A close look at two backpacks buyers cross-shop. On the data the Zulu 55 is the stronger all-round pick, and the question is whether the Radix 57 still fits your budget or priorities.
| Gregory Zulu 55 | Mystery Ranch Radix 57 | |
|---|---|---|
| GearScore | 71✓ | 55 |
| Capacity | 55 L | 57 L |
| Weight | 4 lb 3 oz | 3 lb 11 oz✓ |
| Rated load | 50 lb | n/s |
| Fabric denier | 400 D✓ | 100 D |
| Price | $280✓ | $299 |
| Type | Backpacking | Backpacking |
| Frame | Internal | Internal |
Highlighted cells mark the better spec: Zulu 55 in blue, Radix 57 in amber. A blank spec is never counted as a win. Capacity is shown for context and is not scored, since more volume is a sizing choice rather than better. GearScore is the overall rating (0 to 100); re-weight it on the full backpack comparison. Prices are current MSRP.
Put the Gregory Zulu 55 next to the Mystery Ranch Radix 57 and the trade-offs are clear. The Zulu 55 is the stronger pick on most of the specs that matter, while the Radix 57 makes its case on low weight.
The Zulu 55 is tougher fabric (400D vs 100D) and $19 cheaper. The Radix 57 is 8 oz lighter. On the default GearScore the Zulu 55 leads 71 to 55.
Pick the Zulu 55 if you care most about durability and price, which makes it the better call for rough ground and hard use. Pick the Radix 57 if low weight matter more to you, or you are focused on counting grams on long miles.
The Mystery Ranch Radix 57. It is 8 oz lighter than the Zulu 55.
The Gregory Zulu 55. It is tougher fabric (400D vs 100D) than the Radix 57.
The Gregory Zulu 55, 71 to 55 on the default algorithm. You can re-weight the factors to match your trip.
The Zulu 55 is the stronger all-round pick here. Choose the Radix 57 if low weight is your priority.