Gregory Z 55 – Weekend Backpacks: Reviews
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BEST FOR HOT WEATHER
Beat sweaty-back syndrome with the Z 55's ventilated suspension. The frame's concave shape creates a pocket of cooling air between your back and the pack. Most impressive: There's zero drop-off in load support. The perforated framesheet efficiently transfers weight to a perfectly sculpted hipbelt, and a no-slip lumbar pad keeps the load locked in place. It's ideal for a weekend trek but can handle a fair-weather week (about 40 pounds) as well. 3.4 lbs, 3,350 cu in; gregorypacks.com
Bonus: Stash snacks and sunscreen in the two large hipbelt pockets, and access the main compartment through a sneak-zipper on the side.
Bummer: The large shove-it pocket absorbs plenty of overflow, but there are no dividers for the side pockets—items can migrate around.