The Best Backpacking Backpack 3 Years Running?

Is the Granite Gear Blaze 60 still the best backpacking backpack for the last 3 years? It's one of the highest rated backpacking backpacks on the market and has been the editors choice on Outdoor Gear Lab 3 years in a row. I've experienced a lot of good and bad with the pack, which I go over in this video. I also talk about the biggest PROBLEM with review sites.
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0:00 Intro
0:46 What I liked
2:14 What sucked
4:18 Problem with review sites
4:58 Solution

[@granitegear]

Hey Jonny! Thanks so much for the in-depth review of the Blaze 60. We wanted to address the main concern you brought up in the video. Let's talk about the frame sheet! We are so sorry that it cracked on you, and wanted to let you know that this frame sheet has been updated to specifically handle this issue. We've modified the chemical makeup in order to improve flexibility while retaining the strength that comes with polycarbonate. We can easily replace the frame sheet (or whole new pack!), and we sent you an email to do just that. We're a super small company, but our CS team is incredible, and we're always looking to improve. Please don't hesitate to reach out! Super quality review and we think you hit the nail on the head with the testing of longevity of gear! Thanks again and we hope you'll test out more of our newer packs as well. Cheers!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for reaching out! We’ll talk

[@granitegear]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Looking forward to it!

[@joker2100]

@@granitegear Are there any indicators, like a serial number, on the pack that would allow customers to know if they have the updated polycarbonate back panel? How long ago has this change been made?

[@granitegear]

​@@joker2100 The change was made back in 2019 when the pack was released. The new frame has a more milky, translucent look than the previous clear one. It would be hard to find one with an old frame now in 2023.

[@vvs3796]

Guys, I really recommend to switch for aluminium frame, rather these plastic sheets. they don't transfer weight properly. while this pack can carry a big load, it s not properly distributed bcs of the frame. while I really wanted this pack to be my go to, bcs many features I like, it s just not comfortable enough with heavier loads. no way 50pounds. Also another big issue,after hiking in a 3 hour rain, belt and side pockets collect rain water like buckets.

[@jjhikespa3600]

I have multiple backpacks and other products from Granite Gear. I also have the Blaze 60 backpack and love it. After watching your video and reading through the comments, it seems like Granite Gear honored their warranty and replaced your pack. It also seems like you really like the pack and used it to its maximum capabilities on most of your trips, especially with heavy camera gear. It is a shame that the frame cracked on your trip but to knock a product and the company because the pack was well loved and used for years seems extreme. Granite Gear has excellent customer service, and they did replace your pack so maybe that information should be included in this video. I have really enjoyed the gear I purchased from Granite Gear and most of my trips include several of their products.

[@dfoofighterg]

I'm gonna second this

[@Mark-ly4lq]

Third

[@kmichaelp4508]

Forth. Kinda snobbish

[@claytonlynch6288]

Currently using the Granite Gear Crown 2 (The crown 3 is the current model) and it has been a delight. After my gear got burned up in a fire I was happy to try something new and the crown 2 is a great bag. I love that it can be dressed up or down depending on needs or desire to reduce base weight. Definitely a cool bag.

[@RetrieverTrainingAlone]

Excellent! I've been packing with the original Granite Gear Crown 60 and still use it on a daily basis as a big daypack up here in Alaska. After 10 years of heavy use still going strong. I had to pack out an injured dog on a day hike and was pleasantly surprised the pack held up to a 45 pound load.

[@benhazell470]

Great video, I’ve been looking at this pack for ages and wondering whether to pull the trigger also In regards to the fault, from experience, the pack in the video was being handled incorrectly, the handle is meant to be used to lift the pack and not the straps I had a Gregory stout that did a very similar thing, the pack was capable of packing 20kg + and I never exceeded the weight limit supplied by the manufacturer. However I was lifting the pack by the straps, packs are not designed for all the weight to be swung/ lifted/ hung etc from one strap. I learnt from the manufacturer, or their warranty contractor that packs are designed to be lifted by the handle between the two shoulder straps. I now try use this method of lifting to prevent any excess stress on stitching I’m not trying to criticise at all but hope this too comes in handy for others, I would have called myself an experienced hiker but still made this mistake so there’s always learning to be done, happy hiking all

[@jdata]

Out of context from this video, but I just wanted to drop you a line and tell you I really enjoy your energy. I'm a fellow biologist (herpetologist with ex-situ conservation focus) and watching your videos gave me some good feels. The profession itself can be a big downer at times, despite the privilege of getting to work with nature. You take the ups when you can get them! Keep up the good work, I bet your following will grow. Good work, man. 👍

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks so much! I’m glad the vids resonate with you! Just trying to make science and the outdoors fun. Cheers!

[@SKMisaac]

I've been watching a few of your videos and, I say, what a gem of a channel! I sincerely hope you get big some day. KZbin needs more people like you

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you so much! That means a lot to me! Cheers 🙌🏾

[@The_Drifter_13]

Excellent review. Extremely helpful!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Glad it was helpful!

[@janedoe3258]

Some quality material!!! So glad I clicked. Thank you :3

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@NickOutside]

Mine broke the same way. I was in northern ca on the PCT and I was jumping over dead trees when I heard a pop and my should stap instantly became loose. Luckily the load lifters kept everything together, but I had to get a new pack after that. All-in-all it lasted about 3 months 1200 miles.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Wow, I'm glad to know I'm not the only one. Did they replace yours for free? I got a the same one and it's holding up quite nicely

[@kmichaelp4508]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist, wouldn’t it be fair to add an update? Otherwise, I wouldn’t take your word on anything.

[@chrismoore600]

This is an awesome video. Thanks for your time.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for watching!

[@afishler]

Well put!

[@henrypierce8010]

Thanks for the review! Your review put me back on track to buy the Gregory Paragon 58 which is a 3.6 lbs, but I haven't found bad reviews of yet. Gregory has a 68 L version too.

[@ChucoHiker]

I got the Blaze a couple of months ago for similar reasons - needed space for my full frame camera setup/lenses. So far it is the most comfortable of the packs I’ve used. I have never had major issues with my crown 2 60 beyond wear and tear, but your video has made me wary. I also agree the Fanny pack is gimmicky at best, and never intend to use it. So far my only critique is the front pocket, hopefully I have better luck with mine than you did with yours 😬😬😬 Thanks for the video!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I definitely wish you good luck. The Fanny pack was one of the things that sold me about this pack, it’s a shame it’s so tedious to assemble.

[@ChucoHiker]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Thank you! I am curious to see where you land next in your pack journey!

[@openskyphotography]

I had the first blaze 60 (which I loved), then upgraded to this version. I love it. Hip pockets actually fit a cell phone. My full tent (Durston X-Mid 1) fits in the front stretch pocket, so even if it's a bit wet and dusty, it doesn't go in the main compartment. And the side pockets are HUGE, so I can reach my water without any sort of struggle or shoulder strain. I definitely don't get near 50 lbs (even with my photography gear), so maybe it has to do with weight strain? I've used it for years, so who knows. I've found it to be extremely comfortable, lightweight, able to handle a significant load, and durable (no rips, failures, etc.). But I am now concerned about the frame sheet. Great point, who knows when it will crack.

[@showtime6310]

Dude your videos are so good, I hope you get a tone more views soon

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks so much!

[@poobum9857]

good review bro

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@murrayholland5891]

Dude you legend. So glad i found this review. I was about to drop a lot of Rands (R18 to $1 at present). Totally agree on the longevity reviews. Any views on the ULA Catalyst 75L?

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I was actually looking into the ULA Catalyst! If I end up getting one I’ll do a review, it looks sick. Glad this video helped!

[@user-gk5ex7ns9z]

Thanks for this video. It's very interesting and useful (and fun to film). I have the same backpack and also have mixed feelings about it. This is a great backpack in terms of functionality. It has a great top compartment that closes easily, and the side pockets are incredibly spacious and handy. What I don't like about it is that the fabric gets very dirty. My backpack is not black, but green/brown. After the first multi-day hike, with careful handling and a rain cover, it looks like an old, worn thing. This of course reduces sexuality, but this is not the main thing. The main problem is that this backpack does not transfer weight really well from the shoulders to the hips. My height is 186 cm, but I measured my back exactly as the manufacturer recommends and it corresponds to 16 inches, size S. I bought a backpack online and couldn't try it on like in a regular store. Therefore, I trusted the manufacturer’s recommendations. As a result, the backpack hangs on the shoulders, the frame ends up below the shoulders, and not higher or at least at the same level as my other backpacks. And although I moved the belt to the extreme position, 18 inches, as in your video, the load on the shoulders decreased somewhat, but it was still noticeable. Maybe I'm doing something wrong?

[@wix118]

I def agree with the longevity thing! I have a blaze 60 in earth tones and I love it, but am currently searching for alternatives.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

:(. I don’t know how it’s still the number 1 backpack on a lot of these sites

[@actraveler8309]

Thanks for the review. Seems like most KZbinrs don’t highlight reliability issues like this. Durability testing costs a lot of time and money/resources, which small companies don’t normally have compared to larger companies like Kelty. I always take that into consideration.

[@andyr4611]

Thanks for this realistic review, as you say so many review sites hand out ratings on the basis of first impressions and short term use. Shame Granite gear can't test their products adequately in the field. I bought a Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor. I was finding it quite a good pack for the weight until the hub holding the wishbone stays together snapped.

[@vvs3796]

oh shit..

[@davidcooke2804]

Well done!!!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@clayl9202]

I love all these glamourpacking videos. You might want to add MysteryRanch's Bridger series of packs to your list. Weight is right in the middle of the list of fanboi favorites, but a lot more well-thought-out and comfortable.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I’ll put that on my list! Thanks!!

[@calebwalker8288]

Great video and important relevance. I strongly recommend as you are camera oriented...Shimoda pack. If you feel you need more than 60 liters...check 70 liter one. They are designed with chest harness that has been utilized for decades by those seeking to hold heavy gear easier and distributed on body dispersed weight....in this case Shimoda took this concept and said...hey...camera gears really heavy...let's apply this. This pack has been so durable and efficient in load carry and comfortable...people not camera oriented still use for comfort and weight distribution. This will also help you access cam gear and store better.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for the awesome recommendation! I’ll definitely check it out. Camera gear is such a burden when backpacking. I just got a gimbal and have been bringing it up with me, such a hassle but the shots are worth it

[@withlessAsbestos]

Can’t believe so few people are here so far

[@sergioaguis]

Great video! Any updates with your backpack? I'm looking for exactly what you do...

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks Sergio! So far the backpack has held up on a 3 day trip at around 35lbs. I've also been vary carful how I put the pack on and try not to do it one strap at a time, which is a bit annoying if I can be honest. Gonna wait after a few more trips before I make a full update video. thanks for watching and subbing!

[@LastDays2024]

Here is how to use the mat and store it. kzbin.info/www/bejne/fabRqHV6bNyNjck

[@chrisreilly1290]

4:34 yeah, I hate when I'm emailed to submit a review only a day or two after I receive the product

[@Im_With_Stupid]

Good review. I kinda wanted this bag, but I didn't know the shoulder straps were mounted like that. What a horrible design. I do have the GG Crown2 and I love it, but talk about painful when you overload it.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

My friend said the same thing about his Crown 2. Thanks for watching!

[@yamataichul]

My goodness to this answers some of my problems with 🎒

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Glad it helped!

[@AlpineTrails]

Thanks for the review. I am looking for a light pack to carry heavy loads comfortably. This seemed to tick all boxes but I didn't pull the trigger just yet due to it's high price tag ( 370$ in UK). I get that is using lightweight materials and is not a heavy duty bag but I would expect it to last more than 3 years. Which is of course subjective because it will depend on what type of environment is being used in and how many miles you do with it. This review pretty much put me off initially. But, I also like how they responded promptly and value their customers. So, maybe I would give it a try in the end. Cheers

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

They've treated me very well so far so I can't knock on them at all. I already have the new pack and I'll be testing it out on a 2 day backpacking trip next week! Cheers!

[@kmichaelp4508]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist, and? I know you haven’t done a video but would love to know all the details. I’m considering one.

[@travisgraham8789]

So, what was the resolution that Granite Gear provided? New pack? New panel?

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

New pack. Already took it out on a backpacking trip and it held up fine. Will have to test it more before I give an update

[@visnau1126]

Your editing is next level.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thank you!

[@matthewcarpenter9825]

It would be great if everytime you mentioned an imperial measurement (eg pounds), you put up a graphic on the video showing the metric equivalent. Thanks.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

That’s a great point. Will do that for the future 👍🏾

[@vvs3796]

those belt and side pockets collect rain water like a saggy tarpaulin. didnt u have this issue?

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I didn’t have the change to take it out in the rain so I’ve never experienced anything like that unfortunately

[@LastDays2024]

Right now i am testing out a new sleeping pad, Sea to Summit Camp Self-Inflating Foam Sleeping Mat.. So far i like it, it makes no sound and feels like a Bed more then a mat!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I need to check that out! hows the weight and packability?

[@LastDays2024]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist (78 x 25 x 1.5 inches) is 8 inch by 13 and the weight is 2 pound 6 oz.. I sleep like a king on this mat.

[@LastDays2024]

I have had many mats and yes the ones that is around $200 plus in price, and yet i never go back to the plastic bag sound or the float like a boat feel while sleeping! Keep this mat clean and not use it as a seat pad and it could last a long time! Keep this with you and never open till you need it GEAR AID Aquaseal FD Flexible Durable Repair Adhesive kzbin.info/www/bejne/Z5WVXpmJZ6eNndU It be the best thing you carry with you on a hike! Happy Trails

[@LastDays2024]

Here is a video on the mat i use, best mat i have ever owned! Don't get the 20 inch pad, too narrow! kzbin.info/www/bejne/oIfCf32chrqGidU

[@vvs3796]

try flex capacitor in terms of comfort it s better for me.

[@LastDays2024]

Sierra Designs Flex Capacitor 60L-80L Very good pack!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks for the rec!

[@LastDays2024]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist Welcome!

[@jeffmcdonald101]

Lowe Alpine are the best bags I've ever used or seen. Indestructible and comfortable. Waaaay better adjustment than this one you showed. Makes Ospreys etc look like gimmicks...which they are. They don't show up in reviews a lot from outdoorlab etc because they are made in NZ.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Gotta check them out! Thanks for the suggestion. I’m def in the market for a new backpack.

[@vvs3796]

lowe alpine are great. but flex capacitor in terms of simplicity and Comfort beats my GGBlaze. which is sad, bcs I like blaze features. flex is half the weight of mine LA manaslu but carries weight even better, which is surprising

[@pauloalves2840]

I wouldn't go on a hike even if you paid me, but I still watched the whole video.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

😂😂😂

[@regdel8859]

Nothing compares to Osprey, Gregory in second place

[@LastDays2024]

Sub you! Have a blessed Hike Day!

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Thanks so much!

[@Sochmo18]

U gotta try to 3FUL quidian

[@pierrotgodot]

Update? =)

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

I'm gonna make a new video after this backpacking season, but Granite Gear sent me a replacement overall the new backpack is holding up!

[@kingnothing007]

you get a like cause of the sexy backpack pose LOL

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

😂 thanks

[@tatianaes3354]

*CLEARLY* a failure by the review sites. I am not a backpack guy, but even to me it is immediately obvious that plastic will crack and fall apart pretty quickly, so the reviewers should have made this into the longevity drawbacks category. The solution to that is to make the slots not from plastic, but from carbon fibre, titanium, aluminium alloys. How thin the materials are is also immediately visible. The reviewers should have concluded that this is a ONE season backpack.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

Agreed!

[@Getyourwishh]

where is the plant sentience and intelligence video?

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

It’s still gonna take a while. A lot of research is going into that one, and I have 2 more videos on the pipeline that’s before that video! My science videos always take months (or more) to make/produce, so getting theses smaller videos/backpacking vids keeps the channel busy while still staying on brand. Thanks for your patience!

[@Getyourwishh]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist alrigtht, thanks for your elaborate reply.

[@ddff5242]

Wrong. Weight shouldn't be on the shoulders... your wearing it wrong. Weight should be on hips.... I can tell by the way it's worn. You didn't get a long enough torso to put the frame above your shoulder line..... that's why more weight than is designed was being put in the frame. If sized and worn correctly, you will never have the frame break.... hate to say it but that is user error.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

The frame initially cracked from picking the pack from the floor to put on my shoulders, just like in the clip I put in, not from wearing it. It most likely had micro cracks before the larger ones eventually showed up. If you can imagine, 45 lbs on a single strap is a lot of stress for the frame.. which is why it is a design flaw. I don't know many people who are able to put on a heavy pack while holding both straps, so most people, like myself, lift the pack one strap at a time. I had my torso measured and I'm a size small, so unless they messed up, it really is the right size for me. I can look into if I'm not putting enough weight on my hips, but I can tell you, I would die if I consistently put all the weight on my shoulders lol, I can assure you that there is plenty of weight on my hips. But I'll look into what you're saying. And also, 50lbs is the comfort rating of the backpack, not its maximal physical load. A school backpack can carry 50lbs, it just wont be comfortable. 50 Lbs should not be able to break a backpacking backpack, period.

[@ddff5242]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist yeah. It's the lightest pack I know of that is rated for 50 lbs comfort. I have this one plus a gregory that is also a similar weight load. But it weighs over 6lbs empty. As with most lighter weight items you do have to baby them a little bit. It's the trade off. Granite gear is known for having phenomenal customer service. It could be you had a defective frame. I bet they will make it good for you. Sorry to hear that it didn't work.

[@TheBackpackingBiologist]

@@ddff5242 It definitely is a nice pack! And so comfy. They actually reached out to me and are sending me a new one. I'm excited to test the new and improved frame on some trips. So far the customer service has been excellent, I don't think this problem will affect the way I think about the brand. Thanks man

[@videoartsproductions1]

@@TheBackpackingBiologist I've been using Granite Gear Packs for 18 years or more I've used them and abused them in very harsh conditions. But I've also used other brands like ULA, Mountain Smith, North Face, Arcteryx etc., they all have issue. Dana Design packs are much more rugged like the Terraplane Backpack I've owned those type of packs too. There are also similar designs that can be customized too your body precisely from other small mfg, but they're not cheap but people swear by them. Most off the shelf packs are going to be inferior to premium bags like Dana Design for long term durability. Most of the Granite Gear bags and light weight stuff is not going to last as long they don't add protection or beef up materials to make them more rugged and durable because most backpackers now days want fast and light packs which I consider disposable packs. Some packs only last one major outing especially if they are Ultra light ones. You should be happy it has lasted as long as it has and is still in pretty good shape considering how long you've had it. The frame sheet attachment is a hoaky idea but that is what happens when mfg want to innovate and keep things light. The Blaze is still a great pack especially compared to the alternatives. Your lucky you have a Granite Gear product they stand behind there stuff, but don't get to attached to this stuff because it's all going to wear out eventually or fail. Granite Gear by far is the best bang for your buck period. There is a long history of testing by hikers who literally put thousands of miles a year hiking with these packs and give the company feed back to help improve on them. However the focus has been more on weight recently because that is what the serious backpacker wants now. So in order for Granite Gear to compete with the Ultra light stuff there has to be a trade off in design function and durability you can't have all these things combined together and still expect it to last a long time too. This is not obvious to most people who buy these packs however they just assume the stuff will last no matter what they throw at it, and don't realize how good Granite Gear products really are compared to the alternatives at a much higher price point. At least if you look else where you now have a bench mark for comparison.

[@vvs3796]

well i m just 6 foot and have this pack in long torso and frame doesnt go above my shoulders. this pack just doesnt have system to distribute weight on hips. marketting gimmick. and the weight limit of 50 pounds is just nonsense. side pockets and belt pockets collect rain water like a saggy tarpaulin.