The Gregory Baltoro 70 backpack was a proven winner receiving the 2008 Backpacker Magazine Editor’s Choice award. The vast majority of user reviews gave the backpack high marks primarily for its comfort, even with heavy loads. Gregory had introduced a new suspension system with this 70-litre model around 2006.
The winning ingredients
Custom Fit Suspension (CFS) and Auto Fit Suspension (AFS) systems are exclusive to Gregory packs and are used on their larger capacity models. Working together, these special engineered systems made the Baltoro 70’s fit and comfort the highlight of the package for users. To put it simply, the CFS keeps the pack stable under heavy loads (prevents it from moving) and also allows some flexibility in the hipbelt. AFS technology allows the shoulder straps and hip belt to be attached to the back plate in such a way that they have enough articulation to provide an individualized fit to each person’s shoulder contour and hip angle. Together they keep the weight of the pack centered on the hips and take stress off the shoulders. Along with other technical improvements, this was a real win for the backpacker and for Gregory.
According to early reviews, some early models of the Baltoro 70 had quality issues. The buckles broke; the shoulder straps and hip belts separated from the rear plate, and the weight of the pack itself was heavy. However, these complaints were not numerous and the package underwent some updates. The internal frame was changed to a lighter material and reduced the overall weight of the pack. And for 2008, durability was one of the features most liked by users of the package.
improving the winner
But Gregory has not rested on his laurels. Last year, 2011, the very popular Baltoro 70 was succeeded by the Baltoro 75. A risky proposition when you have a proven winner on your hands. The 70 isn’t even listed on Amazon anymore and if you visit Gregory’s website you’ll see that it’s not listed on his products. A specific site search for 70 will find it, but the title now includes the qualifier descriptor “old” (Baltoro 70 – old). Sure, you could find it at some of the outlets that sell Gregory products, but a quick search online for outlets shows that 70 is out of stock or out of stock.
TO) detachable fanny pack
The new Baltoro 75 is now the heir to the well-deserved reputation of its predecessor. How can the Baltoro 75 improve on the already popular 70? Well, one of the obvious ways that Gregory has tried to improve the Baltoro is with the addition of a detachable fanny pack.
One of the biggest complaints from users of the Baltoro 70 was that it did not have a detachable fanny pack that could be used on short excursions from base camp once the destination was reached. The new Baltoro 75 has a top cover that can be reconfigured and used as a separate fanny pack.
b) additional capacity
Of course, the added capacity extends the useful life of the Baltoro. Since Baltoro comes in small, medium and large sizes, the addition of 5 liters means that the Baltoro line will span almost the entire 70 liter range. The small is somewhere in the 73L range and the large hits about the 78L range.
against) updated suspension
According to Gregory, the suspension system has been updated to provide even more comfort. Although no specific details are given.
yet to see
The other constant complaint about the Baltoro 70 was the noise. He had a tendency to squeak when you walked. In some cases the chirping was intermittent, but in others it would not stop. Some users found it extremely stressful for themselves or their fellow hikers. The jury is still out on whether this annoyance has been remedied.
Apparently, Gregory has determined that you can improve on a winner. He does it by building on his strengths and improving his weaknesses. That’s what they’ve done with the Gregory Baltoro 75 backpack. Pretty good logic. But in the end, the user will be the deciding factor as to whether he is successful.