A Full Review of the Granite Gear Jackfish Backpack
Granite Gear has been one of my long-time favorite brands. I purchased the Superior backpack years ago before I started grad school. I used the backpack daily for class and work; in a position that required regular travel, it also became my personal bag for work trips. I recently replaced my Superior bag with one of the new Campus Packs- and after a 9-day trip to New Mexico, I’m excited to provide a full review of the Granite Gear Jackfish Backpack. (38L)
Versatility
One of my favorite things about the campus series of bags is how multifaceted they are. From the classroom, to the airport, to the mountains, the functionality of these packs is unparalleled.
The Jackfish Backpack has a dual function pocket that serves as a laptop/technology sleeve or a compartment for a hydration bag. (Recommended to not do both at once!) Many of the other pockets serve multiple purposes, and contents can be modified to suit your needs. The primary large pocket is perfect for textbooks and other school supplies, work related items, or carrying your lunch, jacket and other necessities while you’re out and about. Personally I often carry my Nikon camera bag, an extra layer, multiple snacks, water and anything I might need for my dog while I’m hiking.
The hip and chest straps make this pack comfortable for running across campus, the long walk between terminals, or a full day of outdoor adventure. The vertical design keeps the load close to your body allowing you to hold more without discomfort.
Durability
One of the primary reasons I chose to stick with Granite Gear when it was time to upgrade was the durability of their products. For 4 years I used my previous backpack on a daily basis as I went through Grad School, transitioned to full time work, and traveled across the country. Although I replaced my old pack, very few things were wrong with it.
The bottom of the Campus Packs are made with Repelaweave and Taurpalite fabrics preventing any major wear. In the time I had my Superior bag the base and exterior canvas of the pack showed little of the beating it got as my adventure buddy.
Although this pack hosts multiple mesh outer pockets that are great for packing and carrying small items, this is the area I notice the most wear. Especially while holding a water bottle I the mesh would get caught on the seats while boarding a plane, tress while hiking, or doors throughout the day.
Related Post: 20 Things to Do In Asheville, North Carolina.
This photo was taken on the South West side of the Mile-High Swinging Bridge at Grandfather Mountain.
Appearance
While functionality is non-negotiable, having gear that looks good is s major bonus. Granite Gear packs are sleek and practical and often come in a variety of colors to choose from. Whether you like to stand out with a bright bag, or gravitate to black and muted tones like I do, there is something for everyone.
Overall
I have been a long-time lover of Granite Gear and the Jackfish Backpack has lived up to my expectations thus far. The versatility, durability, and appearance are all factors that I look for when purchasing a pack. This pack is perfect for when you need a personal bag and also a daypack to use at your destination. I would highly recommend this pack for the person who does a little bit of everything. I would not recommend it for someone looking for a small or compact bag.
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More About Granite Gear
Another reason I love Granite Gear is because it’s local to Minnesota. The company started when the two founders were canoeing the Boundary Waters. The connection between the Canadian and American boarders is near and dear to my heart being a Canadian in America myself. Granite Gear also started an initiative the @groundskeepers; a group of avid outdoors people dedicated to keeping our trails and waterways free of debris.
Disclaimer: Opinions in this article are entirely my own. Backpack was gifted.
