Kit review: Gregory Packs Maya plus size rucksack
Reviewed by Steph and Dee
Steph and Dee have been testing out the new Gregory Packs Maya plus size rucksack – we were testing the 16 litre but the new iteration of this pack is 20 litres.
Steph says: “If I'm honest, I didn't really realise how badly most rucksacks fitted me until I put on this rucksack. I'd just gotten used to them fitting badly. You can tell this pack has been designed with plus size people, because it actually fits our bodies.
The first thing you notice is that the hip belt is so much longer. The padded section comes round so much further, meaning it actually hugs my hips and the thinner part of the strap doesn't dig into my belly. Plus I can actually reach the hip pockets! The padding on the shoulder straps also comes down further, meaning I don't get webbing straps digging into my armpits and upper arms. The result of these things is that the rucksack doesn't move and slide around like most other packs I've worn.
I'm a size 20 with a 51 inch hip, and I don't think it'd fit anyone much smaller than me as it's almost on its tightest setting for me.”
Dee says: "A very comfortable and practical pack. A nice change to get a pack, which I didn't need to order an extender for. Chest, arm and waist straps are very generous. I'm size 24 with a 56 inch bust and this pack made me feel small in it. The large compartment had a pouch to incorporate a water bladder, and the trusty key pouch. Although only a 16L, it felt very capable of carrying a lot. It was surprising how much you could fit in and still have space.
The hip pockets are the best feature. I'm fee fee la faff, needing my GoPro, inhaler and phone accessible. The hip pockets sit where I need them and have a tonne of room. Fitting my Pixel 6 and inhaler in one side and my GoPro in the other, with no issues. The main issue, it's a bit warm, especially around the bottom of my back. Even in winter, my back gets damp, so not the best ventilation."
RRP £125
