Gregory Arrio 30 - Review 2023

Review

There is nothing worse than carrying a heavy load in a heavy backpack, up and down a mountain. You may get a great workout out of the ordeal but, there are definitely easier and more comfortable ways to go hiking.

That’s where the Gregory Arrio 30 comes in. Its durable suspension system, padding on the shoulders and back, and lightweight design makes carrying heavy items feel more manageable. Plenty of daisy chain connections and customizable support straps at the shoulder, belt, and sternum are perfect. Period.

Where sweating leads to discomfort with a lot of bags–most bags in truth–the Freespan system on the Arrio separates your back from the pack with a canyon of air. There is a mesh liner that suspends this canyon and a diamond mesh stitching that allows air to flow through the shoulder straps. It made this one of the best hiking backpacks around based on comfort alone.

With compression straps that pull the pack into your body it was also very nice during a light trail run for the same reasons that make it a great hiking pack for day trips.

Additionally, we were impressed with its durable design, high-quality zippers, and easy-access pockets. This ensures that you can easily reach your gear at all times while also keeping you organized.

Construction

The moisture-wicking mesh and FreeSpan suspension design make this pack breathable and comfortable. The alloy frame creates a space between you and the pack to keep your back cool and dry. The shoulder straps fit seamlessly and feature the same moisture-wicking mesh that’s on the back panel. It is so comfortable you will barely know it’s there.

When it comes to the material, the Arrio 30 makes use of 4 different types of material to serve different purposes. All materials are treated with Pfc-free DWR, making it water-repellant and will protect your belongings if you get caught in the rain. For full-on protection against storms, there’s a rain cover to fuller protect your change of clothes.

The pack’s body is made with a 210D Honeycomb Nylon that gives you all the strength you need in an outdoor backpack without the added bulk.

The base is constructed with 420D High-Density Nylon while the Chasis support is made from an Alloy Perimeter Frame. Lastly, the lining is designed with a recycled 135d Polyester adding a sustainable profile to round up this quality design.

Capacity

The Gregory Arrio 30 features a side pocket, lid compartment, and 2 side mesh compartments. The side pocket is large enough to store any larger items you need quick access to, including hiking gear, climbing gear, snacks, or extra water. On the top lid, there is a smaller pocket for items like car keys, lip ice, a phone, or a small sunscreen.

Inside you will find a SpeedClip hydration hanger that fits most 3L Hydro bags, but is most compatible with the QuickDry 3D Hydro Reservoir. All in all this lightweight powerhouse can carry up to 20 pounds, allowing you to pack what you need without the discomfort that comes along with it.

The water bottle mesh holder expands to accept most 1 liter bottles and has a nylon bottom to avoid any irritating holes should you use it for other sharper items.

On the underside of the lid, there is another compartment where the rain cover lives when it’s not needed. There’s space to put any kind of valuables that you don’t want to be exposed to the capricious nature of would-be snatchers like raccoons or leprechauns.

We were pleasantly surprised with the Arrio 30. It combines a lightweight design with a durable suspension system to make your hiking trip as comfortable as possible. This pack handles loads up to 20 pounds easily without compromising your comfort or posture during your trip. Even with a more swollen price tag than cheaper alternatives we definitely feel like we got our money’s worth with this well-executed, usable pack.

It does what it’s supposed to do, but don’t expect it to fill the role of a backpack for everyday use because of the lack of a proper laptop sleeve. But, again, this is a pure ultralight backpack for day trips that doesn’t compromise like so many others.

The Ario 30 is a small but mighty little hiking pack for day trips. Its moisture-wicking mesh padded shoulder, back panel, and waist belt straps keep you cool and comfortable on the trail. It includes useful features like a hydro pack clip, easy to access storage space, and an Alloy Perimeter Frame for added comfort. All in all, we like this pack and think first-time backpackers and outdoor enthusiasts would benefit from this pack.