Hiking Backpacks · owner-verdict comparison

Gregory Zulu 55 vs Osprey Aura AG 65: what real owners say

Real owners lean toward the Gregory Zulu 55: 88% of 25 owners recommend it, vs 73% of 44 for the Osprey Aura AG 65.

Verdicts aggregated from Reddit, enthusiast forums, and YouTube owner comments — affiliate reviews excluded. Sample sizes differ; judge accordingly. How we score

Gregory Zulu 55

88%of 25 owners recommend
88% recommend · 4% neutral · 8% don't
Owners praise
  • Comfortable, effortless carry
  • Fits a wide range of bodies
  • Holds a lot for its size
Owners complain about
  • Heavier than ultralight packs
  • Too many buckles to open compartments
  • Newer models dropped rain cover
Full owner report →

Osprey Aura AG 65

73%of 44 owners recommend
73% recommend · 11% neutral · 16% don't
Owners praise
  • Exceptionally comfortable carry
  • Ventilated suspension, minimal back sweat
  • Excellent adjustability and fit
Owners complain about
  • Heavy at around 5 lbs
  • Hip belt uncomfortable for some
  • Tall frame, head hits it
Full owner report →

What Gregory Zulu 55 owners say

“Got a Zulu 55 early spring and have taken it on a number of 2-3 day backpack camping adventures.....love the pack!!!!”
— @va3ks on YouTube
“is an excellent pack which I use for almost all of my overnight trips these days”
— WeAreThePizza on Reddit
“Gregory's decision to stop including rain covers is such a dirty shrinkflation move. They took out the bungee sunglasses holder on the shoulder straps too.”
— @GetUpTheMountains on YouTube

What Osprey Aura AG 65 owners say

“I love my pack, it is unbelievably comfortable compared to anything else I’ve used. I’ve become very partial to the brand specifically because of it’s adjustability.”
— Jessica_Kahlee on Reddit
“My wife has the same! She loves it too.”
— @SiMachiavelli on YouTube
“the hip belt felt just awful for me”
— @karencaskey6210 on YouTube