ProView – Gregory Focal 58

Do you like the idea of moving to a lighter pack without straying too far away from that conventional pack layout? Maybe you are in the process of slashing ounces from your kit but you still want a full frame pack with large hip belt pockets, and a floating lid with two large pockets. If this sounds like you then you’ll definitely want to check out the Gregory Focal 58. 

As a new father, I spend the majority of my time trying to find ways to make my life easier. Recently that has meant making my kit weigh less so I can carry more without actually adding weight. When my son was a month old my wife and I were writing a guidebook and the reality of having to carry a baby, a baby’s things, my things, and camera equipment was a bit of a reality check. This spring, it was great to get out and see what the Gregory Focal 58 could do. With the snow still holding strong in the high country I packed up my things and hit one of my favorite early season trails in the foothills just west of Denver, Colorado. 

Fit/Comfort

Following Gregory’s sizing chart I chose the medium size and it fits me well just like I expected. For a borderline ultralight pack (2.58 lbs. / 1.17 kg) the Focal 58 is quite comfortable. This is due in large part to the ventilated mesh back panel and the thick padded hip belt. I didn’t have any issues with rubbing or hotspots. 

Look/Style

It looks like a conventional pack. So, if that’s your thing then you are in luck! I’ve never concerned myself with how my packs look but the focal 58 doesn’t look out of the ordinary. 

Features

I think this is where the Focal 58 really makes its money. Usually, when you are dealing with a pack this light – it’s light because they have cut features in order to save weight. This pack has all of the features I was looking for. Full sized hip belt pockets, a removable floating lid, and plenty of external pockets are all included. It’s also hydration compatible and has trekking pole attachments. The Focal 58 also includes interior toggles that allow you to attach your Gregory Nano 14 day pack. 

Weight

Again, one of the best features of this pack is that it only weighs 2.58 lbs. It’s not as ultralight as other packs on the market but it’s pretty dang close considering the features and durability. 

Function / Performance

The Focal 58 performed well with a 28 lb load. It remained stable and handled the weight well. The max recommended weight for this pack is 35lbs. Once I approached that weight that pack lost some stability and became less comfortable. I would really only recommend this pack for 30lb loads or less. 

Durability

Throughout my testing period I didn’t experience any issues related to quality and all signs point to this being a well made pack. The zippers also don’t catch which is huge for me. 

Friendliness to the Earth

The Focal 58 is made up of recycled materials! In fact the lining is made up of 40% Post-consumer Recycled 135D Polyester. The pack is also made up of PFC free materials 

Final Word

Overall I think this is a really great pack that fits a nice gap in the market. It’s light enough to be considered ultralight but still has all of the features that many backpackers still like to see in their packs. It bridges the gap between conventional packs and more niche ultralight packs. I like that it’s comfortable, stable, and all of the zippers, straps, and clips work just as they should. 

The downside is that once you approach the maximum weight for this pack comfort and stability drop fast.

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