Gregory Miwok Backpack - 1090cu in - 2009 BCS

First off, let me start by saying that I love the look of the pack - everything from the size, to the color (Cayenne) is very attractive and it's definitely a pack that fits my style and interest.

Second of all, I love how lightweight and compact it is. For everyday use, it's great for carrying laptops up to 13" (13" MacBooks with neoprene sleeves fit perfectly) and a book or 2, though 3-ring binders don't fit, at least in my experience (but that's a VERY small price to pay). I can easily fit my laptop, a book or 2, a moleskin, power cords, and everyday items (like pens, keys, iPods, etc).

For simple, lightweight hikes, I usually carry my ENO hammock, hammock slap straps, rain gear, head lamp, GoPro camera, first aid kit, knife, keys, phone, GPS, iPod, a notebook or Bible, a snack, 70 oz. water bladder, and even a lightweight fleece and it all fits. I can even fit 2 water bottles in the side mesh pockets after the pack is completely full (although Nalgenes seem too big, CamelBaks and Kleen Kanteens work perfectly).

If by any chance you are like me and like to keep all of your stuff in waterproof stuff sacks, 13 Liter stuff sacks seem to line the entire main compartment and once rolled shut, they work wonders at keeping your stuff dry.

If I had to have ONE gripe about the pack, it would be that the back mesh padding (the part against your back) is a little flimsy), but I do realize that it was probably made that way for the reason of keeping it lightweight and to conform to your back more easily. This, however, is not a big issue and it is easy to deal with when you look at the great things the pack has to offer as a whole.

I tip my hat to Gregory for making such a great day pack and to Backcountry for such a great warranty (100% guaranteed, unlimited lifetime warranty... can't beat that anywhere). I will update my review after I go on a few more day hikes if other things pop out at me.

Get outside, there's a world to explore!

Just got this pack and am really jazzed with it!

In addition to the normal compliment of well sorted design and excellent fit-and-finish that I've come to expect from Gregory, there are a couple of very clever features that make this an outstanding trail running pack.

The first is the tendon system, that anchors the shoulder straps and waist belt to the pack through a stiff but stretchy attachment. This allows the pack to stay quite comfortable, and move with you, even when cinched down tight.

The other feature that complements the tendons, is the internal compression system which helps make sure that nothing flops around in the pack, even after taking something out while on the trail. It's simple to grab either of the one-hand adjustable pull loops at the bottom sides of the pack, and give 'em a quick yank to keep everything snug... no pack dismount, or contortions required.

There is, however, a small price to pay for the tendon system though. The waist belt set-up is a bit bulky, and impinges a bit on the waist belt pockets, slightly reducing their effective volume. That said, it seems a small price to pay for the valuable enhancement in fit the tendons provide.