View Full Version : thinking about getting the Granite Gear Vapor Trail
hey ive got a lot of overtime pay comming on my next paycheck, and have been thinking of getting a pack. i was looking online at a bunch of packs, and this one is looking pretty good. I will mostly be using it for weekend / weeklong hikes. Although i am planning a thru in 3 years. Has anyone here ever used this pack on a thru? if so, did it work out?
thanks for the help.
-matt c
Footslogger
10-10-2006, 23:13
I did in 2003. Worked like a charm. Still carrying it but have upgraded the hip belt and added the hip belt pouches.
As long as you can keep your total pack weight at 26lbs or under there aren't too many packs on the market that can compare with its comfort and simplicity.
'Slogger
I've always had a desire for this pack, but a few things have prevented me from buying it:
No lid or pockets. It's one big cavity, so if you don't organize well, this can be a problem. Most likely you'll need to use a system of stuff sacks to organize. I know they sell lids now.
The pockets. Considering this pack is used by many thru-hikers (AT, PCT and other trails) I'm not sure why they haven't taken the feedback that the pockets suck. They are stretchy Neoprene that doesn't offer a lot of space when the volume of the pack is filled from the inside. It's tough to stick a quart bottle in there when your sleeping bag and gear is stuffed. I would think it would be so easy to sew big mesh pockets like the ones on the ULA packs.
Besides this, the pack seems ideal. It the overwhelming favorite on the AT and PCT as far as I've witnessed.
Footslogger
10-10-2006, 23:29
[quote=A-Train;255260]No lid or pockets.
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A-Train ...I have the aftermarket "lid" and while it is not very roomy it does serve to hold quick access items. I also added the hip belt pouches this past year. I have them attached so that they stay close to the hip belt and don't float around.
All in all, the Vapor Trail equipped like mine is pretty hard to beat for a 2 lbs pack that carries 26 lbs comfortably.
That said ...I AM on the lookout for a pack that will carry about 32 - 35 lbs. Thinking about doing the PCT in the next couple years and with the longer re-supply intervals I need something that has a bit more capacity and that will carry it comfortably.
Will most likely go with one of the ULA's
'Slogger
Alligator
10-10-2006, 23:33
...
No lid or pockets. It's one big cavity, so if you don't organize well, this can be a problem. Most likely you'll need to use a system of stuff sacks to organize. I know they sell lids now.Not really. I use a belt pouch and one small stuff sack for non food related items. The stuff sack holds my first aid kit, knife, id, money, and duct tape. The belt pouch holds my headlamp, snacks, and camera. The only other stuff sacks I use are for food.
The pockets. Considering this pack is used by many thru-hikers (AT, PCT and other trails) I'm not sure why they haven't taken the feedback that the pockets suck. They are stretchy Neoprene that doesn't offer a lot of space when the volume of the pack is filled from the inside. It's tough to stick a quart bottle in there when your sleeping bag and gear is stuffed. I would think it would be so easy to sew big mesh pockets like the ones on the ULA packs.
...The pockets can be difficult if you need to stuff water bottles in and out and the main pocket bottom is stuffed. I use a hydration bladder. The pockets can fit my megalite tent with no problem, but in general I just put an 8x10 tarp in one and fuel bottle in the other.
I like mine, but take a look at the ULA packs too.
Long feet
10-11-2006, 09:12
I have recently bought a Gossamer Gear Mariposa Plus pack. It is about 19oz without taking out the padding. I also bought their NightLight torso lenth pad to use as a frame. This weighs about 4 oz. So, the total with this pack is about 23oz. Pretty light. It has great mesh pockets, carbon stays, and a hydration bladder pocket. Although I have not tried it yet, I am going to try it out in a couple weeks and will report back here. I also have not tried the GG or ULA packs for comparison. Has anyone out there tried them all?
[quote=A-Train;255260]
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That said ...I AM on the lookout for a pack that will carry about 32 - 35 lbs. Thinking about doing the PCT in the next couple years and with the longer re-supply intervals I need something that has a bit more capacity and that will carry it comfortably.
Will most likely go with one of the ULA's
'Slogger
The miles can be a bit longer between towns and there are less options of towns, but the miles go by easier.:) IOW, my pack was always the same,:eek: what I carry is basicly the same :eek: and so was my weight.(low to mid 30s):o
Footslogger
10-11-2006, 10:03
[quote=Nean;255351][quote=Footslogger;255270]
...and so was my weight.(low to mid 30s)
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That's the main problem (in my experience) with the Vapor Trail. It doesn't carry 30+ lbs very comfortably.
'Slogger
Kerosene
10-11-2006, 11:18
After reviewing a number of packs, I reduced my choices to ULA and Granite Gear. I was going to go with a ULA P-2 but the 2-month backlog didn't work with my hike plans. I ended up going with the Granite Gear Nimbus Ozone, the big brother of the Vapor Trail, as I thought I would appreciate the sturdier framesheet, especially if I needed to carry over 30 pounds on a re-supply in late Fall. I've upgraded with The Lid (http://www.backcountrygear.com/catalog/packdetail.cfm?PRODUCTS__PRODUCTID=GG350) to store little stuff, and I may add a shoulder strap pocket (http://www.backcountrygear.com/catalog/accessdetail.cfm/GG1013) to provide easier access to my camera and snacks when I'm wearing running shorts without pockets.
I've seen a lot of thru-hikers carry the Vapor Trail the past two years. I've learned to live with the pockets, which are sufficiently stretchy that you can shove water bottles and a ditty bag in (unless you have a big synthetic sleeping bag stuffed in the bottom). The compression straps around the pockets are pretty worthless though (hmmm, maybe I should cut off the lower ones?).
I would take a look at the ULA Circuit (http://www.ula-equipment.com/circuit.htm) and Catalyst (http://www.ula-equipment.com/catalyst.htm) though. I like the various customization options, and I really like the big front mesh pocket to stuff a wet tent, hammock, or socks.
Footslogger
10-11-2006, 11:25
[quote=Kerosene;255396]The compression straps around the pockets are pretty worthless though (hmmm, maybe I should cut them off?).
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The lower ones certainly are, as they lie directly over the top edge of the mesh side pouches. But the upper ones come in handy if you put anything long in the mesh pockets and need to secure it.
Like you ...I have started to look very seriously at the Circuit as the replacement for my Vapor Trail when it finally dies.
'Slogger
hey ive got a lot of overtime pay comming on my next paycheck, and have been thinking of getting a pack. i was looking online at a bunch of packs, and this one is looking pretty good. ...........
Yo matt C.
ME TOO!
i've been using the REI Morninstar 75 (4lbs 7oz) for the last 5 years..& have been carrying approx 30lbs on my back...trying to lighten the load & doing the research...according to a couple sites....the GRANITE GEAR VAPOR TRAIL(aprx 2lbs) was used (dont know where they got the data) by 40% of thru-hikers last year.
my hikin' bud "Jigsaw" swears by it...thats good enuff fer me!:D
Good Luck with your hike.
Alligator
10-11-2006, 12:09
Yo matt C.
ME TOO!
i've been using the REI Morninstar 75 (4lbs 7oz) for the last 5 years..& have been carrying approx 30lbs on my back...trying to lighten the load & doing the research...according to a couple sites....the GRANITE GEAR VAPOR TRAIL(aprx 2lbs) was used (dont know where they got the data) by 40% of thru-hikers last year.
my hikin' bud "Jigsaw" swears by it...thats good enuff fer me!:D
Good Luck with your hike.The VT has a bit of a low ride that can pull at the shoulders. If you plan to regularly put 30 lbs in it, I'd consider what Kerosene did and go for the Nimbus. I found a noticeable difference when I dropped ~3 lbs from about 29 to about 26 lbs. On other packs I own, I don't really notice this weight loss, what is just a little over a liter of water.
Footslogger
10-11-2006, 12:42
[quote=Alligator;255422]The VT has a bit of a low ride that can pull at the shoulders. If you plan to regularly put 30 lbs in it, I'd consider what Kerosene did and go for the Nimbus. I found a noticeable difference when I dropped ~3 lbs from about 29 to about 26 lbs.
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Exactly. What seems to happen is that the HDPU frame sheet "buckles" a bit with loads of 30lbs or greater and despite a snug hip belt the Vapor Trail sags a bit, placing most of the weight on your shoulders. A "stay" or strut, like the Nimbus has, would prevent that from happening.
'Slogger
hmm ill have to investigate the ozone aswell. I think im gonna stop at EMS tommrow after work, to try some packs on.
RadioFreq
10-11-2006, 14:20
hmm ill have to investigate the ozone aswell. I think im gonna stop at EMS tommrow after work, to try some packs on.
Bring your gear and actually fill the backpacks you try out. I know it's a pain but you'll get a much better idea of how a pack will ride and how much space you'll have to work with.
hmm that sounds like a good idea, but will the people at EMS care that im bringing all my gear in the store?
Footslogger
10-11-2006, 17:30
hmm that sounds like a good idea, but will the people at EMS care that im bringing all my gear in the store?
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No reputable outfitter will/should mind that MattC. It's the smart way to go about selecting and testing a pack.
'Slogger
I have a GG Latitude Vapor. It can hold 30#, and the double zipper panel allows easy access to the whole pack. It has internal compression straps and a hydration pocket on the inside back panel which I dont use. I lay my platypus on top under the lid. It also has a clip on "ditty bag" inside that has a small foam pad I guess would fit under one cheek. Still has the sucky pockets with the compression strap over the top. Very comfortable, I ordered a long, and have added a few belt pouches. About $125 online
Cheesewhiz
10-11-2006, 20:15
I just used the GG Nimbus Ozone onmy through hike and loved it to no end. I even bought a vapor trail in Harpers but then switched back to the ozone do to it's excelent suspension and weight distribution. I will carry the vapor trail on weekends in the summer when I don't carry more than 25# anything more I will carry the ozone till I die on the trail! or GG stops making it and I hope that is not any time soon
nchiker467
10-11-2006, 20:48
the gg vt(regular one) is a great pack once you get the all the straps fit. but yeah anything over 30 lbs and gets pretty uncomfortable:/
Footslogger
10-12-2006, 10:03
[quote=Cheesewhiz;255636]I just used the GG Nimbus Ozone onmy through hike and loved it to no end.
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From personal experience I already know what the Vapor Trail will carry comfortably. How much weight will the Ozone carry at that same level of comfort ?? Might have to add that pack to my list of possible replacements for my Vapor Trail. At least that way I won't have to get used to a totally different pack design.
'Slogger
Kerosene
10-12-2006, 12:33
How much weight will the Ozone carry at that same level of comfort ??While subjective, I've packed the Nimbus Ozone with 35 pounds for all-day shakedown hikes and didn't have any problems. It could probably go to 40 in a pinch, although they you'd probably be using a lot of the extension collar. It feels great in the 25-30 pound range.
I've been thinking about dropping down to the Vapor Trail for summer hikes where I'd be carrying closer to 20 pounds total, but I'm not sure it's worth the cost considering how often I get out in the summer.
Footslogger
10-12-2006, 12:40
While subjective, I've packed the Nimbus Ozone with 35 pounds for all-day shakedown hikes and didn't have any problems. It could probably go to 40 in a pinch, although they you'd probably be using a lot of the extension collar. It feels great in the 25-30 pound range.
I've been thinking about dropping down to the Vapor Trail for summer hikes where I'd be carrying closer to 20 pounds total, but I'm not sure it's worth the cost considering how often I get out in the summer.
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Thanks Kerosene ...that's what I needed to hear. I'm narrowing down my choices for a new pack, thinking in terms of the PCT. My Vapor Trail is excellent and still in decent shape but doesn't play nice with loads over 26lbs. Longer re-supply intervals and necessary gear/clothing for the PCT makes me think I'll be carrying loads more in the 35lb range. Plus, I alread have the "Lid" and hip belt pouches, which are compatible with the Numbus Ozone.
'Slogger
slogger, what hip belt pouches are u using? i had the vapor trail but switched out to the ozone only because i could not get my pack under 32 lbs. and it carries better with that weight.but would like more info on the pouches for the little things. thanks
Footslogger
10-12-2006, 15:26
slogger, what hip belt pouches are u using? i had the vapor trail but switched out to the ozone only because i could not get my pack under 32 lbs. and it carries better with that weight.but would like more info on the pouches for the little things. thanks
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I've got the Right/Left pouches from Granite Gear. Bought them on the aftermarket (on-line) from this vendor:
http://www.basegear.com/granite-gear-hip-belt-pocket.html
Very happy with them but they originaly came with a lot of padding that cut down on their capacity. I removed the 1/4" padding from the front/back and now I like them a lot more.
'Slogger
hmmm im really starting to like the Nimbus Ozone :-?
Cheesewhiz
10-12-2006, 16:31
I would go Nimbus ozone hands down! If you carry anything over 25# at any stage of your hike it is worth the extra # more than the vapor trail for the full frame sheet(with lumbar support) I don't think I will ever be in the lookout for another pack. Granite gear has unbelievable customer service to boot!
Granite gear has unbelievable customer service to boot!
I'll second that... I'm looking at the Jam for my 11 y.o. Sent an email from their website w/ my son's torso/waist measures earlier this week. I got the following the next day (quoting email):
"Hi Steve,
The small Jam's torso length accomodates between 16"-18". Your son is just below that, but if he's growing and over 15" right now it may be a great pack for him to grow into. He's very close to the lower recommended limit. We don't make custom packs, so the small would be the best option for him. Thanks for your interest in GoLite!"
I replied, asking about his waist size (24"), and got this 2 hrs later:
"I just went and talked to our pack designer, and after looking at the pack specs, it looks like the pack waist belt will just fit him. It can accommodate probably right down to 24", but no lower. So more good news - it should work!"
I felt pretty good about getting my question answered by the pack designer - a level of cutomer service I expect only from cottage industries like JRB, KAQ, HH or Brasslite!
I use the VT - think I have an '03 version. Retired my Gregory Whitney for it then - have actually carried ~35 lbs in it comfortably as I was transitioning to ltwght gear. Carried it thru the winter last yr, comfortably w/ loads of 25 - 30 lbs.....
Steve
Cheesewhiz
10-12-2006, 17:00
Granite gear ____ GoLite where's the connection, am I missing the connection? J/K
I heard good things about Golite CS but never any personal experience
Granite gear ____ GoLite where's the connection, am I missing the connection? J/K
I heard good things about Golite CS but never any personal experience
hmmm....evidently only in my head! :datz
joedannajr
10-12-2006, 17:58
I have seen a lot of folks writing Trail Journals who are using this pack for Thru hikes. I have thought long and hard about one but the limiting factor for me seems to be the suggested weight limit. When I go out for even three days I still tip the scales at 43lbs (that is with a 5lb tent). I do like some comfort items. So I'm thinking about the GG Ozone Nimbus. I've seen several on eBay lately but first I want to try one on fully loaded.
TwoForty
10-17-2006, 02:25
I was thinking about the VT so I went and tried one one with 27 lbs of sand bags (so it was dense, which isn't realistic). It felt horrible. The frame couldn't handle it and the weight went straight to my shoulders.
Then I tried the Nimbus Ozone with 30 lbs. Even with more weight ( 3 lbs plus 1 lbs) it was much better. The frame actually transfered the load to the hipbelt!
Then I tried on an Opsrey Aether 60 with 30lbs and it was amazing. The overall package may have weighed more, but but the load seemed to disappear when it was properly carried in the pack.
As much as I wanted a nice GG pack, the were less comfortable with less weight. That just doesn't make sense to me.
Now If I could get my overall weight with food, water, fuel, etc under 25lbs, then I would take a look at them again, but with food and water, my weight is usually flirting with 30lbs.
Pokey2006
10-18-2006, 03:51
My Vapor Trail was AWESOME in the summer, with 1-2 days' of food. Didn't even notice I was wearing a pack. But it was HORRIBLE when the weather cooled (more clothes, etc.) with four days' of food on board.
If you get a VT, make sure you're either a true ultra-lighter, or you're only doing short trips in warm weather. For the right situation, I think the pack is the balls. I love mine!