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The mens equivalent is the Optic 58. 

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Pros 

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Cons 

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Verdict 

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Specification (taken from the Gregory website)

• Material body: 100D High Tenacity Nylon

• Dimensions:14 x 57 x 30 cm

• Stripped weight: 1.02 kg

• Rain cover weight: 0.091 kg

• Max. carry: 16 kg

• Volume: 55 L

• Weight: 1.06 kg

• Body: 100D High Tenacity Nylon

• Base: 210D High Tenacity Nylon

• Harness/ Hipbelt/ Lumbar: Multi-Density - Lifespan EVA

• Chasis support: 7001 Hollow Aluminium Frame, HDPE

• Lining:135D High-Density Polyester​

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As weight became a priority the Gregory Optic appeared to be a great compromise, lightweight with comfort. At the time I felt that an ultralight backpack, favoured by other thru-hikers was a step too far. I wanted a backpack that had a proper back structure. 

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The backpack has a trampoline-style suspension system, a good amount of padding for comfort and support, and lots of compartments for storing all your gear efficiently. A sturdy aluminium frame provides the support to carry a heavier load.

 

The top section of the bag can be removed and replaced with a simple cover, although I can see the benefits I didn't feel the need to use it. 

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I particularly enjoyed the backpacks AeroSpan suspension, which ensures a well-ventilated gap between your back and the bag. Furthermore, the straps and belts are made of a breathable material that quickly wicks away moisture. The back system is fixed so you need to make sure you pick the right size pack (S, M or L), I’m 5 foot 10 and ordered a medium. 

 

Whilst using the Optic it handled varying weights well, sat comfortably and provided good weight distribution. I never felt any discomfort, even with loads of over 13kg. The pack is said to have a load limit of 16 kgs. 

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The bag has a 58L capacity, large enough to pack all of your kit for a thru-hike. 

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This bag does have hip belt pockets, however personally I would like them to be much bigger. The pocket wasn't large enough to fit my phone, Samsung note, but ideal for snacks. 

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After our coast to coast adventure, I found the stitching on the hip belt seam had started to unravel, not sure if this is a design fault or a one-off. Since we have read other reviews with similar issues. 

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The two mesh side pockets are large enough to hold two 1L water bottles, and the back mesh pocket is large enough to keep any items you would want quick access to, like flip flops, sit mat, rain gear etc. Point to note, if you are like me and not very gentle with your backpack, the mesh is a little fragile, after a couple of trips small holes had started to form. 

 

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Pros 

• Elastic cord on front strap ideal for sunglasses

• Rain cover included

• Lightweight

• A robust comfortable harness system

• Ventilation 

• Large side pockets - easy access for water bottles 

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Cons 

• Fragile mesh fabric - easy to penetrate

• Small hip belt pockets 

• Poor hip belt seam stitching - made came away at the seams 

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Verdict 

Overall a good performing lightweight backpack with some nice features. It retails at a reasonable price for hikers who want to delve into the realm of lightweight.

The only let down was the poor hip belt seam stitching. 

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Specification (taken from the Gregory website)

• Material body: 100D High Tenacity Nylon

• Dimensions:14 x 63 x 30 cm

• Stripped weight: 1.1 kg

• Rain cover weight: 0.095 kg

• Max. carry: 16 kg

• Volume: 58 L

• Weight: 1.14 kg

• Body: 100D High Tenacity Nylon

• Base: 210D High Tenacity Nylon

• Harness/ Hipbelt/ Lumbar: Multi-Density - Lifespan EVA

• Chasis support: 7001 Hollow Aluminium Frame, HDPE

• Lining:135D High-Density Polyester

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Pros 

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Cons 

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Verdict 

As I haven't had much time with this bag the verdict is still out. 

 

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Specification (taken from the Gossamer website)

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The Lumina is one of Ospreys lightest bags, ideal for long distances.