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TorStar81
9
Feb 14, 2017
Looking at getting my first 65L backpack to carry approximately 30 lbs. Some other backpacks I'm looking at are the Osprey Atmos 65L and the ULA Catalyst. Any recommendations?
qgarcia
2
Feb 15, 2017
TorStar81They carry these at REI. Go get fitted before buying. I ended up getting the Zulu because the rigidness of the belt actually dug into my hips. If it didn't have that issue, it would have been my first choice.
HikingDawg
47
Mar 11, 2017
qgarciaI agree it would be good check out the fit at REI before buying. Gregory makes excellent packs and this is a very good deal. However, if you don't expect to be carrying more than 30 pounds, and are working to lighten your load, you might want to consider a lighter weight pack such as ULA, Gossamer Gear, Granite Gear (REI carries GraniteGear so you could try in the store) . They make some great lightweight packs at around half the weight. But most of them won't recommend carrying more than 30-35lbs. The lightweight packs won't be quite as durable as a Baltoro, but if they're durable enough for a thru hike, they'll be durable enough for the average backpacker.
RCeithamer21
10
Mar 13, 2017
TorStar81The Gregory Stout 65 is also a good option. I recently bought the Stout, and its comparable to the Baltoro in terms of features but you can find it for much cheaper. The Stout is also lighter by about a pound or two I think. But personally, I think the Baltoro was the best fit for me. It took all the weight off my shoulders and onto my hips and did so while staying very comfortable. If you go try it on at REI, just remember that the padding will break in and form to your body after a little bit of use. So dont let the stiffness turn you off. Otherwise, I am extremely happy with my Stout 65 that I picked up for only $140, so check it out.
Keithturkjr
4
Apr 10, 2017
TorStar81I own a ULA catalyst and can testify that it is an absolute beast. Love this pack man. Its light comfortable, the airmesh back panel feels good when its hot. The capacity is great, and the position and sizes of the exterior pockets are really awesome. I had to pack it a few times to kinda figure out where and how all my gear would go into it, but I cant imagine packing it all any other way. The camo version have a lot of 500 denier cordura, but they are still ultralight packs despite being durable.
Keithturkjr
4
Apr 10, 2017
Keithturkjrcatalyst is their biggest pack and has a load limit of 45 lbs. I've had it that full and it was comfortable. Circuit is about 35 I hear Ohm is about 25. Circuit is also a good pack but I wouldn't go lighter than a ULA Circuit. People like their ULA Ohms, but the people that like them are true dedicated ultralighters. A pack like the ULA circuit or catalyst is a pack a more traditional backpacker that's willing to carry a few more features could enjoy. ULA packs don't have thousands of silly features, but they do have the ones you need for backpacking. One thing the do have is a massive main compartment that can fit your stuff. Lots of packs have "volume" but that volume is laid out in a way that is only 80% useful volume and then they are too small and hard to pack.
bucklebuster
43
May 19, 2017
qgarciaGood idea. And be sure to say, "Hey, thanks for your time and expertise helping me get a great fit. Thanks for spending the money to keep all these packs in inventory in this nice facility. That's why I love REI. Now that I know exactly what I want, I'll go buy it online. Have a great day!"
CatWizard69
1
May 25, 2017
qgarciaI had the same experience with this bag. I joined the drop for this bag about two months ago and once I loaded the bag to full capacity the belt dug into my hips. I did go to rei and get it fitting, but I didn't have any weight in the bag so it felt fine (armature move on my part ).