Hello Everyone
The Granite Gear Crown was one of the most popular ultralight backpacks for years and years, setting a high bar for what to expect in terms of carrying comfort, durability and weight. Earlier this year Granite Gear released their long awaited update - the Crown2. It improved on nearly every aspect of the original, while maintaining the same price point and level of durability. It has been sold out at REI and many stores due to the incredibly high demand.
What made this pack so special?
1) Carrying Comfort. The Crown2 has an innovative frame that has thick cushioning, air slots for aiding air flow to the back, and a removable frame sheet. The real key here is the new, fully adjustable waist belt. Transferring the weight of the pack to your hips is crucial to all-day comfort, and this belt is that vital link. All waist belts can be tightened, but the shape doesn't change. This waist belt can actually be adjusted to your waist size, and then tightened in front as usual. This ensures everyone gets a dialed in fit. It also guarantees a good fit for life, because you may gain or lose weight (like on a thru-hike), or you may share this pack with a friend.
2) Rich Feature Set. The pack has everything you'd want in a conventional backpack: hipbelt pockets, water bottle pockets, large front stuff-it pocket, straps to lash on gear like trekking poles or an ice ax. Most importantly, Granite Gear ended the debate about which is better - roll-top or floating lid - because you get both here. Having the lid allows you an extra level of organization and convenience. For the lightest pack, remove the lid for a streamlined roll-top.
3) Lightweight Durability. This is not a pack you have to baby. It could last you thousands of miles of hiking. While there are a few people here who actually might do that, for most of us that durability translates to a pack that will last you years and years, possibly decades. It's not just the fabric that is durable, but the whole package - the seams, the trim, the buckles -everything is matched to last a long time. But here's the thing: this pack is still really light. Light enough for a discerning UL hiker, yet still with all the features desired by a traditional backpacker.
So, what have we changed and why did we change it?
search
1) Lumbar Day Pack. We rearranged the straps on the lid and pack, so that now the lid and hipbelt can make a day pack. For testing, I loaded this up with 8 Lara bars in each pocket, while the lid held 2 liters of water, a jacket, first aid kit, and a few other small things. It was very comfortable with no noticeable bounce or rubbing. My back was not covered by a typical day pack, getting all hot and sweaty. This is perfect for doing a day hike from base camp or carrying your camera gear to get that shot of the sunset.
2) Lid Organization. The debate about a lid versus roll top often comes down to better organization versus simpler, lighter pack. So if we do have a lid, we might as well make is as useful as possible. We added two stretch mesh pockets to the bottom of it, perfect for holding your InReach, notebook, or first aid kit. There is still plenty of space on top of the pockets for a puffy jacket or sandwich or whatever else you need handy. This works in tandem with change #1, as now you have better organization in your lumbar day pack too.
3) Water Bottle Access. Staying hydrated on the trail is obviously important, and we wanted to offer all the options for carrying water. While there is still the hook, port and zippered compartment for a hydration reservoir/bladder, we have added stretch cords to the front shoulder straps so you can hook in a plastic bottle on each side. (Gatorade and VitaminWater bottles work really well). We also angled the water bottle pockets for easier access while wearing the pack (picture below). Note that this may mean that biggest bottles (>32oz) may not be as secure, but this is easily remedied with the side straps.
4) Color. Yes, it's grey (or flint, to be more accurate) but we thought that we subtle black trim would look really smooth and clean, like the granite of the Sierras where I hike.
5) Weight. Our goal was to add functionality without adding noticeable weight. Overall, the weight of the Crown X60 is actually less than the 2017 Crown2 due to improvements in the waist belt that also reduced the weight. But our other changes didn't affect the base weight of the pack. The shoulder strap water bottle cords are removable. The lid gained a bit of weight, but is also removable, and the minor weight increase are well worth the additional organizational convenience.
search
Why did we choose Granite Gear for our first backpack collaboration?
It's simple, really - Granite Gear is a pack company. They only make packs, and they make a lot of them. They are the experts. They make packs for the military that must be able to silently carry 100 lbs and agile enough for military maneuvers. Their portage packs are like required gear for any canoe trip to the Boundary Waters. They make school packs, travel gear, and dry bags. But it all seems to culminate in the best camping backpacks around. Not the flashiest, nor always the lightest or fanciest, but the most dependably good. We want you to feel comfortable knowing what you're getting is built to last. It's make with pride, with you in mind, for the long haul.
If you could only own one backpack, this should be it. I don't say that lightly. I think this pack offers a superb, adjustable fit; a rich-feature set, and light weight. It's light enough for most ultralighter, with a little extra volume and features for the more traditional backpackers.
I'm thrilled to offer this backpack to our community. I have read your posts and polls, have emailed with many of you personally, and am deeply indebted to you all for making this possible.
Most of all, I'd like to thank Granite Gear, who have been an ideal partner. We've worked together over numerous emails, phone calls, video chats and meetings at Outdoor Retailer. They have been nothing but gracious, professional and straightforward. Oh, and they got that Minnesota nice thing going for them too!
Cheers
-Danny
PS. We are starting off by only offering the Regular torso, though we may be able to add an option for the Long torso if we have enough demand.
fmbottrellI wish we could offer all three torso sizes, and if demand is high enough maybe we can. So thanks for posting. Unfortunately, the short torso only accounts for a few percent of the packs the Granite Gear sells nationwide. The pack factory has high minimum order quantities, so we're only able to order each size when we have reached a certain level of demand.
mtwalkerThanks for posting! Is the regular pack too tall for you? Check out GG's Fit and Size guide
https://www.granitegear.com/fitting
If we have really high demand, maybe we can offer the short torso.
DannyMilksThis pack is all kinds of win! Very nice and crap, what an awesome price on it, too...amazing. If I still needed a pack that large I'd be all over this. The re-fit belt is fantastic. I think this will be wildly successful for Massdrop and if you ever decide to do a smaller 40-ish liter I'm in. I picked up the Lutsen 45 here earlier this year and for the most part love it but the new Crown 2 is nicer in some ways...this special version even moreso. Love the grey, great choice. Only thing I might offer as a change would be to let the two rear compression straps go beneath/through the stretch pocket, same way the side pockets do. And just one question that others might want to know the answer to also...how large of a bladder will it accept?
DannyMilks6 AM in the morning? You are seriously messing with Californians. Way too laid back for that time. Hoping I can make it to the computer. That way my son won't have to steal mine.
DannyMilksThis is so awesome. The crown 2 is by far my goto pack this year. The few improvements made are real smart and for such a low cost you can not get a better pack.
Here is my a review of the Crown2 when it came out: https://youtu.be/eJALvL9EdWM
mtwalkerI just added a note into Customer Service re: my order. I'm definitely not counting on getting a small but hey, June is a long ways off so it can't hurt to ask! I'm trying to go lighter and this one was on my list of potential packs so can't hurt to buy the regular and try it out. I'm sure I'll be able to resell easily if it does't fit.
gmorphisWhile we can't offer you a solution for the belt, I can think of an easy homemade one. The belt buckles are standard size, so you could buy a little webbing and a male/female buckle sew it together like an extender or an insert. Seems like a straightforward DIY project.
DannyMilksFantastic offering! I would, however, venture to guess that most UL backpackers are toting way less than 60L (hint, hint.....something in the 30-40L range in the future?). Again, great job!
DannyMilksLove the Granite Gear packs, been rocking an original Vapor Trail for 10 years. Finally time to put it to rest. However I need the long torso version... 6'4" and slim. Regular length just not gonna cut it.
Nick_aloneWe ship to almost every country in the world, but there are a few countries where we can't ship this pack due to distribution rights. Sorry Nick, but maybe you can have it shipped to a friend in a nearby country?
DannyMilksI'm sold! Please add me as a definite request for the LONG torso option... After struggling 30 miles on the Superior Hiking Trail with my heavy 10-year-old Scoutmaster's pack I'm ready to go ultralight!
zwn.aHi Izwan, I do have friends in Malaysia. I might wait for a 2nd batch sales, as this drop may took more than 6month tentatively.
Not sure why there is distribution issue, don't see any Granite Gear products in Singapore.
Anyway appreciate for your help!
TooMuchDewWell, I'm committed to the initial Drop, though @Massdrop and @DannyMilks still haven't added a way to select "LONG Torso" as an option… 6'5" me would be comforted to have that reassurance.
DannyMilksIncredible offer on a great pack with some some thoughtful improvements. Will the option for a long torso be available in a future drop or a change order to the existing drop, or perhaps, will I need to fall into some Alice in Wonderland rabbit hole to fit into the Regular torso length. Let me know and thanks all your effort in putting this drops together.
DannyMilksDanny, I have been wanting to buy this pack since I heard about it. I love the great changes you guys made. I was so excited when I saw the drop for this pack at a killer price so I jumped on it right away. What an amazing buy. Thanks so much.
David
DannyMilksI just was at REI today trying to buy a Crown 2 when I saw this. Unfortunately, I'm 6'3" and am pretty sure I need the long torso. So, when's that coming?
Nick_aloneThey now ship to SG. I just got this awesome response from @kim.suarez... Hi Viraman,
My name is Kim Suarez and I am the Product Development Manager for all Soft Goods Collabs here at Massdrop.
We saw your request to Granite Gear to see if you can purchase a pack for Singapore delivery.
We see no reason why this is not possible and neither does Granite Gear, so we are updating the drop page to allow for delivery.
It may take a couple hours, but please keep checking in and you should be able to purchase a pack asap!
Thanks so much for being a Massdrop customer and supporting us over in the Soft Goods world! And of course, we love seeing your photos and hearing about how the pack is working out for you!
Thanks!
Kim
CarolEB2This pack was really nice and is exactly what I was looking for but is, unfortunately, way too long for me even in the regular. I know there's not alot of us shorties out there so I probably never going to be a marketing option so I'm out of luck :(
DannyMilksHi Danny,
Can you please clarify the volume of this pack? The interior volume of 23.5*8*13 inches = 40 litres if you assume it to be roughly a rectangular prism. Adding the lid and hip belt pockets gives you about 46 litres, not 60.
JoomyThe internal volume is certainly larger than 40L, it is equivalent to my Osprey Aether 60 in terms of what I can pack. The roll top is very long, maybe including that equals 60L since the Crown 2 has the same roll top.
JoomyThis is my first GG pack so I'm not an expert. I looked at a lot of sites to see if I could find a breakdown of the interior volume, no luck. My guess is the regular compartment is around 50L and the full roll top extension adds 10L. It's also very similar size to the Boreas 55 I sold recently.
DannyMilksWill you be making a size Short available? I use a size S for Granite Gear packs. Although my torso is 18, the granite gear in regular didn’t fit me well and had to struggle with the pack when I use it. Sizing down, GG packs felt great. Hope a size S will be in the works in the future to have the optionality.
DannyMilksI'd to agree on all the points you make!
If you can keep everything the same (maybe make a slightly smaller-sized version of it as well, more like a day-pack or a backpack that would be more akin to the size of a "large day pack pulling double-duty as a school bag" type of sizing would be ideal...I'd actually need both so maybe you could offer them together even or have an option to add it maybe?
2 things 1 would chanfe if possible...
1- Having a solidly made suspended mesh backing that creates a gap between your Back and the pack...kinda like Osprey offers on some of their bags. (And I know it might affect the durability of the backpack, but that's a price I'm more than happy to pay for some cool air on my back during a hike or other physical activity...
2- Making the bag as Waterproof/Wheatherproof as technology pernits to eliminate (or at least reduce) the usage of Backpack Rain Covers...
Featuring those 2 changes I would buy this backpack and a "little brother" like I've mentioned and described, In a Heart Beat! Especially if you can keep it around the same price and the "smaller companion bag" would be awesome if it was a bit cheaper, or like I said, if there was a way to have an option to get them both in the same Drop and save even more that woukd be AWESOME! And you can count me in!
Thank you,
Frederic Potvin.
(PM me if you want to talk about those ideas, or if you like to send me a free one to Review and give my thoughts on :P Cuz I know my ideas are worth so much...actually, you might want to send me a pair of First Class Ticket or a Private Jet if you wanna talk LOL I'm only kidding...I don't think anyone can think they are THAT important...LOL
On a serious note though I'd really be happy to review it :)
DannyMilksIf it’s about demand then why don’t you offer the short with a note that “x” number must be reached before ordering? If there’s not enough interest than at least you will have given it a shot and if there is enough interest than you’ll have finally silenced us short torso people
Potvin.FFellas, Danny has been gone from massdrop for about a year now and doesn't seem to be visiting or replying at all anymore (and massdrop employees in general don't seem to be interacting or replying much either, sadly). The ultralight category here is now more full of trinkets and clothing than UL gear, imho, but they still bring out a few gems like this pack although not many UL hikers need 60L capacity. Great pack, really, and seems to have done very well, but development with torso or the smaller capacity version appears to have ceased.
ElreyI'm 5'9.5" with a 20.3" torso. the regular is just right for me. If you look at the shoulder straps you can see they go down the pack a few inches, so I think the regular could work, but you would be just at the cusp. Also I'm a 30.5" waist and with the belt on the 28 setting, it fits with a few inches of give. I have 2 tents in there (1 6lb, 1 3lb the second is just to simulate clothing/food load), a 2 person bag (3lb 14 oz uncompressed at top, ya I packed it crappy...), a costco throw (16oz), Stove/gas/pots (18oz), 1 camp chair (1lb 16 oz), insulated pad (18 oz) , pillow (3 oz I think - klymit x) and the 2 vitamin waters and phone for a total of 23.5 lbs including the pack. And it felt pretty comfy running around the house and up and down stairs. And yes, my bathroom mirror needs a cleaning and I'm not very good at this selfie thing.
DannyMilksGreat product. Thanks for offering it and doing this write up. It was an enjoyable read even with the numerous spelling errors. Try Grammarly?
DannyMilksDoes Granite Gear no longer care about short hikers? This is very disappointing. I've never gotten a poor fit in their packs, but I also only fit in their short torsos.
DannyMilksSuch a well designed pack. I’m a backpacking guide leading multi-day trips in the Grand Canyon, so I need a larger capacity (70-85L). I was using REI’s XT-85 which was very comfortable but weighed in at 5+ lbs. They have discontinued that model, so I’m looking for a new pack. Would love to find an extended carry, lightweight pack with many of the features you incorporated here.
DannyMilksHey Danny,
Thanks again for offering this pack! I ordered it the last drop, and was informed a bit later that the shipping was pushed back to late August. How often will updates be sent as to when it will be sent? I would love updates on how the production is coming, and if they will be able to make that deadline. Any information you can give us?
Thanks!
jledbetter2Same here. I ordered and wasn't in a rush to receive the pack. Now I'm planning on leaving for a trip to Colorado in mid-September to early October and I'm really hoping there is no delay in the expected shipping date. I'd love to be able to give this pack a good workout in the Rocky Mountains as soon as I get it!
Dazie1Countless women have asked for the short torso—or, shocking concept, the women’s version—since it was first offered. Apparently our voices are the wrong frequency— Mass(drop) doesn’t even bother to reply. Says a lot, eh?
dday1937Have you reached out to Granite Gear? I lost a clip and asked how to buy, they asked me to send a pic of a remaining one and sent a replacement no cost.
The Granite Gear Crown was one of the most popular ultralight backpacks for years and years, setting a high bar for what to expect in terms of carrying comfort, durability and weight. Earlier this year Granite Gear released their long awaited update - the Crown2. It improved on nearly every aspect of the original, while maintaining the same price point and level of durability. It has been sold out at REI and many stores due to the incredibly high demand.
What made this pack so special?
1) Carrying Comfort. The Crown2 has an innovative frame that has thick cushioning, air slots for aiding air flow to the back, and a removable frame sheet. The real key here is the new, fully adjustable waist belt. Transferring the weight of the pack to your hips is crucial to all-day comfort, and this belt is that vital link. All waist belts can be tightened, but the shape doesn't change. This waist belt can actually be adjusted to your waist size, and then tightened in front as usual. This ensures everyone gets a dialed in fit. It also guarantees a good fit for life, because you may gain or lose weight (like on a thru-hike), or you may share this pack with a friend.
2) Rich Feature Set. The pack has everything you'd want in a conventional backpack: hipbelt pockets, water bottle pockets, large front stuff-it pocket, straps to lash on gear like trekking poles or an ice ax. Most importantly, Granite Gear ended the debate about which is better - roll-top or floating lid - because you get both here. Having the lid allows you an extra level of organization and convenience. For the lightest pack, remove the lid for a streamlined roll-top.
3) Lightweight Durability. This is not a pack you have to baby. It could last you thousands of miles of hiking. While there are a few people here who actually might do that, for most of us that durability translates to a pack that will last you years and years, possibly decades. It's not just the fabric that is durable, but the whole package - the seams, the trim, the buckles -everything is matched to last a long time. But here's the thing: this pack is still really light. Light enough for a discerning UL hiker, yet still with all the features desired by a traditional backpacker.
So, what have we changed and why did we change it?
1) Lumbar Day Pack. We rearranged the straps on the lid and pack, so that now the lid and hipbelt can make a day pack. For testing, I loaded this up with 8 Lara bars in each pocket, while the lid held 2 liters of water, a jacket, first aid kit, and a few other small things. It was very comfortable with no noticeable bounce or rubbing. My back was not covered by a typical day pack, getting all hot and sweaty. This is perfect for doing a day hike from base camp or carrying your camera gear to get that shot of the sunset.
2) Lid Organization. The debate about a lid versus roll top often comes down to better organization versus simpler, lighter pack. So if we do have a lid, we might as well make is as useful as possible. We added two stretch mesh pockets to the bottom of it, perfect for holding your InReach, notebook, or first aid kit. There is still plenty of space on top of the pockets for a puffy jacket or sandwich or whatever else you need handy. This works in tandem with change #1, as now you have better organization in your lumbar day pack too.
3) Water Bottle Access. Staying hydrated on the trail is obviously important, and we wanted to offer all the options for carrying water. While there is still the hook, port and zippered compartment for a hydration reservoir/bladder, we have added stretch cords to the front shoulder straps so you can hook in a plastic bottle on each side. (Gatorade and VitaminWater bottles work really well). We also angled the water bottle pockets for easier access while wearing the pack (picture below). Note that this may mean that biggest bottles (>32oz) may not be as secure, but this is easily remedied with the side straps.
4) Color. Yes, it's grey (or flint, to be more accurate) but we thought that we subtle black trim would look really smooth and clean, like the granite of the Sierras where I hike.
5) Weight. Our goal was to add functionality without adding noticeable weight. Overall, the weight of the Crown X60 is actually less than the 2017 Crown2 due to improvements in the waist belt that also reduced the weight. But our other changes didn't affect the base weight of the pack. The shoulder strap water bottle cords are removable. The lid gained a bit of weight, but is also removable, and the minor weight increase are well worth the additional organizational convenience.
Why did we choose Granite Gear for our first backpack collaboration?
It's simple, really - Granite Gear is a pack company. They only make packs, and they make a lot of them. They are the experts. They make packs for the military that must be able to silently carry 100 lbs and agile enough for military maneuvers. Their portage packs are like required gear for any canoe trip to the Boundary Waters. They make school packs, travel gear, and dry bags. But it all seems to culminate in the best camping backpacks around. Not the flashiest, nor always the lightest or fanciest, but the most dependably good. We want you to feel comfortable knowing what you're getting is built to last. It's make with pride, with you in mind, for the long haul. If you could only own one backpack, this should be it. I don't say that lightly. I think this pack offers a superb, adjustable fit; a rich-feature set, and light weight. It's light enough for most ultralighter, with a little extra volume and features for the more traditional backpackers.
I'm thrilled to offer this backpack to our community. I have read your posts and polls, have emailed with many of you personally, and am deeply indebted to you all for making this possible.
Most of all, I'd like to thank Granite Gear, who have been an ideal partner. We've worked together over numerous emails, phone calls, video chats and meetings at Outdoor Retailer. They have been nothing but gracious, professional and straightforward. Oh, and they got that Minnesota nice thing going for them too! Cheers -Danny
PS. We are starting off by only offering the Regular torso, though we may be able to add an option for the Long torso if we have enough demand.
If we have really high demand, maybe we can offer the short torso.
Hi Viraman,
My name is Kim Suarez and I am the Product Development Manager for all Soft Goods Collabs here at Massdrop.
We saw your request to Granite Gear to see if you can purchase a pack for Singapore delivery.
We see no reason why this is not possible and neither does Granite Gear, so we are updating the drop page to allow for delivery.
It may take a couple hours, but please keep checking in and you should be able to purchase a pack asap!
Thanks so much for being a Massdrop customer and supporting us over in the Soft Goods world! And of course, we love seeing your photos and hearing about how the pack is working out for you!
Thanks! Kim