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Women's ultralight yet durable backpack for multi-day treks with a 55-liter capacity and a weight of just 760 grams. This is the newly redesigned 2023 model, building on the legacy of its predecessor, the Virga2, while sharing many similarities with its smaller sibling, the Virga3 26, from the popular brand Granite Gear. Women's version features better-adjusted shoulder straps and a waist belt tailored to women's curves. It is ideal for those who have already fine-tuned their gear in the spirit of ultralight backpacking.
The Granite Gear Virga3 55 Women's backpack is perfect for multi-day mountain treks, designed for ultralight gear enthusiasts. The Women’s version has better-adjusted shoulder straps and hip belts for women's curves. Despite its 55-liter capacity and weight of just 760 grams, the manufacturer specifies a maximum load capacity of 11 kg. As such, this backpack is best suited for those who have already optimized their gear for ultralight backpacking. While the hip belt can help redistribute weight from your shoulders to your hips, carrying heavier loads may compromise comfort.
The backpack shares the same construction as its smaller version, the Virga3 26, with the exception of its completely different hip belt. It is frameless and lacks a padded back panel, so careful packing is essential. Placing soft items toward the back of the pack is recommended. An inflatable sleeping pad folded into a rectangular shape and placed against your back works perfectly. Alternatively, a foam sleeping pad or a section of it can also be used and repurposed as a seat pad.

The Granite Gear Virga3 55 Women's backpack is available in two sizes. The Short size is ideal for women with a torso length of 38 to 46 cm. The Regular size is for women with a torso length of 46 to 53 cm. Both versions have an adjustable torso length within the specified range, as well as adjustable shoulder strap width. Additionally, the shoulder straps have a greater curve to ensure that they do not dig into women's shoulders and that the backpack fits better on the back.
The Short and Regular sizes come with an adjustable hip belt featuring the patented RE-FIT system. The hip belt can be removed from the backpack and adjusted to fit a waist size of 61–102 cm. It is relatively wide with two zippered pockets treated with a DWR coating. The Women's model additionally has a hip belt shape better suited to female curves.
The backpack also includes two removable sternum straps and elastic loops on the shoulder straps for securing PET bottles.

The Virga3 differs from the original version in three key areas. The most noticeable change is the robust hip belt with the patented RE-FIT system, which is adjustable, fully padded, and equipped with zippered pockets. The Women's model is also better tailored to women's curves. Additionally, elastic loops have been added to the shoulder straps, allowing for the attachment of water bottles. Finally, the backpack now features two sternum straps that ensure the pack stays securely against the body. Both straps are removable, allowing you to save a few grams if not needed.
The backpack has a long-tunnel-shaped main compartment with a practical roll-top closure. This design makes accessing the contents easy and allows the pack’s volume to be adjusted according to your needs. While the stated volume is 55 liters, it can be reduced to 40 liters when rolled down. Inside the pack, you’ll find a loop for hanging a hydration bladder and a port for the drinking tube.
The front of the pack includes a large stretch kangaroo pocket, ideal for items like a waterproof jacket, trowel, water filter, or other essentials you want quick access to. Additionally, there are two durable nylon side pockets, which are easily reachable even while walking and perfectly fit water bottles.
With load-lifter straps, you can pull the pack closer to your body, improving balance and weight distribution. The pack is also equipped with six practical compression straps on the front and sides, allowing for volume adjustments or securing additional gear.

As is typical for Granite Gear, the Virga3 55 Women's backpack is built with a strong focus on durability. The backpack is made from high-tenacity Robic® nylon (100D; 210D). While not completely waterproof, the material offers excellent water resistance on its own. Additionally, the pack is treated with a DWR coating, including the zippers on the hip belt pockets, for added water repellency.
The shoulder straps are well-padded and provide excellent comfort for extended wear. However, it is not recommended to exceed a load capacity of 11 kg, although this should not pose a problem for ultralight backpacking enthusiasts.
Stretch mesh pockets are often a weak point in backpacks, prone to tearing over time. Here, Granite Gear has opted for a more robust, higher-density fabric, enhancing durability.
The overall craftsmanship is exceptional, with high-quality stitching, buckles, and straps, ensuring the backpack’s long-lasting performance.

If you are unsure about which size or color to choose, or if you have any other questions, feel free to contact us via email or directly in the online chat. We are here for you.