The past several weeks we have been testing out the Gregory Nano 16 for hiking and everyday use. Read on to find out why this pack is great for older kid adventurers.
The Gregory Nano 16 is a versatile, lightweight pack that is a perfect option for pre-teens and teens as they start transitioning to a bigger backpack.
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Tech Specs
- Volume: 16 L
- Weight: 0.80 lbs (12.8 oz)
- Dimensions: 18″H x 9″W x 7″D
- Hydration Compatible: Yes (reservoir not included)
- External Pockets: 2 outer mesh stretch pockets, 1 top zippered pocket
- Material: 100% Nylon
- Ages: 10+ (Depends on size of child – fits torso 16″ – 21″)
Key Features
- Dual side mesh pockets
- Top zippered pocket for easy access
- Breathable die-cut backpanel
- Reflective webbing loops for visibility
- Adjustable sternum strap
- Internal hydration sleeve with universal reservoir hanger and hydration port
- Removable webbing hip belt
My 12 year old switched from a kid’s 18L daypack to the Gregory Nano 16 and it has been the perfect pack for this transition. From the bright colors to the hydration compatibility (and so much more!), he is very happy with this backpack!
Best Uses for the Gregory Nano 16 pack
Day Hiking
The Gregory Nano 16 is a great daypack that would fit lots of older kids very comfortably.
While the pack itself is not specifically designed for youth, the fit on my average sized 12 year old was nearly perfect. AND it will be something that he can use for a long time!
The perforated breathable back panel definitely helps keep him cooler as he has started hiking longer distances at this age.
And the fact that it has the hydration compatibility built-in is a win in our books. That is non-negotiable as that is one of our kids’ favorite parts of carrying their own backpacks on the hiking trail!
Everyday Adventures
As a family we always try to get the most bang for our buck, so if something can serve dual purposes, then that is always a pro! This backpack is designed to serve everyday adventures – so it is by no means limited to hiking adventures.
The pack’s versatility makes it perfect to take on almost any adventure, including a longer bike ride. It would also be ideal for traveling or a weekend getaway. I can also see us grabbing it in the summer to take swimming or to the lake or something like that as well!
Appearance and Functionality
The pack itself looks really nice! It comes in several bright colors that would be appealing to any pre-teen or teenager. We absolutely LOVE the orange color!
With plenty of storage space, an adjustable sternum strap and the hydration reservoir compatibility, this pack is a great go-to for any kind of daily adventures!
What Does it Hold?
The pack can hold a ton of stuff! Here are some things my 12 year old typically carries for a day hike: a rain jacket, his Keen sandals, a hat, a water bottle and snacks. AND then inside the pack is his hydration reservoir as well!
The pack itself is very lightweight, so you can surprisingly get a ton inside the pack without compromising comfort.
The Bottom Line
What we Love
The Gregory Nano is an excellent pack; it looks great, it is quality made and it has easily become a new favorite to grab when we head out for a day hike!
It has a ton of great features while still keeping the overall design very simple. The price of $40 for this backpack is completely reasonable for all that you get.
Just keep in mind if you want to utilize the hydration part of the pack you will have to buy a hydration reservoir separately.
What we aren’t so crazy about
While it definitely isn’t a deal breaker, the draw cord main opening is actually not our favorite. To access the main compartment, you have to unbuckle the top part and then undo the draw cord.
Instead of a simple one motion zipper access for the main backpack area, it takes two steps to get inside. While it does have the top zipper pouch, which is great for smaller more accessible items, we just prefer a zipper opening over the draw cord opening for the main compartment.
Also, the removable hip belt is not very substantial. It gets the job done and provides a little additional support, but if you want a good supportive hip belt for hiking, this would not serve that purpose.
It is however removable, so that’s a nice feature if you do want to take it off when using as an everyday backpack!
Where to buy
The Gregory Nano 16 is available for purchase directly from Gregory, from Amazon and from other outdoor retailers. It is also available at Moosejaw. It is recommended to test the pack out beforehand if possible.
However, if purchasing online, remember to measure your child’s torso carefully as this pack is designed to fit older kids or adults (with 16″ – 21″ torsos).
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