Gregory
Gregory Zulu 45 Backpack
Best versatile pack for overnight trips and demanding day hikes.
The Gregory Zulu 45 Backpack is your ideal companion for overnight adventures and demanding day hikes, expertly blending lightweight design with ample storage. Its dynamic FreeFloat suspension system ensures comfort and freedom of movement on any trail. Featuring an athletic look and refined materials, this pack offers a perfect balance between daypack agility and overnighter capacity. Enjoy enhanced ventilation and a fully adjustable torso for a personalized, supportive fit that keeps you cool and comfortable on your journeys.
$199.95
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
827
/ 1461
#827 in Camping & Hiking
Price vs Category Average
+11%
Above average
Suspension Technology
FREEFLOAT
/ FREEFLOAT
Who it's for
- Hikers prone to overheating on strenuous summer trails
- Organized travelers needing quick access to main compartment gear
- Backpackers prioritizing load distribution and personalized torso fit
Who should skip it
- Ultralight hikers seeking the absolute lowest pack weight
- Hikers who need easy access to large smartphones
- Backpackers carrying bulky or rigid gear items
Performance breakdown
Suspension Comfort
FreeFloat system moves naturally with your body on uneven terrain.
Ventilation Efficiency
AeroSpan backpanel keeps airflow high during intense, sweaty climbs.
Fit Customization
Adjustable torso length ensures a precise fit for various body types.
Access Convenience
U-Zip opening makes grabbing gear from the main compartment effortless.
Load Management
Perimeter wire frame handles 40-pound loads without sagging or shifting.
Storage Accessibility
Oversized hipbelt pockets keep trail essentials within easy reach.
Key Specs
Suspension Technology
FREEFLOAT
Frame Type
Perimeter wire
Capacity
45 L / 2746 cu in. (M/L)
Weight
3.7 lbs / 1.68 kg (M/L)
Torso Fit (S/M)
15" - 19"
Max Carry Weight
40 lbs
Number of External Pockets
5
Hydration Compatible
Yes
Know before you buy
Yes, it is designed specifically for overnight trips and demanding day hikes. With a 45-liter capacity, it offers enough room for ultralight multi-day gear or a very well-equipped day hike, provided you pack efficiently.
The FreeFloat system uses a flexible, dynamic panel that connects the hipbelt to the frame. This allows the pack to move with your body's natural gait, which significantly reduces strain and improves balance on uneven terrain.
Yes, the Zulu 45 features an adjustable torso length. This allows you to dial in the fit precisely to your back length, ensuring the weight is distributed correctly between your shoulders and hips.
Yes, it includes an integrated hydration sleeve with a SpeedClip attachment system. This is compatible with most standard hydration reservoirs, allowing you to stay hydrated on the move without stopping to dig through your pack.
The Zulu 45 is rated for a maximum carry weight of 40 lbs. While it can handle this load, it performs best when packed closer to 25-30 lbs for optimal comfort and agility.
The pack features a convenient U-Zip main compartment access. This allows you to open the front of the pack like a suitcase, making it much easier to retrieve items from the bottom or middle without unpacking everything.
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$200