Gregory Swift 25 Hydration Pack - Women's vs Zpacks Arc Blast

I needed a decent sized day-hiking pack for our trip to RMNP. I had been carrying an old canvas pack for 20 years, but really needed something better suited to the amount of hiking we do as a family. I searched for awhile to find the right pack and this was the only one for me. 1

I bought a used large Mariposa but find that when it's heavily loaded it hits my ass, no matter how I adjust it. I love those packs but haven't quite figured out the fit and I can't really return the used gear.

Zippers easy to use. Easy to slip on/off when needed, no wrestling with your straps and arms. The back has a slight frame which is nice, I think it adds to comfort. Very, very comfortable, wore for 4 hrs straight, and no discomfort

Buy “durable” gear that you’re comfortable with, and let experience guide future choices. I’ve hiked for ten years with heavy and durable gear in my personal life and in the army - now i have an Arc blast pack and sleep on an Uberlight. It’s durable if you know what you’re doing, not cutting new trails through briars, and not sleeping on broken glass.