Granite Gear Crown 2 60L

Our take At just over 2 pounds, this Granite Gear stripped-down pack has the best volume-to-weight ratio of any we tested. It saves ounces with lighter-than-average fabrics—a combination 100-denier, plain-weave nylon and 210-denier High-Tenacity Robic Nylon (which uses a ripstop grid for better abrasion resistance and tear strength than other nylons of the same denier). Strategic die-cut holes in the foam-padded shoulder straps and hipbelt drop even more weight. The pack is so light you might be tempted to use it as a daypack despite its size; go ahead, the seven compression straps and roll-top closure lock down day-size loads. Not light enough for you? Remove the lid, framesheet, and hipbelt to save nearly a pound. Reality check: Keep loads light, just like the pack. We don’t recommend it with much more than 30 pounds.

The details The hipbelt adjusts for a custom fit via simple Velcro flaps. The plastic framesheet is molded to the backpanel to add rigidity, but it’s still flexible—nice when you’re goat-leaping through a talus field. Caveats: One stretch-woven side pocket ripped when rubbed against sharp Teton granite and the frame can barrel if not packed carefully.

Trail cred “I lived out of the Crown 2 on trips to Portugal, Morocco, Spain, and Colombia,” a tester says. “I’d rather carry more supplies than a heavy, cumbersome suspension.”