New Gossamer Gear G4

Hey, Tim,

How’s the new G4 working out? Just saw one out on the trail this weekend. Looks huge, but the gentleman said that he doesn’t compress his down sleeping bag or down pants.

HJ
Adventures in Stoving
Hikin Jim’s Blog

Hi HJ-

I used the new model G4 on my TRT Thru Hike in July. I also took it up to Lake Peak in the SGW last weekend, on an overnighter. It's essentially the same pack as the original, but with a removable waist belt and improved shoulder straps. These new features add to the versatility and comfort of the pack. My base-weight is 10 pounds and I don't have a problem with too much capacity. I don't bother compressing my sleeping bag either, but rather let it take up as much space as it wants. It's nice to have the extra capacity when you need it also. The only real drawback I see in the pack is if you don't use a hydration bladder the HUGE side pockets don't allow for easy removal of water bottles. I've always used platys though so it's a non-issue for me. It's tried and true, and as an added plus, at $125, its affordable.

I have the black G4 for winter use. Yes the huge side pockets are nice, but too large to retrieve and replace a water bottle without removing the pack. I don't use a bladder either. My solution was to try out the MLD water bottle holder for the shoulder strap. It works out nice because it's not too large or bulky. I can keep a small water bottle (Poland spring) in the pouch for water to sip on while hiking.

Yes, I had one and the only complaint was the pocket arrangement. I might have kept it if one of the the long side pockets was split level like the Mariposa. Weight is very good for the size and the fit is as good as it gets for me.