Gregory Baltoro 70 Backpack - 4149-4638cu in - 2008 BCS

I have been Backpacking since 1970 in the Boy Scouts and this is hands down this most comfortable pack I have ever carried. On a recent outing I carried 50 Lbs, 6 Miles, in 2 Hrs.in total comfort. Getting a good fit is key to making this happen! Thier is always some room for improvement though, The waist belt pockets could be larger, The side pockets could use some side expansion room, A hook for car keys in the front pocket would be a nice item and d-rings on the shoulder straps. These are all minor items. Overall I plan on getting many years of service out of this Pack.

I have been Backpacking since 1970 in the Boy Scouts and this is hands down this most comfortable pack I have ever carried. On a recent outing I carried 50 Lbs, 6 Miles, in 2 Hrs.in total comfort. Getting a good fit is key to making this happen! Thier is always some room for improvement though, The waist belt pockets could be larger, The side pockets could use some side expansion room, A hook for car keys in the front pocket would be a nice item and d-rings on the shoulder straps. These are all minor items. Overall I plan on getting many years of service out of this Pack.

When picking a pack I compared lots of different manufacturers and models. I had a checklist of features that I was looking for. When it all came down to it, I went with this pack for one simple reason: it was hands down the most comfortable pack for me.

A sales rep at one of the stores I visited tried to sell me an Osprey because it fit him really well. I hated how it fit on me. He tried to talk me out of Gregory because he didn't personally like them. Who cares?

I admittedly sacrificed some features that I wanted (detachable pack, hydration loops and sleeve hanger). I can make do in those areas by being a little creative. Ultimately if my back and shoulders are killing me a few miles in, what difference does all the features in the world make?

You can read all the reviews you want. When it comes to buying a pack there is no such thing as a universally best pack. You need to get hands on and find the pack that is best for you.

I will go ahead and say what everyone else says, because it is true. This pack is extremely comfortable. The buckles and adjustments are smooth. You can tell from the first time you put this pack on that it is a quality pack.

Here are some of the things that would have made this pack perfect. The pockets on the belt are awesome, but... they are a little small. They don't need to be too much larger, but even fitting a very small point and shoot or cell phone is a stretch. No problems for something like keys or chapstick. This isn't a huge setback as I am thrilled just to have pockets on the belt, regardless of the size.

There is also that really cool zip out pocket that fits a nalgene perfectly, but it's position is pretty hard to get at. I found that pulling the bottle out isn't a problem, but when the pack is full it is really tough to guide the water bottle back into the pouch while wearing the pack. This isn't a huge setback for me, because I usually just do the hydration bladder so I don't need to get at my water bottle while hiking.

This is one tough, but comfortable pack. Though you do sacrifice weight and a thicker pack, Gregory makes up with it with its durability and ability to stay organize. I do agree that the side pockets become less and less effective as the main compartment is filled, but the easy access to the several point of the main compartment, in my eyes, help alleviate the issues that that could cause in other packs. I have had no issues with this pack, and would definitely recommend to anyone looking for a solid extended trip pack.

Well this is one comfortable pack. I'll give it that, but there are a couple of flaws. First the pros:
Gregory Suspension. I have never had a Gregory pack that wasn't exceedingly comfortable. This is another. Three zippered access points are also nice. Material is definitely ripstop, throwing this pack on piles of choss and hiking through talus I've never worn a hole through it. .
Cons: Mine squeaks. Not all the time, but more than I'd want a pack to squeak. I believe it has to do with the carbon in the suspension rubbing on something. The side pockets are worthless. You'd have to be a contortionist to fit anything in them with it on your back. Also, I don't know why all pack manufacturers don't make the lid removable.

Overall, I don't regret buying this pack. I'd probably recommend it, but warn the people whom I'm recommending it to. I wouldn't use it for anything besides summer backpacking. It doesn't seem like it'd hold up to carrying ice gear or anything like that, but a good summer pack should be on everyones shelf.

I have taken this pack out on multi-day backpacking trips in the Selway-Bitteroot in Idaho, the Teton Wilderness and Wyoming and the White Mountains in New Hampshire. Whether for 3 days or 6, this pack remains comfortable. First off, I really enjoy the sleeping bag compartment. I find it large enough to store a summer bag and a sleeping pad. The interior of the pack is roomy and accessible from multiple points. The brain of the pack is spacious as well. The pack has an interior sleeve for a hydration bladder. My only complaints are the lack of a clip for a hydration tube, although it works to simply slide the tube between the strap and padding, and the sizing of the hip strap. At 6'2 I use the size large. However, coming it at around 200 lbs, I find myself tightening the hip strap to its maximum and still wouldn't mind it a tab tighter. I hear it is possible to change out the hip straps but I am not sure. Regardless, if you are looking for a roomy, practical and comfortable for multi-day backpacking trips, the Baltoro 70 should definitely be considered.

I am so impressed with this pack. I have never had a pack that didn't hurt until this one. My back, and shoulders were not sore after a 30 mile, 3 day hike. There were times when I would hike 2 miles without adjusting any of the straps. With all other packs I have owned I would adjust the straps every 10 minutes because it was uncomfortable. The pack is a little on the heavy side but that is because it has everything you need, plenty of pockets and extras. I would much rather carry a backpack that is 5 pounds and is really comfortable and doesn't hurt my back then one that is 2.5 pounds and be miserable on the trail. This is the the cream of the crop. if you want everything you got it. do yourself a favor and treat yourself to the baltoro.

If you're not going lightweight or ultralightweight, this is one of the most comfortable packs on the market right now. I have the Triconi 60, which is essentially the same pack with a smaller pack bag (exact same frame and fit) and it's a really nice product. I'm 6' with a torso of about 20.5 inches and got the large, putting the straps on the lower position. The straps and hipbelt are made out of a nice memory foam-esque padding that really feel nice throughout the day and don't chafe. The Baltoro is nice because of all the pockets and the organization that comes a long with it.

My only complaint with this pack is that that I've had the zippers on the hipbelt pockets rust almost closed. Not really sure why.

I have had this pack for a year now and I love it. I have taken it camping and traveling a lot and it does a great job of holding everything I need while still staying easy on the back. I do have lower back issues and I can spend all day carrying this pack and at the end of the day, my leg muscles are the only thing sore. It does make a little bit of noise when you walk but I assume that will calm down over time. The only additions I would make to it would be be slightly larger pockets on the belt and maybe a detachable daypack. I do understand that this is my first pack so I might be a little bias, but I did a lot of research before purchasing and it was the only one with everything I wanted for the price!

I have had this pack for a year now and I love it. I have taken it camping and traveling a lot and it does a great job of holding everything I need while still staying easy on the back. I do have lower back issues and I can spend all day carrying this thing and at the end of the day, my leg muscles are the only thing sore. It does make a little bit of noise when you walk but I assume that will calm down over time. The only things I would add would be a little bit larger pockets on the belt, and maybe a detachable daypack. I do understand that this is my first pack so I might be a little bias, but I did a lot of research before purchasing and it was the only one with everything I wanted for the price!

I got this pack about a year ago and have used it on at least a dozen outings. I really like the way the pack is designed. Gregory has made it very easy to keep organized throughout one's journey. I only have two complaints. The first, which is minor is the lack of a rain cover. This is pretty common amongst packs however I would love to see companies integrate a rain cover into packs more frequently. The second complaint a big one for a photographer or hunter. This pack makes a lot of NOISE! The internal frame system makes a lot of noise, which I cannot have when trying to photograph wildlife and remain stealthy. I'm not sure if it was just the pack that I got, or if its a problem with the overall design. Other than those two items of business, I really like this pack, and so would you if you don't mind a little noise.

Purchaed this to replace my 12yo+ Gregory Wind River. At 5'11" 240lb, I purchased the Medium as my torso length dictated. Another review metioned purchasing a medium belt on large bag, not sure this will work when it comes to fitting the shoulder straps properly. even with my shorter torso and selecting the medium pack, shoulder straps still have some gaps after lowering to the lowest position. this is a minor point for me. the pack works very well! a recent multi day solo trip to Dolly Sods Wilderness (day time temps, mid 20s) showed this pack to be a capable piece. holds all my winter gear except for the extra ridgerest I bring on extreme cold days, this lashed to the outside easily. the trip consisted of easy rolling mountain top travel wth several stream crossings. the crossings require some nimble rock hopping, the pack was extremely well balanced for this aspect. the winter load being hauled was hardly noticed. there isnt an over abundance of bells and whistles on this piece which I appreciate, just a good solid pack. as with most backcountry gear, make sure you size it properly.

Took this into the backcountry of Capitol Reef Nat'l Park in UT last spring. We did 36 miles in 2 days, 28 of those on our second day alone. This pack was ridiculously comfortable the entire time. I'm tall and skinny (6'1" and 155 lbs)and I never got sore shoulders or bruised hips. My buddy had another brand of pack and he was feeling the pain around 15 miles into the second day. I have only great things to say about the Baltoro 70.
Bonus: the bamboo green color is sick.

Well for anyone who may have the 'issue' that the person below had, I believe they have a female version which probably addresses that situation (but not need to tell them that.)

Anyway, I love this pack very much. I had the Z-55 and needed to upgrade size so sent that one in to get this. The thing I liked about the Z-55 was that it was slender and fit close to my back so I didn't get knocked off balance. Since this is a bigger bag, it protrudes more outwards but can be tightened when there is excess space. Even though it protrudes out, I don't feel it messing up my balance that much. What I really love about this pack is that there are lots of places to put everything. I was actually able to stuff my sleeping bag on the top piece, put my tent in the sleeping bag compartment, rain gear in the front pocket, flashlights and stuff on one side pocket, first aid and soap stuff on the other, and a granola bar and knife on the waist strap pockets.

I love this pack. Its extremely comfortable as well.

Loved the pack... unfortunately, so did some critter in the middle of the night on my last Fall pack trip! Chewed right through the zippers and all, rendering it basically unrepairable. Replaced it with the same pack! Love the pockets, accessibility, size, comfort (comfort is what sold me, to me well worth the extra pound or so in weight compared with "ultralight" packs). Only noticed that it seemed to make a little more noise on the hike than some other packs, could simply be my not cinching it all up at tight, but seems to be something more to do with the pivoting hip belt harness system??? Wish the hip belt pockets were just a tad bit larger... not much fits in them. Would definitely recommend the pack despite very minor criticisms. Just trying to be honest in assessment.

I've had this pack for a little over a year and a half now, and I have put it to the test in a wide range of environments. I have used this pack in the chilly Pacific Northwest, the hot and hummid South, and used it as my main travel bag for my deployments to the arid deserts of the Middle East. Tough and rugged to the core, this pack is made to last and keep you comfortable until you get to you're destination. I would HIGHLY suggest that you pick this pack up, you won't regret it!

I've used this pack for over a year now, and what a year it's been! The Presidential Range, overnights in the 'dacks, a snowshoe trip in the Rockies, this pack excels in all conditions. I upgraded from a p.o.s. Eureeka external frame, and I will never go back. This pack may have a few more lbs to it than some people would like, but they all go towards making it as comfortable as possible over long hikes. Not only are the straps and waist belt designed to feel invisible, the weight is so well distributed on your hips, and hugs so close to your back, that you barely feel a pack at all. This has enough room for a week long trip in the summer, or a 3 day-er with winter gear, and its simplistic design ensures nothing gets lost, but everything has a place. The zip access to the main compartment comes in handy when the pack is in your canoe and you don't want to open up the whole top.

I'm 6'4", 210lb, and I bought a Large pack, but actually needed a Medium waist belt. Overall, this is the pack I have been looking for.

This pack is amazing. I have carried weight for myself, wife and son in this. At one point there was some slight soreness on the shoulders. That was when I had to clip my wife's pack on to mine with biners. I think I had about 70 or 80 lbs. I never really weighed all of it, but it seemed to be more than my old ruck which was about 72lbs. Anyways, this pack has amazing CONVENIENT features and has many load adjusters for a change of support. All around it is what everyone else has said. Good pack.

I just started backpacking again last summer, and picked one of these up for a weekend trip on the Appalachian trail in New Hampshire. I was a boy scout for 6 years, and I wish they had packs like this back then. Comfort-wise it was like night and day compared to the old external frame packs I remember using. Even compared to some of the somewhat modern gear that my buddies had, it was better fitting and I could easily carry more in it without any strain on my back. I've only used it a couple of times so far so I can't vouch for the long-term durability... however I have yet to see any problems and given the build quality I don't expect to. The lightweight fabric used has yet to snag, tear or stretch in any way... I was really rough on it my first time out and I was impressed that it still looked brand new after a couple of days being tossed/dragged/carried around in the woods. The little touches really added to my appreciation of this pack... things like the mesh side pockets on either side of the belt where I could carry my bandana and pocket knife, or the multiple access points so I could get to things in the middle or at the bottom of my pack without having to unload and reload everything constantly. Probably the only drawback is that it's so roomy that it could encourage you to overpack... I easily fit my sleeping bag and inflatable mat inside the bottom compartment and still fit my clothes, food, 3L Camelbak and a good amount of the group gear in the top with room to spare.

Overall I'd say it's worth every penny... so if you're looking to get into multi-day backpacking I would highly recommend this pack. Might be a bit expensive for someone just starting out, but look at it this way: you can end up losing a lot if your pack fails you part way through a trip... respect from your buddies if they end up having to pack out your gear for one.

This backpack is definitely deserving of the awards.

First of all, I admit that this pack is on the heavier side, but it makes up for it in comfort. The padded shoulder straps and hip belt do a great job of handling heavy loads that you'll hardly notice. But the main winner on this pack is the big, sticky lumbar pad. It puts the weight right where you want it and keeps it there. Seriously, a heavy load has never felt so luxurious on my back. This pack is a must for multi-day trips. I like it so much that I've even used it as a simple day pack because it's so comfortable. I bagged a few Colorado 14ers with this sucker (not fully loaded) and didn't even feel it there, even when carrying water for two people. The other reviews are spot on about the good adjustability and features too, so I won't repeat what's been said. Believe the hype!

For you gram counters out there, try this pack on and tell me the extra ounces aren't worth it.

You don't want the zombies to show up and not have this pack on your back. Do the right thing. Buy it.

I used this pack for the first time in Shenandoah (east coast national park)in November with temperature range from 65 high to 35 low, with an excessive load just to test out the durabilty and weight distribution of this pack. Well it passed the test. I loaded about 50 + lbs worth of gear and it was nicely distributed. I am 5ft8, 150 and the M size was appropriate for my frame. I did need to adjust the straps to get the waist belt to the proper height on my hips. The amount of crap I stuffed into the pack was remarkable. Even with a 50lb + load I had nothing other than trekking poles dangling from outside the pack... pretty remarkable. I had a full 4 season tent with all accesories, pillow, sleeping pad/bag, trekking chair, and tarp in the main compartment. Overall this is a great pack, with personal adjustments needed for an ideal fit, but it will handle the loads and it will perform. It is a solid choice for the money.

This is a very well designed, rugged pack for rucking up to 50 lbs of gear. It's a bit heavy, but the exceptional suspension completely negated this for me. I love the multiple access options, burly shoulder staps, easy on-the-fly adjustability,and strap/buckle backup options. If you're feeling sporty, you can adjust the top compression straps to allow you to load this thing about 7 inches taller than the bag appears in the pictures here. The only thing I wish they would add is a daisy chain for lashing on more external gear.

I am new to backpacking and on my first trip we went 14 miles and the pack felt great the whole way. I carried about 35lbs including my wife and I's tent, my sleeping bag, 2L of water in camel back, clothes, three 4 serving meals, snacks, and a lot of other stuff I didn't even use. There are plenty of pockets to store all of your nicknacks in. There are plenty of adjustments to get the perfect fit. I highly recommend this pack!

This pack rocks. Handles heavy loads like a champ. You can't beat gregory's articulating waist belt. Worth every penny.

Full adjustability coupled with quality materials make this pack insanely comfortable. It makes loads feel like a fourth of their weight. I am beyond happy with this product. It is worth every penny. Best three day pack I have found.

I used this pack for two weeks in the Whites and it was great. I love all the access points, and it supported 36lbs easily. No issues with support or comfort. Another satisfied customer.

This pack is a lifesaver. The suspension system just can't be beat. It is a heavy pack but when you load 50 pounds in it, the weight disappears. I like how the pack is organized. Enough room for gloves and a small hat on one side pocket and tent stakes in the other. Toiletries, lighter, knife, and things in the front. Granola bars and trailmix along with the pack cover and map on top. Then there is enough room in the main compartment for everything you would ever need to stay alive. 2-man tent, 20 degree bag, thermarest, stove, clothes, and food all fit in with ease. One of the best features in the tilted water bottle holder. Makes it really easy to grab your bottle while you are hiking. The construction is great. I have put this pack through the paces and the only thing that has ever ripped the fabric was a mouse (damn snickers wrapper). Above all this pack is exceptionally comfortable and excellent at carrying heavy loads. For heavy weekends and extended technical trips, BUY IT.

Easily the best pack i've ever owned. From week long trips in the Tetons to a month stay in New Zealand, it has carried everything I've ever needed (sometimes upwards of 40lbs) and did it in an extremely comfortable fassion. The front pocket zips open like a duffel bag, so you don't have to unpack and repack just to find some socks. And i probably bought the pack just because of the hip belt pockets, so awesome.

Buy It.

I haven't had a lot of time with the pack yet. However, I have loaded it to it's recommended capacity and not one pain! I pray that I never have the belt breakage issue. The shoulder straps are A1+, the hip a close second. the frame of the hip belt is a bit hard to work around while packing and unpacking. Othewise Awesome pack for heavy loads.
The hydration bladder is kind of a over sight on Gregory's part with no place to hang it and no loops or D-Rings to slide the tube through.

This is the most comfortable pack I have owned HOWEVER, the two belt rivets connecting the belt to the pack both gave way after only 5 uses. During a 4-day hike in the Oklahoma Ouachita Mountains, I had to use rope to jury-rig it. I was only carrying about 35 pounds on that hike. The pack did just fine last summer when I carried 38 pounds on the John Muir Trail and at least 50 pounds across the desert at Big Bend.

Great pack. Bought this for a trip in the Sierras as my old pack was a piece of crap. The pivoting belt works great and moves with you perfectly. It really made 40lbs feel more like 20lbs.All the pockets really help me keep all my thins organized and at the ready. I cant wait to take this to Alaska and back to the Sierras in the summer and find out more good things about it. Sure you can find less expensive packs, but really if you want quality you gotta pay for it and YOU CAN"T GO WRONG HERE!!

I've backpacked 123 miles with this pack and it held up Great! No problems! Buy it! The Baltoro is a mix of the old Gregory forester and old whitney. Go for it! I did and I'm Loving it!! Bankhead Forest Rules !!

What comfort. I just took my first short trip with this pack and I am very impressed. I loaded it up to about 30lbs with random stuff from around the house and off I went. About 3 1/2 miles up and down about 1200 vertical feet (pretty rugged at times) and the pack felt great. It took me about the first 15 minutes or so fiddling with straps and positions before I got it just right (keeping in mind this was our first trip together). Biggest thing..... size it properly and don't be affraid to vary from the "torso measurement" if you find that a size smaller or larger just feels good. I was sized for a medium but got a large and it feels perfect. Love this pack!!

This is a great pack. My first Gregory. I've owned several Dakines and Mountain Hardware. Needed larger pack for 6 day Teton trip. Pack weighed approx. 48 lbs (including Nemo tent secured under top flap) and was carried for 46 miles. Very comfortable fit esp. with pivoting belt. Alot of handy pockets and access. Only complaint is no place to hook camelback. Had to fashion one out of wire. Pack was snowed on and rained on, but everything inside stayed dry. Belt pockets are small---compass size. Overall would highly recommend.

By far the most comfortable pack I tried on, and I tried on many! 40 lbs at Yosemite was easy; thoughtful design for streamlined access and outside storage straps, pockets, and loops were all convenient, compact, even though I didn't truly appreciate them until I put them to use.

This is one of the best packs i have ever bought and after three years it barely has any signs of wear. Tons of access to the main compartment and the perfect amount of exterior pockets make it a great trekking backpack which can hold all your gear without a problem. The waist belt is extremely well padded and has extra zippered pockets where you can stash your little trinkets. The pack also has a multitude of places to clip carabiners on to if needed. Overall, a very comfortable carrier which makes a heavy load easily bearable. Well worth the price!!

I fit it myself, then my brother and I did 35 miles of backcountry Wyoming with 55 pounds in it. The pack was solid and comfortable throughout.