By When it comes to day hiking, there are times when you need more than your typical day pack. Whether it’s for carrying extra gear due to changing weather, packing supplies for a child or dog, or needing additional water for the hike, having a bit more room can make a big difference. While I’ve been happy with the Gregory Citro 24 for a few years, it sometimes feels a bit tight when I need to carry more. That’s why I decided to try the Gregory Zulu 30, a larger and more robust day pack from a different line, to see how it stacks up for hiking.
Why Gregory?
Gregory is well-known for designing packs that prioritize comfort, especially when carrying heavier loads. A few years ago, I set out to find a new day pack and tested several 24-liter packs. My goal was to find one that wouldn’t strain my back, as I have some spinal issues. After testing, the Gregory Citro 24 was clearly the most comfortable for my needs, outperforming others with its superior lumbar support. This experience aligned with the many positive reviews I had read about Gregory packs, which consistently receive high marks for load-carrying comfort.
Gregory offers packs in a wide range of sizes, from small 8-liter options to larger 100-liter backpacks, across various product lines. The Zulu 30 is designed for day hiking and backpacking, and I focused my testing on how it performed in day hiking scenarios.
Features of the Zulu 30
The Zulu 30 offers several features that set it apart from the Citro 24, making it ideal for those days when you need to carry more. The pack is equipped with Gregory’s FreeFloat system, which includes a plush hip belt that moves independently of the frame. This system isolates the belt’s movement from the rest of the pack, giving you a more comfortable and flexible fit. The hip belt itself is incredibly comfortable, providing excellent support without restricting movement.
At 3 pounds, the Zulu is heavier than the Citro, which weighs in at just 2 pounds. However, the Zulu is built to carry heavier loads, with a 40-pound capacity compared to the Citro’s 20 pounds. This makes the Zulu a great option when you need to carry a bit more gear without sacrificing comfort.
Both packs feature dual mesh water bottle pockets, a front kangaroo pocket, and a top U-shaped opening to access the main compartment. Both also include a zippered pocket inside the main compartment for securing valuables. While the Zulu has a slightly larger design, it’s still compact enough to be comfortable for a day hike.
Performance and Comfort
The Zulu 30 really shines in terms of comfort and stability. I tested it with a 15-pound load, which is similar to my usual day-hiking gear, and found it to be extremely comfortable. Despite the Zulu’s larger size, the FreeFloat system allowed for a snug fit that transferred most of the weight to my hips, minimizing strain on my back. The Zulu’s extra height was noticeable but didn’t interfere with my movement.
I also tested the Zulu on steeper terrain, including hiking up inclines and climbing a ladder while wearing the pack. The Zulu offered no restriction to my leg movement, making it easy to maneuver. When I filled the pack with 26 pounds of water bottles, I still felt very comfortable, with the pack’s structure doing an excellent job of distributing the weight.
While the 40-pound rating is a bit excessive for a typical day hike, it’s reassuring to know that the Zulu can handle such a load if necessary. In comparison, the Citro 24, which is more suited for lighter loads, also performed well, but the Zulu’s enhanced suspension made it even more comfortable over longer distances.
Pack Weight and Comfort
A common critique of Gregory packs is that they tend to be slightly heavier than some alternatives. However, this extra weight is minimal—only about 2 ounces heavier than the Citro 24—and the added comfort and support make it well worth it. The reality is that weight doesn’t matter much unless it leads to discomfort or fatigue. A pack that feels comfortable throughout the hike is far more important than shaving off a few ounces.
For most hikers, the slight weight difference won’t be noticeable, especially given the Zulu’s superior comfort and load-carrying capabilities. As seasoned hikers know, pack weight only becomes a significant issue after reaching a certain threshold, and for the vast majority of day hikes, this extra weight won’t cause problems.
Pros, Cons, and Considerations
Pros:
- Exceptional comfort and load distribution, even with heavier loads.
- Versatile for various day hiking conditions.
- Thoughtful features like the FreeFloat hip belt and ample storage pockets.
- Competitive pricing and widely available.
Cons:
- The top pocket becomes somewhat floppy when loaded, which can slightly interfere with accessing the main compartment.
Neutrals:
- While I personally prefer more external pockets lower on the pack, the existing layout is still very practical and functional.
Final Thoughts
The Gregory Zulu 30 is an excellent day pack for hikers who occasionally need to carry extra gear or weight. Its comfort, stability, and thoughtful design make it a standout choice in the day hiking pack category. While it’s a bit larger and heavier than my usual Citro 24, the Zulu offers much more in terms of capacity and comfort for those who need it.
If you’re looking for a pack that can handle a bit more weight without sacrificing comfort, the Zulu 30 is a great option. With its advanced suspension system and efficient load distribution, it’s a reliable choice for any day hike, no matter how much gear you need to carry.
