Gregory Jade 38 Backpack Review

Are you a woman backpacker looking for a comfy pack for long adventures? Look no further than the Gregory Jade 38! This pack is designed specifically for women and boasts a ton of features to make your miles fly by. The reviewer here used it for an epic 500-mile trek in Spain, and it held up beautifully. We’ll dive into all the details, from the clever suspension system to the handy pockets, but first, let’s talk about the real-world experience.

Highlights

Weight: 2 lbs. 12 oz.
Capacity: 38 liters
Suspension: FreeFloat ventilated back panel with adjustable torso length and 3D comfort cradle hip belt
Storage: U-zip access to main compartment, top pocket with compartments, dual side stretch mesh pockets, front stretch mesh pocket, hydration sleeve
Comfort Features: Breathable mesh back panel, adjustable hip belt, sternum strap with integrated whistle, custom comfort-grip zipper pulls
Additional Features: Rain cover included, Sunglass QuickStow system, reflective attachment points, adjustable loop for trekking poles or ice axe

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Comfort and Fit

The Gregory Jade 38 is all about keeping you comfortable on the trail. Its secret weapon? The FreeFloat suspension system. Imagine a breathable mesh back panel that keeps your back cool and dry. Now add a comfy hip belt that moves naturally with your body as you hike. That’s the FreeFloat system in action. It transfers weight efficiently, so you won’t feel like you’re carrying a brick on your back.

And because every woman’s body is different, the Jade 38 has an adjustable torso length. This means you can fine-tune the fit so the pack sits perfectly on your shoulders and hips. No more digging straps or uncomfortable pressure points. Just pure hiking bliss!

Organization and Storage

The Gregory Jade 38 isn’t just comfy, it’s also a master of organization. The main compartment is spacious enough for all your essentials, and you can access it easily from the front or the top. Plus, there’s a handy hydration sleeve for your water bladder, so you can stay hydrated without stopping.

For smaller stuff, there are plenty of pockets to keep things within reach. Stash your sunglasses in the quick-access shoulder strap pocket. Need a snack? The side mesh pockets are perfect. And the hip belt pockets are big enough for your phone, sunscreen, or any other trail must-haves. There’s even a top pocket with compartments to keep smaller items organized, and a key clip to save you from digging through your bag.

Additional Features

The Gregory Jade 38 goes beyond just the basics. It’s packed with thoughtful features that make your hike smoother. Don’t get caught in a downpour unprepared! The backpack comes with a rain cover that keeps your gear dry. Feeling hot? The ventilated back panel helps air circulate, keeping you cool and comfortable.

Safety is important too. The Jade 38 has reflective attachment points, so you’ll be more visible in low-light conditions. And if you’re carrying trekking poles or an ice axe, the adjustable attachment loop lets you secure them easily. Little details like easy-grip zipper pulls and webbing keepers make using the pack a breeze. These might seem like small things, but they all add up to a more enjoyable hiking experience.

Real-world Experience

The reviewer put the Gregory Jade 38 through its paces on a massive 500-mile trek in Spain. Here’s a breakdown of what they loved and what could be improved:

Loved:

• Durability Champ: The pack held up amazingly well over 32 days of constant use, proving it can handle serious adventures.
• Comfort on Lock: The reviewer found the Jade 38 incredibly comfortable to carry, even on long hikes.
• Adjustable for Everyone: The torso adjustability is perfect for various body types.
• Plenty of Space: Ample storage allows you to pack everything for long day hikes.

Not So Perfect:

• Rain Cover Woes: The reviewer had trouble with the rain cover strap staying closed, requiring a creative fix with a hair tie.
• Hydration Hiccup: The lack of a dedicated chest strap loop for a water bottle meant using carabiners for easy access.
• Pole Position Problems: Keeping trekking poles secure with the pole holders proved challenging for this reviewer.

Alternatives

Not every hiker needs 38 liters of space. If you prefer a slightly bigger pack, Gregory also offers the Jade 43. It boasts the same comfortable FreeFloat suspension and women-specific design but with a bit more storage. Consider your usual packing style to pick between the 38 and 43. There are other great women’s backpacks on the market, so be sure to research and compare features before making your final decision.

Conclusion

The Gregory Jade 38 backpack is a strong contender for women backpackers seeking comfort and organization on long hikes. Its FreeFloat suspension and adjustable fit ensure happy trails. Plenty of pockets and compartments keep you organized, while thoughtful extras like a rain cover and trekking pole loops add convenience. The reviewer loved the overall comfort and space, but minor drawbacks like the rain cover strap and lack of a water bottle loop exist. If you prioritize comfort and organization for your adventures, the Jade 38 is definitely worth considering.