Granite Gear Virga

imported
#1

Anyone out there use the GG Virga? If so, what do you think of it? How is it compared to other 1 lbs. packs?

guru

#2

I’m a big fan of Granite Gear…I used the Vapor Trail on my PCT hike and the Virga on my AT hike. You’ll find some reviews of the Virga here and here.

The only similar pack I’ve used is the Gossamer Gear G4, which was quite uncomfortable in comparison.

Pacer

#3

I love my new Granite Gear Ozone Nimbus. It is a 3 lb. pack designed to carry 40 lbs. (I carry a 6 lb.tent and plenty of eats.) I’ll bet the Virga is fantastic. The only thing about the Ozone Nimbus is that it only has two outside pockets without zippers and some of the other manufacturer’s packs may be a little more handy in that regard. Check the Virga against others if you’re interested in this consideration. But - Go Granite Gear!

bc

#4

I’ve got the Vapor Trail and love it. But, the Virga is on sale and only 1 lbs. Pacer, how do you compare between the Vapor Trail and Virga? Obviously it’s smaller, no waist or back padding. Do you really need to use your pad against your back or can you just pack everything so that nothing pokes into your back? Does it ride commfortably around 15-20 lbs? This would probably be my usual total with food and water, Summer and Winter. I might carry up to 25 but that would be if I were out 4 days on the trail.

guru

#5

The Virga feels great at 15-20 pounds, and gives you the option to carry 25-30 pounds if needed. The shoulder straps are very cushy, so heavier loads are still manageable…the hip belt doesn’t seem to transfer much weight, but it really isn’t necessary with lighter loads.

I never tried using the Virga without a sleeping pad. Granite Gear suggests using a rolled-up pad, but I used either a NightLight or a Z-Lite pad, and both worked great.

If you’re planning a NOBO thru-hike, you might consider starting with the Vapor Trail and then switching to the Virga when the weather warms up. The Vapor Trail will handle the heavier winter gear load better, and you can prop your legs and feet on its built-in backpad at night.

Pacer

#6

Thanks Pacer for the info. I use a Thermarest Prolite 4 short. I would use that to create a frame inside the pack. I also use the pack under my legs at night with the built-in backpad. How does the Virga handle at keeping your legs warm? Can you pile a rain jacket on the pack to help out? I was thinking of using the Virga for warmer stuff and the Vapor for colder hiking. But, if the Virga works out I may just use it all year.

guru

#7

It’s warm if you can keep your legs/feet on the cushy shoulder straps, which is easier said than done.

Pacer

#8

I tried the Vapor trail cuz it seemed sturdier & more comfy & roomy than the Virga… almost lasted 2 states on the CDT then it started to fall apart… REI let me return it & buy a new one, heavier Gregory Z , which turned out to be much sturdier… so you better be the litest of the ultralite jardiners to use a GG.

Gingerbreadman

#9

Gingerbreadman, I’m not trying to be obtuse but that’s a pretty broad statement to make. I’ve used my Vapor Trail a lot and put many miles on it. Others on trailjournals.com have hiked the AT/PCT/CDT with GG packs without problems. It’s possible this was an isolated incident. For example, I’ve heard many problems with Gregory’s line of lightweight packs, G & Z. People have talked about them falling apart. I’m not about to assume all of Gregory’s packs are like that, nor that they’ve fixed the problem. GG makes great, sturdy gear that will hold up - in my humble opinion.

guru

#10

I switched to the Vapor Trail in Franklin, NC after starting our thru-hike with a Gregory G pack. The front clasps on the G pack started to tear. I really liked the Vapor Trail and it lasted to Katahdin. I did get a tear near the top of the pack but I really think that was due to putting too much in my pack. Especially in the 100 wilderness. The Vapor has a nice hip belt for a lightweight pack and the fabric is more substancial. I guess in the end what you have to be careful about is how much weight you’re carrying. If the pack recommends 25-30lbs, stick to that or you’re probably run into issues.

Blue Light