Need help selecting a backpack

Hi there,

I am looking for a backpack that I can use for a number of different activities. I am located in Calgary, Alberta, so I have access to the Rockies, most of my use will be for overnight trips however I want something that I can use on longer trips as well such as the Skyline trail in Jasper.

I am also looking at going ski touring and backcountry skiing in the near future so a backpack that would work for that as well would be awesome but is entirely optional.

I currently have tried on the Gregory Z65 and I thought it was fantastic, right now I am just looking for some other possibilities.

I am 19, 5'10" and physically fit if that is at all relevant.

Thank you!

Check the articles on the home page of this site, left hand column. There are several on the selection and fitting of backpacks.

It's best to get the rest of your gear first and take it with you when shopping for a backpack. Be sure to include the approximate weight/volume of a week's food (or the longest period you expect to be out) plus a day's water.

The most important aspects of a pack are fit, fit and fit. The pack must fit your body (the important measure is torso length, not weight, height, or age), fit your gear, and be comfortable for you with your gear packed inside. Pack fit is almost as individual as shoe fit.

For what you want, you need a pack that can be compressed to fit a smaller load than what you'd take for, say, winter outings. However, it's more likely that you'll end up being more satisfied with two packs, one for your summer load and the other for winter.

There are many lighter weight options, still supportive, than the brand you've mentioned.

At the top of this Backcountry Beginners section is a very useful "sticky" post from phat, one of our longtime members who lives in Edmonton and therefore encounters the same conditions you'll be facing.

I thought that would be the case, two separate bags is probably how it will workout then.

I'm not really sure where to start looking for packs other than at the local MEC, so all brands I really know come from there or are Osprey, can you suggest something else to look at? Obviously I will go to try one on at a brick and mortar but I'm mostly just looking for a direction to go in.