Gregory Maven 58L Review

Publication date: 05 Jun 2025

BackpacksGear

Finding the right backpack is a process that I find myself in more than I initially expected when I started a hiking hobby. Too often, packs in the 50+ liter range feel like they’re working against you instead of with you. Fit can be awkward, weight distribution can be off, and by day two, you’re already counting down to taking it off for good.

The Gregory Maven 58L is designed specifically for women, and after testing it on the Madeira Crossing, it quickly became one of my favorite long-distance packs. I’ve tried many over the years, and this one stays comfortable without chafing, has lots of options for access points, and is very adjustable, which I need on a daily basis. Even though I’ll fit my backpack properly before starting a hike, I still find that I need micro-adjustments throughout each day for max comfort. And with the Maven, that’s easy!

Editor

Katie Mitchell

After a whirlwind of 8 years on the road (and trail!), Katie has hiked the Camino Frances, the Peaks of the Balkans, the Fisherman’s Trail, and extensively in the United States. She is an avid trail runner and now lives in Colorado where she plays in the mountains in her free time. You can follow her adventures on Instagram.

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Testing the Maven 58L

First off, some context. The Madeira Crossing is not a casual stroll. It’s a 7-day trek across the rugged, shallow jungle terrain of Madeira, with long climbs, technical descents, and unpredictable weather. I needed a pack that could handle the distance without dragging me down. The Maven 58L came through.

Right away, I noticed how adjustable and tailored the fit was. Many large-capacity packs don’t always sit right on a smaller frame (I usually use an XS/S frame), but the Maven’s torso length adjustment and adaptive hip belt made all the difference. It sat close without feeling restrictive, and even with a full load, it felt like the weight was distributed naturally. There was a point when I was even skipping along the levadas!

back panel close up photo of the Gregory Maven 58L backpack

The FreeFloat dynamic suspension system was another major win. The pack moved with me rather than bouncing or shifting against me, which kept me feeling more agile on tricky sections of the trail, especially descending on the steep stairs when they were wet. There was no stiff, locked-in feeling, which meant I could focus on the hike instead of constantly adjusting my pack.

Then there’s the storage and accessibility. The hip belt pockets were perfect for quick snacks, and the front stretch pocket made grabbing my rain gear effortless when the inevitable showers hit. Even with a full load, everything felt organized and within reach, which made setting up and breaking down camp a smoother process.

By the end of the trek, I wasn’t dying to ditch my pack. That’s rare. It carried weight so well that I still felt light enough to move comfortably—a massive bonus when covering long distances.

About Gregory

Gregory has been refining backpacks since 1977, and they’ve earned a reputation for fit, functionality, and durability. Unlike many brands that offer unisex designs, Gregory puts serious effort into packs that properly fit different body types. The Maven series is the women’s counterpart to the Paragon line, and instead of being a scaled-down version of a men’s pack, it’s actually designed around the way a woman’s body carries weight.

Beyond fit, Gregory focuses on longevity and sustainability. Their packs are built to last, using recycled materials and durable fabrics that don’t break down after a few seasons. A well-made pack means less waste and fewer replacements, which is a big plus for both hikers and the environment.

About the Maven 58L

The Gregory Maven 58L is made for multi-day hikes where comfort and movement matter. The FreeFloat dynamic suspension makes it easy to move naturally, preventing the stiff, locked-in feel that some packs have. The torso length adjustability also makes it easy to dial in the right fit, and the ventilated back panel helps with airflow on hot days.

The storage system is smart but not overcomplicated. The main compartment is top-loading, but there’s side access for getting to buried gear without unpacking everything. The included rain cover is a solid addition, and the stretch mesh front pocket makes it easy to stash a jacket or wet gear.

Specifications

Gregory Maven 58L
Dimensions	70H x 35W x 27D cm
Recommended maximum carry weight	23 kg
Weight	1.59 kg
Body material	100D High Density Nylon / 210D High Density Nylon with C0 DWR: Designed without PFAS

pro's

Designed for women with adjustable features for a snug fit.

Moves naturally with your body for better comfort and balance.

Well-distributed weight for heavy loads without feeling like a burden.

Easy access pockets.

Rain cover included.

con's

Not fully waterproof, and needs a rain cover.

Top-loading main compartment only, it could use more front zippers for easier access.

The many fit customizations are great, but it takes some dedicated time for tweaking to get just right.

Conclusion

The Gregory Maven 58L is an excellent choice for women who need a solid backpacking pack that won’t weigh them down. It handled my Madeira Crossing with ease because of its secure fit, great weight distribution, and accessible storage. While it takes some fine-tuning to get the fit dialed in and isn’t fully waterproof on its own, the overall comfort and functionality make it a standout option. If you’re looking for a backpack that moves with you instead of against you, the Maven 58L is worth considering.

Gregory Maven 58L Review

About the Maven 58L

Specifications

Conclusion

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