new backpack

[richlong8]

I was at REI in Fresno, and they did not have any Granite Gear packs. I am not sure where in California I could go to physically try one on. I have a feeling I will order one from Amazon when they get it back in stock. I order enough stuff from them, if it doesn't work, I'll exchange it for something that does. If I get it, or something else, I will post again. I switched a few years ago from a Marmot Terraplane that weighted about 6 1/2 pounds, to the GoLite, and I was happy to make the change!

[ERIC]

I was at REI in Fresno, and they did not have any Granite Gear packs. I am not sure where in California I could go to physically try one on.!

http://www.granitegear.com/support/dealers.html" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[richlong8]

Thanks Eric. That helps. I will be in SLO this weekend, so I will check the store out there that is listed.

[richlong8]

Followup- anyone using the Granite Gear list, to visit a store, you might want to speak to someone first to make sure they still carry them. Mt. Air Sports in SLO no longer stocks them, because they were not selling acc. to the staff person.

[fishmonger]

followup on my Gregory Whitney 95 repair story - they sent me a new pack. 2nd day air just in time for my April Fools Day Whitney trip, no charge. Not bad for a pack I bought on ebay for half price in early 2008 and have put through 4 Muir Trails since then.

[gary c.]

Rich or anyone else who carries a Golite Odyssey, are the waist belts as small as I've read in some of the reviews? I'm carrying a 38" waist and it sounds like there belt may be too small for me. Also how well does a large Bearvault fit into one along with gear?

Thanks'

[richlong8]

The Bearvault 500 fits fine. My waist is about 36", and there is still some room, so I don't think that would be a problem. The belts and straps on the Odyssey seem less substantial than older packs, but they have held up well for me...and I am not easy on equipment!

[richlong8]

I have carried up to 48 pounds with no issues. That is probably about the upper limit. The Odyssey does have a support system/stays. It is not frameless, like the ultralight packs, so you can carry some weight, but not as much a a big expedition pack.

[gary c.]

I pulled the trigger and ordered myself an Odyssey. I called Golite and they said it would be no problem returning it if it didn't fit, of course it would be a hassle. I'll keep my Osprey Aether for anytime I have a heavier load to carry. I figure it was worth the gamble at over 50% off. Golite is having a pretty good clearence sale for anyone interested.

Here is the link.
http://www.golite.com/Clearance.aspx" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;

[quentinc]

Gary, thanks for posting that link. At that price, I (Mr. GoHeavy) am even willing to take a chance on it. My new theory is that all packs are uncomfortable, so maybe this won't be much worse than my 8 pound pack, and a heck of a lot lighter.