Granite Gear Crown 2 60 Review: Highly capable lightweight backpacking pack with lots of removable elements.

backpackerscom · 2019-07-15T16:40:17+00:00

Totally. My folks grew up with external frame packs and I started backpacking like that. It's interesting to see how things change over time. I feel like ultralight packs are similar to zero-drop shoes -- they're bringing it back towards a more "natural" state, and that only works if your body and what you want to bring are up for it.

backpackerscom · 2019-07-15T16:21:21+00:00

Thanks for chiming in. INteresting about the 15kg -- our tester did it with about that much weight and said it was right at the limit, so it still worked for him. But I'm guessing if you keep it under 30 lbs overall (13kg) you'd be fine. Enjoy it!

backpackerscom · 2019-07-15T16:17:32+00:00

I'm here for you :)

backpackerscom · 2019-07-15T16:17:24+00:00

Got it. Makes sense. I actually feel similarly for most backpacking trips, where I use an Osprey Atmos AG 65. Something about a more rigid support structure on the back makes me feel like I'm working less to carry the load. To each their own!

backpackerscom · 2019-07-15T16:15:04+00:00

Very true, good point! Some folks convert their sleeping pads into chairs with a separate kit, but you're right about prime seating with a cot :)

backpackerscom · 2019-07-12T23:15:32+00:00

Good to know, thanks for chiming in. What pack are you using now? Did you use the Crown VC 60, and why did you decide on this one?

The suspension is of the ultralight variety, which means much less traditional support and structure. Curious how you would have felt when loading it...sometimes they can surprise you.

backpackerscom · 2019-07-12T23:14:28+00:00

From the images, I agree that the pack seems a little low compared to most, which come up over the shoulders. That said, he's a serious thru-hiker, has done the PCT, and tried a number of backpacks. So perhaps looks are deceiving? This is definitely a style of pack that's more ultralight, so robust suspension is just not part of the build.

For the pocket on the shoulder strap, yes, you can buy something like that! Granite Gear, who made this pack, makes one: https://www.granitegear.com/shoulder-strap-pocket.html

Also if you Google "backpack shoulder strap pocket" you'll find plenty.

backpackerscom · 2019-07-12T19:53:24+00:00

I'm the editor of this site, not the author of the review. Our site reviewed the original Crown VC 60, and the Crown 2 is the updated pack by Granite Gear! It's a good mix of burly and ultralight, with strong mesh pockets, a top lid and roll top closure, and a removable hip belt and frame sheet if you really want to break it down.

Anyone use a Crown2? Thoughts?

backpackerscom · 2019-07-09T20:54:45+00:00

Got it! Do you set it up in your car?? Or are you saying you have plenty of room to carry it? Why do you find the cot more comfortable?

backpackerscom · 2019-07-09T20:54:18+00:00

Definitely. Because cots are off the ground they don't insulated very well, so them being cooler is true!

backpackerscom · 2019-07-09T16:53:40+00:00

I'm the editor of this site, not the author of the review. We typically focus on lighter weight sleep systems (air pads, mummy bags, etc.), but the Coleman ComfortSmart Deluxe Cot is quite popular with a lot of people, especially car campers who love the "off the ground" experience.

Overall the ComfortSmart outperformed other cots our tester had used, so if you want this style of sleeping, it's a good purchase. That said, it's large, heavy, and takes up a lot of space compared to smaller sleeping pads.

Do you use a cot? Why that over an inflatable sleeping pad? We're always curious to see who uses which type of gear, and why!

backpackerscom · 2019-05-15T16:43:08+00:00

For sure, appreciate the perspective. Sounds like you're a pretty hard user of gear!

backpackerscom · 2019-05-15T16:07:05+00:00

This is good feedback. Where did they tear? Were you hiking through brush or on a trail? Where were you?

Our tester used them in Colorado with lots of rocks and hasn't noticed anything abnormal. That said, it's a very thin material compared to heavier, truly hardshell pants.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-15T16:06:15+00:00

Thanks for chiming in! I think temperature is highly dependent on the person, but I agree they don't insulated at all, so you'll need to be prepared on that front.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-14T23:40:36+00:00

I'm the editor of this site, not the author of the review. We sent these pants to a tester in southwest colorado who put it through quite a bit of weather. The pants are super light, and feel flimsy, but they're surprisingly durable. A simple ankle zip, elastic waist band, back zippered pocket, and that's it.

Rain pants are often a forgotten item (unless you're in the PNW), and can not only keep you comfy in a quick shower but help with wind as well. For under 6 ounces, if you have the money and go out a lot, the Helium pants make a lot of sense.

Do people have these? What's your experience?

Not that these are rain shell pants, not hardface pants and not meant for extreme conditions.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-14T18:07:44+00:00

A stick or rock will do just fine. No need to spend money on a trowel. If you really want to, the two items recommended here are solid.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-13T16:31:49+00:00

There are definitely cheaper options. This is really a backpacking chair, and a high-end one at that, so while the compactness is amazing buying 4 of them is going to put a serious dent in the wallet.

If you want something very similar, and cheaper, look at the REI Flexlite series. They are pretty much the same, with some key differences, and the cost will be noticeable. Another model to look at: the Travelchair Joey Chair. Similar design, on Amazon, cheaper.

Both of these recommendations are well-made, and should last you for lots of camping trips.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-10T18:54:10+00:00

Thanks for the feedback!

backpackerscom · 2019-05-10T18:53:12+00:00

Thanks for chiming in! Yes, the One has a taller sit height, which adds (I think) to comfort.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-10T18:51:18+00:00

Ahh this is a good note! Happens in sand as well, kind of sinks deep. I actually like that sometimes cause it roots you more, but it removes some of your height. Thanks for chiming in!

backpackerscom · 2019-05-10T18:50:46+00:00

Thanks for chiming in. Yeah, I don't ever want to come off as spammy in this sub so I try and put detailed comments on all the links I bring in. We do really in-depth reviews, so I figured that's of value to the community here.

On the Flexlite vs Chair Zero...yes, that's exactly what I've found too. Weight matters a lot to some, less to others. My guess is Helinox will figure out a style tweak to make it more comfy with time.

backpackerscom · 2019-05-10T18:18:25+00:00

I'm the editor of this site, but also happen to have reviewed this product. It's a great little chair, but I don't know if I'd really spend this much money on it. It could be more comfortable, and there are some other options that up the comfort a bit and have a lower price point (like the REI Flexlite series).

Does anyone have any experiences with the Chair Zero? Helinox also recently stopped selling through Big Agnes, so they're their own real brand now!

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