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Post by huntnhike on Apr 17, 2016 20:13:32 GMT -8
I am looking at purchasing a new backpack for 3 to 5 day backpacking trips. I have tried on several backpacks and have narrowed it down to the final three I like best. I am 5'10", 180 pounds, in good physical condition, 28 years old and wear a size large for each of these packs.
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Osprey Aether 70 Gregory Baltoro 65
I like the feel of the Atmos suspension the best but have only tried it at REI with 25 or 30 pounds. I have read multiple reviews that advise against getting the Atmos if you were to carry more than 30 pounds of gear. With the areas I hike and the equipment I have, my pack would likely weigh between 35 and 50 pounds for 3 to 4 day trips. The backpack I have been using the last several years for hiking is a Eberlestock hunting pack weighing in at close to 8 pounds empty. My biggest question is for a pack weight that exceeds 35 pounds most likely nearing 50 pounds, will the Atmos be appropriate or should I look at the other packs more closely or possibly something else all together? I do like the fact that the weight is carried closer to your back with the Baltoro and the Aether, but I found the fit of the antigravity suspension system on the Atmos just slightly more comfortable.
I look forward to any input you all may have.
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Apr 17, 2016 21:07:11 GMT -8
I wouldn't want to carry 50 pounds in the Atmos. The Aether or Baltoro would be more appropriate for that weight. Those two packs fit quite differently, so I couldn't say which would work best for you. I've carried an Aether 70 since 2006 and pushed it as far as 60 pounds, which is definitely all its suspension can handle.
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snappypepper
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Post by snappypepper on Apr 18, 2016 5:17:17 GMT -8
My SO carries around 40lbs in his Atmos and loves it. I have the Aura 65, I'm 5'1" and usually carry around 30lbs and I am happy with it at that weight. If you are regularly going to be carrying upwards of 45lbs it might not be the best choice. Personally, I'd rather pare down my load to a good weight for the pack because the anti gravity system is the bomb.
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Post by fajitas on Apr 18, 2016 6:32:05 GMT -8
I just returned the Atmos 50 AG, and here's the reason why.
In store and up to 25lbs, it felt weightless. The AG system is something really impressive.
1. Loaded @ 32lbs, it felt like it was overloaded. The 50 (not the 65) doesn't have sleeping pad straps either..... 2. I get to camp, take off pack, don't want to lean pack against tree, as the AG mesh picks easily. Also, it picked on my shirt from the velcro I had on my shirt, kinda messed up the material a bit. 3. Can't fold up the waist belt easily, another sore spot which could cause issues to messing up the AG mesh. 4. Too big for daypack @ 50, should probably use 65 or higher for 3 days for me. I'm not too minimalist.
I feel if I were more experienced a backpacker, and could cut down weight, it would be perfect. It's a great bag, and feels so comfortable. I really liked the AG mesh, but REALLY disliked how fragile it appeared to be to me.
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daveb
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Post by daveb on Apr 18, 2016 6:35:32 GMT -8
Osprey Atmos AG 65 Osprey Aether 70 Gregory Baltoro 65 I'm in the same boat as you and I've tried on all three of the packs you've mentioned at REI. I'm currently hauling a kelty coyote 80 that isn't a bad pack but I do like the way the atmos feels. I've almost got all my equipment together but I'm getting a better idea of what I need and so far I'm still favoring the atmos. I have one more pack to try out before I buy and it's the Mystery Ranch Sphinx. I was wondering if you've tried one on yet?
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Post by huntnhike on Apr 18, 2016 9:00:18 GMT -8
I haven't looked at the Mystery Ranch packs- I really want a separate sleeping bag compartment. Looks like I will be headed to Denver May 14 for a Spartan race- so a visit to REI will be on the agenda.
I weighed the majority of my stuff and I'm at 36 pounds including 4 liters of water and my eureka 2xt tent (7.5 pounds). I don't think the Atmos will cut it. Looking at possibly the Baltoro 65 or 75 as they were comfy and seem to be better for heavier loads.
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BigLoad
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Post by BigLoad on Apr 18, 2016 9:10:26 GMT -8
What appeals to you about a separate sleeping bag compartment? I'd rather not have the weight of the zipper or the divider, and I don't find the panel access very convenient for stuffing or removing the bag. Other people love them, but I found that I never use mine.
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Post by huntnhike on Apr 18, 2016 11:08:04 GMT -8
I just like having my bag separate from all the other gear... Personal preference probably over function...
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Post by High Sierra Fan on Apr 18, 2016 17:57:19 GMT -8
I just like having my bag separate from all the other gear... Personal preference probably over function... I acheive the same thing with a sleeping bag stuff sack. My current one is an eVent dry bag.
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