Granite Gear Virga 3

Product detailed description

The Granite Gear Virga 3 backpack is a true ultralight piece, so it’s perfect for those who’ve already streamlined their gear.

Less is more

If you’re one of those people who find backpack reinforcements, back padding, a bunch of straps, loops, pockets, and other nonsense that you won’t use anyway annoying, and you’re looking for a simple, large, yet very lightweight backpack for multi-day trips, then the Granite Gear Virga 3 is just for you!

The backpack’s core is a large main compartment with a roll-top closure. This allows you to pack the backpack much like a duffel bag. You simply roll up the top, secure it with a buckle, and you’re done. The backpack has a 55-liter capacity, so it’s truly spacious, but it can also be converted into a nice 40-liter daypack.

Don’t expect any back support or padding in this backpack. This makes it all the more important to pack your belongings so they don’t press against your back. For this purpose, the manufacturer has added a simple pocket inside the backpack that can hold most foam sleeping pads. Backpacks with rigid back support and molded padding must fit you perfectly right away, whereas backpacks without support are more likely to adapt to almost any back.

A key change is the ability to adjust the back length. This is achieved using several rows of loops into which you simply snap the backpack’s shoulder straps using buckles. It’s also convenient to be able to position the shoulder straps closer together or farther apart.

Plenty of storage options

There are also two large, elastic side pockets that easily fit a larger plastic bottle. The pockets are easily accessible even while walking. A large, mesh pocket on the front of the backpack is perfect for storing items you want to keep handy during the day (jacket, pants, filter, etc.). A major change compared to the previous model Virga 2 is in the hip belt area. It is now sturdier, fully padded, and, most importantly, features two spacious zippered pockets. Thanks to this hip belt, the load-bearing capacity of the entire backpack has naturally increased. Another major advantage is the ability to adjust the waist belt circumference.

The shoulder straps are sufficiently padded, but could be a tad wider. I would estimate the optimal load for the backpack to be around 11–12 kg. It can certainly handle a bit more, but it won’t be very comfortable to carry. With a heavier load, the balance straps—which allow you to pull the backpack closer to your back—are very helpful. The chest strap also helps stabilize the backpack. The shoulder straps also feature a practical detail in the form of elastic loops for securing water bottles. The entire backpack can be cinched down very effectively using the compression straps on the sides. These can be routed either on the outside of the side pockets or on the inside.

Despite its light weight, the backpack is made from highly durable CORDURA® Nylon (100D and 210D). According to reviews from users in the US, most people were very satisfied with the backpack, and some even managed to hike the entire Pacific Crest Trail& or Appalachian Trail.

Granite Gear Virga 3 :

• Adjustable back length.
• Pocket for a sleeping pad inside the backpack on the back.
• Roll-top closure.
• Adjustable hip belt circumference.
• Durable material.
• 2 side elastic pockets.
• 1 main elastic pocket.
• Loops on shoulder straps for attaching bottles.
• Side compression straps.
• Chest strap.

Technical Specifications:

• Weight: 760 g (size M), 780 g (size L).
• Volume: 55 L
• Back length 45–53 cm (size M), 53–61 cm (size L).
• Load capacity up to 11 kg
• Dimensions: 56 x 26 x 20 cm (size M) 66 x 26 x 20 cm (size L)

Materials:

• 100D and 210D CORDURA® Nylon