Gregory Zulu 65

Good design. Good adjustable suspension. Plenty of room. Water bottle pockets awkward.

Tried on many other competitive packs, some Osprey models to the Zulu but none fit right or dug into my shoulders. Great overall design and construction. I have the gold standard Gregory Shasta 88ltr weighing 6.5 lbs empty for comparison, but needed to cut weight. The Zulu 65 is 3.68 lbs—almost half. Figured Gregory would have good suspension and I was correct.

I’ve used this pack on over 100 miles and almost 30 days of backcountry in the Wind Rivers, Uintas, and Sawtooths and it performed well. I really like the included rain shell. Ummm...I did a couple face plants in the creek on the way out of the Sawtooths and the pack kept most of the water out to my pleasant surprise.

Only quibbles—has a few too many gee-gaws like plastic inner hydro bladder hanger and pocket, some clippy things on the straps, etc that add ounces. I think Gregory recently added some lighter models of a similar design.

They could have designed the water bottle pockets better so it is easier to drink without taking your pack off. Kind of slows the pace. The netting on the back got a few tears from rocks, but the rest of the pack is in good shape. Overall an excellent choice in the weight and price range.

Overall, the Gregory Zulu 65 (and they make smaller versions) is an excellent choice in the weight and price range.

Background

Lots of miles in the wilderness. Have a bigger heavier Gregory Shasta pack so lightened up with Zulu.