This is a fantastic, well designed backpack! The simple construction and monster capacity make this a great pack for the backpacker who doesn't want to look like a neon Rube-Goldberg contraption as he enjoys the outdoors.
The suspension is a dream ride. I tested this on a strenuous hike in the hills of So. Cal. I was the only member of a ten guy party who had a decent pack so I volunteered to take everyone's liquid refreshment to our campsite. While lugging 80-90 lbs up switchbacks w/ an elevation gain of nearly 2000 ft is always going to be tiring, with my Shasta it was definitely not painful. I noticed no hot spots and the weight stayed where it was supposed too: on my hips.
Overall this is a great pack for the backpacker interested in long trips where comfortably carrying large quantities of gear is a must. Excellent construction and design make this pack a bargain even at retail.

Customer Service

After a 2 day trip through Joshua Tree National Park one of my Shasta's aluminum stays began to rip away from the pack material. I immediately sent the pack to Gregory and had it returned and repaired within a couple of weeks. A customer service rep called me to assure me that this was a mistake made while hand-sewing my pack and was definitely NOT typical of Gregory quality. While the repair stitches look a little messy they have held up so far, though i haven't been on any major trips since the repair.

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I got this pack on sale for $200...terrific deal. Here is a pack, in which every aspect of it works well. I got my fiance an Osprey Isis, for a lot more money than my Shasta. She loves her pack (see review), and it is a good pack. However, there are some things (like the water bottle holder, and sleeping bag compartment) that don't work well on the Osprey. The Shasta is simple and no-frills. But everything on it works like a charm. It's tougher than nails and very reliable. You can overstuff it, and not worry about stability. As long as it fits your shape, it's very very comfortable. I like the fact that you can add more pockets to it. A nice touch I think. I can't say enough good things about this pack. If it fits your shape....then get it!! It's worth the price if you find it on sale or not. If your looking at cheaper packs, spend the extra money on the Shasta if you can. You will never be sorry.

Customer Service

None

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My old Hillary (gasp), Arc Teryx Bora 60, Kelty Hurricane, Lowe Alpine Ophir.

I bought the Shasta a few years ago and I can now say that I wouldn't own anything else. This pack has great balance, feel and comfort. I backpack frequently hauling heavy loads, with about 15 lbs of photo gear. I haven't had one issue, therefore I don't have negative feedback. The pack has a great amount a space for 3-4 season backpacking and the harness system is the best. The materials and construction of this pack is VERY durable and reliable. I've compared my pack to my friends packs, and the Gregory Shasta takes the cake, except for a friend that uses the Gregory Massif. If you want a pack that is comfortable on short/long hauls, holds a lot of gear and will probably last forever, this is the pack (or other Gregory packs). Gregory supports thier products with a lifetime guarantee!!

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This is the best backpack that I have ever owned. It has convenient openings and keeps it's sturcture when not fully loaded. It has room to expand and a seperate sleeping bag compartment. It has a ton of room to backpack out of for at least five to six days straight. The Gregory Shasta is the only backpack that i have ever been satisfied with completely.