Features:
- Top lid converts into a fannie pack/sling bag
- Top lid contains an underside stash pocket
- Easy drawstring system
- DWR coated water-resistant zippers
- Hydration sleeve and dual side for your hose
- Front pockets & twin side pockets
- Hideaway water bottle pockets with bungee strap
- Dual layer wear-resistant bottom panel
- Response Auto Fit Suspension (AFS)
Description:
I needed a backpack suitable for my first camping trip, so I went to a local store, REI, and tested out different backpacks. I finally tried Gregory Deva 60 backpack, filled with weight, and walked around for 30 minutes. I chose this backpack from other ones because it fits my size just right. The shoulder straps and belt are padded enough not to pinch my bones. Also, I like its back support. It curves nicely to fit my back, so I experienced no back strain. The mesh-covered back panel has a channel that draws warm air so I was able to stay warm as I pull it closer to my back. When I need to cool off, I would loosen the shoulder strap, increasing the space between my back and backpack. That way, it feels cool as the air comes in and out.
I like how my backpack has just enough pockets to carry the items that I can easily pull out while hiking. There are also hideaway water bottle pockets with bungee strap on both sides, where I can keep my bottles filled with water or Gatorade.
Gregory Deva 60 also has a top lid that can convert into a fannie pack/sling bag. This feature is perfect for our two-day camping trip. Instead of bringing an extra backpack, I can use this fannie pack if we choose to do a small hike and return to our camp site. Also, the top lid has a stash pocket, where I usually put my beanie, headlamps, gloves and anything that I could easily grab from above my head while hiking. No need to take off my backpack and get it.
For our backpacking trip, I packed my things inside and it weighed 23 lbs. After I put it on, I was able to buckle my waist-belt and adjust all straps at ease. I was ready to go. After few hours of hiking, I didn’t feel the need to take off my backpack or re-adjust the straps. It was fine the way it was. I like how its waist-belt snugs well and comfortably. It moves along with my body movements, instead of rocking roughly from side to side. The waist-belt has two pockets, one on each strap, which is perfect for me. One pocket is for my camera and the other one is for my tissue papers since my nose runs like a waterfall, haha.
Another thing that I like about Gregory Deva 60 is it carries enough of what I needed for my trip. Although it was fully packed, it didn’t tear at all. I started with inserting my sleeping bag at the bottom of my backpack, just zip it open and stuff it. Above the sleeping bag, there is a fabric flap where I can buckle the straps. This creates a new bottom and the rest of my things that I pack above it are easy to reach. No need to insert my arm all the way down to find what I need.
Also, inside the main compartment, there is a large pocket where I can insert my hydration bladder and on either side, I can put the hose out from the inside. My shoulder strap has velcro in between so I was able to open a small opening and put my hose through it. This helps my mouthpiece stay put, and I can easily reach it to take a sip of water. It frees me from the hassle of searching the hose and finding the mouthpiece.
The downside of the Gregory Deva 60 is it didn’t come with a waterproof cover, so I went to a local store to buy one-size-fits-all cover. However, I would highly recommend Gregory Deva 60
for any petite hikers. I encourage you trying it out first before buying it, I think that you’d be pleased with Gregory Deva 60
.
