Plus Size Backpacks:
A Comfortable Fit for Every Body
Finding outdoor gear that truly fits shouldn’t be a barrier to enjoying the trail. Yet for many hikers, the search for a plus size backpack has often meant compromising on equipment that wasn’t built for their body.
This line of plus size backpacks is designed for hikers wearing apparel sizes 2 – 6XL, offering the same technical performance as standard packs without compromise. Whether you’re searching for backpacks designed for plus-size day hikers or multi-day adventurers, this collection embodies years of rigorous testing, valuable feedback, and thoughtful craftsmanship.
Why Plus Size Backpacks Matter
Traditional pack designs haven’t always considered the full range of body shapes. Many hikers have simply had to “make it work” with packs that rubbed, pinched, or didn’t distribute weight safely. Our plus-size range solves this issue, offering gear that is not only technically capable but intentionally inclusive.
Jenny Bruso of Unlikely Hikers, one of the testers involved in development, explains it perfectly:
“A backpack made with my unique needs in mind tells me that I am seen as an adventurer and that’s the kind of empowerment I want to take to the trail.”
What Makes Gregory’s Plus Size Backpacks Different?
The plus-size line isn’t just a “standard pack, but bigger.” Every element, from the hipbelt to the shoulder harness, was redesigned to fit and support plus-size bodies on the trail.
1. Shoulder Harness Fit
Designed with unique contours and specialized dimensions, the plus-size fit shoulder strap is more than added length. Its specialized design delivers 3-key differences to provide the correct fit for larger body shapes.
- LENGTH: By increasing the proportions along with the shape of the contoured shoulder strap the length is extended where it's needed to provide maximum comfort.
- WIDTH: The fit is revised to wrap over the shoulders at a wider angle than standard fit harnesses, providing a wider footprint and a more comfortable carry.
- ADJUSTMENT ACCESSIBILITY: Access to the shoulder harness load lifter adjustment are made more accessible by moving the hardware closer to the wearer along with extended sternum/chest strap lengths.
2. Hipbelt Fit
Whether you are on a day hike or an overnight backpacking trip, two design changes make our plus size hipbelt a game-changer when it comes to comfort on the trail.
- LENGTH: Extended padding and support provides comfortable load transfer all the way around your hips and in combination with the extended webbing length will fit up to a 152 cm.
- POCKET ACCESS: We've moved the quick-access pocket location to the front of the hipbelt, to ensure you have the quick access you expect from hipbelt pockets.
3. Torso Fit
Our Plus Size packs are designed to follow Gregory’s standard torso length sizing. This is based purely on your back length and you can learn more here about how Gregory torso sizing works.
That being said, our testing and recognition of diverse body shapes has taught us that if you are more comfortable wearing the top of your hipbelt higher than the recommended 1” above your iliac crest due to your unique body shape, we recommend you consider down-sizing one torso length size. This will allow you to wear the pack higher on your hips and still have a smooth harness wrap over the back of your shoulder, which is key to achieving ultimate comfort on the trail.
4. Designed for Your Shape, Not Just Your Size
Years of field testing with diverse body shapes shaped this collection. The result are packs that adapt to different proportions and deliver technical performance identical to standard Gregory packs.
How to Find Your Perfect Plus Size Fit
To ensure optimal comfort, use our fit guide to find your torso size:
Measure your torso length — from the C7 vertebra (base of the neck) to the iliac crest (top of the hip bones). This determines the pack frame size.
If your hip measurement is under ~102 cm (≈ 40 inches), a standard pack may provide a snugger fit, but plus-size packs also offer extra comfort and adjustability.
Which Plus Size Pack Should You Choose?
We offer plus-size models for every type of adventure:
- Daypacks like the Jade LT and Zulu LT Plus Size — ideal for short hikes or daily use.
- Overnight and weekend packs such as the Stout 45 Plus Size or Amber Plus Size 44/68 — perfect for multi-day trips.
- Large-capacity expedition packs designed for extended treks with heavy loads, offering robust suspension and ample storage.
All plus-size packs are made with the same materials, suspension technologies, and warranty as standard packs, with no “plus-size surcharge.”
Why our Plus Size Backpacks Stand Out
- Developed through extensive field testing.
- Designed with input from plus-size hikers.
- Engineered for comfort, accessibility, and durability.
- Thoughtful details like pocket placement, strap length, and harness angle.
- A bold step toward making the outdoors accessible for every body.
Whether you are looking for backpacks for plus size, a big size backpack for longer treks, or a plus size backpack for technical performance, this collection ensures you’re supported from the first step to the last.
Explore the Plus Size Line
Ready to hit the trail with comfort and confidence?
Explore our Plus Size Collection and Fit & Sizing Guide to choose your perfect pack.
FAQ
Q: What makes Gregory Plus Size Backpacks different from standard packs?
A: The Plus Size Backpacks are designed with larger and diverse body shapes in mind. They feature extended hipbelts, longer shoulder straps, and wider harness angles to provide comfort, support, and proper weight distribution - not just a larger size.
Q: Do these cost the same as the standard fit versions?
A: Yes! No additional cost will be passed on to the consumer for these products.
Q: What should I do if I am on the cusp of fitting into a standard fit vs. plus size fit?
A: For packs without a hipbelt, we recommend you go for the Plus Size offering. For packs with padded hipbelts, if the measurement around your waist/hips where you are most comfortable wearing the pack is less than 40 inches, we recommend you purchase the Standard Size fit pack to ensure the hipbelt straps can tighten snuggly around your body.
Q: Who are plus-size backpacks suitable for?
A: These backpacks are ideal for hikers of all body types who require extra comfort, adjustability, and support. They are particularly beneficial for those with wider hips, shoulders, or torsos, but anyone seeking a more inclusive fit can benefit from them.
Q: How do I choose the right size?
A: To select the perfect pack, measure your torso length as explained in our Fit and Sizing Guide (from the base of your neck to your hip bones) and your hip/waist circumference where the hipbelt will sit. Our plus-size packs accommodate larger hip sizes while maintaining adjustable features for a comfortable fit.
Q: Can plus-size packs be used for day hikes and multi-day trips?
A: Yes! The Plus Size collection includes daypacks, overnight/weekend packs, and large-capacity expedition packs. Each pack is designed for comfort, accessibility, and durability, making them suitable for a range of hiking adventures.