Hi Jesse

Although I haven't used the Lowe you mention I have used the Gregory Denali Pro. While it is a solid pack which can carry a lot, I am not sure it is necessarily the best big load pack around. For example, I have used the Arxteryx Bora 95 (which in Tall is as big as the Denali) and think that is a more comfortable carry. Another little point, the sleeping bab access is small, particularly if you're trying to get a winter bag in (not a deal breaker since you can load this from the top if necessary, but mildly annoying).
Another small thing is they have a reputation for being a bit noisy (mine developed a squeek after a couple of trips). Well built however with some good attributes and should last well.

Thanks for the replies. I've loaded it up to 80-85 pounds so far and it held up just fine. Didn't want to push the materials too far. Cheers!

The maximum pounds this pack can carry and remain comfortable is 70lbs (according to Gregory). It's possible to go higher than that, but then you're getting into, "I should have hired a pack animal" territory.

Basically, if you can fit it in here, it can carry it. All your gear, kitchen sink, midget (no offense), whatever. Really good materials on here, so it is super durable.

I can think of no finer pack to carry 5 gallons of Homebrew. I do not have the exact measurements of the main compartment, but the weight of the keg pushing into the sleeping bag compartment and the adjustable top pocket, it should fit fine. With Gregory's awesome suspension system, you should comfortably get your Brew to your favorite Backcountry destination.

There's a lot to consider when buying a pack. The most important is FIT, period. This involves torso length (from the C7 vertebrate to the illiac crest (top of hip bone)) being measured along with your shoulder width. For an optimum fit it's also good to understand the curvature of your back, especially with packs that have aluminum stays (which can be bent). The next consideration is SIZE. How big do you want your pack to be. A couple of things to consider; too small a pack will limit you on the length of your trip. However, too big a pack with allow you to carry too much stuff and the pack itself is much heavier. It's important to note that bigger packs (4000-6000 cu in) can be used to carry smaller loads, but small packs (2000-4000 cu in) cannot be made bigger. Personally I think a 5000ish cu.in. pack is just right for someone who wants a pack that will go a week, but can also be used for weekend trips. The next consideration is WEIGHT of the pack. There are many options available today, but if you want one that's super durable, the pack will be heavier. If you're tough on gear, I would recommend one that doesn't contain much sil-nylon material, especially on the outside. The Denali Pro is a great pack for expedition use, but it's probably an overkill for most recreational backpackers. A better option would be the Gregory Whitney or Palisade. Osprey makes some great packs (the Argon is highly recommended) as does Granite Gear. If durability is what you want, Granite Gear's Stratus 5500 won the "World's Toughest Pack" competition put on by Backpacker Magazine a few years ago (they dragged it behind a jeep going 65mph on a dirt road with 25lbs of weight in the pack). Granite Gear packs also don't include stays, but have composite frame sheets that work very well in comforming to your back. I've owned a few over the years and have had great experiences. Arc Teryx also makes great packs and was recognized as the "World's Toughest Pack" along with Granite Gear (the standout being Bora 80). The last thing to consider is that your backpack is the most important piece of gear you will buy. Make sure you take the time and make the effort to find exactly what your looking for.

There is no standard Denali. The Denali Pro is just Gregory's top-of-the-line catagory pack along with the Makalu Pro and the Robson Pro(discontinued). I have a Robson Pro and a Teton, both of which are'nt made anymore. Biggest difference is the suspension system. Both are very comfy though. I have 3 Gregory's all together. They are my favorite pack maker.

We do not have a specific date for these arriving in a Medium, I am sorry.The Chili Red is available right now.