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TRAIL MAGAZINE: Review

We tested the Gregory Focal 48 on a three-day, 107km hike from Saltburn-by-the-Sea to Flamborough Head on the Cleveland Way National Trail, and it performed admirably. It delivered a comfy carrying experience, providing top-notch suspension and load transfer. We'd credit this success to the huge amount of technology in the pack's FreeFloat harness: a ventilated mesh back panel atop a perimeter aluminium frame (with fibreglass cross-stay), combined with a body-hugging ComfortCradle hipbelt and nicely contoured shoulder straps. Or, in simpler terms, a clever back system that helps minimise the strain on your back and improve the overall hiking experience. The carrying experience is light and airy, yet with good stability. ventilation and a close-to-the-body sensation. At 1271g (including raincover) the pack hits a nice sweet spot between weight and durability, and you also get first-rate features including a removable lid, front mesh pocket, and good-sized hipbelt pockets

IF WE'RE BEING FUSSY
The aluminium frame might not suit everyone it feels a tad like an old-school external frame. The gentle curve to this frame takes a bit of getting used to.
and the pack sits quite high at the back of your neck. Some may prefer more padding on the shoulder straps, hipbelt and at the lower back.