I have the Osprey 85 and the Xenith 105. I did extensive research before deciding that Osprey had what I wanted. I feel I made the right decision but they do have one vexing issue, albeit a minor one that is easily fixed. The main compartment is closed by a cinch cord, which is held in position by a cord lock. Cord locks are typically released by squeezing them, leaving the other hand free to pull the cord. But on Osprey, you must _pull_ the lock, which requires both hands, leaving no way to pull the cord through. I have to use my mouth. And the spring in the lock is very strong, requiring strenuous force to pull it open. Fortunately you can purchase standard cord locks and replace the one on the pack. Also, it would have been nice if the packs came with a user guide. These packs have an assortment of features, straps, connection points, etc. But it's not always obvious how some of them are intended to be used. You would think that Osprey would realize this. How hard would it be to add a sheet or two of paper with a few diagrams?
Absolutely. Fits great. With this model Osprey moved the reservoir holder back into the main pack compartment like the majority of other packs. But it does accommodate a 3 liter bladder very well.
Eric Rollins: yep. Nice pack, and I'm currently testing it (have about 50 miles or so in it so far). The Baltoro will be my next pack review. Sneak preview: I tend to favor the Aether, though the Baltoro is a nice pack and has some really cool features. If you can't wait for the full review and are looking to buy very soon, feel free to pm me here or on Facebook.com/hikelogistics and I'll arrange to debrief you one on one via phone if you like. Don't worry: no hidden fees or agenda.
I've reviewed the older (2017) Baltoro elsewhere on RU-vid if you want to hear my opinions. Take-away: I was disappointed with it. The Aether is a solid pack; you won't go wrong. I'm taking out the 2018 Baltoro this weekend for the first time. I'll be posting a review of that one soon.
The European version does not have the daypack. It has a raincover instead because of the rainy weather here (especially here in Britain). The flapjacket is pointless for us in Europe - why would we leave the raincover at home? The weight gripe you mention, in my opinion, is not merited. I would rather have the extra weight in order to save pain and damage to my shoulders. The water bottle access on the side pocket is not needed - water bladder functionality is provided so why would anyone need to use a water bottle? The water bottle access just makes the side pocket less secure. Great review but it would be good if you could have gone over some of the seemingly mysterious positioning of clips (presumably to allow versatility of setup).
Thanks for your feedback! No daypack?! Somewhat disappointing. Rain cover is nice, but the daypack on our version is pretty sweet. Good point on the pointlessness of the Flapjacket and the European model. Regarding the weight gripe, I'd classify this as maybe more of a disappointment than a gripe. I agree with you though; it doesn't matter now light a pack is if it isn't comfortable, and if I can carry the pack comfortably, a few extra ounces are worth it. I rate the extra weight to be worth it, but disappointing nonetheless. Disagree on the need for a water bottle. I always carry both. My Nalgene serves as my coffee cup, lemonade bottle, measuring cup, and sometimes purification bottle (e.g., when I'm using a Steripen instead of a filter). So while I always use hydration, I always carry a Nalgene bottle. Easy access to that bottle is important, in my opinion. Finally, thanks for the critical feedback. Perhaps an idea for a follow-up review. Thanks again for watching and commenting!
Shit... bought the backpack because I thought the daypack was neat, only just now did I read this thread.... I live in Europe T_T Do you recommend any small daypacks that could be stuffed into my backpack
@@Sms135ftwdompañero yo tambien estoy por comprarla,pero estoy en europa y la quiero con mochila pequeña incorporada,un cubremochila vale 3 euros en ebay
Dimitris K: I only have one Jack Wolfskin pack, and it's the only one I've ever used. It's a small daypack, and I do really like it a lot. Jack Wolfskin has introduced some really great looking packs in the past couple of years, and I think you're right: it's about time I review one of their full-sized packs. Thanks for the suggestion!
Hello I am undecided that backpack buy between Aether AG 70 and Atmos AG 65. It seems to me that the backrests are a bit different for ventilation. Which ones do you recommend? Thank you
Disclaimer: I have no personal experience with the Atmos. With that said, the answer is: it depends upon your intended use. More specifically, what kind of load you plan to carry. The Aether is designed to carry heavier loads, and is a few ounces heavier. I favor the versatility of the Aether, because if I need it to carry heavier loads, I know it can handle the work--comfortably. Hope that helps! Post again with an update on what you decide to buy!
@@MrDaveB123 I ended up buying the AG85 and separate raincover. I use dry bags for my gear. I use the raincover if I have to leave my pack outside the tent at night or walk on a wet day. Rain adds weight.
