Introducing Gossamer Gear’s Newest Pack, the G4-20—A Modern Nod to a Vintage Classic

When our founder, Glen Van Peski, began fiddling around with some homegrown lightweight backpack models, he gave them pretty straightforward names. Using his first initial plus the version number, he started with the G1, then the G2, then the G3, and then the G4, which was the model that launched the company our community knows and loves today.

"Weighing a fraction of what commercially available packs at the time did, the G4 had a design that was revolutionary in its simplicity," Glen explained.

Now, just about 20 years after that G4 model ushered in Gossamer Gear's lightweight backpacking movement, we'd like to introduce you to the G4-20.

"After 20 years, it's exciting to see the G4 relaunched, taking advantage of updated materials and techniques, but remaining true to the original concepts," Glen continued.

The G4-20 is a versatile, frameless pack option that combines the spirit of new design with the OG design of the G4—from back when Gossamer Gear was still known as GVP Gear.

"Since this is the 20th anniversary edition of the bag, we took inspiration from the original model and were focused on bringing that design ethic and functionality up to date," Grant Sible, President of Gossamer Gear, described. "It's not something I undertook lightly, as the original is an icon in our little lightweight world. That said, this pack wanted to be made, and I consider it to be in the heart of what we do in the pack line."

Diving Into the Details of the G4-20

To make the G4-20 a reality, Gossamer Gear took what made the original G4 so popular and roped in a gang of new fabrics and materials to create a minimal, do-it-all, frameless pack.

"It's slightly asymmetrical in terms of features, a nice tidy package that balances function, features, volume, and price," Grant shared. "The original was available in one size and four colors; the G4-20 is available in three sizes and two colors. The G4-20 also introduces a new sit pad that we're fond of, as it provides more of a virtual frame and is also much easier to remove and reinstall."

Some of the features of the new G4-20 include:

• An extendable roll top with multiple top closure options
• Waterproof zippers
• The removable, molded, cushy sitpad back panel Grant highlighted
• A fixed hip belt with unique hip belt pocket design
• A six pocket configuration
• 42-liter capacity

The Gossamer Gear community will be able to grab one of the G4-20 packs in either the classic Gossamer Gear grey, or a new electric blue. And, of course, all of this comes with just 25 ounces of pack weight.

"The G4-20 circles back and closes the loop on the past 20 years of our pack making evolution," Grant reflected. "I'm personally excited to get one out on the trail myself. I think it will be a great carry for hikers wanting to go more minimal and lighter, but still be able to get solid weight transfer to the belt without a frame. Plus, with multiple top closure options, users can hack it how they like."

Get Ready to Hit the Trail with the G4-20

If you're looking for a modern nod to a vintage classic, a tip of the hat to an OG pack—get ready to hit the trail with the new G4-20. Check out the G4-20 product page for more information on its features and materials.

And, as always, make sure to share photos of your adventures with the G4-20 with us by tagging @gossamergear and using the hashtag #takelessdomore. Happy trails!