Granite Gear Redefines Ultralight Backpacking with the Virga3 Series

March 13, 2023

Expanding a narrow mold

Two Harbors, MN —March 13, 2023 /OUTDOOR SPORTSWIRE/ – Backpacking culture tends to be exclusive and among the ultralight sect, it gets even more so. Granite Gear takes its commitment to making the outdoors a space for every body a step further by reframing the conversation around ultralight backpacking and introducing the new Virga3 Series. With a fully adjustable torso height and width and the lightest Re-Fit hip belt to-date, Granite Gear invites all to join the ultralight experience with the Virga3 55 and Virga3 26. It continues to be of utmost importance to the brand to expand the range of people and bodies that their packs can comfortably and responsibly fit.

“Ultralight backpacking is a philosophy that’s growing at a fast pace. Gear’s getting lighter, information on how to go ‘ultralight’ is more accessible, and interest is growing. As a pack manufacturer in this space, it’s our responsibility to expand our offerings to fit all body types,” says Granite Gear’s Director of Design, David Eisenberg.

The Virga3 26 boasts a weight of 1.26 lbs (stripped weight: 1.16 lb) and the Virga3 55 weighs in at 1.68 lbs out of the box (stripped weight: 1.18 lb), made with Robic® High-tenacity nylon (100D and 210D) with Barrier DWR. Part of the way Granite Gear achieves the phenomenally light weights of the Virga series packs is by not utilizing a frame sheet or stays. The load itself functions as the pack’s suspension. The nylon shell gains support and rigidity from a sleeping pad—simply drop in a rolled pad and let it uncoil to push against the bag, and pack gear inside the roll.

New for the Virga3 is Granite Gear’s lightest, fully adjustable padded Re-Fit waist belt on the Virga3 55, and a 25mm webbing waist belt (Large Re-Fit belt available for waist sizes up to 52″). The shoulder harness system now takes a nod from the trail running and fast packing world with two sternum straps for an even hug (fully removable). Other key features are: large dual hip belt pockets with DWR-treated zippers, roll-top main compartment opening with top compression for easy access, and a pair of elastic bottle holders on both shoulder straps.

Eisenberg says, “We’ve borrowed the inclusive torso-fit system on our award-winning Perimeter series and applied it to an ultralight, frameless (no frame sheet or foams on the back panel) pack. We’re excited at the opportunity to blaze size-inclusiveness and customization in the ultralight pack world which, currently, is pretty fixed and rigid in who can access it.”

The Virga3 26 (MSRP: $179.95) is offered in Unisex Regular torso and the Virga3 55 (MSRP: $199.95) is offered in both Unisex/Women’s Fit Short, Regular, and Long torso. Both sizes are offered in multiple colors, including a fan-favorite Undyed colorway that saves 55% of water waste during production and allows for a blank canvas to get creative with. For more information on the Virga3 Series, please email Julie Bacon at jbacon@granitegear.com.

About Granite Gear
For 37 years, Granite Gear has brought cutting-edge products to the outdoor industry. Their award-winning backpacks, adventure travel gear, extensive variety of storage sacks, lifestyle accessories, 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. Learn more at granitegear.com and follow along on Instagram.