Let’s Talk About Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s
The Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s is designed with female adventurers in mind, aiming to offer a comfortable and customizable fit for a wide range of body types. Granite Gear has consistently strived for innovation in fit, and the Perimeter series embodies this philosophy with its adjustable torso height and width, Re-Fit hip belt, and perimeter suspension system. This backpack promises to be a game-changer for women seeking a pack that truly caters to their unique builds.
I had been searching for a pack that addresses the common issues I’ve experienced with unisex models: shoulder strap discomfort and a hip belt that doesn’t quite sit right. The promise of a truly adjustable women’s specific fit drew me to the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s.
Upon unboxing, I immediately appreciated the robust feel of the Robic High Tenacity Nylon. The fabric felt durable, promising resistance to abrasions, while the overall construction seemed well executed, with neat stitching and sturdy components. The Marina/Black color combination is also aesthetically pleasing, striking a balance between practicality and style.
Compared to the Osprey Sirrus 36 and Gregory Juno 30, the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s stands out due to its emphasis on customizable fit via the shoulder width adjustment and Re-Fit hip belt. While the Osprey offers excellent ventilation and the Gregory is known for its lightweight design, I chose the Granite Gear pack because its focus on personalized comfort seemed most promising for longer treks.
My initial impression was one of excitement tempered with a bit of skepticism – could a pack truly adapt to my specific shape? I was eager to put it to the test and see if Granite Gear‘s claims held up on the trail.
Real-World Testing: Putting Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s on a 3-day backpacking trip in the Appalachian Mountains. The trail involved varied terrain, including steep ascents, rocky paths, and stream crossings. The pack carried a load of approximately 25 pounds, including camping gear, food, and water.
The weather was mixed, with periods of sunshine, rain, and damp conditions. The Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s handled the conditions admirably, keeping my gear dry inside thanks to the bottom flap with zippered pocket designed for rainfly storage (rainfly not included). Adjusting the torso height and shoulder width was relatively straightforward, although it took some experimentation to find the perfect fit, and once dialed in, the pack felt remarkably stable and comfortable, even on challenging terrain.
Despite carefully measuring my torso and waist beforehand, I found that I needed to make further adjustments on the trail to fine-tune the fit. The Re-Fit hip belt required some initial tweaking to prevent slippage, but once properly adjusted, it distributed the weight effectively, reducing strain on my shoulders.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use on weekend hiking trips and shorter overnight excursions, the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. There are no signs of significant wear and tear on the Robic High Tenacity Nylon fabric, even after encountering abrasive rocks and thorny bushes. The zippers operate smoothly, and the stitching remains intact.
Cleaning the pack is relatively easy; I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each trip. For more stubborn dirt, a mild detergent and gentle scrubbing does the trick. Compared to my previous pack, which showed signs of fading and fraying after a similar period, the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s appears to be built to last.
It outperforms my previous experiences because of the superior fit and load distribution that it provides. I experienced significantly less back and shoulder fatigue on long hikes, making the overall backpacking experience more enjoyable.
Breaking Down the Features of Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s
Specifications
- Manufacturer: Granite Gear
- Gender: Female
- Pack Volume: 35 liters
- Color: Marina/Black
- Hydration Compatible: Yes – Bladder Not Included
- Body Material: Robic High Tenacity Nylon (100D and custom 210D)
- Age Group: Adults
- Width: 18 in
- Height: 21 in
- Last Chance: Yes
These specifications are crucial because they highlight the pack’s intended use case (women’s backpacking), capacity (suitable for shorter trips), and durability (thanks to the Robic High Tenacity Nylon). The hydration compatibility is a significant advantage for staying hydrated on the trail.
Performance & Functionality
The Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s excels in carrying loads up to its 40lb (18kg) load rating comfortably. The perimeter suspension system effectively transfers weight to the hips, reducing strain on the shoulders and back. The cinch-and-roll closure and compression straps secure the contents effectively, preventing shifting and maintaining a streamlined profile.
A minor weakness is the stretch woven side pockets, which are tight when the main compartment is full, making it challenging to access water bottles on the go. The adjustability of the torso height and width and the Re-Fit hip belt are significant strengths, allowing for a customized fit that enhances comfort and stability.
It meets and exceeds my expectations in terms of comfort, load carrying capacity, and durability. The customizable fit truly sets it apart from other packs I have used.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent, with high-quality materials and sturdy construction. The pack feels well-balanced and comfortable against the back, thanks to the dual-density shoulder harness and Re-Fit hip belt.
The design is relatively user-friendly, although it takes some time to dial in the perfect fit with the adjustable torso height and shoulder width. The cinch-and-roll closure is intuitive, and the various pockets and compartments are well-placed and easily accessible.
Durability & Maintenance
The Robic high tenacity nylon material is highly resistant to abrasion and tearing, ensuring that the pack will withstand the rigors of backpacking. The zippers are robust and smooth-operating, and the stitching is reinforced in high-stress areas.
Cleaning the pack is simple; wiping it down with a damp cloth after each use is usually sufficient. Occasional washing with mild detergent is recommended for removing stubborn dirt and grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The pack comes with a removable lid flap with a DWR treated zipper, providing additional storage and protection from the elements. There is also a bottom flap for additional sleeping pad storage.
While the pack doesn’t offer extensive customization options, the compatibility with hydration reservoirs from various brands is a plus. The side compression straps can be used to attach trekking poles or other gear externally.
Pros and Cons of Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s
Pros
- Highly customizable fit with adjustable torso height and width, and Re-Fit hip belt.
- Durable Robic High Tenacity Nylon construction.
- Comfortable perimeter suspension effectively distributes weight.
- Hydration compatible with internal hydration sleeve.
- Removable lid flap for additional storage.
Cons
- Stretch woven side pockets are tight when the main compartment is full.
- Rainfly is not included.
Who Should Buy Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s?
The Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s is perfect for:
- Female backpackers seeking a comfortable and customizable fit.
- Hikers embarking on weekend trips or shorter overnight excursions.
- Outdoor enthusiasts who prioritize durability and reliability.
This pack is not ideal for:
- Individuals needing a pack with a larger capacity for longer expeditions.
- Backpackers who require extensive customization options beyond fit adjustments.
- Those on a very tight budget, as there are more affordable options available (albeit with fewer features).
Must-have accessories include:
- A hydration reservoir.
- A rainfly for added protection in wet conditions.
Conclusion on Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s
The Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s is an excellent choice for women seeking a comfortable, durable, and customizable pack for backpacking and hiking. The emphasis on fit, combined with the robust construction and well-thought-out features, makes it a standout performer in its category.
The price is justified given the quality of materials, the innovative design, and the enhanced comfort it provides. If you are a woman struggling to find a pack that fits properly and offers reliable performance on the trail, the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s is definitely worth considering.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Granite Gear Perimeter 35 Regular Backpack – Women’s to any female adventurer seeking a pack that can keep up with their ambitions. Gear up and hit the trails!