Popular Science names Gregory pack design among best tech innovations

TEMECULA, Calif. – What do the world’s first single-engine private business jet, the largest geothermal housing complex ever built and Gregory’s new Escape series backpacks have in common? All were chosen by Popular Science as 2006 winners of the magazine’s ‘Best of What’s New’ award, denoting the best technological innovations of the year. Gregory Packs won its award in the recreation division for its new Response Suspension system.

“I didn’t think any backpack could ever fit me comfortably until I strapped on an Escape series pack,” wrote Tom Clynes, who tested an Escape Baltoro pack for Popular Science. “Within the first half-mile of my hike in Vermont’s Green Mountains, I was eagerly cramming my partners’ loads into my bag. The secret is Gregory’s Response Suspension System, which incorporates auto-adjusting shoulder straps and an independently pivoting hip belt that allow body and pack to move autonomously.

“Unlocked from my swaying skeleton, the load stayed balanced, shifting with me instead of fighting me – and leaving me with energy to spare to the end of the day,” he wrote.

The Response Suspension’s design also allows the wearer to adjust on the fly how much the load moves independently of their body so it can be tailored for different hiking situations – on trail versus off trail.

Popular Science noted that the “Best of What’s New’ awards “prove the future is now – and it looks good.”

For more information about Gregory packs, visit www.gregorypacks.com. For more about the award, visit http://www.popsci.com/popsci/flat/bown/2006/index.html.

About Gregory Packs

Celebrating its 30th anniversary in 2007, Gregory Packs has been the longtime international market leader in expedition, backpacking and day packs. Gregory has become world-renowned for setting standards for durability, comfort and performance in backpacks. In 2005 and 2006, Gregory won awards for its pack designs from such diverse media outlets as Backpacker Magazine, Consumers Digest and Alpinist Magazine. Responsible for many industry firsts in backpacking fit and design, the Gregory research and design team, headed by company founder Wayne Gregory, continues to lead the way in innovative backpack technology and performance. Based in Temecula, Calif., the company in recent years has expanded into lightweight packs, sport-specific packs, and travel, commuter and lifestyle products.

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