ProView – Gregory Kiro 28 Review

As an outdoor enthusiast who is always planning and packing for a new hike or adventure, I was excited to field test the Gregory Kiro 28L backpack this spring in Northern California, in the outskirts of Sonoma County. I took this pack on a variety of trail conditions, including off trail exploration to test the durability of the material. Overall, I am especially excited about this pack’s unique hipbelt design, its breathable back panel and its numerous adjustability points for a customized and streamlined fit. 

Fit & Comfort

I love the fit of this unisex Gregory pack. After having used many day packs in the past, I found the Kiro 28L to be a go-to lightweight option with excellent adjustability and comfort features. 

The shoulder straps and foam back panel provide adequate comfort and breathability for intense and challenging hikes. The CloudControl hip belt provides ample flexibility, support and comfort for carrying heavier loads and securing the pack snuggly to your body. I love this unique hipbelt for its thick and durable material, which is difficult to find on daypacks not specifically advertised for backpacking. 

I also love that Gregory allows you to get a truly customized fit with the inclusion of load lifters at the top of shoulders as well as the regular shoulder and chest straps. This allows the pack to fit more body types and carry a variety of loads. 

Look & Style

The Gregory Kiro 28L has a streamlined, sleek look that fits snug to your body. I love the vibrant blue/orange pack color that adds extra brightness to my gear collection. It is a nice looking backpack that can be used for commuting and travel or hiking and other outdoor adventures with ease. 

Features

While there are many features that I appreciate on the Gregory Kiro 28L, there is also some room for improvement. I love the thick and flexible hipbelt, adjustability points on the shoulder and chest, the back padding and streamlined fit. I also like the multiple attachment points on the outside of the pack for trekking poles or extra gear. The water repellency of the pack is perfect for when there is a chance of showers on the trail. However, it would be a nice bonus to include a rainfly with the daypack.

I would also prefer to see more support in the bottom of the pack, so that it can stand up on its own without having to lean on something for support. Having more internal pockets would also be helpful in order to better organize gear on the inside of the pack.

While the slanted water bottle pocket is convenient and useful, I would have appreciated having one on both sides of the pack – as someone who prefers Nalgenes over hydration bladders. Though, this backpack does accommodate a hydration bladder for those who opt to use it.

Overall, the Kiro 28L offers some excellent features for an everyday and adventure backpack that most will find more than adequate to meet their needs.

Function & Performance

This backpack is just as advertised and is a high performer when used as an everyday commuter and travel pack or as a day hiking and adventure companion. This pack holds enough water for a full day of adventure with its secure water bottle side pocket and large internal hydration pouch. With its durable water resistant material, it can hold up to a variety of conditions. The thick and durable hip belt allows for a more streamlined fit to secure the backpack on technical terrain, while also providing support for carrying extra gear.

Durability & Construction

This Gregory pack is made of durable nylon and polyester, as well as a DWR finish, making it water resistant in inclement conditions. When out on the trail, water beaded easily off the material without absorbing into the fabric. When hiking off trail and bushwhacking through bushy terrain, the pack showed minimal wear and the material held up well in face of abrasive rocks and pokey branches. Gregory supports sustainability by striving to produce long lasting and quality products that will stay out of the landfill. 

The Final Word

Gregory’s Kiro 28L backpack will be one of my go-to daypacks for hitting the trail or even hitting town. The design of this pack is truly unique for a daypack, offering some features that aren’t commonly found in packs that aren’t advertised for backpacking – such as load lifters and a thick and heftier hip belt. With an aesthetically pleasing appearance and flattering fit, this backpack is also perfect for adventures beyond the trail. While there are some features that could be improved, such as a stiffer base so the backpack can stand on its own, more internal pockets, an included rainfly, and a second water bottle pouch, none of these are deal-breakers. Overall, I am excited to continue using the Kiro 28L for many years to come!

---

Shop Gregory Kiro 28 on Outdoor Prolink. Not a member? Apply today!
See other Gregory Reviews.