• Overall Rating

  : 5 out of 5

The Gregory Jade LT 28 female-specific pack is the lighter-weight version of the manufacturer’s Jade 28. It’s not quite as full of features as its heftier sibling, but it does have all the elements even a demanding hiker could ask for, offered up in a superb package that’s also £20 cheaper than the original.

On first try, it’s easy to see that fit and comfort were high priority. The combination of the lightweight build with the well-shaped and padded hip belt and shoulder harness creates a winning combo, giving comfortable support and padding where it’s needed but with no compromise on bulk and weight. With a light load, it felt barely there; and with a heavier winter load, it still felt comfortable.

While the back system is not adjustable (it is on the Jade 28), the back length suited my frame perfectly and there was plenty of easy-to-use adjustment on the chest strap. I tested the regular fit, but one of the positive things about the Jade LT 28 is that it is also available in a plus size fit. The latter has longer straps at shoulder and hip belt, but it also boasts overall fit revisions to offer superior comfort for larger body shapes.

The stretch side pockets are good and deep, accommodating larger bottles. The zipped pockets on the comfortable and supportive hip belt fins are a decent size and should take all but the largest of modern smartphones. The 28-litre volume gave enough space for a good assortment of layers, flask, snacks, binoculars and even a seat. Handy little loops and tabs are dotted about on the exterior, which could easily be used to string a bungee cord across or just to hang bits and pieces from. This is a genuinely well-designed and good value for money pack.

How Lara tested

Lara used the packs through winter and spring on a variety of hikes in the Malvern Hills, Brecon Beacons and Black Mountains. She is 5’5” tall with a relatively short back length in relation to her height. These reviews were first published in the June issue of The Great Outdoors. You can compare it to other in our guide to the best daypacks for hiking.