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Help Me Make a Decision

Joined
Feb 7, 2005
Messages
1,086
I'm going to order a Gregory Z55 in the next couple of days, and here's my delima:

I want Flint Gray, and the cheapest I can find a Medium Flint Gray is $175.

CampSaver has the Medium Moroccan Blue for $139. Both have free shipping, so if I go blue, I save $36. Decision???

I prefer to go to a store to be make sure the pack fits, but I checked around and nobody has a Flint Gray medium; nor are they willing to order one and if it doesn't fit, not charge me a restocking fee. So, guess what? The local stores will not be getting my business.

As to why I chose the Gregory Z55:

I'm looking for a light weight pack designed to carry a heavier load, in the 2500-3000ci range. There are lighter packs out there for the same amount of money, but the comfort range is around 25lbs, whereas the Gregory Z55 is rated at 38-40lbs.

Does anyone backpack with colored gear that is bright and visible? I prefer to be subdued, or stealth-hike, if you want to call it that.
 
Have you tried it on and walked around with it? I tried the z65 and liked it, but then I tried on a deuter pack, and the same load felt a lot lighter and more comfortable. The Gregory might be for you, but the moral of the story is try it on with weight in it if you can.

P.S. The Gregory z65 would be my second choice, it's a very comfortable pack, and the vented back is nice.

P.P.S. Personally, I could care less about the color of my gear, unless it is unreasonable gawdy, like flourecent yellow or pink or something. But if it's only a matter of $35 and it really matters to you then get what you want. You have to ask yourself, what's more important, the color or the money.
 
I currently have a Deuter Futura and love it for under 20lbs of load. The problem is when I pack enough water it becomes heavy. So, I'm looking for a small pack that can carry a good amount of weight.

The other packs that made it to the top choices list were the ULA Circuit, and Osprey Kestrel.

The thing about the Circuit is the full foam back panel. It looks just like my old Kelty Redwing, which was hot all the time. The Kestrel looks similar in design to my current Deuter Futura; it just doesn't carry the weight of the Z55.

I really wish I could properly fit the pack before buying it. The closest outdoor store that has anything worth looking at is Travel Country, in Orlando.

I'll be going there this Saturday, even though they do not have a Flint Gray medium Z55.
 
I say, go with what makes you happy. I like your color choice, too, and if it cost extra, so what? It's your money and your choice. Be happy and enjoy it!
 
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