Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack
Priced: $348.95 - $349.95
Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack -
Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack Features.
Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack.
The Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack delivers spacious volume and an updated suspension to help you go farther, faster and lighter in comfort. Gregory has equipped the Baltoro 75 with the high-performance Response Auto Fit Suspension (AFS) system. AFS distributes weight evenly, providing superior load stability, comfort and range of motion. Other features include a canted, hideaway water bottle holder, dual mesh hipbelt pockets, gear loops and side, cross over and lower panel compression straps. The award-winning Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack boasts a wealth of access points, an array of features and an innovative suspension system that combine to make this 4400+ cubic inch pack a backcountry workhorse.
Key Features.
Support and Cushioning:
- LifeSpan EVA foam in the 3D precurved shoulder straps and waist-belt prevent hot spots on high-contact areas and retain their cushioning throughout years of use
- Soft, adjustable, and load-stabilizing waist-belt rotates independently from the pack to provide functional support as you move through the mountains
Hipbelt:
- Independently rotating load transfer panels on the hipbelt automatically register your hip angle and articulate your body's movements
- Zippered front pocket, twin side pockets, dual hipbelt pockets and hideaway water bottle pocket with bungee offer easy access to often-used gear
- Ultrasoft 3D precurved hipbelt and harness eliminates wrinkles and hotspots
Weather and Wind:
- DWR-coated, water-resistant zips prevent rain drops from invading your extra dry layers
Comfort:
- Big pack space and cushy suspension allows you to comfortably carry up to 50lbs of gear, clothing, foot, and water through your chosen wilderness arena
Zippers:
- Removable top lid doubles as a lumbar pack or sling bag and features a zip pocket and underside stash pocket for quick spurs off the main trail
- Front zip, two top lid zip, two side zip, two waist-belt zip, and two side water bottle pockets keep your knife, camera, snacks, map, and water bottles accessible
- Baltoro 75 offers 3 ways to get at your gear with top-loading, front zip and bottom zippered access to the main compartment
- Front zipper access to the main compartment makes lunch breaks quick and easy, and the top quick-draw drawstring allows super-quick access to gear
Pockets:
- Removable top lid pocket lets you keep compass, maps, small essentials or rainwear close at hand; stash pocket on the underside of the lid secures personal items
Fabric:
- Gregory Baltoro 75 pack is made with 210-denier double diamond ripstop and 210- and 420-denier flat weave fabrics that offer strength, durability and lightness
- Durable nylon fabric withstand lots of tough bushwhacking and a double-layered, water-resistant bottom panel prevents wear and a wet sleeping bag
- 210D HT double diamond ripstop and broken twill nylon fabrics
Fit:
- Auto-cant harness technology with Auto-fit waist-belt system enable maximum fit with minimal adjustment
Padding:
- Thermomolded EVA back panel features a grippy lumbar pad that helps keep the pack positioned properly and effectively transfers load weight to your hips
- Thermo-molded backpanel with elastomeric gription technology on the lumbar pad
- Response™ AFS suspension features soft, pre-curved harness and hipbelt with EVA foam padding that help eliminate wrinkles and hot spots on your hips and shoulders
Hydration:
- Hydration sleeve and dual side easy to feed port for your hose
- Hydration sleeve and ports let you pipe your hydration reservoir (sold separately) directly to your lips during long treks
- Hydration-compatible design features a reservoir sleeve and dual drink-tube exit ports for on-the-go hydration (reservoir sold separately)
Straps:
- Top lid, bottom, and side compression straps shrink the Baltoro into a stable package when not fully loaded and also help to attach gear
Features:
- Top lid can be removed and configured into a Fannie pack
- Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay and molded composite load-lifting panel prohibit barreling under heavy loads as well as enhance energy transfer
- Independently rotating hip belt lifts load while articulating with your natural movement
- Bottom-accessed sleeping bag compartment separates your bag from other gear for easy access
- Two trekking pole loops secure your sticks when your not cruising along the open trail
- Top and front loops let you attach extra gear during the longest treks
- 3D pre-curved harness and waist belt components with new LifeSpan EVA foam
Moosejaw
"The Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack is my favorite pack. It has all the volume I need to carry enough gear for a week on the trail and some extra fun on top of that. The fit is great because it keeps the load centered over your hips and does not restrict your bodies natural swing while you move on the trail. The Baltoro has by far, the best carry system. Each wing of the hip belt floats independently from one another and the shoulder straps are free from the hip belt too,so as your weight shifts from side to side as you walk the load stays centered with your torso. It's a breeze to adjust and has yet to have any piece fail on it . The Baltoro is for sure a great bag to get."
The Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack. Its predecessor won countless awards for being the most comfortable high performance pack. So why mess with a good thing? To make it even better of course. The Baltoro 75 has improved functionality within the feature set, increased pack volume and an updated suspension that carries better and more comfortably than ever before. We didn't think we could improve on perfection, but we dare you to tell us this isn't the best pack you've ever worn.
FEATURES of the Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack.
TahoeMountainSports.com
The Gregory Baltoro 75 is a great all-around backpacking backpack designed for comfort and carrying ability.
With an increased volume and more comfortable and updated suspension, the Baltoro 75 is ready for the trail whenever you are.
Able to handle loads in the 60-70 pound range, the Baltoro is your biggest yet most versatile backpacking pack within the Gregory Backpack collection.
Cinch it down if you are on a shorter trip and enjoy the array of access options or load it up for the longer trips and make use of all the pockets, features and innovative suspension.
Similar to the Baltoro 65, the top lid is removable and able to turn into a fanny pack for any side trips or summit bids.
The waistbelt and harness are made out of LifeSpan EVA foam for comfort and durability and the pack is sized to fit you perfectly and mold to your body over time.
Thermo-molded backpanel with elastomeric gription technology on the lumbar pad ensures the pack stays put once on your back and there is no rubbing or chafing of sensitive skin while out on the trail.
The hideaway water bottle pocket on the side is ergonomically designed to be accessed while hiking with the pack on and the pack is hydration compatible for outfitting with your favorite reservoir.
DWR coated materials and waterproof zippers round out some of the awesome features the Baltoro 75 brings to the table.
Upgrade your backpacking pack today with the Baltoro 75 Gregory Backpack.
Cabelas
Once you try on this high-performance pack, you’ll change your expectations of how comfortable a backpack can fit. The Baltaro’s predecessor won countless awards for being the most comfortable technical pack in the industry, but this didn’t satisfy the designers at Gregory. The product of their labor is a pack with improved functionality, increased capacity and a revolutionary Response™ AFS suspension delivering optimal weight balance. Independently rotating, waistbelt load-transfer panels automatically register your hip angle and articulate your body’s movements, keeping your center of gravity aligned with your intended direction of movement. Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay integrates with an upper thermo-molded composite load-lifting panel to prevent barreling and provide optimum load transfer. Thermo-molded EVA foam back panel with elastomeric gription technology on the lumbar pad keeps the pack in place and optimizes load transfer onto your hips. Ultrasoft 3-D pre-curved harness and waistbelt promote maximum comfort by eliminating wrinkles and hotspots on main contact areas of the hips and shoulders. LifeSpan EVA foam technology in the harness and waistbelt resists compression and maximizes comfort throughout the life of the pack. Waistbelt load-stabilizer straps control pack pivot as you move through the backcountry, customizing the carry to your terrain. Construction highlights include abrasion-resistant 210-denier double diamond ripstop and 210-denier x 410-denier HD flat-weave fabrics; dual-layer, wear-resistant bottom panel; and durable water-repellent-coated zippers. Need a waist pack or sling pack for day trips? Just remove the pack’s top lid. On the underside, it has a stash pocket for personal items. Hydration-compatible sleeve (reservoir not included) and dual side easy-to-feed ports for hose. Quick-draw, easy-to-open drawstring system on main access. Hideaway water-bottle pocket with bungee to secure bottles, dual waistbelt pockets, front pocket and twin side pockets. Imported.
Color: Prussian Blue.
Color: Prussian Blue.
Campmor
The Gregory Baltoro 75 is a high performance pack that insures superior comfort without sacrificing function. The Response AFS suspension system includes a single aluminum stay that integrates with thermo molded composite load lifting panel to provide optimum load transfer. Independently rotating waistbelt load transfer panels register your hip angle, keeping your center of gravity aligned with your direction of movement. Waistbelt stabilizer straps and a thermo molded EVA back panel keep your pack steady as you move on the trail customizing the carry to your terrain. The top lid can be removed and configured into a fanny pack or sling bag and you can access your main gear compartment in three ways; top loading, front zip, and bottom zippered access.
Campsaver.com
Options are the name of the game and the Gregory Baltoro 75 delivers just that. This pack is the answer for those of us who don't need to pack the kitchen sink on a weekend backpacking trip. With all of the same targeted features and functionality as its bigger brother, and updates to the award-winning Response AFS suspension, you'll be more comfortable, go farther, and be the envy of everyone else on the trail.
Backcountry.com
Your week-long trail ambitions may be misunderstood by co-workers and family, but once you put on the Baltoro 75 Backpack and feel how great its Response AFS suspension responds to a heavy load, you realize that Gregory has your back.This updated award-winning top-loader incorporates a larger load capacity with beefed-up suspension to carry all you need for a head-clearing getaway.
Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
A perennial favorite and multiple award winner, the Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack offers multiple pockets and zip-thru access to all your gear.
Average Price History:
| Access Points: | 3 (Top, Front and Bottom) |
|---|---|
| Activity: | Backpacking |
| Adjustable torso: | Deluxe backpack |
| Backpack Features: | Hydration Compatible, Lumbar Pack Lid, Sleeping Bag Compartment, Front Loader, Top Loader |
| Backpack Style: | Multi-Day Pack |
| Capacity: | Small: 4455 cu in / 73 L Medium: 4757 cu in / 75 L Large: 4760 cu in / 78 L |
| Dimensions: | 28 x 14 x 14 in. |
| Fits torso: | No |
| Fits waist/hips: | No |
| Frame material: | 73 liters |
| Frame type: | Backpacking |
| Gear capacity (L): | Internal |
| Gear capacity (cu. in.): | Internal |
| Hydration Bladder Included: | Not Included |
| Hydration Compatible: | Yes |
| Laptop Sleeve: | None |
| Large: | 4760 in³/78L - 6 lb 2 oz/2.80 kg - 20" - 22" Torso |
| Material: | 210 D Double Diamond Ripstop/ 210 D x 420 HD flat weave fabrics |
| Max Load Capacity: | 50 lbs / 23 kg |
| Medium: | 4757 in³/75L - 5 lb 14 oz/2.65 kg - 18" - 20" Torso |
| Number of Pockets: | 4 |
| Number of exterior pockets: | 4,760 cubic inches |
| Number of stays: | 75 liters |
| Pack Fabric (Primary): | 210D HT nylon ripstop |
| Pack Size: | 4000-4999 cu in |
| Pack access: | 4,577 cubic inches |
| Pack loading: | 4,455 cubic inches |
| Raincover included: | 5 lbs. 14 oz. |
| Shipping Surcharge: | Yes |
| Size: | n/a |
| Sleeping bag compartment: | 5 lbs. 10 oz. |
| Small: | 4455 in³/73L - 5 lb 10 oz/2.55 kg - 16" - 18" Torso |
| Suspended mesh back panel: | 78 liters |
| Suspension System: | Response AFS Suspension with Single 7075-T6 aluminum stay |
| Torso: | S: 16" - 18" M: 18" - 20" L: 20" - 22" |
| Torso Length: | S 16-18 in.M 18-20 in.L 20-22 in. |
| Trip Length: | Extended Trip (>3 nights) |
| Ultralight: | Internal |
| Volume: | S 4455 cu. in.M 4757 cu. in.L 4760 cu. in. |
| Volume Range: | 70+ liters |
| Weight: | Small: 5 lb 10 oz / 2.5 kg Medium: 5 lb 14 oz / 2.6 kg Large: 6 lb 2 oz / 2.8 kg |
| Weight - metric: | Deluxe backpack |
| Weight Capacity: | Up to 65 lbs. |
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Gregory Baltoro 75 Pack Reviews:
Positive Reviews:
This Pack can handle a LOAD!
Went to my local REI store during one of their big sales events because they had a very reputable pack on sale at a great price but was still in excess of $200. My mindset was spending $250 to $300 on a pack was bordering on insanity. After wearing the pack I had come for in the store with several sand bags in it, I began to develope a "hot spot" in the hip belt area due to a seam that was in all their hip belts. The clerk had already loaded the Baltoro for another customer and suggested that I try it. The price made me hesitate but I tried it anyway. The diferrence was amazing. After wrestling with the decision in my head for a bit, I chose the Baltoro and I am glad I did. It has just the right amount of organization in it for me so my "gadgets" are easy to find on the trail. There is a hidden zipper in the top of the pack so I won't loose my car key miles from the trailhead. It can top load or side load. The zipper pulls have a "plastic device" on the pulls that is perfectly curved for the thumb so zipping is a breeze. I never thought I would really use this, but the top of the pack converts to a fanny pack. My Wife and I found a secluded waterfall during an off trail scramble and the fanny packs carried the perfect amount of gear down the steep descent which kept us from being without necessities and kept 40 LBS off my back. Now for what really makes this pack shine and makes the extra cost and weight of this pack woth it. I took my Daughter and her Husband on their first backpacking trip along with my Wife and Son for a group of 5. We awoke the next day to find a bear up the tree with the bear bag in it. The bear bag was just out of his reach but when he saw us, he came down and proceeded to come into camp. He sniffed, chewed, bit, prodded and swiped at every piece of gear we had. We backed out of camp and called the Rangers. They were unable to keep him more than a hundred yards from camp. The rangers had to stand guard while we packed camp so it was not the most organized camp break ever. Just as we were about to finish, the Rangers got another call and had to run out of camp leaving the bedded Bear 100 yards away and us with no bear mace left. The bear bag contain items from everone in the group but there was no time now to sort out the weight. I strapped the entire bear bag to my already loaded Baltoro and we hit the trail before the Bear could return to our hastily exited camp. By now I had 85 LBS on my back and had to hike up a waterfall to make our escape. I could not believe how well this pack handled that weight. The hip belt remained comfortable and the shoulder straps were solid. Even though this pack may be heavier than others when empty, it's ability to make a heavy load comfortable makes that extra weight inconsequential. This is by far the best pack I have ever used and I am now a fan for life!! I'd give it 6 stars if they'd let me.
By far the best pack period in years!
Obviously, with all the raving reviews, this is a pack you can't go wrong with. I have 4 of the Baltoro 75 liter and one 65 liter. I have seen MANY at REI not even consider this pack because it weighs more than other packs, but that weight, aside from being stronger than a LOT of packs, actually has the effect of canceling weight! (at least the effects of carrying it, which is the part that people in general underestimate until they actually try one FOR AT LEAST an entire day of hiking with a moderate to heavy load.) It may be the best for weight, but it ALSO is best if you need a pack at all, to haul lighter weights.
Yes, I am boldly recommending this pack over ALL other packs in it's classification. It IS better than a lighter pack that has no suspension or padding. You will definitely NEVER notice the 1 to 2 pounds that this pack weighs over others. NONE other has a suspension system even comparable to the Baltoro (other than Gregory's larger expedition packs with the same suspension design). I finally bought the Gregory contour, which is 2 pounds lighter than the baltoro, but lacks big time on the padding and suspension. I only bought it on sale 30% off, and to use for my motorcycle. I will still test it out further with lighter and heavier loads, but so far, the heavier loads are so much better in the Baltoro, and right away it wears me out in the Contour compared to the Baltoro. I can REALLY load up the Baltoro with weight and volume, and it takes it. It's definitely the only pack that I can comfortably haul that all day, up hill, and it be in total comfort, and more importantly, no DIS comforts!
Even if you are only going to haul 20 to 30 pounds, the VERY tried and proven baltoro is still going to be the winner. I have in fact hiked all day with tools, hoes, machetes, even big rocks I needed to hike a bit that I was using. It takes the weight of all that you could possibly carry, and does it with ease!
There is a reason I have 5 of these packs.... The only thing better would be an upgraded baltoro, possibly with better organization and more, bigger pockets. Even if it weighed more to have everything you could want, I would definitely go for it. That's the whole angle people need to understand about this pack is that the way that it deals with weight reduces fatigue and eliminates discomfort like muscle cramping or sore shoulders. It also puts your back into a proper position for hiking, especially with weight! I do own 1 Gregory Contour 70, but if needed another pack for extra people in an expedition, it would ONLY be the Baltoro, or the larger expedition packs by Gregory. I feel like there's no end to how long I can hike with any weight only because of this magnificent pack. I wonder if the military anywhere uses it?
I'd be surprised if not. Happy hiking! d
Yes, I am boldly recommending this pack over ALL other packs in it's classification. It IS better than a lighter pack that has no suspension or padding. You will definitely NEVER notice the 1 to 2 pounds that this pack weighs over others. NONE other has a suspension system even comparable to the Baltoro (other than Gregory's larger expedition packs with the same suspension design). I finally bought the Gregory contour, which is 2 pounds lighter than the baltoro, but lacks big time on the padding and suspension. I only bought it on sale 30% off, and to use for my motorcycle. I will still test it out further with lighter and heavier loads, but so far, the heavier loads are so much better in the Baltoro, and right away it wears me out in the Contour compared to the Baltoro. I can REALLY load up the Baltoro with weight and volume, and it takes it. It's definitely the only pack that I can comfortably haul that all day, up hill, and it be in total comfort, and more importantly, no DIS comforts!
Even if you are only going to haul 20 to 30 pounds, the VERY tried and proven baltoro is still going to be the winner. I have in fact hiked all day with tools, hoes, machetes, even big rocks I needed to hike a bit that I was using. It takes the weight of all that you could possibly carry, and does it with ease!
There is a reason I have 5 of these packs.... The only thing better would be an upgraded baltoro, possibly with better organization and more, bigger pockets. Even if it weighed more to have everything you could want, I would definitely go for it. That's the whole angle people need to understand about this pack is that the way that it deals with weight reduces fatigue and eliminates discomfort like muscle cramping or sore shoulders. It also puts your back into a proper position for hiking, especially with weight! I do own 1 Gregory Contour 70, but if needed another pack for extra people in an expedition, it would ONLY be the Baltoro, or the larger expedition packs by Gregory. I feel like there's no end to how long I can hike with any weight only because of this magnificent pack. I wonder if the military anywhere uses it?
I'd be surprised if not. Happy hiking! d
Very good, but could be better
I'll admit it's been years since I backpacked, and my renewed interest led me to buying a new pack. I needed something that would feel comfortable in a variety of conditions ranging from the coastal terrain of the Pacific Northwest, the rainy foothills of the North Cascades, as well as the humid hills of the Ohio Valley further East.
After spending a full day testing backpacks at the local REI, I fell in love with the newly designed suspension of the Osprey Atmos 65. The price tag was perfect because it was about to go on sale during REI's anniversary! Unfortunately... a 65 liter pack was just too small for a week+ trip and Osprey hadn't put out larger packs with that suspension.
I settled on my second choice, the Baltoro 75, because it also felt comfortable and the price was also shaved by $70 during the sale.
I prepacked the bag in the comfort of my living room, believing that any problems in my living room will be amplified in the woods. I soon discovered that the opening for the sleeping bag compartment was extremely snug. With the sleeping bag (a 15 deg. mummy) in it's stuff sack, I was unable to get it into the lower compartment without standing on it.
Since my sleeping bag was "older" too, I shelled out another $150 for a new Marmot Cloudburst 20. This sleeping bag compressed to a third of my old bag's size, so I figured it would be much easier.
Even the Marmot bag was a snug fit !! I tried getting the sleeping bag into the pack's pouch with the Marmot's stuff sack expanded AND fully compressed.... what a nightmare this could become on a mountain in the rain !!
My ultimate solution was to use the lower sleeping bag compartment for my tent, footprint, and rain gear - and putting the sleeping bag at the bottom of the main compartment.
The dual access of the Baltoro's main compartment (top and front) made accessing the sleeping bag easy, and I'm hoping this solution will work out.
My "pros" are that the pockets are adequate, the cinch straps seem to be well-placed, and the fit is very comfortable on me.
My "cons".... that darn sleeping bag compartment !!
If you consider the Baltoro 75, I suggest having a sales clerk pack a sleeping bag into the lower compartment while at the store. Try to find a sleeping bag similar to your own, and see if he/she has any better luck - then think about trying to pack the sleeping bag when the backpack is nearly full.
After spending a full day testing backpacks at the local REI, I fell in love with the newly designed suspension of the Osprey Atmos 65. The price tag was perfect because it was about to go on sale during REI's anniversary! Unfortunately... a 65 liter pack was just too small for a week+ trip and Osprey hadn't put out larger packs with that suspension.
I settled on my second choice, the Baltoro 75, because it also felt comfortable and the price was also shaved by $70 during the sale.
I prepacked the bag in the comfort of my living room, believing that any problems in my living room will be amplified in the woods. I soon discovered that the opening for the sleeping bag compartment was extremely snug. With the sleeping bag (a 15 deg. mummy) in it's stuff sack, I was unable to get it into the lower compartment without standing on it.
Since my sleeping bag was "older" too, I shelled out another $150 for a new Marmot Cloudburst 20. This sleeping bag compressed to a third of my old bag's size, so I figured it would be much easier.
Even the Marmot bag was a snug fit !! I tried getting the sleeping bag into the pack's pouch with the Marmot's stuff sack expanded AND fully compressed.... what a nightmare this could become on a mountain in the rain !!
My ultimate solution was to use the lower sleeping bag compartment for my tent, footprint, and rain gear - and putting the sleeping bag at the bottom of the main compartment.
The dual access of the Baltoro's main compartment (top and front) made accessing the sleeping bag easy, and I'm hoping this solution will work out.
My "pros" are that the pockets are adequate, the cinch straps seem to be well-placed, and the fit is very comfortable on me.
My "cons".... that darn sleeping bag compartment !!
If you consider the Baltoro 75, I suggest having a sales clerk pack a sleeping bag into the lower compartment while at the store. Try to find a sleeping bag similar to your own, and see if he/she has any better luck - then think about trying to pack the sleeping bag when the backpack is nearly full.
So far so good
I am a father of 2 boys (8 & 2 years) and while I load the 8yo with his own REI meteor pack, I still have to carry everything that is needed to make hiking/camping a pleasure at such a young age to prevent scaring them away from the outdoors. That means a large 4man tent to ensure everyone can sleep together (we are all very tall), and warm bags, proper clothing to keep 3yo warm, and of course fishing gear. We are not usually on hikes longer than 2-3 days with all of us though the 8yo and I will be doing 5-10 day trips, but our terrain is 3.5 on 1-5 scale. (imagine Blood mountain section of AT x2).
I will have to update review later because I have only had the pack for about a month and have only been on 2 pack trips, both 3 days. Like I stated above I need to carry a lot of stuff so my load out for these trips were 84 & 71 lbs. I wont always be loading this way. Prob. next season the 3yo will be handling his own gear. The trails I hiked on with this load were very rough fishing trails approx 3 miles in and 3 out. Once adjusted the pack handled well and was comfortable. At that weight I like to alternate between heavy on hip then heavy on shoulder then even weight and the baltoro allowed me to do this. I could maneuver the trails as well as anybody could with an 84 lb loadout and on a short day hike with only 48lb, I felt like I could do my crossfit workout with the pack on.
The seams handled everything well and the Zippers worked fine. My divider between the bottom bedroll area and the contents area does not attach, it just kinda free floats. I must be missing straps or something. The only complaint I have really is on the bottom outside of the pack the straps are disfunctional they dont really allow for proper adjustment.
I would compare to MOLE 2 with more user friendly capacity. If needed you could set up a tactical outpost for extended periods with this pack. Time will tell about durability but for now I am pleased. I am 6'2", 230lbs, in mission ready shape, I bought the Medium. Measure properly when fitting, very important. Would be a 4 star but I dont want to spray all over this thing without it earning its stripes.
I will have to update review later because I have only had the pack for about a month and have only been on 2 pack trips, both 3 days. Like I stated above I need to carry a lot of stuff so my load out for these trips were 84 & 71 lbs. I wont always be loading this way. Prob. next season the 3yo will be handling his own gear. The trails I hiked on with this load were very rough fishing trails approx 3 miles in and 3 out. Once adjusted the pack handled well and was comfortable. At that weight I like to alternate between heavy on hip then heavy on shoulder then even weight and the baltoro allowed me to do this. I could maneuver the trails as well as anybody could with an 84 lb loadout and on a short day hike with only 48lb, I felt like I could do my crossfit workout with the pack on.
The seams handled everything well and the Zippers worked fine. My divider between the bottom bedroll area and the contents area does not attach, it just kinda free floats. I must be missing straps or something. The only complaint I have really is on the bottom outside of the pack the straps are disfunctional they dont really allow for proper adjustment.
I would compare to MOLE 2 with more user friendly capacity. If needed you could set up a tactical outpost for extended periods with this pack. Time will tell about durability but for now I am pleased. I am 6'2", 230lbs, in mission ready shape, I bought the Medium. Measure properly when fitting, very important. Would be a 4 star but I dont want to spray all over this thing without it earning its stripes.
Outstanding Bag
This bag is outstanding. Here is why:
1) External pockets - this bag has pockets in all of the right places. If you are the type of hiker who always wants to know exactly where everything is located in your pack, this pack is for you. Two very spacious side pockets, a spacious front pocket, and two mesh pockets located on the waste bands are all perfectly designed. Also has the standard pocket on the top flap of the pack, as well as underneath the top flap. Bottom line, I have never found a pack with so many pockets, all of which are placed exactly where you want them.
2) Front access to main compartment - the designers of this bag added an awesome feature that I have no idea why other bags haven't thought of: you can access the main compartment from 3 locations, not the standard two. Like most bags, you can access through a top opening, through a bottom opening (where most people store a sleeping bag)...but they have also created a THIRD opening that is located on the front of the bag. It is large and spacious and enables you to quickly access gear that might be stored half way down your main compartment. Outstanding feature that makes life that much easier.
3) Comfort - the floating straps and waste band suspension system is top notch. I've carried a lot of weight in a lot of different bags, and this bag is frankly the best. Extremely well designed, comfortable, and practical.
4) Aesthetics - generally this is something I don't care about...I'm all about function. Yet somehow, the designers of this bag managed to make this thing look pretty awesome despite its extreme functionality. Pretty nice perk if you wanna look good!
5) Quality - this thing is just WELL made. Everything down to the small details - for example the zippers. Sometimes zippers can be a pain in the butt. Not on this bag - they are sleek, well designed, easy to open and close...just one of the many details that these designers paid close attention to. Another example: the fact that they canted the angle of the water bottle holder on the side of the bag. THANK YOU. It's about time that a bag designer realized that unless you have T-Rex arms, you have to take your pack off in order to reach the side bottles. Not on this bag.
1) External pockets - this bag has pockets in all of the right places. If you are the type of hiker who always wants to know exactly where everything is located in your pack, this pack is for you. Two very spacious side pockets, a spacious front pocket, and two mesh pockets located on the waste bands are all perfectly designed. Also has the standard pocket on the top flap of the pack, as well as underneath the top flap. Bottom line, I have never found a pack with so many pockets, all of which are placed exactly where you want them.
2) Front access to main compartment - the designers of this bag added an awesome feature that I have no idea why other bags haven't thought of: you can access the main compartment from 3 locations, not the standard two. Like most bags, you can access through a top opening, through a bottom opening (where most people store a sleeping bag)...but they have also created a THIRD opening that is located on the front of the bag. It is large and spacious and enables you to quickly access gear that might be stored half way down your main compartment. Outstanding feature that makes life that much easier.
3) Comfort - the floating straps and waste band suspension system is top notch. I've carried a lot of weight in a lot of different bags, and this bag is frankly the best. Extremely well designed, comfortable, and practical.
4) Aesthetics - generally this is something I don't care about...I'm all about function. Yet somehow, the designers of this bag managed to make this thing look pretty awesome despite its extreme functionality. Pretty nice perk if you wanna look good!
5) Quality - this thing is just WELL made. Everything down to the small details - for example the zippers. Sometimes zippers can be a pain in the butt. Not on this bag - they are sleek, well designed, easy to open and close...just one of the many details that these designers paid close attention to. Another example: the fact that they canted the angle of the water bottle holder on the side of the bag. THANK YOU. It's about time that a bag designer realized that unless you have T-Rex arms, you have to take your pack off in order to reach the side bottles. Not on this bag.
Awesome Pack
After trying 5 or 6 packs in the store (loaded them up with 30 pounds and walked around the store) I wasn't finding the right pack. I'm especially sensitive about packs because of some back problems I have so finding one that didn't hurt was difficult. The sales person kept suggesting I try this Gregory pack. I didn't want to pay that much so kept looking. Finally I agreed and loaded up this pack with what I thought was 30 pounds. I walked around the store for about 15 minutes. It felt lighter than all the other packs so I came back and told the sales guy I thought he didn't put the full 30 pounds in. Turns out he had accidentally put in 35 pounds. That with this pack being heavier than the other packs it was probably about 7-8 pounds heavier but felt lighter. I was immediately hooked.
I think what makes this pack so unique and fit me so well is partly due to the shoulder harness and the belt are able to swivel interdependently. All the other packs I've tried the belt is stationary.
On the flip side the side pockets could have been designed better. When the pack is full it's difficult to put much into these side pockets. That with a heavy pack is all I can find to complain about. Even with that it's still a 5 star product!
I've learned over the years that finding the right pack and fitting it perfectly to your body type and needs is essential. After a couple miles on my last trip I was experiencing pain and was thinking about stopping early. I finally remembered the sales guy had told me the belt must be centered directly over my hip bone. I lifted the pack slightly and tightened the belt. What a difference! I made it the full 12 miles that day without any more problems. I adjust my pack to carry all the weight on the hip belt. The shoulder straps only keep the pack from falling off.
I think what makes this pack so unique and fit me so well is partly due to the shoulder harness and the belt are able to swivel interdependently. All the other packs I've tried the belt is stationary.
On the flip side the side pockets could have been designed better. When the pack is full it's difficult to put much into these side pockets. That with a heavy pack is all I can find to complain about. Even with that it's still a 5 star product!
I've learned over the years that finding the right pack and fitting it perfectly to your body type and needs is essential. After a couple miles on my last trip I was experiencing pain and was thinking about stopping early. I finally remembered the sales guy had told me the belt must be centered directly over my hip bone. I lifted the pack slightly and tightened the belt. What a difference! I made it the full 12 miles that day without any more problems. I adjust my pack to carry all the weight on the hip belt. The shoulder straps only keep the pack from falling off.
Amazing comfort, great access, Baltoro75
I've used this on many week long hikes. It has room for everything I would need for a multi-week trip as well. The bag weighs more than a lot of bags of similar size, but it is all in padding, and durable materials. The main bag access, top/front/bottom was a huge reason I bought the bag, plus enough pockets to keep me organized. There was a lot of adjusting during the first mile on the trail to find the sweet spot, but once I did, it was unreal. I constantly adjust the pack on the trail to keep any one area from taking all the strain. The lumbar pad seems to stick to the lower back where it flexes, adding to the overall suspension system which I must say, is second to none. The comfort was the main reason I chose the Baltoro, nothing worse than unnecessary pain to hinder your hiking experience. The Brain is removable and has its own strap to throw it around your waist for day or summit hikes. This lets me leave the camelbak at home and shave some weight. I put my bladder in the side pocket so no chance of it leaking into the main compartment, plus its easier to remove when all packed up.
Overall a bulletproof bag with the exception of the mesh pockets on each side. Basically if you put anything solid such as a nalgene/water bottle and then drag or rub against rocks, it will create a hole in no time. With a little care, this can be avoided as I carry my bear spray in mine and have no signs of wear. The second gripe is the tiny waist belt pockets. They can hold a compact camera or an energy bar, but that's about it. If they were too big, they might cause problems with the sweeping motion of your arm, but these are too small IMO.
That being said, I wouldn't take another bag on the market over the Baltoro 75, and give this two thumbs up.
Overall a bulletproof bag with the exception of the mesh pockets on each side. Basically if you put anything solid such as a nalgene/water bottle and then drag or rub against rocks, it will create a hole in no time. With a little care, this can be avoided as I carry my bear spray in mine and have no signs of wear. The second gripe is the tiny waist belt pockets. They can hold a compact camera or an energy bar, but that's about it. If they were too big, they might cause problems with the sweeping motion of your arm, but these are too small IMO.
That being said, I wouldn't take another bag on the market over the Baltoro 75, and give this two thumbs up.
I just got back from three days out carrying my gear and half my girlfriend's gear and I am very pleased with this pack. I am not an ultra-lighter, and I want a backpack that will handle heavier loads easily and sturdily, and the Baltoro is certainly that. It's so comfortable it does not feel that heavy.
My former pack was a Gregory Shasta, and I loved that thing. I'm tempted to choose "put it through the ringer" for this review because I used the Shasta for about 12 years and never had single problem until it disappeared during a recent move. So I took the opportunity to try on a few more packs and found that the Gregory still fit me best. From inspection, I'm confident that the Baltoro will hold up as well as the Shasta. And it's just as comfortable on me.
Two things I always wished for from the Shasta were pockets and front access to the main compartment. The Baltoro has these and I love them. I don't know about the articulated hipbelts yet. I can feel them swiveling, but I'm not sure this makes it any more comfortable.
One worry I had was I can feel the aluminum stay jutting in the back a little just above the lumbar support when the pack is fully loaded. The padding on back and lumbar support here isn't as generous as was on the Shasta, but though I could feel the stay there it never became uncomfortable. Maybe I can adjust it (haven't tried yet) and if not maybe after many more days of use it will bother me, but fine for now.
I am 6'2" and I like the fit of the large. I don't know my torso size, but I have longer legs. I wanted a medium hipbelt so I exchanged the large belt for a medium with Gregory, which they turned around in less than a week. Great customer service.
Bottom line: this is seriously a fine pack, and I'm happy that Gregorys fit me well.
Supreme Comfort even Under Heavy Loads
Finally retired the external frame pack and chose this as a replacement. Didn't want to like it but the fit won me over. At first blush the Gregory packs all seemed overbuilt and a touch over-designed. Do I really need special handles and do-dads for every part of the pack? Come on.
I tried on several other brands and none really fit or carried a load like the Gregory. I'm very tall at 6' 5" and the Gregory fit my broad shoulders long spine the best. The Osprey had a funny curve and the REI packs were just a little short and the padding hit me in a funny way in the should blades. The Gregory was just right.
I waited to take it out before reviewing. Withe the 6lbs of the packs itself I carried a little over 40lbs on our hike. My wife had her Deva with about 30 lbs in it. It ends up all those do-dads, clips, and tab pulls all actually work really well, and the suspension is no baloney. There was a place for everything: the spare water bottle, the trekking poles, straps for holding the wet rainfly outside the pack. Beefy zippers were easy to grab. When the pack is on it was more comfortable to stand and rest with it on than it was to unhook it all and sit down. The hip belt was like a glove and I truly felt all the weight carried on my hips. It was fantastic. I recently broke my lower back for a 2nd time and thought my backpacking days were over. With a good pack all the weight should be on the hips, and it was. My shoulders never felt much of anything during the hike.
Pack fit is a pretty personal thing. If you're not going ultra-light give this pack a try and see if it fits. It's a bit over-built, but a very well designed pack.
I tried on several other brands and none really fit or carried a load like the Gregory. I'm very tall at 6' 5" and the Gregory fit my broad shoulders long spine the best. The Osprey had a funny curve and the REI packs were just a little short and the padding hit me in a funny way in the should blades. The Gregory was just right.
I waited to take it out before reviewing. Withe the 6lbs of the packs itself I carried a little over 40lbs on our hike. My wife had her Deva with about 30 lbs in it. It ends up all those do-dads, clips, and tab pulls all actually work really well, and the suspension is no baloney. There was a place for everything: the spare water bottle, the trekking poles, straps for holding the wet rainfly outside the pack. Beefy zippers were easy to grab. When the pack is on it was more comfortable to stand and rest with it on than it was to unhook it all and sit down. The hip belt was like a glove and I truly felt all the weight carried on my hips. It was fantastic. I recently broke my lower back for a 2nd time and thought my backpacking days were over. With a good pack all the weight should be on the hips, and it was. My shoulders never felt much of anything during the hike.
Pack fit is a pretty personal thing. If you're not going ultra-light give this pack a try and see if it fits. It's a bit over-built, but a very well designed pack.
Yeah, its heavy.. but sooo comfy..
I have done many multi-day hikes and currently own 3 backpacking specific packs. The baltoro is BY FAR the heaviest bag I own but I pick it every time for outings of 4 or more days because I can carry anywhere from 35-50# of food/gear much more comfortably than with my other 2 smaller "ultra-light" packs I have. While this pack may be "heavy" by most pack standards, on longer trips comfort becomes much more important to me. Yeah its almost 2-3 lbs heavier than my other backpacks but I take that extra weight every time on longer outings. There are many other ways to cut weight that don't come at the expense of a sore back, hips or shoulders. When getting fit for a pack be sure to take comfort into consideration, a slight pressure point here or there when fitting a pack is compounded many times over on the trail over long distances (especially if you like to cover high daily mileage during your hikes).
When looking for a new pack I tried on several at REI, (osprey, arc'teryx, deuter) loaded them with ~40#'s and walked around the store for a while. Decision was easy, this one was so blanaced and the load was well distributed it actaully felt lighter than the other packs I tried that weighed less.
REI staff was patient and helpfull. Honestly I wasn't even considering the Baltoro when I walked in as it was "too heavy" according to specs.. I saw it there and REI sales dude said it was a very popular pack so I tried it out. Good lesson, DON'T buy based on specs alone!!
That said.. Gregory, make a 65-70L pack with the same suspension/padding and cut out all the extra pockets and extra zips!! could propably get an ultra comfy 4# pack pretty easily that is just as durable.
When looking for a new pack I tried on several at REI, (osprey, arc'teryx, deuter) loaded them with ~40#'s and walked around the store for a while. Decision was easy, this one was so blanaced and the load was well distributed it actaully felt lighter than the other packs I tried that weighed less.
REI staff was patient and helpfull. Honestly I wasn't even considering the Baltoro when I walked in as it was "too heavy" according to specs.. I saw it there and REI sales dude said it was a very popular pack so I tried it out. Good lesson, DON'T buy based on specs alone!!
That said.. Gregory, make a 65-70L pack with the same suspension/padding and cut out all the extra pockets and extra zips!! could propably get an ultra comfy 4# pack pretty easily that is just as durable.
Negative Reviews:
Good pack with one major defect
This is a well-designed pack, except for one critical component. The lumbar pad is coated with a tacky non-slip rubber substance. I suppose the Gregory folks thought this would improve the pack's ride, but after 5 days it had rubbed through my shirt and torn the skin off my lower back (two quarter-sized wounds). I was carrying about 40-45 lbs on moderate terrain, and have never had a problem like this in the past (I own 8 packs and have carried 60-80 lbs on expeditions in the past). As usual, the REI staff were helpful with the return. One staff member had the same pack and noted a similar problem, and also that the rubberized substance had begun to peel off after a season. While this pack has a great suspension design and various other good aspects, the abrasion of the lumbar pad makes all those other features useless.
Really wanted to love this pack
I really wanted to like this pack, liked how my stuff fit in the back. As with others I felt that the outer pockets were a little hard to use. My problem with the pack was personal. I am 6'6" and after 2 miles of hiking my shoulders were killing me and running into my neck. Tried reloading, different positioning, but still no luck. Exchanged for a Kelty. I know that with my size not everything will work. I like how the pack felt on my low back. I would recommend for someone shorter then me!
burning about sudden drop in price
A zipper pull rope fell off right after I purchased it. boo!
Neutral Reviews:
Pack was OK, but very heavy
I used this pack for over 100 miles of hiking in Arizona through the desert, the forest, and deep relentless canyons. I wanted to put a lot of use on it before I wrote a review so I would know everything I liked and didn't like. What did I discover? Well, this pack is very heavy. Over 5lbs makes this thing a brick. I thought it would pay off for the comfort aspect but for me it was not comfortable at all. In fact, I hated it eventually. My torso may be too long for this pack in large size (I'm 6'2") because it focused all the weight above the lumbar area of my back which just caused a searing pain after a few hours of lugging it around. To remedy this, make sure you try it on and if you have any doubts look at some other packs first to make sure they fit PERFECT. Something you don't want to skimp on is a perfect fit, because all the enjoyable things fall into place with comfort. If you aren't very comfortable in this pack try some more. This is one mistake I made and will never make again.
The outside pockets didn't seem well designed. If you packed the main compartment full, it pushed into the outside pocket space. So when you try to put stuff in the pockets there is very little room because all the stuff in the main compartment pushes against the side into the space for the outer pockets. You can avoid this somewhat by packing it very meticulously, but personally I would just rather eliminate this problem with a better designed pack, one initial change for a permanent solution. I HATE not being able to use things like they should be used because it all adds up to frustration and having to spend extra time for pointless things. Not good when you have an agenda.
What I did like was all the room. You can pack this thing with a house full of valuables and then pack some more. Also the compression straps worked well to keep the pack contents stable. Ultimately though these benefits don't come close to outweighing the negatives for me.
What I have learned after purchasing this pack is to change my backpacking philosophy and that change was to go light weight. I just want to advise the wonders of light weight hiking to others looking for heavy but "comfortable" items. Light weight IS comfortable. I don't want to rock the boat too much for anyone but consider this: This pack is 6lbs in large and I also have an REI Half Dome 2 plus tent(Amazing but also heavy) which is 5 lbs. These 2 items total a whopping 11 lbs. My NEW philosophy has gotten me to ONLY 3 lbs for my tent AND pack. The weight shaving has skyrocketed my outdoor enjoyment and I want to let you know about this too! Think twice before you buy something heavy with the idea that it is comfortable. I guarantee saving weight will stack up to much much better comfort. I learned the hard way! After going light weight, I went from a sickening 50lb load to 15 POUNDS!! I will never look back.
The outside pockets didn't seem well designed. If you packed the main compartment full, it pushed into the outside pocket space. So when you try to put stuff in the pockets there is very little room because all the stuff in the main compartment pushes against the side into the space for the outer pockets. You can avoid this somewhat by packing it very meticulously, but personally I would just rather eliminate this problem with a better designed pack, one initial change for a permanent solution. I HATE not being able to use things like they should be used because it all adds up to frustration and having to spend extra time for pointless things. Not good when you have an agenda.
What I did like was all the room. You can pack this thing with a house full of valuables and then pack some more. Also the compression straps worked well to keep the pack contents stable. Ultimately though these benefits don't come close to outweighing the negatives for me.
What I have learned after purchasing this pack is to change my backpacking philosophy and that change was to go light weight. I just want to advise the wonders of light weight hiking to others looking for heavy but "comfortable" items. Light weight IS comfortable. I don't want to rock the boat too much for anyone but consider this: This pack is 6lbs in large and I also have an REI Half Dome 2 plus tent(Amazing but also heavy) which is 5 lbs. These 2 items total a whopping 11 lbs. My NEW philosophy has gotten me to ONLY 3 lbs for my tent AND pack. The weight shaving has skyrocketed my outdoor enjoyment and I want to let you know about this too! Think twice before you buy something heavy with the idea that it is comfortable. I guarantee saving weight will stack up to much much better comfort. I learned the hard way! After going light weight, I went from a sickening 50lb load to 15 POUNDS!! I will never look back.
Nice build but missing a few things
The pack is comfortable and the shoulder straps and hip belt are padded perfectly. Although, for the money spent buying this bag, my 7 year old EMS pack (Summit 5500) still has some better features. The Gregory pack has no good organizational pockets. The pockets are just throw stuff in and that's it. The EMS pack had a pocket that had built in mesh holders, so it was good for separating items into specific groups of like items (ie. medications, headlamp and batteries). The Gregory pack has no place to attach your water bladder hose so it just flops around by the shoulder strap. There is also no hook or strap to secure the bladder in the pocket (inside the pack). I had to tie a length of nylon rope between the upper part of the frame so I could clip the bladder to it, to keep it from collapsing in the pocket as water was drank.
Basically, comfort wise it was really really good. The little technical things (described above) that are missing from the pack's design annoyed me on my trip. After reading all kinds of reviews about how great Gregory packs are, I was very disappointed with this pack. Sadly, it was the little things missed that killed the pack.
Basically, comfort wise it was really really good. The little technical things (described above) that are missing from the pack's design annoyed me on my trip. After reading all kinds of reviews about how great Gregory packs are, I was very disappointed with this pack. Sadly, it was the little things missed that killed the pack.
newer isn't better
The old model was better. The new model has cheaped out in alot of aspects. The back padding is cheap and very hot against your body, if you sweat easily this is a problem on long hikes. The old model allowed for much more air flow. The zippers and zipper pulls are cheaper, the clips are in weird areas and often get in the way and appear cheaper as well. Other than that the materials are the same as the previous model and the fit is great. The removable pack is an upgrade from last years model but I would have to say that they cut some corners to add it and still keep it at the same price as last years. I could be wrong check it out for yourself. The previous model was more comfortable too.
Baltoro 75 versatile but uncomfortable.
I have had this pack for 2 years and have used it for almost everything possible. Good access, hooks, loops, etc. I would first point out the terrible shoulder strap design. There is enough padding but it can't be utilized because of the excess camber. This causes the straps to saw into my shoulder rather then distributing the weight evenly. I don't believe anything had been done to change this design since my purchase. Second, Like most packs it tapers to a point at the bottom and my sleeping bag in a compression sack does not fit (GoLite 4-season men's long 650+fill)so it requires more organization then what I have been use to.
Need a Patch?
Second hike out and the thin fabric on a side pocket tore when it snagged a branch or side of a rock.
I guess light weight does not always translate to strength and durability.
The pack did not come with a patch kit, was told I by Gregory that I could send it back and they would repair it. Would be have been nice to be able to do it myself without having to buy a repair kit at REI
I guess light weight does not always translate to strength and durability.
The pack did not come with a patch kit, was told I by Gregory that I could send it back and they would repair it. Would be have been nice to be able to do it myself without having to buy a repair kit at REI
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