liters Weight: 6lbs. 7oz./2.9kg
Snowboard Carry:No
Spindriftcollar:Yes
Stays:Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay
Sternum Strap:Yes
Sunglasses Pocket, Lined:No
Suspension:Response AFS: An independent rotating waistbelt system that automatically registers hip angle, while the customizable pivot control system mirrors your body's movements and evenly distributes weight, increasing both load support and movement.
Top Access:Yes
Torso Adjustment:Yes
Torso Length:S 16 - 17.5 in.M 18 - 19.5 in.L 20 - 21.5 in.
Trip Length:Extended Trip
Volume:[S] 4149cu in (68L); [M] 4271cu in (70L); [L] 4638cu in (76L)
Waist Belt:Yes
Weight:[S] 5lb 5oz (2410g); [M] 5lb 9oz (2520g); [L] 5lb 14oz (2660g)

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

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

These are products that have been indicated being comparable to this product:

Osprey Aether 70Osprey Aether 70
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$194.25 - $259.00
Deuter Aircontact 65+10 BackpackDeuter Aircontact 65+10 Backpack
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$179.00 - $249.00
Rei Backpacker First Aid KitRei Backpacker First Aid Kit
Hiking & Camping > First Aid & Emergency
$46.50
Arc'teryx Bora 80Arc'teryx Bora 80
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$299.95 - $375.00
Garmin GPSMAP 60CSx GPS BundleGarmin GPSMAP 60CSx GPS Bundle
Electronics > GPS
$425.00
Pacific Outdoors Lightweight Shelter TarpPacific Outdoors Lightweight Shelter Tarp
Hiking & Camping > Shelters & Tents
$96.00 - $168.00
Rei Mars 85 PackRei Mars 85 Pack
Hiking & Camping > Backpacks
$199.00
Pacific Outdoors Pack Piata - Storage BagPacific Outdoors Pack Piata - Storage Bag
Hiking & Camping > Backpack Accessories
$46.00
Rei Quarter Dome T1 TentRei Quarter Dome T1 Tent
Hiking & Camping > Shelters & Tents
$199.00
Sigg Water Bottle with Screw Top - 32 fl. oz.Sigg Water Bottle with Screw Top - 32 fl. oz.
Hiking & Camping > Water Bottles & Flasks
$24.95

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.

ColorSize
SmallMedMediumLarge
Cardina-Red
Cardina-Red
288.97 288.97288.97
Cardinal Red
Cardinal Red
229.93288.952 More...229.93288.95288.952 More...229.93288.954 More...
Bamboo Green
Bamboo Green
245.95288.953 More... 245.95288.952 More...245.95288.953 More...
Bamboo-Green
Bamboo-Green
288.95288.97 288.95288.97288.95288.97
Green  229.95229.95
Red  229.95229.95

Legend

  •     - Mountain Gear
  •     - Rocky Mountain Trail
  •     - Oregon Mountain Community
  •     - REI
  •     - Campsaver.com
  •     - SummitHut.com
  •     - Rock/Creek Outfitters
  •     - Paragon Sports
  •     - Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
  •     - Backcountry.com

Notes:

Mountains Plus Outdoor Gear offers this product at $260.10, but does not provide any color/size information.

TahoeMountainSports.com offers this product at $288.95, but does not provide any color/size information.

Al's Sports offers this product at $289.99, but does not provide any color/size information.

Gregory Baltoro 70 Reviews Summary:

RatingNumber
of Reviews
*****40
****6
***0
**0
*1
To see how this product compares to others view Backpack Reviews.

Positive Reviews:

Great fit, great design, a great pack

Rating:*****
I purchased the Baltoro after a fairly serious late summer lower-back injury made me begin to rethink my pack weights (I was NOT canning the trip!). I was taking an extended trip over the continental divide and, since my altitudes would vary as high as 13,000 ft, would be carrying a lot of winter gear thus putting my pack weight up around 45-50 lbs for nearly a week of fairly tough hiking. Needless to say, I did NOT want to throw my back out in the Rockies at 12,000 ft, so I searched for a pack that would allow for good weight carrying characterisitics.

I hit a home run with the Baltoro. The first think I noticed on my trial hike (tested with 50 lbs over 3 miles), was how the weight was so comfortable when compared to my other packs. Also, most importantly for me given my back issue, the unique suspension system allowed the weight to "ride" on my back taking what seemed to be a lot of pressure of my spine. This payed huge dividends throughout the week. One note if interest: On the last day of hiking we hit a pretty decent shower, and the rocks became very slippery. I lost my footing at one point and took a header right towards a boulder (I was trying to read my topo-map and descend at the same time, VERY stupid). I am convinced that my ability to pivot in the air with 50 lbs on my back and turn to avoid the edges of the rock was due in no small part to the way the suspension system allows the pack to move so easily with your body. The Baltoro's design may have saved me a fractured hand or arm; It at least allowed me to avoid any injury at all.

The design of the pack was excellent as well. I found that I could stuff the pack very full and it took the punishment well. The unique multiple entry pockets allowed me to avoid ever having to unpack my pack to "find" what it was I needed. I was able to compartmentalize all my items: Food at the top, extra clothing left, hygeine on the right, and sleeping gear on the bottom. I thus never had to spend time digging for items, they were always right at a zippered pocket.

Comfort, low weight, excellent design: The Baltoro has now become my pack of choice. I will be taking it into the Grand Canyon this spring.
Missouri Mike at REI on 12/22/2008

Like night and day...

Rating:*****

I just started backpacking again last summer, and picked one of these up for a weekend trip on the Appalachian trail in New Hampshire. I was a boy scout for 6 years, and I wish they had packs like this back then. Comfort-wise it was like night and day compared to the old external frame packs I remember using. Even compared to some of the somewhat modern gear that my buddies had, it was better fitting and I could easily carry more in it without any strain on my back. I've only used it a couple of times so far so I can't vouch for the long-term durability... however I have yet to see any problems and given the build quality I don't expect to. The lightweight fabric used has yet to snag, tear or stretch in any way... I was really rough on it my first time out and I was impressed that it still looked brand new after a couple of days being tossed/dragged/carried around in the woods. The little touches really added to my appreciation of this pack... things like the mesh side pockets on either side of the belt where I could carry my bandana and pocket knife, or the multiple access points so I could get to things in the middle or at the bottom of my pack without having to unload and reload everything constantly. Probably the only drawback is that it's so roomy that it could encourage you to overpack... I easily fit my sleeping bag and inflatable mat inside the bottom compartment and still fit my clothes, food, 3L Camelbak and a good amount of the group gear in the top with room to spare.

Overall I'd say it's worth every penny... so if you're looking to get into multi-day backpacking I would highly recommend this pack. Might be a bit expensive for someone just starting out, but look at it this way: you can end up losing a lot if your pack fails you part way through a trip... respect from your buddies if they end up having to pack out your gear for one.

Tom Rivera at Backcountry.com on 03/10/2009

Near Perfect Pack

Rating:*****
After a lot of research and assistance in store I decided on this pack. I am so happy I did. Just to get them out of the way. Two things I would have liked to see on the pack were some manner to secure a drinking tube on the shoulder straps, I had to tuck mine underneath the strap against my body to keep it from flapping around. (If I felt more creative I am sure I can come up with a better solution as well) Second, I would have liked the top section to be able to be used as a hip/fanny pack as well. So since it's okay to not get everything you want...I love this pack. I can't believe how comfortable it is. It's a little twisted, but even when I didn't need to, I would put this on just to feel how comfortable it is. Carried 50 pounds for a three night trip, no problems at all. Someone mentioned squeaking as a problem, I had no such problem. I also experienced no problems with zippers or pulls or any such things. I have had no problems, zero. I found amble exterior pockets for my needs, plenty of ways to attach gear to the exterior, and the sleeping back compartment worked perfectly for me, I had some extra room and shoved some essentials like toilet paper and an armadillo pillow (which I don't recommend) in there for easy access. I like the multiple ways to access the main compartment as well, that made life much easier a number of times. So bottom line...I love this pack, it is the most comfortable pack I have ever worn, it makes 50 pounds disappear. I am thrilled to own it and have it to use for many, many years to come, and would recommend it without hesitation.
Bearsong at REI on 09/04/2008

A pack that WOWS!

Rating:****
I bought this bag for my 18 year old son. We have backpacked together and I have carried an Alpine Lowe for years.

This pack has the most advanced waist belt system I have seen. It pivots with your movement and is padded to make any load seem comfortable. AS soon as my son put the pack on with it packed for a 4 day trip, he was amazed. The entire trip I kept hearing him rave about how comfortable his pack was. When I placed it on my back, I realized why.

The only drawback that I can see is that the bag compartment is small. It will work fine with the better bags, mine are too big for real backpackers use. When looking at the bag specs it mentioned a water bottle hidden compartment. While packing I thought this was a stupid thing. However on the trail, since we had not bought a hydration bag for his pack, he was carring nalgene bottles. I had packed them in the side pockets, Later I thought about the pocket and placed one in it. It holds the bottle perfectly at an angle that makes getting to it on the fly very easy.

Great pack. I actually plan to replace both my pack and my wife's pack with this one and the sister model.
10echiker at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 12/19/2008

Perfect all-around pack

Rating:*****
I bought this pack on a whim to replace my old REI pack, which has seen a few miles and was in dire need of replacement. I spent some time doing the research and was down to the Arcterex Bora 80 and this pack. Both are made of high quality material and are built to last. I'm 6'3" and couldn't get enough adjustment out of the Arcterex to work with my torso length. The Baltoro 70 size Large was a perfect fit and has all the features I was looking for. The pack is very expandable so you can get it nice and tight if you don't want to carry much and are just going out for a long day with some climbing gear. I'm a huge fan a versatility, external loading is a must, nobody wants to put a wet tent back in the pack with your dry gear, this pack has about 5 different spots to attach gear on the outside. If you are shopping for packs and trying to keep it under $200, this may be the pack for you. It'll outlast most competition, what is an extra $70 over the next 10 years you'll have this pack?
NWLegend at REI on 07/20/2008

I'm organized!

Rating:*****

Well for anyone who may have the 'issue' that the person below had, I believe they have a female version which probably addresses that situation (but not need to tell them that.)

Anyway, I love this pack very much. I had the Z-55 and needed to upgrade size so sent that one in to get this. The thing I liked about the Z-55 was that it was slender and fit close to my back so I didn't get knocked off balance. Since this is a bigger bag, it protrudes more outwards but can be tightened when there is excess space. Even though it protrudes out, I don't feel it messing up my balance that much. What I really love about this pack is that there are lots of places to put everything. I was actually able to stuff my sleeping bag on the top piece, put my tent in the sleeping bag compartment, rain gear in the front pocket, flashlights and stuff on one side pocket, first aid and soap stuff on the other, and a granola bar and knife on the waist strap pockets.

I love this pack. Its extremely comfortable as well.

Ian Mangiardi at Backcountry.com on 01/30/2009

The perfect pack

Rating:*****
My wife bought this pack for me for my birthday and it is the best pack that I have ever owned! My previous pack was an Atmos 65 and the Baltoro blows it out of the water.

I used it on a multi-day winter trip and I had no issues with carrying all of the equipment that I needed. I actually ended up carrying gear of other people in my group because their pack couldn't handle the weight/wasn't big enough. I was carrying probably around 40 lbs fully loaded and I have to agree with Backpacker Magazine, it made it feel downright feathery.

The pack squeaked for the first mile of an 8 mile hike and than after that it was not a problem the rest of the trip. I love being able to access the main compartment through the front zipper pocket, and the sleeping bag compartment is great. This is the all around best pack that you can purchase (in my opinion), I know that it is on the pricey side but do yourself a favor and go for it!
TexasBackpacker at REI on 01/27/2009

First backpack in 30 years

Rating:*****
I bought this backpack to go backpacking with my scouting sons with the aim to go to Philmont scout camp next year. The last time I went backpacking was ‘training exercises” with the army 30+ years ago ! You can imagine the surprise I had when the pack arrived and tried it on for the first time. I could not believe how light/comfortable and well build it was. The next day I was off for a 20 mile hiking weekend with the scouts in there foothills of NC. I had 38lbs + on my back ! We ended up doing 12 miles+ in one day I had no problems what so ever. This pack was very comfortable and very adjustable. I could shift the load when needed to give certain parts of my body a rest. I would recommend this pack to anybody looking for backpack but make sure you know your torso size before ordering. I did a lot of research before opting for this pack. A good site for reference is “backpacking magazine”.
Plattoon at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 02/17/2009

Sets a new standard for hip belt design

Rating:*****
Designed as a medium load pack, the Baltoro 70 carries 45-50# with ease and has the quality and features of a high end expedition pack. Although several packs now have a pivoting hip belt design, none comes even close to the stability, comfort and effectiveness of the Gregory double pivot system. Each side of the hip belt works independently, keeping the load centered and providing considerable relief to the hips. The hip belt also pivots forward which helps maintain your center of gravity as you bend at the waist. If you have any hip or lower back issues, this is the pack of choice. The pack bag is wider and shorter than is typical, but the load remains very stable in all planes and provides total head clearance.

Minor issues: There is no shovel compartment but one can be created by opening the front access zipper. The sleeping bag compartment is small for a winter bag.

In short, the pack is highly suitable for all backcountry activities and steep ascents.
Candor at REI on 12/17/2007

This pack is the CHAMP!!

Rating:*****
I used this backpack for a weekend trip up in the White Mountains in NH. This is seriously an awesome pack when it comes to handling a heavy weight load. Maneuverability is a plus as I had to jump from rock to rock as we crossed a river, the pack just clung on to my back allowing for more stability. I liked the middle-pocket access to the main pack, which helped dig in for items that were crammed in the lower section of the bag. Also, this proved to be excellent in downpour conditions as my stuff remained dry. I was able to fit in everything from the tent (hitched the poles to the side of the pack), portable propane tanks, to a good amount of clothing and gear. The only thing I would change is a bigger compartment for rather thicker sleeping bags during colder weather. It took some time to cram in a -35 deg. synthetic bag in there.
Definitely get this pack!!!
MOWWKK at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 04/16/2009

Negative Reviews:

Squeaky and disappointing

Rating:*

This thing squeaked every step I took for 40 miles of a 60 mile trip. I love the hip belt, but hate the shoulder straps. They felt like they were factory pre-shaped for someone else. Perhaps, they would conform to me with more use, but I'll never know. I won't use this pack again. If you backpack along a raging river, or in 70 mile an hour winds, I suppose this one will do. However, if you ever walk in a quiet forest or atop a ridge on a calm day, take another pack. The constant squeaking will drive you back to the solitude of your work cubicle. I not only would not buy this pack again, I would like to return it to the manufacturer. In 20 years of backpacking, this is the single most frustrating piece of equipment I have used. Back to the Dana.

par3319398 at Backcountry.com