Gregory Palisades Review

"A bit more expensive (approx $280) over similar capacity backpacks, but well worth it in the long run. Gregory is best known for its superior suspension parts, giving adventures awesome comfort around the shoulder area. I like this pack especially for its ability to take almost all the weight off the shoulders and place it on the hips. This is good when you're cruising thru the flats. Also, by tightening the shoulder straps, it distributes the weight more to the shoulders, giving you more stability while climbing steep inclines. Only drawback is that there are few outside compartments. I chose this over REI's New Star, which has similar load capacity. Just try both with 50 lbs loaded and you'll notice the difference!"

"I too have had great luck with my Palisade. I picked mine up and after much tweaking of the load adjusters, found it well worth the purchase. While not having enough outside pockets to my liking I have found them readily available and fairly cheap. Truly a pack worth every cent."

"had this pack for two years and love it...did two 10 day yellowstone trips with alot of ups...one 14 day smokies....on my last trip on the third day the right side attatchment for the shoulder strap literally shattered...i thought i could not go on (had about 55-60 lbs)we managed to hook the right strap onto the same bracket with the left...it lasted 7 more days and actually felt ok...i was concerned literally with every step but it made it...my back is now in the hands of gregory and i believe the are fixing it at no charge...i'll let you know when i get it back...great back even when a part fail it was very useable"

"last oct i did a review and reported the back failed but i was able to complete the hike with some repairs...i sent it back to gregory and they made first class repairs and return it at no charge...good company...good pack...i have heard the new one has a small sleeping bag compartment that is intended to be used literally in leu of the bags own stuff sack..supposed to save one step in the packing and unpacking...might be a good idea...would like to hear from someone that has this new model"

"great pack. real comfy. gets hot on your back sometimes. good for winter. daisy chain, mesh side-pocket, mid-bag gear access, bottle holder. gear loops hold axe, poles, or bag in a pinch. excellent frame support (most of the weight rests on hips). durable bottom resists wear from abrasive surfaces. a bit too heavy (6.5 lbs), but still bearable for the quality you carry. compression straps hold well, even when wet or muddy. i wish it had 2 BIG mesh pockets instead of the bottle holder + pocket combo. hydration compatible. lots of space. pack it in."

"I have owned the Palisades for three years and taken many, many trips -- from two nights to a week. I have ocassionally looked for a lighter pack (aiming for 4 lbs) but keep coming back to this one. It's sturdy on my back (important!), plenty of pockets, durable, reliable. I don't even fill it up all the way (5100 cu in) for a full week's journey. I love this pack. Wish they made a smaller (4000 cu in version) with the exact same features."

"killa pack, have made a couple of trips to the rockies with it - was most comfortable.....i do have the sleeping-bag compartment and its works just fine....the pack has a # of fit adjustments available to create a good custom fit, starting with the waist belt and continuing with the shoulder straps...haven't had it long enough to find the downside to this pack yet, but i guess thats good....."

"I have had this pack for 5 years and it was the best piece of equipment I have ever bought. Two treks in new mexico and all over the rockys. And this pack is still in great condition."

"I to have enjoyed every second of having this pack. I've taken it on a few weekenders and has never let me down in comfort, or usage. It will literally swallow everything you want to take from a week-ender,to easily a week or more. Just in the sleeping bag compartment I stuff sleeping bag, poncho-liner, pillow, and inflatable mattress. Love the water bottle holster. Just wished I had pockets on the hip-belts to."