Let’s Dive into Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s is designed for serious backpackers who demand comfort and performance, especially when hauling substantial loads. From Gregory, a trusted name in the outdoor gear industry, this pack promises an adjustable fit with dynamic comfort, and uses recycled fabrics to reduce its environmental footprint. The odor-fighting mesh is an excellent addition.
My search for the Deva 60 began with a common problem: my old pack just wasn’t cutting it anymore for multi-day treks. It lacked the necessary support for heavier loads, causing significant shoulder and back pain. I needed a pack specifically designed for a woman’s frame, with exceptional load-carrying capabilities and thoughtful organizational features.
Upon unboxing, I was immediately impressed with the quality of the materials and the robust construction. The Deva 60 felt substantial without being overly heavy. The thoughtful design, including the numerous pockets and access points, hinted at a well-engineered pack ready for serious adventures.
Compared to other packs I considered, such as the Osprey Ariel AG 65 and the Arc’teryx Bora AR 63 Women’s, the Deva 60 stood out for its reported emphasis on a truly dynamic and adjustable fit, particularly the FreeFloat A3 suspension system. This promise of comfort while carrying heavy loads was a key factor in my decision. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s to the Test
First Use Experience
I put the Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s to the test on a three-day backpacking trip in the Sierra Nevada mountains. The terrain was varied, with steep ascents, rocky trails, and stream crossings. I also experienced a range of weather conditions, from sunny afternoons to a brief but intense rain shower.
The Deva 60 performed admirably in all conditions. The FreeFloat A3 suspension system lived up to its promise. The dynamic flex panels and auto-rotating shoulder straps moved with my body, minimizing friction and maximizing comfort. The fit was fantastic, even with a load close to the maximum loading weight of 50 lbs. I needed minimal time to adjust the pack to my torso length and fine-tune the hipbelt.
There were no major issues during the first use. I did initially struggle a bit with locating the SideWinder bottle holster while on the move. However, with a bit of practice, it became much easier.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including multiple backpacking trips and weekend hikes, the Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s has proven to be remarkably durable. The 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip HD and 210D High Tenacity Nylon materials have held up exceptionally well. There are no signs of tearing or abrasion.
Maintenance has been straightforward. A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The odor control fabric treatment has also been effective in preventing the build-up of unpleasant odors. It’s easy to clean and maintain.
Compared to my previous packs, the Deva 60 significantly outperforms them in terms of comfort, load-carrying capacity, and durability. The adjustable fit and thoughtful design make it a pleasure to use, even on challenging treks. I’m thoroughly impressed.
Breaking Down the Features of Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s
Specifications
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s boasts an impressive array of features designed to enhance comfort, organization, and overall performance. Key specifications include:
- Capacity: 60 liters (3661 cu in). This generous volume provides ample space for multi-day backpacking trips.
- Weight: 4.48 lbs. While not the lightest pack on the market, the weight is reasonable considering the robust construction and load-carrying capabilities.
- Maximum Loading Weight: 50 lb. This impressive load limit allows you to carry all the gear you need without sacrificing comfort or stability.
- Body Material: 210D Honeycomb Cryptorip HD / 210D High Tenacity Nylon. These durable materials are designed to withstand the rigors of backpacking.
- Hydration Compatible: Yes, with an internal hydration sleeve (bladder not included). This allows for easy hydration on the go.
- Pockets: 9 External Pockets. These offer ample storage and organization options.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the pack’s performance and usability. The high capacity and load limit enable you to carry everything you need for extended trips. The durable materials ensure that the pack will withstand years of use.
Performance & Functionality
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s excels in its primary function: carrying heavy loads comfortably and efficiently. The FreeFloat A3 suspension system provides excellent support and minimizes pressure points. The AirCushion foamless backpanel promotes breathability and keeps your back cool and dry.
The pack’s strengths lie in its exceptional comfort, adjustability, and organizational features. The dual front zippered pockets with floating divider wall are particularly useful for separating gear. The Sunglass QuickStow system is also a convenient touch. The SideWinder bottle holster works well once you get the hang of it.
The only area that could potentially be improved is the weight. While the Deva 60 isn’t excessively heavy, some backpackers may prefer a lighter option, especially for fast-and-light adventures. I find the added weight is more than worth it for the added comfort and storage.
The pack definitely meets and exceeds my expectations. It’s the most comfortable and functional backpack I’ve ever owned.
Design & Ergonomics
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s features a thoughtful design that prioritizes comfort and usability. The women’s-specific fit ensures a snug and supportive fit for a variety of body types. The adjustable torso length and hipbelt allow you to fine-tune the fit for optimal comfort.
The build quality is excellent. The materials are durable and the stitching is precise. The pack feels solid and well-made.
There is no significant learning curve. The pack is relatively intuitive to use. The adjustable straps and buckles are easy to operate.
Durability & Maintenance
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction suggest that it will withstand years of use. So far, the Deva 60 has proven to be an exceptionally durable pack.
Maintenance is simple. Regular cleaning with a damp cloth is usually sufficient. The durable materials are resistant to stains and abrasion.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s comes with several useful accessories. These include:
- An integrated rain cover.
- A removable daypack (Nano 14 Daypack compatibility, daypack not included).
The pack is also compatible with a variety of aftermarket accessories, such as:
- Hydration reservoirs.
- Accessory pouches.
The accessory attachment system located at easy-to-access hip location is a welcome addition.
Pros and Cons of Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s
Pros
- Exceptional comfort due to the FreeFloat A3 suspension system.
- Excellent load-carrying capacity (50 lb maximum loading weight).
- Durable construction using high-quality materials.
- Thoughtful organizational features, including multiple pockets and access points.
- Women’s-specific fit for optimal comfort and support.
Cons
- Weight may be a concern for some users (4.48 lbs).
- Hydration bladder not included.
Who Should Buy Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s?
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s is perfect for:
- Serious backpackers who embark on multi-day trips.
- Hikers who carry heavy loads.
- Individuals who prioritize comfort and support.
- Those who need a durable and reliable backpack.
Who should skip this product? Those looking for an ultra-lightweight pack for fast-and-light adventures.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality hydration reservoir. Trekking poles are useful depending on the terrain.
Conclusion on Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s
The Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s is an outstanding backpack that delivers exceptional comfort, performance, and durability. The FreeFloat A3 suspension system is a game-changer.
The price of $329.95 is justified by the quality of the materials, the thoughtful design, and the overall performance of the pack. The value proposition is excellent.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Gregory Deva 60L Backpack – Women’s to any woman who is serious about backpacking. It’s a worthwhile investment that will enhance your outdoor adventures for years to come. Invest in your comfort and get out there!