Gear review: Gregory Focal Ultralight Backpack

Publication date: 23 Dec 2024

BackpacksGear

The Gregory Focal is the backpack I use the most on the long-distance trails in Europe. I’ve hiked more than 3000 kilometer with this lightweight backpack and can truly say that it’s the right pack for me. The Gregory Focal comes in three sizes, 38 liters, 48 liters and 58 liters and the women’s version is called the Gregory Facet coming in 35 liters, 45 liters and 55 liters.

The Gregory Focal is a lightweight backpack and weighs just over 1kg but still has a frame and fits super comfortably even with your camping gear in the backpack. More specifically, the pack is great for hut-to-hut hiking. The backpack has become a go-to choice for hikers and backpackers looking for a blend of ultralight design and trail-worthy comfort. In this review, we’ll dive deep into its features, performance, and whether it’s worth adding to your gear list.

Editor

Elmar Teegelbeckers

Passionate hiker Elmar spends months of his time on the trail. He’s usually on the lookout for hidden gems in one of his favourite countries such as Slovenia, Switzerland and Japan. He founded hiking-trails.com in need for a community and detailed information about the trails. Before this, he worked for the Alpine asscociation in the Netherlands[ (NKBV) but lost his heart to the trails.

Not long ago, Elmar published the book (in Dutch) Hiking Trails – best long-distance trails in Europe. With this book, website and socials, he hopes to inspire and shape an inclusive community for hikers all over world. No matter your speed, experience or level, you can get out there to enjoy the trails and connect with the heartwarming hiking community. Life is so much better outside and he hopes to inspire hikers to take their first, or next, step on the trail.

You can reach Elmar at info@hiking-trails.com.

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Key specifications

Gregory Focal
Weight	1.18 kg (size M)
Capacity	48L (also available in 38L & 58L)
Fit Range	Men’s S-M-L sizes
Material	100D high-tenacity nylon
Frame	Perimeter aluminum frame
Intended Use	Ultralight backpacking, thru-hiking, long-distance hiking
Price	230 euro (230 dollar)

First Impressions

Out of the box, the Gregory Focal impresses with its streamlined design and lightweight feel. The muted color palette and minimalist aesthetic signal serious trail performance. The build quality, as expected from Gregory, a high quality brand, is top-notch, with reinforced stitching and rugged zippers. The back looks very clean and easy to use, you don’t need to make any adjustments to the back before you use it on the trails.

Design and Features

Gregory’s FreeFloat ventilated suspension system stands out as the Focal’s defining feature. The mesh back panel stretches across the perimeter frame, providing excellent airflow and reducing back sweat—a crucial factor during long, hot hikes. The system also offers a dynamic fit that moves with your body for more comfort on uneven terrain.

Shoulder Straps and Hip Belt

The shoulder straps are well-padded yet lightweight, with breathable mesh lining. The hip belt is similarly constructed, featuring dual zippered pockets for easy access to small essentials like snacks or a GPS device. The adjustability ensures a snug, supportive fit, even when carrying a full load.

Storage and Organization

Despite its lightweight design, the Gregory Focal doesn’t skimp on storage options:

Main Compartment: Spacious, with top-loading access and a drawcord closure.
Stretch Mesh Front Pocket: Great for stashing a rain jacket or wet gear.
Side Pockets: Deep and angled, allowing for easy access to water bottles.
Lid Pocket: A zippered top lid compartment for smaller items.
Hydration Sleeve: Compatible with a hydration reservoir.

Additional Features:

Attachment Points: Trekking pole attachments and gear loops.
Compression Straps: Side and bottom straps to stabilize the load.
Rain Cover: Included in Europa, in the USA not included.

Performance on the Trail

Comfort and Fit

The Gregory Focal excels in comfort, especially on multi-day hikes. Its ventilated suspension keeps you cool, while the load transfer system minimizes strain on your shoulders and hips. After covering over 100 miles in varying conditions, including steep ascents and rocky descents, the pack maintained excellent stability and comfort.

Weight and Packability

Weighing just over 1 kilo (2 lbs), the Focal is an ultralight contender without sacrificing durability. Its compressible design makes it easy to store when not in use.

Durability

The high-tenacity nylon holds up well against abrasions from rocky trails and overgrown paths. After months of testing, the pack showed minimal wear, affirming its long-term durability.

Extensively tested

We tested the Gregory Focal backpack across various terrains, including the Lofoten Crossing, long-distance hiking in Denmark, hut-to-hut hiking in the Pyrenees and while thru-hiking. Even when fully loaded with camping gear, the pack retained its supportive structure, making it a perfect companion for both weekend trips and demanding thru-hikes or a long-distance trail. You can also easily fit your tent under the backpack with the blue strips for attachment of your MSR freelite for example.

pro's

Ultralight yet supportive

Excellent ventilation

Comfortable fit for long treks

Well-organized storage options

Very easy to use

con's

Limited capacity for extended expeditions

Mesh pockets can snag on sharp branches

There are lighter ultralight options on the market

No front zipper

About Gregory

Founded in 1977, Gregory has built a legacy of innovation and craftsmanship in the outdoor gear industry. Known for their pioneering suspension systems and tailored fit technology, Gregory backpacks are designed with an understanding of long-distance hikers’ needs. The brand’s commitment to quality and comfort has made it a trusted name among backpackers, wintersporters and mountaineers worldwide. They’re most known in the long-distance hiking community as the suspension system is a top-notch key future of Gregory.

Who Is It For?

The Gregory Focal is ideal for ultralight backpackers and thru-hikers who prioritize comfort and breathability. Its 48L capacity strikes a balance between lightness and utility, making it perfect for weekend trips and minimalist multi-day treks.

Best Lightweight Backpack?

When it comes to selecting the best lightweight backpack, the Gregory Focal ranks high due to its exceptional comfort-to-weight ratio. It strikes a perfect balance between being lightweight enough for long thru-hikes and supportive enough for heavy loads. Compared to other ultralight packs, it offers more structure and comfort, making it suitable for both beginners and seasoned trekkers. Its thoughtful design and extensive testing make it a strong contender for any long-distance hiker looking for a dependable, lightweight backpack. Even for thru-hiking a trail it might be the backpack for you.

Conclusion

To be honest, I love the Gregory Focal. It’s an easy pack as it has no unnecessary items and is so easy in use in terms of fitting to your body. The Gregory Focal is a standout ultralight backpack that doesn’t compromise on comfort or functionality. Okay, you can find more ultralight backpacks on the market, but I’ve not found them yet with this comfort. With its clean design, great ventilation, and durable materials making it a perfect companion for long-distance hikers. While it may not be suited for extended expeditions requiring large loads, its performance on for example hut-to-hut hiking and trekking on long-distance trails while camping, is exceptional. For example, if you’re hiking the Tour du Mont Blanc, West Highland Way, Kungsleden or Alta Via 1, the Gregory Focal is a great option. For women, find out here more about the women’s version of this lightweight backpack, the Gregory Facet.