Granite Gear’s Crown V.C. 60 Ultralight Outdoor Backpack is well-loved by outdoor professionals and serious enthusiasts. Since the V.C. 60 is already a trusted classic, would the newly released Crown2 60 be worth the upgrade? We’re about to find out to help you find the best outdoor pack that you can use for your escapades.

WHAT’S THE BEST BACKPACKING PACK?

Finding a trustworthy backpacking pack boils down to 3 important elements: minimal dead weight, weather-tested durability, and lasting comfort. These are what Granite Gear has put into consideration when the brand made their best-selling outdoor backpacks.

Weight

The Crown V.C. 60 is as light as you could go for a heavy-duty pack. The model offers regular and long versions that are just between 2.125 and 2.25 lbs. The HDPE frame is specifically designed to maintain structural integrity without additional load.

The Crown2 60 is also incredibly light, but a few ounces heavier compared to the Crown 60. It has 3 torso size options, ranging between 2.26 lbs. to 2.46 lbs. While the frame and fabric materials remain similar to V.C. 60, Crown2’s extra weight is due to its innovative lid compartment and adjustable RE-FIT hip belt.  The new features both have key uses, but the trade-off evidently lies in taking on slightly heavier load than the first Crown 60.

Durability

Extreme weather conditions are expected in any trek, so weather-proof durability is an essential for keeping your supply usable throughout the hike.

Both backpacks sport the 100D and 210D high-tenacity Cordora Nylon fabrics, which are treated with NeverWet Liquid repelling technology to keep all your goodies dry during unexpected rain or water crossings.

Both are also framed by reinforced Polypropelene (HDPE) and die-cut holes for long-range uncompromised support.

Comfort

The main step-up for Crown2 is convenience and hiking comfort. The water-proof compartment gives you an easy access to your smaller essentials.

The RE-FIT belt also maintains stable center of gravity without biting into your skin. You can stay nimble on the trail despite the full load on your back.

For less demanding outings, both are top performers for comfort.
The molded back panels and mesh ventilation channels keep your back dry until the end of the trail.

The Main Differences

The classic Crown V.C. 60 is still the lightest, most durable minimalist multi-day pack from Granite Gear. There’s no removable lid nor pockets on the hip belts. It is my go to pack when I want to backpack fast and light. On the other hand, the Crown2 60L does come with a removable lid (2.8 ounces) and pockets on the hip belt (6.6 ounces). If you’re planning to carry an ultralight load (less than 25lbs) with the crown2, you can remove the lid and the frame sheet, lowering the pack weight to 1.7lbs. The crown2 comes with a different style of straps, which in my opinion, are much better than the old strap mechanism on the classic Crown 60L.

In a Nutshell

Crown V.C. 60 is still one of the best outdoor backpack if you want to shed the weight that slows you down. If you are planning to pack more weight or are going on a longer backpacking trip, then the Crown2 60 for additional storage and stability would be worth every penny. I personally switch in between these two packs, depending on if the trips are long and if I’m planning to carry more camera gear.