ProView – Gregory Women’s Maven 55
The first time I took this pack on the trail I barely took any photos. It was just supposed to be a quick overnighter in the Uinta mountains. I would hike in a short way to a lake, camp, enjoy a slow morning, and head back home. Not so easy. I could not find my pals I was supposed to meet. I spent three hours and five extra miles hiking around the area, thinking I’d missed them or that they were late. Once we finally found each other everyone was tired and spent the rest of the evening fending off the mosquitoes. On the trail at work the next week I was able to take more time packing the backpack without fear of being bitten by bugs and taking a few pictures.
Gregory Women's Maven 55
Product Description: Delivering a lightweight and comfortable pack, the Maven 55 and its FreeFloat dynamic hipbelt doesn't compromise support for the weight. For overnight to multi-day trips, the lightweight package is completed with an included raincover.
Offer price: MSRP: $229.95
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Quality
(5)
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Features
(4)
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Fit
(5)
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Durability
(5)
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Eco-Friendly
(3)
Summary
I use a backpack for at least 16 days every month, so something that is comfortable and easy to use is important. As a hardcore enthusiast of other backpack brands I was curious (and maybe skeptical) to see how I’d like the Maven 55. I’m happy to say I’m sold and have been using it on the trail ever since. It’s comfy, feels light, and gives you more headspace to enjoy being out on the trail, which is something we can all hopefully appreciate in such a hectic year.
Overall
4.4Pros
- True to size and adjustable!
- Really impressed with the ease one can adjust to different body types
- Built in rainfly makes for one less thing to pack
- Hip belt padding is a lifesaver
Cons
- The magnetic clip for the hydro bladder is finicky and the mouthpiece falls off
- Only sized for S/M and XS/S, getting some larger model packs would make backpacking more accessible for all
- No built-in daypack, something I personally prefer, and the older model used to have
Features
As a backpacking guide for teenagers, I carry a lot of random extra stuff. In the summer a 55-liter pack is perfect, keeping my weight down while still giving me plenty of pockets and room to tote bear spray and snacks. When wearing the pack, I was pleasantly surprised by how well it fit coming right out of the box. I often recommend people go to a gear store and get fitted, but with Covid19, it’s all been a guessing game. I am just under 5’ 10” and went with the S/M sized pack. It fits perfectly and has a breathable back panel that is adjustable. Finding a backpack that works with a gal’s hips can be tricky. The Maven 55 exceeded my expectations. It is well padded around the waist and hugged my body without feeling too tight. The back panel is a 3D foam/mesh that adjusts to your torso length with velcro. The mesh keeps you from getting soaked with sweat. The hip belt pockets are water-resistant. Full-length zippers down the side of the pack make for easy access to your gear. There is an attachment loop for trekking poles and a zippered pocket at the bottom for your sleeping bag.
I use a backpack more than a closet these days. I’ve never been one to carry a water bladder, but it’s a game changer. I know, late to the party but I am never going back. The Hydration 3D Hydro reservoir is a quick dry model, and the pack has a hydration sleeve inside. There is a clip connected to the sternum buckle as well as a magnet to attach your drinking tube too. The magnetic piece honestly wasn’t my favorite feature. I found it frustrating to fiddle with and just used the clip instead. I was a fan of the hook on the bottom where you can hang your bladder up to dry, and the handle near the filling port.
Sustainability
The lining is made out of 40% Post-Consumer Recycled Polyester
Pack details:
- 6 different exterior pockets
- Built in raincover
- Water resistant hipbelt pockets
- Sleeping bag compartment
- Front mesh pocket with a buckle
- Trekking pole loops
- Sleeve for a hydration reservoir.
- Breathable 3D foam back panel
The Final Word
I use a backpack for at least 16 days every month, so something that is comfortable and easy to use is important. As a hardcore enthusiast of other backpack brands I was curious (and maybe skeptical) to see how I’d like the Maven 55. I’m happy to say I’m sold and have been using it on the trail ever since. It’s comfy, feels light, and gives you more headspace to enjoy being out on the trail, which is something we can all hopefully appreciate in such a hectic year.
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About the Gear Tester
Allie Fuller
Allie Fuller is a Field Supervisor for Second Nature Wilderness Family Therapy. She works year-round with at-risk youth in the alpine desert and Uinta mountains. She’s passionate about empowering young women to find strength while in nature. She slept under the stars for over two hundred nights last year. Allie has been doing outdoor youth work since 2012 in Utah, all over Colorado, and in the UK. When off-trail she’s road tripping around the west with pup Flint in a beat-up Subaru. She loves finding spots to boulder, tucked away hiking trails, drinking excessive amounts of coffee, and she’s never without snacks. You can connect with her on Instagram at @allie.e.fuller.
