Pinnacle vs Nimbus Meridian

I have two packs that are closely related. I have the GoLite Jam (a bit smaller than the Pinnacle but similar suspension) and a Granite Gear Nimbus Ozone (practically the same as the Meridian without a lid, same suspension).

I like both packs but they are for different purposes, in my opinion. The Jam is really a lightweight pack that can still pack a practical amount of gear for summer weekend. However, above 18 lbs, the shoulder straps get tiresome by the end of the day.

The Nimbus, while weighing over a pound more, has no upper weight limit that I have ever found. I try to travel light but I backpack with my wife on winter trips and since I'm half again as heavy as her, I pack 2/3 of the total load. I can't even feel the weight in my back or shoulders. Of course, the legs are carrying the load no matter what!

I think both packs are great at what they do.

Eric, apples and oranges I think. I have the NM and use it for hauling very heavy loads in Winter. I have bought three Granite Gear packs and consider them to have the highest comfort to weight ratio. An extra 1/2 lb of comfort makes the load seem much lighter IMO. If you don't need to carry 30+ lbs and expect to 'cube-out' of capacity before the pack becomes heavy, maybe the Pinnacle will be sufficient; I don't have one.

I myself have the Nimbus along with the new Jam2. Just last week I did a three day trip in the Grand Canyon with 33 lbs in my Jam2(mostly water)and I was supremely comfortable the entire time. While you do have to pay close attention in packing it correctly, I would pick the pinnicle for its versatility and weight savings. The new compactor system Golite has come up with is simply awesome. No more gear pooling to the bottom of the pack when underloaded. While the compression system on the Granite Gear is top notch, I find the Golite concept to be far superior (at least in my experience).

In saying this the NM is a great pack as well but spends most of its time in my gear closet now with my 3 season base weight under 9 lbs and my 4 season under 15. In those few instances where I need lots of high loft items on a winter trip for instance the Nimbus has always done a great job.

One last note: I myself am 6'4" 200 lbs and both packs in large are a perfect fit with a slight tip of the hat toward the golite with a more form fitting waist belt.

Thanks all for the feedback! I think I will pick up a Pinnacle on eBay for $100 and try it out. Hopefully I can make one last run into the Sierra's before my move to ID, and before the weather turns.