I really like my old Mariposa and was excitedly hopeful about the updated version. However, I was so sad to learn the inner sleeping pad pocket, otherwise known as the hydration bladder pocket, as been removed on the new version. That was something I used to always mention when beaming to others about my Mariposa. I know you can't please everyone, but it was literally one of my favorite features because it was wider than many packs' bladder pockets. Having my sleeping pad in that pocket helped protect my back from the hard edges of my bear canister and also provided additional vertical support. I'm not sure the new version is tempting enough for me to buy a new pack. Sure the stronger fabric sounds good, but my Mariposa is only a year old and in fantastic condition since I baby my gear and never carry more then 23lbs. Can you talk about the new s-curve shoulder straps? Are they set closer together than the older version? And can you explain the difference between the straight and curved waist belt? Why would a person choose one over the other?
why no added ZIP in the middle? hai? I wish you guys added that... it's so hard to PACK this bag when it's empty :) so a zip in the middle with a wide opening would make it easier to pack like what you did on the 36L
