The Gregory Wingate is a technical backpack that hits the sweet spot with large carrying capacity, reasonable weight, and comfort. The Wingate is a quasi-minimalist technical backpack; it sacrifices some features to help trim a little weight and promote a more streamlined outer contour. The Wingate uses Gregory's new Response suspension system that self-adjusts to your hip angle, and also pivots to allow a greater range of movement with the wearer, promoting better fit. The precurved hip belt angle can be adjusted, further promoting comfort. In addition, the hip belt and the harness both use dual-density foams laminated to the strapping. There is one aluminum stay.

Access to the main compartment is through either a top-loading chute or a bottom zipper; if you've ever emptied out a pack looking for something at the bottom, you'll appreciate the lower zipper. A top lid pocket holds small items. Inside, there is a removable hydration sleeve, and also dual drinking tube ports (a nice touch). This technical backpack also features crossover compression straps and side stiffening panels; these are extremely helpful for stabilizing the pack when it is only partly filled, such as on a shorter hike, or at the end of a long one when the food supply is gone.

Other features include dual ice axe loops, sleeping pad straps, and side stretch pockets. The bottom of the pack uses a fabric that is waterproof and also rugged for greater protection and wear. The Wingate technical backpack is an extremely interesting design; it has minimalist tendencies in terms of features, but does not sacrifice weight for adjustability and comfort; it is thus heavier than truly minimal packs, but also probably more wearable. For loads up to about 45 pounds, this is an excellent technical backpack. The Wingate technical backpack is also available in a women's model, the Maven; it offers a very similar design and capacity.