Today I want to take a look at another very popular day pack that is getting a lot of positive reviews and user feedback. That pack is the Gregory Z30 Backpack.
It look’s ideal for hiking in particular as I think it has most of the functional specifications and capabilities I would look for in a good hiking day pack.
So, with that in mind let's delve further into some of the features on this pack.
Summary
Average User Rating: 5 stars out of 5 (5+ Reviews)
Available Colors: 3 Storm Black, Marine Blue, Spark Red
Where to Buy: amazon.com
Look and Design
As you can see from the photo, the Z30 has a sleek and aerodynamic look to it. There's a smooth feel to the outer design which I have seen in a lot of packs in recent times. It's a good look overall and with multiple colors available, you shouldn't be stuck for choice.
The packs features a crossflo support / suspension which curves to enable a good on fit your back. Again, you can see that in the picture above.
As with any pack, you need good ventilation to your back to prevent hot spots and general discomfort. The crossflo design is complimented on this front with the addition of EVA shoulder straps which are ventilated again allowing air to circulate easily on your shoulders and back.
The pack material itself is made from; pack body 210D nylon, 100D nylon, pack base 210D nylon and the pack lining 200D polyester.
Capacity, Storage and Weight
With regards to capacity, the Z30 comes in two sizes, the medium comes ins at 1830 cubic inches (30 Liters) and the large at 1952 cubic inches (32 Liters).
Personally, to accommodate all you should take with you on a day hike, I have recently come to the conclusion that a day pack should be between 30-35 Liters so the Z30 falls into that range nicely here.
Storage wise, internally there is one main compartment with a stretch pocket inside and a furthers internal pockets. These are needed to put away smaller items for safe keeping e.g. your mobile phone in a dry bag, sun screen, etc.
Outside the pack, the pack features 1 outer expandable pocket, handy for stuffing something into as you hike e.g. a hat, and 2 outer mesh water bottle pockets.
Overall, I really like the storage options on the Z30. It has pretty much everything I think you would need for a day hike.
With regards to weight, the claimed weights for the medium Z30 is 2 Ib 6 oz (1.2 Kg's approx), and the large Z30 comes in at 2 Ib 9 oz (1.3 Kg's approx).
Other Features
The Z3o comes with the all important, in my opinion, hydration sleeve and port. I am a big fan of using a hydration reservoir for your water needs when out on the trail.
The Z30 also comes with an integrated rain cover. Again, while you can get by fine with a separate rain cover for any pack, I have come to look for this as standard in a pack as time has moved on. just really handy to have it already built into your pack.
Finally, the Z30 has the standard hooks and loops I'd expect on a functional day pack e.g. Ice ax and trekking pole attachment loops, etc.
Price
The Z30 does seem to be on the upper end of price for a day pack but not extortionate by any means. You get a lot of good, functional and, in my opinion, necessary, features in the pack as well as a lifetime warranty.
Gregory are also a very well known and loved brand by hikers so I think it's fair enough to say you're getting quality so a fair price overall.
Pros:
- Good capacity for a day-hike pack
- Perfect for hiking
- Lots of outdoor specific features e.g. a hip belt pockets, stretch pockets, etc.
- Hydration bladder holder is perfect for carrying water for a day hike
- Rain cover included
Cons:
- Bit more expensive than other similar day packs
- Bit heavier than a smaller daypack
Features:
- Ventilated EVA shoulder straps
- Crossflo support / suspension
- Hydration reservoir compatible
- Integrated rain cover
- Multiple pockets: 2 zippered panel, 1 zippered bucket, 2 stretch water bottle, 2 waist belt, i internal security
- Ice tool and trekking pole attachment loops/bungee ties
- Weight capacity: 35 Ibs
- Material: body: 210D nylon, 100D nylon, base: 210D nylon, lining: 200D polyester
- Claimed weight: M = 2 Ib 6 oz, L = 2 Ib 9 oz
- Lifetime warranty
Conclusion
Overall, I think the Gregory Z30 is a really great day pack, so much so that I am thinking of moving it into the no. 1 spot on the day pack comparison table. I'll reflect on that a bit more first though 🙂
It has all the capabilities, features and functions I would look for in a good day pack and I like the size to enable you to carry all you need for the day out on the trail. It's on the upper side of the price range but I do think it's worth it, you get a decent bang for your buck!
If you're still unsure what day pack to go with check out more day pack options here. Also, If you're unsure about what you should be looking for when buying a day pack for the trail, check out this buying advice which covers all the main points you should think about when making an informed decision.
Have you used the Gregory z30 Backpack? I’d love to hear about your experience with it in the comments below.
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