Granite_Gear_Vapor_Trail

The Granite Gear Vapor Trail backpack is a great ultralight pack that has won a devoted following since receiving Backpacker magazine’s top gear award in 2003. It continues to be one of the most frequently used packs on the Appalachian and Pacific Crest trails, and is particularly popular among women backpackers.  It’s also great for weekenders who simply want a comfortable pack and don’t have a large load to carry.

The Vapor Trail stands out for two reasons: weight and comfort. The pack itself weighs just over two pounds, yet can carry loads up to 30-35 pounds with ease. With loads under 25 pounds you may forget you have it on, thanks to flexible HDPE plastic frame sheet and well-padded waist and shoulder straps.

As an ultra-light pack, the Granite Vapor Trail has a simple design without a lot of extras. The single large compartment loads from the top, and uses a drawcord (rather than a lid) to cinch closed. Storage space beyond the main compartment is limited to a reservoir pocket and two stretch side pockets, with side and front straps for tie-ons.

Granite Gear Vapor Trail Pack Features

  • Flexible HDPE plastic frame sheet with soft foam padding and padded, ergonomic harness.
  • Top-loading with extension collar, drawcord and an adjustable buckle strap to compress and secure load
  • Durastretch side pockets stretch side pockets, large enough to hold quart water bottles.
  • Front tie-ons, side compression straps and dual ice-axe loops.
  • 70-denier hybrid ripstop nylon pack body
  • 210-denier Cordura® nylon backpanel
  • Hydration-compatible design
  • Size Short comes with a women’s hipbelt

Granite Gear Vapor Trail Backpack Specs

  • Frame: Internal frame sheet
  • Loading: Top
  • Gender: Unisex
  • Volume: 3600 cubic inches
  • Weight: 2 pounds, 5 ounces
  • Pockets: 2 plus main
  • Torso range: Available in short, regular and long torso sizes.

Granite Gear Vapor Trail Reviews

Many users have praised the Vapor Trail for its comfort when carrying small to moderate loads, and for its durability.

Moosejaw Customer Rating: 4.5 of 5 based on 15 reviews. “Best pack I have ever carried.” “Used this pack for 500 mile trip on the AT this summer and it stood up to continual daily abuse. This simplistic pack is perfect for travelling light. It was true to its limit of 30 pounds, don’t overstuff it because it will sag. Plus this was a deal compared to other ultralight options.”

Read reviews and compare prices at Moosejaw.com.

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