When you've finished cutting weight from every other part of your equipment list, there's one place left to turn: your backpack. Gregory's Z65 is the second-largest member of the company's lighter-weight "Z" family of backpacks, dropping nearly a pound and a half from the weight of its more deluxe counterpart, the Baltoro 65. The Z65 features a large front panel zipper that allows easy access to all of the packs' contents, as well as a large and well-cushioned lumbar pad that helps transfer the weight of the load to your hips. Gregory's Jetstream suspension system opens up a little bit more airspace behind your back compared to the Response and Kinetic suspension systems found on other Gregory packs, which helps to keep you cooler on hot summer trips.
Specs:
Small:
VOL: 58 L
WT: 3 LBS 15 OZ / 1.80 KG
TORSO:16 IN - 18 IN
Medium:
VOL: 64 L
WT: 4 LBS 3 OZ / 1.90 KG
TORSO:18 IN - 20 IN
Large:
VOL: 70 L
WT: 4 LBS 7 OZ / 2.00 KG
TORSO:20 IN - 22 IN
The Z65 Backpack by Gregory boasts a beefed up waistbelt that effectively transfers the load off of your back and onto your hips for maximum comfort on the trail.
The workhorse of Gregory's backpacking ventilated line, the durable z65 Pack is lightweight and carries like a dream. Thru-hikes, lightweight three day weekend, or trips to the crag are just a few places you'll enjoy wearing this updated classic.
Array: | 3000-3999 cu in |
---|---|
Backpack Style: | Multi-Day Pack |
Capacity: | 3906 cu in / 64 L (size M) |
Depth: | 9 1⁄2 in |
Fabric: | 210D double diamond ripstop and 210D x 420D HD flat weave fabrics |
Features: | Front Loader, Top Loader |
Hydration Bladder Included: | Not Included |
Hydration Compatible: | Yes |
Laptop Sleeve: | None |
Material: | 210d HT Double Box Ripstop Nylon |
Pockets: | Yes |
Strap Drop: | 16 1⁄2 in |
Volume: | 4272 cubic inches / 70 liter |
Weight: | 4 lb 3 oz / 1.90 kg (size M) |
I've had this pack for 3 years and gone on a few long overseas trips as well as a few shorter ones in that time. I've had a few packs before and I used the Marine Corps version of the Arcteryx pack while I was in, so I have some experience with how a pack ought to be constructed. This pack has held up reasonably well, but I just want to let everyone know that all your zipper pull straps will break astoundingly quickly. It's like they weren't even tested, because some of them break by the third pull. I just have bare zippers all over my pack now, which I've never dealt with, but I just feel like I shouldn't have had to, it's such an elemental part of the pack that should have been made right. I guess I'll call Gregory for some replacements, but I fear they're going to be just as shoddy as the ones that broke. Also my chest strap broke a few weeks ago, and it's impossible to get back on without bending the plastic. Other than that, the pack is fine, but don't be surprised when the small things start breaking on you.
I have had this for a good solid year almost and it has been on quite a few trips and had some good miles put on it! I really do love it. I just bought the Baltoro 65 and have worked out with it a couple times and will try it out on the trail soon but as of right now I just love this pack so much more! It breathes really well, its waist straps hold weight well and are very comfortable. I recommend it and its even a good price! It would be 5 if it had a little bit more pockets. Love it!
I use this pack 90% of the time throughout the year in all 4 seasons. In 3 season weather I have more than enough room for all my gear plus a weeks worht of food, however in the summer anything more than an overnight I have to move up. My baseweight is usually between 20-30 lbs depending on the seasons. I love the pack though because it balances weight and performance very well. It's rated to about 40 lbs but I think that's teetering just beyond the edge of it's capabilities. I have had 35 lbs with no real issues. Love the pack
Working into my third season with this pack. Weight is great, fit is near perfect. Breathable back pad is awesome.
Only bad: Water bottle holders don't work too well (not accessible easily), but I use them to store tent poles and fishing rod etc. and they work fine for that.
Removable upper compartment could (and will) make a great side hike daypack with a little modification.
Water pouch takes some room from the rest of the pack and isn't the greatest hydration system. Solve this by bringing a steripen and less water.
Packs larger than it looks. Carries nice and cool, fits like a glove when sized properly. Not a lot of e external tie points beyond the basic axe loops. Great for weekenders.
Love it. I have such a short torso that I find it difficult for packs to be comfortable. This one seems to fit perfect in the XS size.
Here is my z65 next to a couple of friend's Osprey bags