Granite Gear’s Nimbus Trace Access 70 Wins Outside's Coveted Gear of the Year Award
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Two Harbors, MN – Released today, Outside Magazine’s 2014 Summer Buyer’s Guide has given Granite Gear’s Nimbus Trace Access 70 top honors as Best Pack. A multi-day backpack, the Nimbus Trace Access 70 was introduced at this year’s Winter Outdoor Retailer and features the very first 3-D molded, maple-core composite laminate frame sheet, which Outside credited in part for the pack’s strength, balance and durability.
“None of (the other packs tested) did everything as well as this big-trip hauler,” notes Outside Editor, Doug Schnitzspahn. “Even when overstuffed, it felt balanced and easy on our backs.” Editors also praised other elements of the pack’s design, including the coated zippers that resist embedded dirt and the tough Cordura exterior.
The Nimbus Trace Access 70’s revolutionary frame sheet was developed through 15 years of testing and inspired by wooden-core skis. The pack weighs 4lbs, 3 oz, has a capacity of 70 L and a load rating of 60lbs.
“We’re honored to have received this important recognition from Outside,” says Granite Gear co-founder, Dan Cruikshank. “We put a lot into researching the design and we’re proud that the Nimbus Trace Access 70 stood up so well to Outside’s rigorous testing process.”
Now in its 19th year, Outside’s annual Summer Buyer’s Guide is the outdoor enthusiast’s ultimate resource for product reviews, news, technology and tips. Over 350 products were tested for the guide, in categories ranging from tents to hiking boots to boats. The Buyer’s Guide reaches over 1.4 million frequent gear purchasers.
About Granite Gear
For 27 independent years, Granite Gear has brought cutting-edge products to the outdoor marketplace. Their award-winning backpacks, extensive variety of storage sacks, lifestyle accessories, dog products and canoe gear offer excellence in design and construction. Granite Gear’s desire is for all outdoor enthusiasts and travelers to experience the incredible durability and comfort of their products. Located in Northern Minnesota, just minutes from the Boundary Waters Canoe Area Wilderness and the Superior Hiking Trail, they have a rugged and beautiful testing ground for their products.
