Gregory Jade 63L Plus-Size
Specifications
| Weight | Volume | Max Load | Frame Type | Materials | MSRP |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4 lbs 8 oz | 63 L | 50 lbs | Internal FreeFloat suspension | Main 400D nylon; bottom: 420D nylon | $279.95 |
Comfort
The Gregory Jade 63 Plus Size is designed to deliver exceptional comfort and ventilation, especially for curvier hikers embarking on multi-day treks. Gregory highlights its women’s-specific FreeFloat dynamic hipbelt, which flexes with your body’s movement to reduce fatigue and maintain balance on uneven terrain. The pack’s full-length tensioned mesh back panel creates a suspended, breathable carry system that keeps air flowing between your back and the pack, helping you stay cool and dry even in hot, humid conditions. Comfort is further enhanced by Lifespan EVA foam in the harness and hipbelt, offering soft yet durable cushioning that molds to your shape over time. The Plus Size fit system is specially designed to accommodate a wider range of torso lengths and body shapes, with more inclusive strap spacing and load distribution. With quick-adjust torso settings, a stable frame, and a sculpted fit that hugs your body without pinching or shifting, the Jade 63 Plus Size ensures all-day trail comfort, no matter your pace, terrain, or pack load.
Weight & Packing
The Jade 63 Plus Size weighs approximately 4 lbs 8 oz (SM/MD), offering a versatile balance between support and manageable trail weight for women carrying moderate to heavy loads. Despite being on the slightly heavier side for a 60+ liter pack, it’s packed with functional features that justify its weight, including a top-loading design with a large U-zip front panel for full access to the main compartment, a zippered sleeping bag compartment with a floating divider, and a hydration sleeve with routing ports. The pack also includes dual side stretch mesh pockets, oversized zippered hipbelt pockets for snacks or electronics, and an integrated rain cover stored in its own dedicated pocket. Gear attachment points—such as twin trekking pole loops, adjustable compression straps, and lower gear attachment loops—make it adaptable for a range of backcountry needs. Built on a perimeter alloy frame, the Jade 63 Plus Size offers excellent load transfer and stability, while Gregory’s Plus Size fit system provides extended strap lengths and optimized shaping to comfortably fit a broader range of body types without compromising on performance or adjustability. This feature-rich design makes it ideal for extended backpacking trips where comfort, accessibility, and inclusive fit are all essential.
Price
The Gregory Jade 63 Plus Size is priced at $280, offering a strong value for a premium women’s pack designed with inclusive sizing and long-distance comfort in mind. While it sits slightly below the top-tier pricing of expedition-style backpacks, it delivers many of the same features, like Gregory’s dynamic FreeFloat suspension, a ventilated back panel, built-in rain cover, and extensive storage options. At this price point, the Jade 63 Plus Size is a high-quality investment for backpackers who want reliable support, trail comfort, and thoughtful fit customization without paying extra for add-ons.
Quality & Materials
This pack is crafted with premium materials that balance durability, comfort, and sustainability. The main body features a 40% recycled 400D polyester ripstop, reinforced with a tough 420D nylon base, and lined with 40% post-consumer recycled 135D polyester—all treated with a PFAS-free C0 durable water repellent (DWR) for eco-conscious weather protection. Built on a strong perimeter alloy steel frame, the pack incorporates Gregory’s FreeFloat dynamic hipbelt and perforated Lifespan EVA foam in the harness and hipbelt, offering supportive structure that moves with your body for lasting comfort. A full-length tensioned mesh back panel enhances airflow and reduces heat buildup, while rugged hardware, oversized hipbelt pockets, and ComfortGrip molded zipper pulls round out the pack’s thoughtful construction. Altogether, Gregory designed the Jade 63 Plus Size to deliver high-quality performance and inclusive fit in a pack built to handle the demands of extended backcountry travel.
Consumer Sentiment: Pros & Cons
Pros:
- Superb comfort and load support for all shape and body sizes
- Breathable back panel and torso adjustment ensures fine-tuned fit
- Generous front U-zip allows quick gear access
Cons:
- Not the most ventilated
- Slight top-heaviness if lid pockets are overloaded
Comparison to Comparable Packs
Osprey Ariel 65: The Gregory Jade 63 Plus Size offers a more inclusive fit and better ventilation for curvier hikers, while the Ariel 65 provides superior load-hauling capacity and more customizable suspension for heavy, technical trips.
Gregory Maven 58: The Maven 58 is lighter and more streamlined for fast-moving adventures, whereas the Jade 63 Plus Size prioritizes ventilation, additional capacity, and a tailored fit for different body sizes.
Osprey Aura AG 65: The Aura AG 65 delivers unmatched ventilation and a seamless suspension system for high-mileage comfort, while the Jade 63 Plus Size offers a more inclusive fit for tailored support.
Who is this For?
The Gregory Jade 63 Plus Size is best suited for women carrying 30–50 lb loads on multi-day or overnight trips who want a pack that offers a body-specific, plus-size fit with extended torso and hipbelt adjustability. It’s ideal for hikers who appreciate easy front-panel access, generous organization, and a comfortable suspension that adapts to their movement. Built with recycled, eco-conscious materials, the Jade 63 is also a great option for those who value durability and sustainability in their gear. However, it’s less appropriate for ultralight hikers or for those needing technical compatibility for the specific elements.
