Granite Gear White Lightning

As a huge fan of floorless tents for 3-season camping, I’ve tried out many designs. My conclusion is that designers have yet to improve upon a flat tarp such as the White Lightning. I chose to go with the largest option, 10’ x 12’. It has a total of nine tie-off points, but sets up nicely using six of them. Trekking poles, kayak paddles, or even just downed limbs work great as poles, helping keep the weight to a minimum. At only 23 oz., it still will comfortably protect up to 5 campers in a full-on downpour…so long as the wind isn’t too erratic.

The best part of the large White Lightning is its versatility. It can be set up easily in an open field, or use nearby trees, rocks, your car, etc. It can be pitched high to cook under and hang out, then lowered for better protection while sleeping. If the wind picks up, lower one end to the ground to completely seal it off, then enter from the other. When the rain picks up on a group outing, most people just say goodnight and retreat to their tents. The White Lightning lets you stay social and comfortable when the weather turns, even on the ultralight expeditions.

Granite gear Nimbus Access FZ

I aplogize for not having any good images of this product to add to the review.

Pros: comfortable, streamlined, easy access to gear. Well-designed compression. Larger loads can easly be secured externally.

Cons: easy to lose track of smaller items. Hydration pocket isn’t very convenient. No external pocket for shovel, helmet, etc.

The Access is a great no-frills pack that is still extremely useful. The design essentially the same as the Nimbus Meridian. The real difference is the body material, meaning pack weight. For me, the 17-ounce weight difference is well worth having the heavier, stronger Access. I want gear that can be used, that will stand up to abrasive bedrock and sharp sticks when I’m on the trail, and withstand luggage handlers when I travel.

The Access is divided up into only two compartments, making it a little less convenient to organize your odds and ends, which can be solved by using light stuff sacks to keep track of smaller things. In the end, I appreciate the the streamlined nature of the pack. There are still enough straps on the outside of the pack to attach overflow gear, without being in the way.

A favorite feature the top compartment, which has its own built-in hip belt. It can be detached and ready to cruise with in a matter of seconds, without having to completely disassemble the outfitting. The access panel on the front also makes it the easiest pack to load that I’ve ever used. The entire panel opens up, providing access to the entire interior. Then that opening is reinforced by internal compression straps, so there’s never a struggle to pull the pack together and zip it back up. The compression straps take all the stress off the zippers, which will hopefully contribute to the pack’s longevity.

Overall, I really appreciate Granite Gear’s philosophy. Most manufacturers seem to be in a race to design fancy new gizmos with curvy zippers, moving parts, and fancy trademarked names. GG makes a comfortable, durable, and extremely useful pack. Overall, I give it a 9, and I imagine it will serve me well for years to come.

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