ProView – Gregory Verte 18 Review

As I gear up in the morning in the locker room as a ski patroller, I lug a giant, heavy airbag onto my pack and attempt to shove all my possessions into it. The job of a ski patroller is diverse. First, as most people are aware — there is the medical response, which requires advanced medical certification, detailed training, and carrying a plethora of medical supplies (weighing 10+ pounds) to respond to a wide variety of injuries. Second, patrollers maintain safety of the resort including tower pads, rope lines, and more.  The last big category is avalanche mitigation. During storm cycles, triggering avalanches with explosives or ski cuts. Now, I need a pack that can carry my supplies so I can do all of these things. I hate carrying my air bag on non-storm days because it is uncomfortable, bulky, heavy, and fits less than I want. I’ve tried to create a makeshift bag out of para cord, nylon rope, and bungee straps. It functions, but is a constant adjustment and bounces awkwardly on my back. Finally, I found a pack that is the perfect blend of size, fit, accessories, and has versatility for both my long patrol days and fun laps (both resort and short backcountry trips) on days off: the Gregory Verte 18.  Below are details that make this pack one-of-a-kind and my now go-to for work as a ski patroller.

Size/Fit

The 18L pack is the perfect size for both work days, quick laps out in the backcountry, and fun play days in bounds. The larger outside zipper-pocket holds my shovel, probe, and snow saw with ease in nice organizational pouches. Closer to the back is a larger zipper pouch that expands. It easily holds my 2L bladder reservoir, an extra layer, nalgene bottle, snacks, and snow study kit.  A nice feature is the big pocket has a side of fabric that inhibits the bag from fully opening 180 degrees. In my other ski packs, I frequently loose all my belongings in the snow. The Gregory Verte 18, it opens wide enough to allow easy access to even the smallest item buried in the bottom. The medium/large fit me perfectly (5’11, 175lbs, 31 waist, 38 in chest) even with a variety of layers on. The bag contours well to my body and does not bounce around when skiing groomers or bumps. All the adjustable straps and buckles make it easy to cinch with my gloves on. There are two additional smaller pockets for goggles or phone storage. If you’re looking for an all-in-one ski touring bag, this may be a challenge as the size does not allow for me to take all the supplies I need for a longer ski tour. 

Hip Belt

My waist is small/medium, but my torso/height is medium large. So, finding a pack that can fit both my small waist and larger torso has ALWAYS been a struggle – regardless of the pack/sport. The Gregory Verte 18 hip belt is AWESOME! I was skeptical at first about an all elastic hip belt, but I love how it adjusts to my movements as I ski.  Even when adding/shedding layers I do not have to keep adjusting it. The large buckle makes it easy to clip with gloves. Not to mention it has a cool geometric pattern, which makes it even more visually appealing. 

Hydration Hose

I previously worked in outdoor education where students don’t always take care of their gear – so I’m always worried about bladders being punctured or freezing. I still have hesitations surrounding hydration packs and am slowly integrating them into my life.  Inside the backpack is a spot for your hydration pack and an insulated sleeve pocket for your hose. The sleeve pocket is lengthy to allow for different brands and lengths. I’ve never had great success with insulated sleeve pockets and a freezing hose, but Gregory designed this differently. It WORKS!  Even during snow storm days, I had no issues with the hose freezing or clumping up with ice.

The Final Word

The Gregory Verte 18 is the perfect size pack for playful in bounds ski days or short trips in the backcountry. The pockets and organizational structure keeps all my gear where it needs to be and fits well to my body. The elastic hip belt is a dream come true and adjusts to my various amount of layers and dynamic movements while skiing. Add on an insulated hydration sleeve for your bladder and hose and this pack has all the essentials for a fun ski day. 

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