Hiking Backpacks · owner-verdict comparison
Gregory Zulu 55 vs Rook 65: what real owners say Real owners lean toward the Gregory Zulu 55: 88% of 25 owners recommend it, vs 73% of 11 for the Rook 65.
Verdicts aggregated from Reddit, enthusiast forums, and YouTube owner comments — affiliate reviews excluded. Sample sizes differ; judge accordingly. How we score
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 → 73%of 11 owners recommend
73% recommend · 27% neutral · 0% don't
Owners praise
Praised as a reliable, well-made bag overall — owners repeatedly say it simply works great and they like it Comfortable to carry, including on short and multi-day hikes Full owner report → Which should you buy? Get the Gregory Zulu 55 if
✓ Backpackers who prioritize load comfort over minimal weight ✓ Multi-day and overnight trips with heavier loads ✓ Hikers who want an adjustable-torso fit ✓ People who run warm and want a ventilated back Skip it if
Ultralight hikers counting every gram Those who work out of many small compartments Get the Rook 65 if
✓ Short-to-multi-day hikers wanting a simple, comfy, bomb-proof bucket pack ✓ Hot-climate backpackers who value the ventilated mesh back panel ✓ Budget-conscious buyers who want a reliable, no-frills hauler Skip it if
Long-distance or thru-hikers wanting more organized, easy-access pockets Anyone needing a more water-resistant fabric than the stock material 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!!!!” “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 Rook 65 owners say “I find it a great bag in general but the squeaking can be very annoying.”— randomcheesecake555 on
Reddit “I do like the simplicity of the bag and the air vent mesh against your back is really nice for the hot days.”— DiscountJunior6884 on
Reddit Gregory Zulu 55 vs Rook 65: frequently asked questions Is the Gregory Zulu 55 or the Rook 65 better? Real owners lean toward the Gregory Zulu 55: 88% of 25 owners recommend it, vs 73% of 11 for the Rook 65.
Who should get the Gregory Zulu 55? Owners point the Gregory Zulu 55 at backpackers who prioritize load comfort over minimal weight, and multi-day and overnight trips with heavier loads.
Who should get the Rook 65? Owners point the Rook 65 at short-to-multi-day hikers wanting a simple, comfy, bomb-proof bucket pack, and hot-climate backpackers who value the ventilated mesh back panel.
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