Gregory Deva 60 Pack Review
Love backpacking? Upgrading your pack? Look no further than the Gregory Deva 60! Designed for women, this pack is all about comfort on the trail. I’ve been backpacking for years, and my old Gregory Deva served me well. The Deva 60 promises a whole new level of comfort with a fancy suspension system that moves with your body. It’s also packed with features to keep you organized and hydrated. But is it worth the money? Let’s find out!
Tech Specs
Weight: 4.63 lbs and 4.96 lbs depending on size.
Dimensions: 33 x 75 x 34 cm (13 x 29.5 x 13.4 in).
Capacity: 60 liters (3661 cubic inches).
Material: Body: 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip HD Nylon & 210D High Tenacity Nylon. Base: 630D high-density nylon.
Suspension: FreeFloat A3 suspension system with auto-rotating shoulder straps and adjustable torso length.
Suspension System
The Gregory Deva 60 boasts a super comfortable suspension system called FreeFloat A3. This high-tech system isn’t like stiff old backpack frames. Instead, the hip belt, shoulder straps, and lower back panel can all move and adjust to your body. Imagine your pack hugging your curves, not digging in!
This fancy system also includes special auto-rotating shoulder straps. These straps move with you as you walk, preventing that annoying chafing you might get from regular straps. No more sore shoulders on long hikes!
Breathability
Carrying a heavy pack can make your back sweaty and uncomfortable. But the Gregory Deva 60 has a special back panel called AirCushion to keep you cool. This panel is made of a 3D mesh that lets in lots of air, like a super breathable pillow for your back. It also wicks away moisture, so sweat doesn’t soak through your shirt.
The Deva 60 doesn’t stop there! The shoulder straps and hip belt are also built with 3D construction. This fancy design creates space between the pack and your body, preventing hot spots and keeping you comfortable all day long. No more feeling like you’re carrying a hot water bottle on your back!
Other Comfort Details
The Deva 60 is packed with other clever features to keep you comfy on the trail. Straps can get smelly after a long hike, but this pack uses special odor-control technology to fight stink. Say goodbye to funky backpack smell!
Another comfort booster is the lumbar pad. This padded support helps the pack stay put on your hips, so you don’t have to crank down the straps too tight. No more digging hip belt cutting into your sides! These are just a few of the thoughtful details that make the Deva 60 a backpacker’s dream.
Organization
Staying organized on the trail is easy with the Gregory Deva 60. The main compartment opens wide from the front, so you can easily find everything you need. There’s also a top pocket with smaller compartments for snacks, sunscreen, or your phone. Plus, two zippered pockets on the front hold things you need quick access to, like bug spray or a map.
For hydration, the Deva 60 has a special sleeve inside for your water bladder. There’s even a handy clip to hold the bladder hose near your shoulder strap. Thirsty? Just grab the hose and take a sip without stopping! The hip belt also has built-in pockets, perfect for your phone, energy bars, or anything else you want close at hand.
Additional Features
The Deva 60 isn’t just comfortable and organized, it’s also built to last. The frame is made with a mix of aluminum and fiberglass for strong support, so you can carry heavy loads with ease. Plus, the materials used in the pack are partly recycled and treated with a water-repellent finish to keep your gear dry in light rain.
This pack also has lots of extras for adventurous hikers. Need to carry trekking poles? No problem! The Deva 60 has special loops to attach them. There’s even a spot for an ice axe, if you’re planning a snowy trek. All these thoughtful features make the Deva 60 a versatile pack that can handle any adventure you throw at it.
Personal Experience
I’ve been backpacking for years, and my old Gregory Deva was a trusty companion. The Deva 60 promises a whole new level of comfort with its fancy moving suspension system. So far, it’s true! The shoulder straps feel amazing – no more chafing on long hikes.
However, there’s one thing missing – a rain cover. For the price, it seems like a no-brainer! Everything else seems great though, so let’s see how it performs on a real backpacking trip! I’ll be sure to report back.
Value
The Gregory Deva 60 isn’t cheap, but it’s packed with features designed to make your backpacking adventures more comfortable and enjoyable. The fancy suspension system with moving parts and breathable materials sounds like a dream, especially for long hikes with heavy packs. Plus, the thoughtful details like odor control and a built-in hydration system add to the comfort factor.
However, some people might find the price tag a bit steep, especially considering the rain cover isn’t included. Durability is also a question mark – some users report minor tears after just a few uses. So, is the Deva 60 worth the investment? Let’s see how it performs on a real trip and weigh the pros and cons based on user experience.
Alternatives
The Deva 60 isn’t your only option for a comfortable women’s backpacking pack. Gregory offers a variety of packs designed for different needs and budgets.
For shorter hikes or lighter loads, the Gregory Jade 53 might be a good choice. It shares some features with the Deva 60L but in a smaller size. If you’re looking for a more versatile pack for day hikes or travel, the Gregory Juno 24 is a great option. It’s a smaller pack with a focus on organization and comfort for day trips.
Finally, backpackers who prioritize a lightweight design might consider the Gregory Maven 55. This pack offers a good balance of comfort and weight, making it a popular choice for thru-hikers and minimalists.
What I like about this backpack
- Comfort: The FreeFloat A3 suspension system with a moving hip belt, shoulder straps, and breathable back panel is designed for exceptional comfort on long hikes.
- Organization: Multiple pockets and compartments keep your gear organized and easily accessible, including a hydration sleeve and hip belt pockets.
- Breathability: The AirCushion back panel with 3D mesh allows for ventilation and wicks away moisture to prevent sweating.
- Durability: Built with a mix of aluminum and fiberglass for strong support, and uses partly recycled materials.
- Additional Features: Attachment loops for trekking poles or ice axes, water-repellent finish, lifetime warranty.
What I don’t like about this pack
- Price: The Gregory Deva 60 is on the expensive side compared to some other backpacking packs.
- Weight: This pack is designed for comfort and features, but it’s not ultralight.
- Rain Cover: No rain cover included, which seems like an oversight for the price.
- Durability Concerns: Some users report minor tears after light use, raising questions about long-term durability.
- Potential Fit Issues: While comfortable for many, it might not fit everyone perfectly, and trying it on before buying is recommended.
Overall:
The Deva 60 is a feature-rich pack designed for maximum comfort on backpacking adventures. The innovative suspension system, breathable materials, and thoughtful organization make it a great choice for backpackers who prioritize comfort and functionality. However, the price tag and lack of rain cover are drawbacks to consider. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option or prioritize ultralight design, there might be better choices. Ultimately, the decision depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Conclusion
The Gregory Deva 60 looks like a dream come true for comfort-seeking backpackers. The moving suspension system and breathable materials sound like a recipe for happy trails. It’s loaded with features to keep you organized and hydrated too. However, the price is high, and some might miss a rain cover. Durability is also a question mark. So, is it worth it? I’ll be putting the Deva 60 to the test on a real backpacking trip to see how it performs. Stay tuned for the full verdict!
