For 2012, Granite Gear has added another lightweight backpack to their multi-day pack arsenal. Featuring full zip access, this versatile pack can be used for everything from weekend hikes to thru hiking the Appalachian Trail.
Similar to the Crown 60 , the Aji 50 is built on Granite Gear's Vapor Current suspension system. Ventilation channels are molded into a cushioned back panel, allowing for air circulation without shifting the pack's center of gravity away from your back.
Beneath the molded back panel sits a full length HDPE frame sheet that comfortably supports loads of up to 35 lbs. This frame sheet can be removed to drop the Aji 50 pack weight from 2 lbs 9 oz. down to 2 lbs 5 oz.
Trim, dual density foam shoulder straps feature multiple narrow webbing adjustment points, as well as a stretch mesh pocket to hold your phone, iPod, or GPS. The hipbelt is also padded with dual density foam, pre-curved to give you a better fit.
A hydration panel on the back of the Aji 50 pack can hold a 3L reservoir, with hydration exit points on either the right or left side. Two side stretch pockets are big enough to hold full water bottles, while a large stretch pocket on the front of the pack is perfect for storing wet clothes, a tent, or any other gear you may not want inside the 50L main compartment. A top zip pocket provides easy access to your valuables, headlamp, or snacks while on the trail.
The tear drop shaped zipper on the front of the multi-day pack gives you the flexibility to either get at the top, bottom, or the entire contents of your pack at once. Granite Gear worked with Schoeller to introduce the first zipper treated with a Nanosphere coating that helps it not only repel water, but dirt and grime to keep from jamming up.
The Granite Gear Aji 50 and Aji 50 Ki multi-day pack retails for $220 and will be available for Fall 2012.
