REASONS TO BUY
Very lightweight
Comfortable suspension
Good value
REASONS TO AVOID
Not very adjustable
Gregory Focal 58 Review
This lightweight pack can carry a heavier load than most, thanks to a very comfortable mesh-trampoline back panel
The Gregory Focal 58 is an impressively lightweight pack, especially considering the robust suspension system.
Credit: Sam Schild
By Sam Schild ⋅ Review Editor ⋅ May 13, 2026
Our Verdict
The Gregory Focal 58 is a great choice for anyone looking to go light without sacrificing the functionality of a fully-featured pack. Weighing in at 2 pounds, 10 ounces, this pack is lighter than most of the others in our review. Unlike ultralight packs, however, this features a remarkably burly suspension system that can comfortably handle heavier loads. This pack's mesh trampoline-style back panel is one of the most breathable we've ever worn, and keeps the pack from bouncing around as you hike.
Our Analysis and Test Results
Testing the fully-loaded Focal 58 on a backpacking trip in Colorado. Credit: Sam Schild
Likes
Compared to other packs in its weight class, the Focal 58 evenly and comfortably distributes weight between the shoulders, back, and hips. When we tested how much weight was being transferred to the hips by unclipping the hip belt, we suddenly felt much more weight on our shoulders. This is a sign that the ultralight tubular aluminum perimeter frame and load lifters that make up the suspension system actually work.
Some mesh back panels don't seem to handle heavy loads very well – not the case with the Focal 58. We packed this backpack until it was full to the brim, expecting it to be uncomfortable with a load of over 35 pounds. But even with it fully loaded, we still felt surprisingly good carrying it on a multi-day trip.
The load lifters allow you to adjust how the weight is distributed between your shoulders and hips, and are a key to the Focal's high carrying capacity. Credit: Sam Schild
Despite its comfort, the Focal 58 is very light for a full-frame pack. You'd be hard-pressed to find a backpacking pack with a suspended mesh back panel that weighs less than this pack.
Most lightweight backpacking packs sit directly on your back, which makes your back sweaty, even on cooler days. And when you stop moving, that sweaty back will make you cold on a chilly day. The mesh back panel puts a gap between your back and the pack, so you don't get so sweaty as easily.
You can remove the brain and simply use the top flap, if you want. Credit: Sam Schild
Dislikes
The Focal 58 isn't nearly as adjustable as many of the packs we tested.
It comes in three sizes, and each size has a 3-inch range: Small (16-18-inch torso), Medium (18-20-inch torso), and Large (20-22-inch torso). If you fit squarely into one of these ranges, this pack is more than adjustable enough. But it may be tough to size for folks who are between sizes.
The Focal 58 balances lightweight construction with surprisingly heavy weight-carrying capacity. Credit: Sam Schild
Should You Buy the Gregory Focal 58?
Gregory has long been a leader in the backpack game, and that experience shows with the Focal 58. This is one of the best-value lightweight backpacks available. It's not quite as inexpensive as some ultralight packs, but it has a better frame system than many of those packs.
What Other Backpacking Backpacks You Consider?
The Osprey Rook 65L costs significantly less than the Focal 58 and is about comfortable, though the Focal 58 has more pockets that are easier to use. If you're looking for an even lighter pack, the Hyperlite Mountain Gear Southwest 55 is a great option for ultralight backpackers. For an even more comfortable, albeit heavier pack, check out the Osprey Atmos LT 65.
Side-by-Side Comparison
Compare Gregory Focal 58 versus top competing products:
| Awards | |
|---|---|
| Price | $270 List Check Price at Backcountry |
Overall Score  |
|
| Star Rating | |
| Bottom Line | This lightweight pack can carry a heavier load than most, thanks to a very comfortable mesh-trampoline back panel |
| Pros | Very lightweight, comfortable suspension, good value |
| Cons | Not very adjustable |
| Rating Categories | Gregory Focal 58 |
| Comfort (40%) | |
| Ease of Use (25%) | |
| Weight-to-Volume Ratio (20%) | |
| Adjustability (15%) | |
| Specifications | Gregory Focal 58 |
| Measured Weight | 2.7 lb |
| Weight per Liter | 0.74 oz/L |
| Advertised Volume | 58 L |
| Measured Volume (main compartment) | (not measured) |
| Organization Compartments | Lid, front mesh pocket, side water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets |
| Access | Top |
| Hydration Compatible | Yes |
| Sleeping Bag Compartment | No |
| Materials | 100% nylon |
—Sam Schild
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