Gregory Robson Pro Pack
By Kelly Chamberlain

The Robson Pro backpack is part of Gregory's "Professional Series", which according to the manufacturer is designed for "alpine climbing adventures, extended backcountry treks and lightweight expeditions." I tested a large size Robson Pro, which with its 5912 cubic inches (cu in) of capacity handles the bigger loads necessary for longer excursions.

Gregory emphasizes that their backpacks are designed to fit well. They based their claims of comfort on their Auto-Cant and Adjust-A-Cant systems, which take advantage of swivel points to allow for a better fit in the shoulder straps and waistbelt throughout a hiker's full range of motion. (To find out more detail about the Auto-Cant and Adjust-A-Cant systems, refer to Gregory's web page listed below.)

When looking to purchase a backpack, my most important concerns relate to the pack's fit, comfort, and stability regardless of the load. I went into this test focusing on those concerns, wondering if the Gregory's design would perform as the company touts.

I wore the Robson with varying loads, and hiked on varied terrain. When walking on established trails with a full load, the pack fit well, and was comfortable. Another important test of a pack's comfort and stability involves steep, loose terrain with an awkward or small load. If you're filthy rich, you might be able to buy one top-dollar pack for each type of packing you do, but my budget dictates a single pack that handles a variety of situations well. I need a versatile pack that handles heavy loads and longer trips with aplomb, but adjusts to smaller loads and tougher terrain, too.

Next, I headed for rougher terrain to see if the Robson Pro possessed this degree of versatility. I dropped in about 35 pounds of compact climbing gear, and headed straight up a jagged mountain slope. The only trails were narrow game trails, and the terrain was rocky and steep. The compression system allowed me to cinch the load tightly against my body, even though I was only using half of the room available in the pack. The Robson Pro performed admirably on both ascent and descent, staying comfortable and stable. The Robson passed my comfort and stability tests.

One problem I encountered involved the compression straps. When packing a smaller load, I really had to cinch the straps down. I found that it was inconvenient to go to such a small size. Instead of just pulling the strap until the pack was compressed, I first had to adjust the amount of strap available--by running it through a buckle--then through the compression buckle. It's a two step process to cinch down each compression strap. Most backpacks have a similar compression system, but the Robson's seemed to take more effort to adjust than most. Once you have them adjusted however, they hold, and hold well.

I discovered another annoyance each time I put the pack on. If you aren't careful, you will snag one of the buckles that cinch the lid down and on. I did this several times, and would have to take the pack off, re-tighten the strap, and carefully put the pack back on.

Gregory has put some nice features on this pack including an exterior compression pocket for storing things like shovels, jackets, or wet clothes. The Robson Pro has a mesh panel on each side for a water bottle, or other quick access items. The top pouch is removable, and converts to a fanny pack for short hikes from camp. The pack's bottom is made of Gregory's durable Shelter-Rite fabric, which is waterproof and highly abrasion resistant. This material keeps your pack from snagging or tearing on sharp rocks or sticks, and keeps snow and water out of the pack when set you pack down.

Summary: Gregory's emphasis on design is evident in the pack's comfort. The Auto-Cant and Adjust-A-Cant shoulder harness and waistbelt systems perform as the company suggests. The pack is comfortable and stays snug against your body, regardless of the terrain or load. The Robson Pro is a good solid backpack, and satisfies all the criteria I look for in a pack. However, at the Robson's suggested retail price is $425, other high-end packs, such as a Dana Designs or Vortex pack, may give you the best possible fit for your money.

Kelly is a new contributor at GearReview.com. Kelly specializes in winter outdoor activities.

For more information, contact:
Gregory Mountain Products
100 Calle Cortez
Temecula, CA 92590
(800)477-3420
customerservice@gregorypacks.com