Jul 10
14
Gregory Z35 Day Pack
Gregory Z35 Hiking Backpack
By Karenna Awtry
Created in the U.S.A. by an inventive designer who decided packs should be functional and comfortable, Gregory Mountain Products’ hiking backpacks have long been lauded for their superior functionality and comfort.
The Gregory Z35 daypack is another shining product to come out of the Gregory factories. Its light, comfy suspension and air-circulating AeroTech backpanel keep you cool while you’re on the move. Travel fast, travel light and pack your gear in a daypack so comfy you might forget it’s there.
Sometimes lightweight daypacks have to sacrifice space for comfort. Not so with the Z35. At an average 3 lbs. 2 oz., this Gregory hiking backpack offers an ample main compartment, a front zippered (and waterproof!) pocket, easy-access waistbelt pockets and stretchy mesh cubbies on the sides.
There’s even an internal sleeve for your own hydration bladder, with exit ports on either side for all-important sipping on the go. You can also strap on your ice axe or tools on outside attachments. No shortage of space for serious day hikes!
The mesh back panel (a favorite feature in the fast-hike realm) will keep you cool, but the Z35 isn’t just for warm weather exploring. Take it out in the winter on your snowshoeing adventures. Though it’s not specifically equipped to carry snowshoes, the Z35’s versatility gives you plenty of options.
One hiker found out it’s possible to tuck the snowshoes under the lid and liked how the backpack is roomy enough for the layers of clothes and food needed on cold hikes. Exchange your water bottle storage and it’s simple to lash on trekking poles, too.
The padded, adjustable hip belt is a hit, providing a sturdy, comfortable fit just as promised. The intuitive shoulder harness doesn’t go overboard on padding, but it doesn’t need to because the Z35 adjusts to your body, keeping the weight balanced across your hips and not tugging on your shoulders.
Gregory’s renowned design stands out with the Z35; some owners go from summer hikes to skiing with security and ease. Small details — like elastic keepers to keep things neatly tied down — make this daypack universally impressive. There is ample room for a day’s worth of food, water and supplies. A sleeping bag easily straps to the bottom of the pack. Every aspect of this hiking backpack has been well thought out, say reviewers.
Backpacker Magazine included the Gregory Z35 in its May 2009 Gear Guide. The daypack simply cannot be overloaded (at the 30 lb. recommendation), say the editors. Stuff it to the gills and it refuses to sag, slip or lose its support. Loading the pack with your full hydration bladder will, however, cut into its capacity.
Overall, the Gear Guide editors awarded this daypack 4.4 out of 5 stars, with exceptionally high marks for comfort and stability and above-average accolades for versatility and organization.
The Z35 was given a go by Field & Stream writer Jay Cassell, who wasn’t a bit disappointed in Gregory’s promise to provide superior comfort through its adjusting harness and hipbelt. The capacity and access suited him just fine. In fact, Mr. Cassell had but one complaint: that Gregory doesn’t make its backpacks in camo.
Go now and read more about the Gregory Z35 men’s daypack.
