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Brands

Backpacks

Gregory Citro 30 / Juno 30

The biggest pack in the test also has one of the best-performing hydration systems.

Brand: Gregory Backpack Reviews

Model: Citro


Hydration

4.6 A 3-liter reservoir features a hook for hang drying. The simple-yet-sturdy clip system made securing the bladder a cinch and prevented unwanted movement, while a thumb lock let us easily flick open the bite valve. The reservoir sleeve is contoured to fit the bladder, maximizing packable space. Ding: A circular opening made it the hardest bladder to clean.

Comfort

4.5 The Citro easily handled 25 pounds on a dawn-to-dusk hike in the Washington Cascades. “I never felt unbalanced,” says our tester. A wire perimeter frame offered sturdy support, and load stabilizer straps kept the weight tight against her back.

Organization

3.2 Organizers beware: This pack has only a sandwich-size zippered mesh pouch for your keys and wallet. Articulated hipbelt pockets are big enough for a cell phone (not a large one, though) and energy bars. Drawback: The 28-inch zipper mouth is small for a pack this size.

Ventilation

3.7 Two-inch-long horizontal cutouts in the EVA foam shoulder straps enhance airflow. The trampoline-style backpanel affords 1 inch of space between back and pack—good, but not as cool as the Platypus.

Overall

4.3

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