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Review: GREGORY STOUT 35 teaches you the pleasure of carrying it on your back (2015 model)

Just looking at it makes you want to put on a pack and go for it

In a word, all of the packs that Gregory has released recently are "fun to wear." This is due to their functionality, of course, but also to their uncompromising commitment to comfort that you feel the moment you put them on, and their sophisticated designs that make everyone want to wear them. In any case, their products seem to have the kind of endless allure and seduction that awakens the thrill of outdoor activities that only a brand with years of experience can exude. This appeal is clearly inherited in the Stout 35. Let's get started with our review of this model, our favorite pack of 2015

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Detailed review

Item name (price)

GREGORY STOUT 35 (Reference price: 20,520 yen)

stout35_front

Front

stout35_back

Back

Main Specifications and ratings

Click here for a side-by-side comparison of medium-sized 30L backpacks

itemSpecifications and ratings
FabricPolyester/multidensity foam
ColorMarine Blue
Shadow Black
Maple Orange
size/rear lengthM=46-51cm, L=51-56cm
capacityM=35L, L=37L
weightM=1.41kg, L=1.44kg
Variations45/65/75L
Comfort
(20 points)
18
Stability
(15 points)
14
Storage capacity
(20 items)
17
Ease of use
(20 points)
17
Versatility
(15 points)
12
Design
(5 pieces)
5
Price
(5 items)
2
Overall score85

This is amazing!

Unparalleled comfort and stability comparable to larger packs

I've carried many 30-liter packs in the past, but this is the first pack I've ever worn that was this comfortable . There are three key points that make this pack so comfortable.

First, there's the back frame. A strong, flexible, and lightweight wire surrounds your back, fitting naturally to your back without leaving any gaps . The area that rests against your back is covered with a moderately breathable and flexible pad. While this pad is less breathable than a mesh-structured back, it's neither too hard nor too soft, and so far I haven't felt any discomfort.

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quite luxuriously cushioned for a pack of this size compared to other competitors' products as someone who often gets pain from the hip bones hitting the belt, this is an extremely useful feature.


DSC05355The third point is the shoulder strap. If you look closely, you'll notice that the strap has a larger curve compared to other brands. This improves the fit and reduces friction in the armpit area .

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The overwhelming fit created by these features will be especially evident when carrying a heavy load. The feeling of being able to carry the pack on your waist with almost no strain on your shoulders, something that is often given up on with smaller packs, provides a comfort that anyone will appreciate . Of course, this fit will not easily waver even during active activities. The firm hold will last for hours.

User-friendly features that don't get in the way of your actions

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Dual side hip bottle pockets

The hip belt has generously sized pockets on both sides.

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Hydration mounting pattern

The hydration tube outlet is located at the back of the neck, in the center, so that it can be pulled out in two directions . It also has a strap for fastening it to the shoulder strap. Personally, I find it more convenient to have the outlet in this position (rather than on either side) because it allows the tube to flow more naturally into the mouth.

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Dual side water bottle/accessory pockets

Instead of the usual netting, there are pockets on both sides made of the same fabric as the pack, and they are fastened with two straps to prevent them from falling out. These are more durable and can store relatively large gear .

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External zip pocket and included rain cover

The front has a zippered pocket that holds the rain cover, and two pockets that can be opened somewhat wide by stretching the straps on both sides . These are very convenient for storing items that you want to access quickly, such as a map, a light jacket, snacks, or a water bottle.

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Trekking pole/ice axe loops

There are attachments for trekking poles and ice axes on both sides of the front . They are conveniently located and easy to attach.

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Daisy chains attached to both sides of the front

This daisy chain can be used to attach Goal Zero solar chargers , but it's also perfectly fine to attach other items.

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This is not good

Front access only at the bottom

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Bottom zip access to main compartment

The front access feature allows you to easily access items inside the pack by opening and closing the front zipper, but this model only has the bottom zipper (pictured), which is intended for accessing sleeping bags and the like, so it feels a little lacking. That said, there are models that don't have this kind of front access, so it seems a bit much to ask, but if I had to point out something, it would have been better if it had been a large zipper that could open and close the entire pack. The manufacturer's website also states that the pack is equipped with a front access zip panel that allows you to open the front wide, but please note that the 35 and 45 liter sizes do not actually have this feature

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Oversized rain cover

I don't know what the intention was, but the rain cover that came with this pack is abnormally large. I'm not sure why, but frankly, it looks like it would get blown around by the wind and become useless

Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?

This pack has a very basic design, so there are no limitations to its use. It's perfect for hiking, backpacking, climbing, and ski touring. Use it as much as you like. I can confidently say that this is an excellent pack that will satisfy all users, from beginners to veterans. And yet, this pack has a distinct "face" that isn't chalked up and impersonal. It's like a Leica camera, or a BMW car. This pack makes outdoor adventures more enjoyable, allowing you to focus on enjoying the outdoors. It's gear that exudes that attitude, and I highly recommend it to anyone who is particular about their gear!

GREGORY Stout 35 Shadow Black 05J*090 Shadow Black MSee details on Amazon GREGORY Stout 35 Shadow Black 05J*090 Shadow Black M

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