Gregory Women's Jade 28 Backpack

At 5'2" I always struggled to find backpacks that fit me well. I was unsure about risking an online order for a pack I had never seen or tried on, especially as I am curvy and Amazon gave no indication of the length of the waist/hip strap. I needn't have worried as the pack comes with an adjustable strap that is long enough to fit almost anybody. The length of the pack is exactly right, the weight perfectly distributed, and the material and construction are superb. There are plenty of pockets and places to stow gear (even after I added my hydration pack bladder to the pack) and the raincover is a nice added extra. The shoulder straps are very comfortable and the mesh kept me from getting too hot even on 32C days. I love this pack and am just annoyed now that I hadn't found Gregory packs sooner. Mens packs cater to their wider shoulders and backs and, until I got this pack, I had no idea what a difference it makes when a backpack is designed for a woman's build. With a narrower shoulder-width than a man's pack its amazing how much better the weight distribution is.

I haven't yet used the rain cover. I was caught in rain on two occasions but wasn't out in it for very long and my gear stayed dry inside.

I chose the colour because it was the cheapest option. In reality its not as bright as the photo here indicates more of a rich, deep jade and really lovely.

It is ideal for both hiking and as a day pack for less strenuous activities. I can see myself getting years of use from this and recommend it to any woman needing a backpack.