Arc'teryx Granville 16 Backpack
The Arc'teryx Granville 16 backpack weighs 760 grams and holds 16 liters across a streamlined design using N400r-AC² ripstop nylon for weather resistance and durability. The pack measures 47.4cm tall by 23cm deep with padded shoulder straps. The top-loading main compartment includes a stretch mesh laptop sleeve while a front zipper pocket provides quick access. Priced at $170, this sits between basic daypacks and technical hiking packs. Available in Black and Pilot colorways. I use this pack for short hikes and as my secondary carry-on because the N400r-AC² fabric withstands weather and trail abuse while maintaining urban aesthetics.
How Does the Arc'teryx Granville 16 Fit and Carry?
The 16-liter capacity falls between the smaller Mantis 1 and larger Micon 32. The Arc'teryx Granville 16 backpack sits close to my back without excessive bulk. The padded shoulder straps distribute weight evenly rather than creating pressure points during extended wear.
The top-loading design opens wide for packing. The stretch mesh laptop sleeve secures a 15-inch laptop vertically inside. The front pocket holds sunglasses, phone, and wallet with room remaining. Items like my Wool Ball Cap, Calvus Cap, Motus Balaclava, and Conveyor Belt routinely get tossed in the bag without issue.
The back panel provides adequate ventilation for daily use though not as breathable as mesh-back hiking packs. The shoulder straps adjust via ladder-lock buckles for quick changes. The pack lacks a sternum strap or hip belt since the 16-liter capacity rarely requires load stabilization.
N400r-AC² Ripstop with AC² Coating
N400r-AC² uses 400-denier nylon with ripstop construction and AC² coating for weather resistance. The 400-denier thickness provides durability against trail abrasion and urban wear. The ripstop grid structure prevents tears from spreading when fabric punctures occur.
The AC² coating sheds light rain and snow effectively. Water beads up and rolls off rather than soaking through. This coating maintains performance through years rather than degrading quickly like basic DWR treatments on cheaper packs.
The fabric shows minimal wear after two years of regular use. Trail branches and rock scrapes leave surface marks without creating holes. Airport baggage handling hasn't damaged the exterior despite rough treatment during security checks.
Seamless Trail to City Transition
The Granville 16 transitions seamlessly between trail and city environments. The clean design lacks external straps that catch on obstacles or look cluttered. The weather-resistant fabric handles morning trail dew and afternoon city rain equally well.
For hiking, the 16-liter capacity holds water bottles inside, a light jacket in the front pocket, and the laptop sleeve converts to general storage. The pack comfortably carries 10 pounds during 3-4 hour hikes.
For urban use, the streamlined profile fits under airplane seats and in crowded subway cars. The laptop sleeve secures electronics during commutes. The front pocket provides quick access without opening the main compartment.
Arc'teryx Granville 16 vs. Patagonia and North Face
Patagonia's Arbor Day Pack 20L at $79 costs $91 less and holds 4 more liters but uses lighter fabric that shows wear faster. The Patagonia includes external water bottle pockets the Granville lacks.
The North Face Borealis at $99 costs $71 less and includes more organizational pockets but weighs 1100 grams compared to the Granville's 760 grams. The Borealis fits larger loads but lacks the Granville's weather resistance.
The Arc'teryx justifies the $170 price with N400r-AC² ripstop construction, weather resistance that outlasts basic DWR coatings, and streamlined design that works equally well on trails and in cities.
$170 for Versatile Weather-Resistant Construction
For users who need one pack for both hiking and urban use, the Granville 16 delivers. The N400r-AC² fabric withstands trail abuse and weather exposure better than standard daypacks. The clean design works in professional settings while maintaining technical capability.
For dedicated hikers needing maximum ventilation or external storage, technical hiking packs provide better load support at similar prices. The Granville prioritizes versatility over specialized features.
Arc'teryx prices this at $170 in Black and Pilot colorways. Material is N400r-AC² ripstop nylon with AC² coating. Weight 760 grams. Capacity 16 liters. Dimensions 47.4cm tall, 23cm deep. Padded shoulder straps. Stretch mesh laptop sleeve. Top-loading main compartment. Front zipper pocket. Best for versatile use.
Current availability at Arc'teryx.
