Kelty Glendale 65L
Specifications
| Weight | Volume | Max Load | Frame Type | Materials | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 lbs 12 oz | 65L | 60 lbs | Advanced perimeter frame | 300D velocity | $269.95 |
Comfort
The Kelty Glendale 65 is designed with all-day trail comfort in mind, thanks to its highly adjustable FIT-Plus suspension system. It offers both torso length and hip belt adjustability, which allows it to accommodate a wide range of body types—something especially helpful for newer backpackers who are still dialing in their gear. The supportive lightweight perimeter frame and aluminum anti-barreling stay help distribute weight evenly and maintain the pack’s shape, making it feel balanced even with heavier loads. While the Glendale may not match the trampoline-style ventilation of something like the Osprey Atmos, it remains breathable enough for moderate temperatures and offers excellent padding at contact points. Overall, the Glendale 65 aims to deliver reliable comfort whether you’re heading out for a weekend or a longer trek, especially for hikers looking for solid support at a more accessible price point.
Weight & Packing
At about 4 lbs 12 oz, the Glendale 65 isn’t aiming for ultralight status—but it offers excellent load support and organization in exchange. Its 65-liter capacity is well-optimized for multi-day trips or heavier loads, and the pack provides smart access points that make packing and unpacking smoother. A side J-zip gives you fast access to gear without digging from the top, and a separate bottom sleeping bag compartment keeps overnight essentials separate and easy to grab. While not particularly compact when empty, the Glendale handles large, bulky items efficiently and offers external attachment points for extras like trekking poles or sleeping pads.
The Kelty Glendale 65 weighs in at 4 lbs 12 oz, offering respectable lightweight performance for a fully featured 65‑liter pack, ideal for traditional multi-day loads in the 30–60 lb range. It’s built around Kelty’s FIT‑Plus suspension system, which adjusts torso and hip‑belt fit for custom comfort across various body shapes, and rides on a perimeter frame with an aluminum anti-barreling stay that stabilizes weight and enhances load support without unnecessary rigidity. The Glendale includes top access plus a large J-zip side panel for quick entry into the main compartment, along with a dedicated sleeping-bag compartment, a front “Shove‑It” stash pocket, dual side-access water bottle slots, dual hipbelt pockets, and dual-stretch harness pockets for on-the-go access. Additional touches like load lifters and hip‑belt stabilizers, compression straps, hydration compatibility, and a PFAS‑free DWR finish round out a pack built for organization and durability.
Price
The Glendale 65 is a competitively priced, feature-rich pack, retailing around $270. It delivers strong value for a 65L backpack, packing in adjustable FIT‑Plus suspension, durable materials, and a well-organized layout usually found at higher price points. Kelty portrays it as a long-haul gear hauler that offers premium build and functionality at a mid-range price, making serious comfort and organization accessible without stretching the budget.
Quality and Materials
This pack is built with durability and trail-readiness in mind, using a combination of 300D Velocity™ polyester and 600D Oxford to ensure long-term resilience on rugged terrain. The materials feel tough without being overly rigid, and the PFAS-free DWR coating is a nice environmentally friendly touch. The frame is reinforced with an aluminum anti-barreling stay, designed to prevent sag and maintain structural integrity under load. Zippers, buckles, and stitching are built to last, reflecting Kelty’s longstanding reputation for producing reliable gear at a reasonable price point. Altogether, the Glendale 65’s materials and construction quality make it a trustworthy choice for hikers seeking a hard-wearing pack that doesn’t compromise on comfort or functionality.
Consumer Sentiment: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Highly adjustable for different body sizes
- Excellent weight distribution and comfort under load
- Side and bottom access points simplify packing
- Very competitive price for a full-featured pack
- Backed by Kelty’s lifetime warranty
Cons:
- Heavier than ultralight or minimalist designs
- Mesh side pockets may wear more quickly over time
Comparison to Comparable Items
Osprey Atmos AG 65: The Glendale is more affordable, though it doesn’t match the Atmos’s supreme ventilation or premium polish.
Gregory Paragon 60: The Glendale offers a wider range of torso and hip adjustment, but the Paragon has a more sculpted, close-to-body carry feel and better load stability for 40+ lb kits.
REI Co-op Flash 55: The Flash 55 is much lighter, but it sacrifices load capacity and comfort. The Glendale strikes a great middle ground—robust, but not overbuilt.
Who is this For?
The Kelty Glendale 65 is a great choice for backpackers who value comfort, affordability, and durability over shaving every last ounce. It’s particularly well-suited for weekend to multi-day hikers carrying moderate to heavy loads, as well as beginners looking for a forgiving, feature-rich first pack. With its highly adjustable torso and hipbelt system, it’s ideal for those who need a dialed-in fit or plan to share the pack between users. Budget-conscious adventurers will appreciate the solid performance and thoughtful design Kelty delivers at a competitive price point. While it may not appeal to ultralight purists or mountaineers who need technical extras like ice axe loops or full weatherproofing, the Glendale 65 hits a sweet spot for most traditional backpackers seeking comfort, reliability, and value on the trail.
