Gregory Baltoro/Deva

The Baltoro and Deva share the same suspension technology and feature set, but they are built on different chassis geometries. The Deva is specifically designed for a female-specific fit, featuring a harness and hipbelt shape that better accommodates narrower shoulders and different hip angles compared to the unisex-focused Baltoro.

While these packs are legendary for long-distance backpacking due to their load-carrying capacity, they are highly adjustable. If you pack light, the compression system works well to stabilize smaller loads, making them versatile enough for a long weekend, though they may feel like overkill for a single overnight trip.

The FreeFloat A3 system is designed to move with your body rather than against it. The pivoting hipbelt and shoulder harness allow the pack to flex as you walk, which significantly reduces the feeling of the pack fighting your stride, especially on uneven terrain or steep switchbacks.

Yes, both the Baltoro and Deva come with a custom-fitted rain cover that stows away in its own zippered pocket. It is designed to be easily accessible when the weather turns, though it is always a good practice to use a pack liner or dry bags for your most critical gear.

Yes, these packs feature a U-zip main compartment opening that allows you to access the middle of your pack like a suitcase. This is a major convenience when you need to grab a mid-layer or a specific piece of gear without dumping out your entire setup.

To get the right size, measure from your C7 vertebra—the bony bump at the base of your neck—down to your iliac crest, which is the top of your hip bone. Because these packs have adjustable torso lengths, you have some wiggle room, but getting this measurement right is essential for the suspension to transfer weight to your hips correctly.