I HATE Osprey! But This Pack Changed My Mind 

Check out Moosejaw: geni.us/5eRAf Osprey Exos 55 Pro: geni.us/OlmFdC Osprey Aether: geni.us/70B2UU Zpacks Arc Haul: geni.us/3pBiA

" I'm not a fan of osprey packs; "I just don't believe that backpacks needs all these pockets, zippers and straps", but i really like this model, except , it lacks zippers and straps ! Hard to please.....

I commented on one of your other videos but this should have been the one to comment on. I own this pack and love it. One signifcant modification, however, makes it much better if not perfect. My inspiration is the Gregory Focal 55. On that pack side compression straps may be routed hidden/inside the stretchy side pockets allowing compression at same time giving full use of stretchy side pockets even under f 7:28 ull compression. Problem with the Exos is the compression straps are permanently on outside of side pockets creating a real use problem when pack is fully compressed. What's more is the bottom side compression side is couple to/attached to the hip belt. My experience with this pack proves that this coupling s unnecessay and by decoupliing the compression strap from the hip belt results in more comfort and better function of the hip belt on my hips and then with a couple small 1/4" slits in ripstop fabric, a few hidden stitches plus super strong waterproof fabric glue, I have rerouted compression straps to under/hidden/inside stretchy side pockets. I also detached the upper compression and moved it. Now I have full use of stretchy side pockets and large front stretchy pocket even while the pack is under full ccompression. Water bottles and other items go in and out without a struggle whatsoever. Or even run longer items inside of side pockets yet still under comoression with full functional use of stretchy side pocket such as a water bottle beig put in or taken out without messin with the compression. The modification looks totally factory like it was designed that way. Side hipbelt pockets also are more functional being uncoupled from compression straps because when the belt is niw cinched down it does not stress pockets back in a weird way. This ended up being more comfortable as well. I wish there was a way to send pics. Anyway my mods added no weight and made the pack hugely more functional and just a little more comfortable.

I've had a Gen.2 EXOS 58 for 6 years and love it. Most comfortable UL pack I have ever owned.

I have a Ren65 that runs just under 5lb. Packed I am hauling right a 40lbs. I use it as a day pack and come in at around 15lbs without my sleep system and food. Clearly, I am not a UL hiker! I'm a 5'2", over 50, overweight, female hiker. Finding anything that actually fits is a challenge. Osprey's adjustable everything works well in getting the pack fitted and comfortable.

I don't have time these days to do extended trips, so for all my overnight or three-day hikes, I don't mind a few more pounds for comfort, and my Osprey packs always deliver on that point!

New to this whole backpacking. I wanted to thank you for the videos they really put into perspective what I might want/need. Although it may seem it may be a while before I can afford some this, but hey we all got to start somewhere.

Interesting you mention the compression strap on the inside as a downside. After a year of use I now specifically like that about it and I'll explain why: With the tradition straps you compress every single thing in your backpack and there's no real way to use it when you carry something that doesn't do well under compression (fragile souvenirs, some foods, etc.). With the Exos Pro I can still compress most things, but pack the stuff I don't want to compress on top of it.

They came up with the pack brain around the Korean war. It was an additional bag that attached to the outer straps and could help keep a load down.

I'm an Exos 48 user and find it incredibly comfortable even with a heavier load. Kind of wish I had got the 58 (UK camping requires a wide choice of weather options) but living with it for now. Thanks for the honest review

When I was shopping for packs the green vest at REI asked me if I was looking for ultralight or comfort. I chose door 2 as my first pack was exterior frame and canvas. We looked at Gregory and Osprey. Don’t knock it if you haven’t tried it, particularly for weekend warriors.😉

I do military style rucking so I am very often forced to take high weight stuff, so the idea of this high quality suspension system is intriguing to me

Buying Atmos 65 was one of the best decisions I have ever made. I've also got the Manta 32 for day hikies and long city trips - an absolute joy.

The Arc Haul 60L is really a 40L, and all those attachment points makes them prone for potential failure. It is a very comfortable and functional pack though.

I've used a Zpacks pack but ended up swapping it for an Osprey Kestrel 38L because all those dyneema fiber packs (Zpacks) are very slippery against clothing. So the Zpacks tend to slide downward putting weight on my shoulders. It doesn't seem to matter how tight I get the waist straps. Despite Osprey being made of heavier material, it's shape conforms to the curvature of my spine and also has lots of rough surfaces that help it stay in place against my back. Because of their unique design features Osprey are my most comfortable packs (I have several, lol) which also allow me to carry heavier weights comfortably. I also have one of the older Osprey Exos packs but still find the Kestrel more comfortable and better at trabsferring weight to my legs. I couldn't carry more than 20lbs in my Zpack before it became uncomfortable. With my Osprey Kestrel 38L I can carry 35lbs comfortably for 16hrs a day no problem.

I have had the Exos 55 for about 10 years now and love it still. My only complaint is I don't like the original colors that I choose back then and now want to get the new exos pro 55! :)

I bought the Osprey Exos 55 Pro a few months ago and love it. I agree with your points except for having an open hip pocket. I do actually like having one zipper and one open. One additional complaint: i wish the hip belt pockets weren’t so far back. This pack is extremely comfortable and fits my gear extremely well (even better than the hyperlite). I compared the hyperlite and really wanted to keep hyperlite but three things that i couldnt get over: 1- for some reason hyperlite straps hurt my shoulder even after trying different size packs, adjusting straps, and adjusting the frames. 2- water bottle access. While i can access my smart water from hyperlite pockets, its much easier with the exos 55 pro. 3- hyperlite=sweaty back. My main concern with the exos pro 55 is durability. Time will tell but im skeptical on the material durability and how small the hip belt clip is. I would have gone for zpacks for a backpack but they are just too expensive as i never see them on sale like i do with the two other packs mentioned above.

Good job with this. I've had five Osprey packs over the past eight years or so. The only two I have now are the Kestrel 38 for winter and the 48 for backpacking which handles cans well. Reason being is each of the others had suspended back panels which developed mind-numbing squeaks in the peripheral frame. And I don't overload. The Kestrels are definitely a weight suck, that I try to shave elsewhere, but it's worth it to not deal with squeaking. Maybe it was just luck of the draw, and wouldn't happen again, but I'm not sure I'll take the risk.

My favorite backpack - about 25 years old - has this type of mesh suspension, so I'm definitely interested in these Osprey offerings... though I'm inclined to look at the Exos 58 because it solves one of the problems you have with the 55 Pro *both side pockets zip closed (**and I can save $30). I've stated before that I'm a truly traditional backpacker, with over 50 years of experience, and I don't like to spend a lot on gear, though lighter weight gear is becoming more appealing as I get older *and it becomes more mainstream (in design and price). I am not willing to sacrifice comfort for weight, in most cases, which is why I've not made the step to an ultra-light backpack, yet.

So I've never been hiking , did allot of camping as a boyscout. Doctor say I need to do more exercise now that I'm no longer working. But walking around the neighborhood is just plain boring . So I've been trying to find affordable hiking gear . Seems every youtuber has the best of the best. And that's hard to do on a budget. I appreciate the time you take on reviewing products that would otherwise be over looked as they don't fit in today's high end styles. That every youtuber has to be seen with. I know the essentials that's important to take . But the back pack is a conundrum to me. I don't mind having a 30lb pack to start to get in shape and be in nature. To start I'm not looking to morph into a knife only bear grills in 2 years . Either but would be nice to have a decent pack and gear to get out there while saving for better gear down the road.

I've got an Osprey Atmos AG 50, and especially the suspension/frame i'm very happy about

I actually love my Osprey bag. I have an ultralight bag as well and I actually find my Osprey bag to be significantly more comfortable and I get more use out of it

I find a pack brain to be so useful that I have added a Zpacks multi-pack to those that don't have a brain. Nice to see some progress in the hybrid-pack market, but I think they can still get a little lighter.

I have just completed the Cape Wrath Trail using the new Exos Pro…. It was brilliant, super comfortable and carried all I needed.

I’ve always been a huge fan of Osprey’s back ventilation

As someone who sufferschronic fatigue and pain the suspension and lightweight has me sold, i'd add a zip or velcro to that left pocket so that phone or gopro doesn't fall out if I fall forwards. Other than that it looks good, darker green or brown options would be nice Osprey. Love all your videos and work you put in, thanks for the Nikwax video did all my gear last two days 😊

I have the AURA AG 65. What i love in Osprey backpack is the suspension system and the top notch ventilation on the back. Even if they are already heavy empty, they are very comfortable. But! I hate the belt pockets! Hope they change that in the future. They are way too small to fit cell phones or even my small Sony RX camera! If i don't need a pack for heavy loads or if i'm not hiking in winter with bulky stuff, i use my new favourite pack, the Durston Kakwa😍 I used the 40L and i just purchase the 55L

Thanks for the review! We have a hiking trip on the JMT in August and I am up in the air on this pack. I know a lot of people lean towards the ultralight packs on this trail, but my full load will be around 15-18 pounds, so I am at a crossroads as to which route to go (ultralight or this pack). Comfort is honestly the most important thing to me, and that might sway me towards this pack. Just wanted to know your thoughts on this. Thanks for the video!

Cost is king. I carry a heaver pack because i won’t spend more on lighter gear that has similar functionality. The exception might be the pack it self.

Oh hey! I went to Moosejaw in Boulder after hearing about them from you. They were great and we got a bunch of stuff from them.

That pack looks great. I really like my Osprey Rook, but it lacks the front pocket, removable brain... and the side pockets aren't the greatest. I usually carry around 30 lb... my only hesitation would be going from a 65 to a 55 L pack. I just don't know that I could get away with going that much smaller... maybe some day. 😁

I bought the Osprey Atmos AG 65 (too heavy and too many pockets)and all my other gear is ultralight. I’ve been having buyers remorse, but luckily I still have plenty of time to do a return. I’m going to look into this Exos. Thanks for the review.

Fjällräven packs are my fav, heavy, but so comfy! There are so many amazing packs out there... so many... I've tried like 30 packs and i do have my favs depending on the hike. :)

My first pack was sort of similar to the Osprey Exos 55; it was an REI flash 45; a little smaller and a little heavier, but very much the same concept. It wasn't a bad pack I like my current pack (a superior wilderness designs ultralight long haul) a lot better. It's 3/4 of a pound lighter, 10L bigger, made of higher quality materials, and fits me better being custom made. I do kind of miss having a brain on my pack for miscellaneous item storage, but I think some ziploc freezer bags will solve that problem.

I use the previous model Exos 48 and cannot imagine using another pack. It is so comfortable I haven’t even looked up how much it weighs. And I don’t use the brain either.

I knew you were going to talk about the comfort. Can’t beat it.

Sounds good , with a lite back pack that has extra room I might be able to carry a tent and sleeping bag that is not meant for back packing and then I would not have to spend money on something only to find out it's not for me, I know the bear canister was required but was it necessary did you see any bears

My osprey aether 85 is a tank. And weighs like one. 6 freaking pounds. Went kakwa 55 and not looking back.

I've been debating with the arc haul, exos, and the kakwa. My style has been more traditional since I come from military background and used to carry massive rucks it never bothered me carrying comfort. I've recently become somewhat more lightweight with a nemo hornet elite and xmid pro 1 as my favorite shelters. But I carry roughly 15-18 lbs without water. This makes me like the exos, but I hear great about the other 2 as well

I don't understand the ultralight trend, i have to say, being in the military, i often carry a backpack close to 100 pounds. My pack needs to be comfortable on my back and that's pretty much it. If i go on a multiple day hike and my pack is around 40 pounds with all the comfort i need when i set up camp, im pretty happy about it.

I used the osprey 33 on the Portuguese Camino, no,problems except I can’t figure how to secure my walking poles to the pack.

Thanks for showing metric!!

Osprey packs are generally used by newer hikers and backpackers. Once you learn how to efficiently use and pack your gear 9/10 chance you ditch the mainstream REI stuff like osprey.

Hello can you please review the Osprey UNLTD AntiGravity pack, if you haven't done so already...

I have the osprey rook I don't even use it anymore they are heavy but my hyperlite 3400 junction has been my go to and I ordered a waymark mile backpack because I like the design of that for day hiking

I got 3 osprey packs. Love them all. There might be better out there but i’m a simple man.. 🤷🏻‍♂️

I have a question about where we can get hiking boots and at what store with a hiking section

I see alot of Osprey hate .. But I love them .. 3-5 days out .. 11-18 Neros Really how many times do you through hike really?

Female here and osprey is the only pack I will use. The metal back mesh structure is imperative for me. Without this I find my spine bruises. It disburses weight better (obviously not all models have this). Even my day pack has this structure.

This backpack makes sense. Unfortunately your comments also make sense 😂❤

I don't know if this is a disagreement or not, but in my belief you have a misplaced belief that light weight is more important than comfort. I'll gladly add an extra couple of pounds to a pack if it's more comfortable. And if the pack is light weight without being ultra light, but still comfortable (like the Exos/Eja packs), great.

Wait, Osprey's are heavy? I see them on long through trails all over the place specifically because they are light. I guess, my hulking Tatonka isn't even in that conversation.

Jett Run

Review the Atmos Ag LT please.

I never looked back after switching to the Exos 48. It carries the load like nothing else whilst remaining lightweight. I always called BS when they touted on about their '''suspension back system''' but lord almighty they weren't spewing nonsense! It's honestly one of, if not the comfiest pack I've ever worn!

The thing with Osprey packs is even though they're a lot heavier than your average UL pack, they also tend to be way more comfortable. I've found that the frame and suspension and their anti-gravity system help mitigate that extra weight and allows you to carry a lot more stuff with a lot less discomfort, and the straps are really thick and padded and comfortable. If you're the kind of backpacker who likes to hike in luxury and bring a chair, a roomy two-person tent, real food with cookware like skillets etc, then these packs are the way to go. Even if you have a more minimalist setup, the suspension on these packs will make you feel whatever weight you do have less so than other packs would. For instance putting 20 pounds of stuff into an UL backpack and 20 pounds of stuff into an Osprey backpack and trying them both on will usually reveal the Osprey pack to be a lot more comfortable. I also tend to use all the extra bells and whistles. The provided rain cover has kept my stuff dry in heavy thunderstorms before, while the brain is where I store things I might need quickly such as my first aid kit, lighter, and my warm clothes in the wintertime. The hydration pocket for a camelbak is also pretty nice and the mesh on the frame allowing air to cool your sweaty back is a must-have imo. For reference I use the Atmos 65.

The reason the Exos 55 seems bigger than the Arc Haul 60, is that Z packs includes the capacity of all the pockets in their number. Most manufacturers list only “covered” compartments in their volume. Open pockets are unmeasured additional volume, since you can put bigger items that stick out in them. Exos has 55L in the main compartment + brain. Stretch pocket and side pockets are unmeasured additional storage. Z Packs arc haul 60L is 47L body, 8L stretch pocket, 2.5 each side pocket.

I’m definitely more traditional. UL packs don’t work well for me. That are simply too flimsy. Add the steep price tag to the lack of durability and it’s a no go. I love my Osprey pack! 🌿

I’ve been waiting for this UL craze to come full circle on backpacks. I figure it’s only a matter of time before people realize that ‘traditional’ packs were designed for backpacking and will offer the best experience. Stripping down frames and necessary load bearing features is backward engineering to when packs were just a bag with straps. It’s ironic that backpacks started simple and eventually evolved to what marketing has now convinced people is a ‘traditional’ (outdated) design.

Good video, you left out the mighty guarantee. I send my aether 65 in at the 10 years old mark for repairs. In addition to the repairs, they put a new belt and shoulder harness on the pack. Pretty much a new pack.

I have one of the previous models of this pack and can definitely recommend it. There are somethings that I like better with the new version (hip belt pockets), but there are some things I like on the older model (more user friendly buckles, easy to remove brain, that kind of thing)... just preference but I'd still recommend it. Only wish it was water resistant.

I love my Osprey pack. It took me thousands of miles across Europe, probably hundreds by foot. It was a great investment and quite durable. I am an athletic, stout guy and don't mind that it's not an ultralight backpack. I wanted size and features and quality construction and it delivered. It's ten years old and just as good as the day I bought it. Osprey would be my first choice for my next pack should I ever need one. I just really loved the way it took an enormously heavy load and spread it across my body in such a way that I didn't really notice the weight.

I have an Osprey Talon 11L daypack and I fell in love with it the first time I used it. My partner and I hiked a trail that has a portion that requires rappelling down some pretty steep inclines on ropes and then 6km on very sharp rocks to a secluded cove. A well balanced pack is necessary for sure footing as if you wreck an ankle you'd need to call the coast guard in before the tide traps you. (Bay of Fundy, highest tides in the world) and on the way back as soon as we climbed back up the ropes we were hit with a severe thunderstorm (wasn't in the forecast). Deafening thunderclaps and heavy rains and the inside of the pack stayed dry (with my Nikon DSLR in there too). had some dry clothes in my dry bag and wasn't expecting wet weather at all so learned a lesson for next time. Also I realized it was missing a piece for the stow on the go trekking pole feature and just emailing Osprey lastnight I got a reply in less then an hour that they were preparing to ship me out the part soon (my first time using a warranty like this) I would love to get a Stratos 36 or 44 as an overnight or weekender. I only dabble in UL so the pro versions are a bit too rich for my blood but I would certainly try Osprey again. My only complaint is that the cool Osprey logo wore off so fast. They should really embroider them or something.

nice review, SPECIAL thanks for putting metric values, I always struggled with that, when I heard ounces, pounds, inches etc. I have Arc haul and since Europe doesn't required bear canisters, I'm absolutely satisfied customer, not looking for a change

Damn, I’m an admitted Osprey fanboy and have their packs in most sizes from the 5L waist belt up 🎒… and I just bought the Zpacks Arc Haul for my next through hike. Not that I don’t like Zpacks gear (and I have a bunch of it), but UK import taxes add around 30% to already expensive gear.

I think Osprey makes great packs for what they are. Are they UL? Generally no. But if you like extra pockets for organization and/or carry heavier weights they make packs suited for you. Also, their warranty is among the best in the industry. I still have an Exos 58 that was my primary winter pack until I recetnly moved up to a Superior Wilderness Designs Long Haul.

Granite gear crown 2? Same pack, 65 L half the price.

I have a Hyperlite that I love, but it leaves my back wet from sweat. I recently bought the Exos 58 for the fact that it stays off of my back during warmer backpacking trips. I had a hard time finding one that really felt like it “belongs” on me, and am still not quite happy with the fit, but my back feels so much happier. The pack fits everything I need and is completely comparable to the Hyperlite. And yes, I was nodding when you were talking about the compression strap, which is marvelous on the Hyperlite. The Exos has it’s own methods of compression, but nothing like the Hyperlite.

I've been an Osprey guy since I put on my first Atmos AG, and I currently own 5 of their packs including two with the Anti-Grav suspension. It's heavier, but SO comfortable. I think the newest Airspeed design has me tempted to check out an Exos though

A great review as always! I tried to move away from my Osprey and tried a Mariposa 60. On paper the Mariposa is an awesome pack however for me there one huge problem in that without airflow between my back and my pack I really struggle. I just could not get comfortable with the Mariposa. In my experience, when it comes to packs, lighter is not always better, the key is comfort and weight transfer to your hips.

Really nice review. After osprey came out with packs over 6 lbs last year, it’s nice to see they offer something in the 2lbs range. I’m always looking for a great pack when a bear canister is required. Now, if they’d just make that pack in Ultra…

Your comment on the weight of Osprey packs how "its not uncommon for them to be 5 lbs or more" is unfounded. Only one of the packs in thier line of hiking packs is in that range. The Aether/ Ariel are for heavy loads for people doing serious trip like Denali or other trip that require lots of heavy gear and food. That comment is a bit deceiving . I'm glad you like that pack though. I do too.

An osprey atmos 65 was my first pack 5 years ago, and it’s the same one I use today. There is a lot of extra weight and unnecessary organization, but I love the pack. It’s incredibly comfortable and adjustable and there is no wear. I have no desire nor need to purchase a new backpack, so it saves me a lot. I don’t understand how you could actually hate the pack, even with every opinion you listed, but to each their own. I will gladly continue to enjoy my time outdoors because of my atmos.

Osprey is ubiquitous in the UK as we don't have as much choice when it comes to backpacking brands. I tend to avoid them but I've recently purchased the Exos 48 (non-pro) as it cuts the nonsense. I'll be testing it next week but I like the look and feel of it so far. The suspension system and the ventilation it provides seems worth a little bit of extra weight.

I got hooked on Osprey years ago with my Xenith. Cavernous for long trips, comfortable, easy access. Sold it to a kid hiking the AT. I just bought a Atmos 65. The waist belt is tighter than I like so I'm looking to swap it out; but I got it at such a good price, I had to buy it. Your pack looks good so thanks for sharing.

Nice! I bought this exact backpack mere two weeks ago, and I love it just the same. The construction is comfortable, yet stable, and I experienced none of the weight shifting I dealt with before, when using older and cheaper backpack.

I want to get this pack for my wife, but only if they make it smaller. 55 is just too much.

So glad you reviewed this pack I have been looking at waymark but when this came out it peaked my interest

I've never seen a hiker use an umbrella while crossing a stream before.

I will NEVER have another backpack without ventilation. EVER! ZPacks are not substantial enough to handle heavier loads. Additionally they are subject to problems with the arc system. Gregory has a version of ventilated suspension but it is not as good as the Osprey. The easily removable brain is another greater feature of the Exos. Q I can fit, just barely, a BV550 horizontally inside at the top of my Exos 48, which has worked fantastic for longer extended trips of seven days or more. Too many ultralight packs will barrel unless they are packed just right. And I have used a lot of various ultralight packs and always return to Osprey.

I have the Atmos AG 50L. The AG system is pretty amazing at weight distribution.

The Atmos AG50, before redesign this past year, is similarly laid out but has an amazing harness system that is worth the added weight IMHO. The newer one I think adds zippered pouches more like the AG65, but it's still relatively unencumbered wirh straps and so forth.

Only thing that really annoyed me with this pack is how the toggles keep popping out of the adjustable torso slots.

I've got the atmos 65. It's been with me through some good times but it is certainly heavy. I'd love to try this out but I'm not sure I could justify the expense over what I currently own.

When i first started backpacking I got an Osprey womens tempest 20. I still use it but now I wish I waited and got something lighter. I like it but i do find it to be heavy with nothing in it. Next pack i may try one of your suggestions.

Why they stick with that crap top closure is a huge mystery to us all. Just a standard roll top closure would fix 75% of why I hate all Osprey packs.

Trditionnal pack might not be for yyou, but its is still good for 85% of hikers. People who are not into ultralight, will prefere these pack do to resistance, confort and how much you can load them with heavy stuff. the Osprey Aether is good but I still think that the best Osprey pack is the Atmos AG. Best confort and loading weight you can have on the market.

I love my Kestrel 38. It's very comfortable, fits me very well, and handles the small amount of gear I have wonderfully.

Almost looks like a good pack, but appears to have a deal breaker feature for me - a compression strap that goes over the side bottle pockets.

I've had the Aura since the beginning and yeah it's almost 4 pounds empty but I have yet to find an ultra light pack that is comfortable on me.

I picked up the Osprey Exos 58 last year to use as my 3-season pack and it is by far the most comfortable pack I own. It weighs just under 2 lbs, much lighter than my older packs.

Great video! I didn't like my Osprey at first either; but mine won me over very quickly. LOL! Thanks for the video!

I'm a rookie 'packer looking for comfort more than UL. I don't know that I'll ever pack more than 3 days so a bit of extra weight won't matter as much to me. I definitely want lighter gear, but as of right now, weight is never better than 3rd priority for me. And really my priorities are a balance of cost, "good" and weight

I would definitely try this pack. I love my Osprey "traditional" pack already so I'm interested in a lighter pack from them!

I just got the Granite Gear perimeter 35. Weighs a little more than I’d like but the comfort is off the charts. I have an osprey daylite plus. I swear it weighs more than my Perimeter lol

The features on Ospreys (specifically Atmos in my case) aren't unnecessary. They just have a place and time. Unfortunately for most of us "serious" hikers the Atmos/etc are just a pain in the ass. Though they are perfectly comfortable. I love the brain for the fact that I can keep things there which I need quick access to, but my god is it a royal pain to remove/re-attach all the time and I hate how it kind of "dangles" there at the top. I know it's attached tight and won't move but it just bothers me. One of its biggest issues is that getting your water bottle out of the pockets with the pack on is damn near impossible unless you have one of the shortest Smart Water bottles. The zips are impossible to operate on the pockets with one hand too, etc. It definitely has some issues but 98% of it is good but just doesn't work well for us as it could even if it is a damn good pack. Hopefully Exos fixes a lot of those issues.

I have the previous generation of the Osprey Atmos 65 AG, and have a core weight around 20 lb, and will tip over 30 when carrying food and water. I love the idea of the Exos Pro pack however, I love my side vent and bottom and entry zippers too much and can't justify saving 2lb to give up those features.

I have a 5 year old Osprey Atmos 50 and I love it. The suspension and the mesh is what makes it for me. Also the bladder compartment with the little strap and clip is well thought out. It does weigh in at 4.5 lbs but it sure is comfortable and functions well enough that I don't feel the need to get anything else. Cheers

Nice review man! My first day hiking pack was a osprey stratos 24. I loved that pack!! The trampelene back is second to none! Until i tried severe ultralight gear then i realized how much i missed their trampelene mesh back panel. Although alot of other osprey packs dont compare to the stratos trampelene back. They seem to have shrunk the seperation overtime on the back mesh? I do like this new exos 55. The brain of these packs are a handy feature. I say that too cause i noticed alot of people who use ultralight roll top packs still find themselves without enough room. So before you know it gear is filled every exterior pocket and some even have gear dangling off the pack somewhere. Seems thats where alot of ultralight packs fail. I want the pack im using to hold all my gear without gear hanging off the pack too much. Only thing i would like to see osprey do is use premium pack materials like Robic nylon, dyneema, X-pack, ultra pack. Maybe even design their own roll top pack but keep this new trampelene style back and frame suspension. Not sure if that crosses over Z-packs patents or not but would be very nice to see. Or i would like to see an update Levity pack made with better materials and offered in more subdued color ways. White is just tough to keep clean. Good stuff man! Hike on!!

I agree the packs are heavy, but that is true for all traditional packs like Gregory, Deuter as well, also ultralight does not really handle heavy items all too well. For that a more traditional pack just works better. I’m not surprised Exos works so well as it alongside Atmos and Stratos always been the most comfortable packs due to their TMP of the Osprey line. Aether that you shown has always been a mediocre pack with a mediocre suspension system and to much going on it, , Exos, Atmos and Stratos are more simplistic although latter two are still on the heavier side. Osprey doesn’t really do ultra light, just as all other traditionalist don’t either, so it’s a bit of an odd complaint, as there still many for whom ultra light will never actually work like carrying bear canisters, photographers who do overnights and other needing to cary more big heavy gear, also all the traditional I had could take up some absolute brutal beating, I wish I could say the same about the other stuff. So it’s all about horses for causes.