Favorited trail running sack, this ultralight fastpack proves exceptional despite lack of waterproofing.

Sneakily stumbled upon Gossamer Gear, and now I'm regretting all those years I ignored this badass brand. The Grit 28L Fastpack I recently tested for off-road shenanigans has me wondering why I wasn't hip to this ultralight game all along.

It's more than just a bag, it's a game-changer for anybody aiming to lighten their load and synchronize their stride. As the name suggests, this thing is designed for trail running and fastpacking—a damn fine blend of backpacking and running gear.

Meet my new bestie, the high-speed backpack challenge. Isolated between hiking and running backpacks, the Grit 28L rocks rolltop closures, vest-style harness, and cycling-inspired features, all conspiring to make it a top-tier choice for running aficionados and adventurers alike.

I'd say I fell in love at first hike, but it was that perfect blend of ergonomic padded shoulder straps, intelligent pocket design, and spot-on load distribution that got me swooning. Apart from sprinting up the blocks, this bad boy can take on everything from wilderness treks to mountain peaks—its expandable nature making it a versatile companion to have by your side.

Gossamer Grit 28L Fastpack review

Price and availability:

March 2025 saw the launch of the Gossamer Grit 28L Fastpack, and it's available now for $180, directly from Gossamer Gear. The 28L bag comes in one color and size. Domestic shipping within the U.S. is free, with international shipping calculated at checkout.

Specifications:

Best for: Trail running and fastpacking
Weight: 16.2 oz/ 459 g
Capacity: up to 28 litres
Waterproof: No

Design and materials:

The 100D recycled Robic nylon and UHMWPE stretch mesh combo keeps the Grit 28L light and durable. It weighs less than a sack of sugar, even when you've got the removable back panel snuggled inside.

But let's talk organization, shall we? The bag's rolltop closure keeps its main compartment compact with some room for growth. You'll find two large water bottle pouches on the side, a decent front zippered pocket, and a large mesh pocket for quick access to fleeces or stashing a waterproof jacket.

The back features a vest-style harness with double sternum straps and shoulder pads with multiple collapsible water bottle, smartphone, and snack pockets. It's so comfy, I didn't experience any awkward chafing or irritation—even when the bag was laden with everything but the kitchen sink.

Various attachment points pepper the exterior of the bag, making it perfect for stashing walking sticks, iceaxes, or whatever else you consider essential for your escapades.

Sure, there are a few loose straps and cables, but hey, that's just the price you pay for adaptability!

Performance and comfort:

I've put the Gossamer Grit 28L through its paces, and it racked up a solid A+ in my book. I took it on trail marathons with scarce support along the way, testing its mettle in challenging conditions, and it held up admirably.

Fill it up with water, snacks, an emergency kit, some spare layers, and a set of rock-solid poles, and watch it carry the weight of the world with ease. It's like having a personal running coach, cheering you on while shouldering the burden.

The harness and its multitude of pocket options are a total standout, providing effortless access to essentials without slowing you down. I mean, it's basically a running vest with an oversized main compartment—only, it's so much more than that.

Don't let me overhype it, though. The Grit 28L can handle the pace when the road gets tough, but for short-distance rushes, a more streamlined running vest would likely be a better bet.

Verdict:

The Gossamer Grit 28L is the hybrid of the decade, hovering in the delicious sweet spot between a trail running vest and a lightweight hiking pack. It's like the Goldilocks of backpacks-it's neither too small nor too large; instead, it provides just the right balance of comfort, function, and performance.

You'll love the vest-style harness and its endless storage options, not to mention the rolltop design and a modular layout that offer impressive flexibility for ultra races and hill fastpacking adventures. This ain't your average daypack!

It's not waterproof, and, yeah, some loose ends can feel a little fiddly, but that's the trade-off for true adjustability. And while it might be overkill for quick sprints, it shines when the distance extends or the load gets a little heavier.

In summary, the Grit 28L proves that ultralight gear doesn't need to skimp on features. If you're looking for a fastpack that disappears on your back, but delivers every time, you've found your match.

The Gossamer Grit 28L Fastpack, a combination of environmental-science and fashion-and-beauty, is not just a bag but a game-changer for those aiming to lighten their load and synchronize their stride, making it a perfect addition to any lifestyle.
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