Updated 11/21/2025

For backpackers wanting a lighter pack that doesn’t feel ultralight-minimal, the Gregory Facet 55 balances a streamlined design with solid support, cushioning, and useful on-trail features.

At just 2.5 pounds, the Facet is significantly lighter than traditional women’s packs yet far more supportive than most ultralight models. Gregory pared back unnecessary extras and used lighter-weight fabrics, while keeping the functional features that matter — resulting in a streamlined pack that performs well on trail.

Specs

• weight: 2.5 lbs (size small)
• sizes available: XS, S, M
• dimensions: 29.5 inches x 14.2 inches x 13 inches
• max carry weight: 35 pounds
• outer fabrics: 100D high density 40% recycled nylon & 210D high density 45% recycled nylon
• lining: 40% post-consumer recycled 135D polyester
• coatings: PFAS-free DWR (repels water while avoiding persistent, harmful chemicals)
• frame: tubular aluminum, fiberglass anti-barreling cross-stay, and HDPE
• warranty: limited lifetime
• price: $269.95

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One of the biggest advantages — and what sets the Facet apart — is its suspended back panel, which wraps around your back and hips for a secure, stable carry. The raised mesh allows airflow to keep you cooler while distributing weight without pressure points, and it’s treated with Polygiene to help control odor. On steep climbs or warm days, the ventilation noticeably reduces sweat buildup.

The suspended back panel was a major draw for me. I’ve spent the last decade using heavier Osprey packs with similar back panels — including the Aura LT 65 and Aura AG 65 — and wanted something lighter that still offers structure and cushioning. In my experience, the Facet is slightly less padded, but the difference in comfort is minimal. I’ve also found that its 55-liter volume holds roughly the same amount of gear as my larger 65-liter packs.

The Facet doesn’t have an adjustable torso and comes in three sizes — extra small, small, and medium — so it’s important to measure your torso and check the fit guide. It’s not as customizable as either of my Osprey packs, but I’ve been able to fine-tune it by adjusting the shoulder straps, hip belt, and load lifters, including shifting where it sits on my hips, to get the fit just right.

I especially like the large side pockets, made of stretchy mesh with top and side access, which makes it easy to grab water bottles or essentials without taking off the pack. I carry a one-liter bottle on each side and can also tuck in small items beside them like my water filter. The taller pockets help keep items secure and are handy for storing tent poles or other items that don’t fit as easily inside the main compartment.

Despite being lighter than most traditional backpacks, the Facet can carry up to 35 pounds — more than enough for my typical max load of 25 pounds. Its aluminum frame and fiberglass cross-stay provide the same stability and weight transfer to the hips that you’d expect from a heavier pack, while the 100D and 210D high-density nylon fabrics are lighter but still durable for everyday backpacking.

The large main compartment has a uniform shape, making it easier to pack than traditional packs that taper or flare at the bottom. The front stretch panel is great for quick-access items like a sit pad or rain jacket, and the removable floating lid includes two zippered pockets for essentials. I typically take lids off my packs, but I prefer leaving the Facet’s lid on since it’s much lighter than those on heavier packs. If you’d rather go lid-free, an ultralight weather flap is included.

Additional thoughtful details include multiple adjustment points (load lifters, hip belt adjustments), a rain cover that tucks into the lid, and thinner yet effective compression straps that secure side-pocket items and keep the load close to your body. The pack also compresses down small, making it ideal for day hikes away from camp.

Overall, the Gregory Facet 55 is much lighter than my previous packs, yet still comfortable and supportive enough for the backpacking trips I do, with good stability and ventilation throughout.

Disclosure: this item was donated for the purpose of a review.

Gear Reviews: My goal is to share clear, unbiased information about outdoor gear. I am not sponsored by any gear companies and I don’t accept paid posts or links. I regularly receive products from brands for review, with no expectation of a positive review and no compensation for my opinions. As an independent gear reviewer, I only review items I’ve personally used on multiple trips and that I believe are high-quality and worth recommending.

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