Gear Review: Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack

“The most comfortable pack I have ever worn. Ever.”

Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack
Gregory Baltoro 75 Backpack

Unfortunately, it weighs over six pounds! But, using some of the best shoulder strap and hip belt technology around, this pack will haul big loads and do it with ease. Gregory’s unique design includes super padded shoulder straps and hip belt, which can shift left or right or up and down, respectively, conforming to everyone’s unique and slightly asymmetrical body. The  ultra-customizable suspension of the Gregory Baltoro 75, might just be worth the weight. If you don’t care about the weight, look no further.

BEST USES:

Mountaineering, the ‘shoulder season’ of winter camping or backpacking,  and any time a heavy pack weight is inevitable. It also works well as a travel pack with a removable brain that can be used for little day trips and hikes.

Our Two Testers, David and Zach, taking their Baltoro out for a cold week on the AT
Our two testers, David and Zach, taking their Baltoro out for a cold week on the AT

It will hold a lot of clothing for that multi-week trip in South East Asia, but you would be wasting this pack if you only used it for travel. Weight minded hikers or travelers normally shy away from this style of pack.

Technical Specs:

  1. Actual Weight: 102oz (6.375lb) size Large. (Including all removable features)
  2. Actual Volume: 78 Liters
  3. Number of Stays: 1
  4. Points of Access: 3

Features: 

  • Pre-curved harness and waist belt.
  • Sleeping Bag Compartment.
  • Shoulder straps and hip belt move along unique suspension system.
  • Top lid can be removed and used as a day pack.
  • Front pocket, twin side pockets and dual waist belt pockets.
  • Hideaway water bottle pocket with bungee to secure bottles.
  • Hydration sleeve and side easy-to-feed ports for your hose.
  • DWR coated, water-resistant zippers and dual layer, wear-resistant bottom panel.
Shifting hip belt technology. Also found in shoulder strap connection
Shifting hip belt technology. Also found in shoulder strap connection

Analysis:

Pros: Freakishly comfortable- 50+ lbs comfort zone. Lots of space for extra climbing gear, ropes, etc.. Easily accessible, bulletproof durability.

Cons: Heavy- added featured, extra hardware and padding makes it heavier than similar packs (see Osprey Aether 85, 5lb 1oz). Back panel doesn’t breathe well. “Special” water bottle holder is not totally trustworthy (some bottles can slip out when making awkward or uncommon movements. One tester watched his water bottle scoot down an ice fall after self arresting a teammates fall into a crevasse.) Expensive- at $350 it’s one of the more expensive packs for its size and features.

Overall:

A great pack for trips when you need that zero degree sleeping bag, multiple insulation layers, and some snow pro. It will haul 50 lbs comfortably. No exaggeration. We consider this pack among the most comfortable in the market. Not an ultralight pack by any definition.

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