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  Gregory Palisade 80 Backpack By: Gregory Average Rating: 5.0 Total Reviews: 3 More Information Exceptional Piece of Equipment  On: 2008-05-20After doing months of research I went to my EMS store and tried on various packs including this one. The difference was immediately evident. The molded back and straps were simply far superior to their counter parts. I even tried on an Osprey and was surprised at the difference in quality of fit considering the Osprey reputation. I am only new to backpacking but I knew investing in a good pack was the smart thing to do and it paid off out on the trail. Expecting to have all sorts of aches and pains returning from my four day hike I was again surprised to find my pack had done its job to perfection. Barring one sore muscle from my own ineptitude I was fine no back pain no nothing (Even though as a novice I over prepared and ended up with far too much weight). It features top load, front load and bottom load so you can reach any piece of equipment easily at any time. It has water bladder storage. It has two nifty belt pouches for candies or perhaps a digital camera all which are well designed and durable. The top can detach to double as a day pack (although I have yet to see a practical use for this). While looking for a good pack I typed "Best backpack" into Google and came across a consumer research page whereby they had gathered information from as many sources as possible on the best backpacks, here is an excerpt taken directly from that site "Some brands stand out, however - especially Gregory, Osprey and ArcTeryx. An older survey of through-hikers on the Appalachian Trail by Roland Mueser found that hikers were most satisfied with Gregory backpacks, and it continues to be one of the brands most recommended in backpack reviews." Apparently the delight with Gregory stems from their durability. They need less repairs and maintenance than other brands. I cant attest to this but again the construction is definitely solid. All in all Im delighted with this item. Well see over time how it holds up but at this point I would have no desire to change this for anything else. 5 out of 5 WARNING: Backpacks come in different sizes which is vital for the fit. Speak with someone who knows about them in a store. This is a science and they know their stuff. Great value On: 2007-01-09It is such a great Backpack that you can even take friends like Rodillo and Francou when they are tired during a trip, which is most common... Great pack, even for a big frame On: 2006-08-22I spent a few weeks researching and trying backpacks in preparation for 6 months of training for a summit of Mt. Rainier. I was looking for a 4500 to 6000 cu. in. pack for my 64 frame (21 inch torso.) Past experience with Gregory packs did have a slight influence over my opinion to choose this pack, but I did take the time to look at all major pack manufacturers. After the training for and ascent of Rainier, I can say this is a great pack. It fits comfortably with a 50 pound load, is easily adjusted, and had room to spare for a four day trip. I would buy this pack again. |