ULA should be included in the review as well. Very comfortable back. Lots of features.

Got it. Thanks, Allison.

I've noticed a remark about the Osprey Atmos series being difficult to load because of the trampoline frame. I seem to remember that Osprey has revamped these packs to address this problem (or at least part of it).
Another pack which hasn't been mentioned is the new Granite Gear Vapor Flash (and Vapor Flash Ki). It looks like a Meridian Vapor but simpler in design. For some reason it's heavier than the Meridian Vapor with a weigt of 49 oz. Perhaps the most interesting part is the fact that the lower compression strap can be configured to go inside or over the side pocket.

Edited by Woubeir on 09/19/2008 04:50:55 MDT.

Tom,

I have a REI Venturi 30 that has the same trampoline type frame. These type frames do present chalenging packing obstacles but I do appreciate the breathability on hot, humid summertime trips. Bottom line, these type packs are a compromise; look before you buy.

Don,
I bought an Osprey Aether 85 for some of the reasons you mentioned. So far I have used it on one several day backpack trip and it worked fine carrying loads up to 40 lbs, and can probably go more if required. The volume seems to be true to 85L. I think it is the best & lightest high volume pack. I would prefer it to be top entry only and a little lighter, but I think you will be happy with it.

I just finished a 50 mile . week long trip ..luggin @ 48lbs total in my " 85" .... And . the pack performed .... Perfect !!!

Clifford, Scott, thanks for your feedback on the Aether 85.

I sure like Z-Packs and ULA packs, but I don't see any reason to consider them as a real outdoor manufacturer. Customers, like myself, want to do business with a full-time operation, and not just a hobby type. If I wanted a ULA pack, could I find one right now?

I'm glad I'm not the only one puzzled by the "hump" in the atmos/aura bags! I bought an Aura 35 and it seemed like a good 20% of the capacity was taken up by the strut space. I returned it, and got the women's Venturi 30, and That seems to be working OK. Its a little smaller, lighter, but also feels easier to load.

My current favorite daypack is the Talon 11. It hugs the body nicely, but is also a bit sweaty. So I'd love to see a melding of the Aura and Talon in the Exos.

From their web site, on the Home Page, under Order....

*Mountain Crossings: 706-745-6095 / winton@mountaincrossings.com

*Mt Rogers Outfitters: 276-475-5416 / mro@mtrogersoutfitters.com

*Bluff Mountain Outfitters: 828-622-7162 / bmo28743@gmail.com

*The Outfitter at Harper’s Ferry: 304-535-2087 / Outfitterhf@yahoo.com

Does anyone have experience with the Mountain Laurel Designs Arc or Exodus packs? Care to share your thoughts?

Thanks.

Sure Z-Packs, ULA, etc. aren't full on outdoor manufacturers, but they certainly aren't "hobby-types." They are in the cottage industry and they run a full-time business. I would much rather do business with the many cottage manufacturers that cater to the lightweight backpacking world due to the personal attention and excellent customer service of many of the cottage companies. The workmanship and quality of the gear made by companies such as Z-Packs, ULA, MLD, etc. is exceptional and way beyond that of any "real outdoor manufacturer." Sure there are often wait times for buying some of the gear, but I can wait for quality gear and service.

BTW, I am also interested in hearing people's experience with the MLD Exodus and Arc packs.

Edited by pedro87 on 09/20/2008 14:14:36 MDT.

I will have to agree that cottage industries are the way to go. Brian at ULA is a very personal and knowledgeable guy, besides the fact that he make wonderful products. Can you blame the guy for wanting a couple of months off to go hiking. I am personally very jealous.

Is there any way to list the maximum torso size for each pack? Those of us over 22" have few options

Will, you state, "The Flash packs should be considered for purchase alongside the Osprey Exos packs (and other favorites in that category), rather than the SMD and Gossamer Gear packs." Is this because they have a higher volume, can carry more weight, or what? Would you clarify please. BTW, terrific review!

Great that BPL featured the REI Flash packs. As with their other packs REI has continued to show design innovation and quality for an excellent price.

For week long, 3 season backpacking trips I own an REI Cruise UL 60 (60 L.) size Large, at 2 lbs. 3 oz. This pack features 2 tubular aluminum stays, Dyneema ripstop fabric, and many other excellent features and is quite commfortable after the proper adjustments are made. I recommend it highly for loads under 40 lbs..

But I have rsuggested to REI they make the hipbelt pockets much larger and make the lid detatchable for use as a fanny pack.

Eric

Monte asked me to clarify this statement: "The Flash packs should be considered for purchase alongside the Osprey Exos packs (and other favorites in that category), rather than the SMD and Gossamer Gear packs." He asked "Is this because they have a higher volume, can carry more weight, or what?"

I am not recommending that someone purchase the Flash pack instead of a SMD or GG pack. I am saying that, although the Flash packs are in the removable frame category, the packs are really more comparable to packs with a built in frame. Yes, they will carry more volume and weight with greater comfort, thus the comparison to Osprey, Gregory and other packs with a built in frame.

A clarification another post: the REI Cruise UL 60 weighs 3 pounds 3 ounces and the fabric is not Dyneema.

I have both an Osprey Stratos 40 and a Stratos 24 that I like. They are descendents of the Atmos line, but not as advanced or light as the new Exos. Main selling feature for me was the air mesh back panel. Not that you will feel a breeze back there or anything, but it is much cooler than padding against your back. The reduced volume between mesh and pack will be beneficial. I think the Exos 34 liter version should be a great size for UL 3-season trips.

Now a couple gripes about the Osprey Exos design (as pictured). The compression webbing over the side mesh pockets makes the pockets less useful. I like to carry PE water bottles in those pockets. Personally, I would cut off the side compression V webbing, and instead criss-cross the kangaroo pouch with cord for when I need to reduce pack volume. Also, the waist belt pouches look large enough, but once you put on the pack and tighten the belt, they are actually rather small and difficult to access. Some stretch material on the belt pockets would really help in this regard.

And finally, is that a camera/phone/GPS pocket attached to the shoulder strap? If so, three cheers for Osprey, as I have been attaching an aftermarket pouch there for years! Just hope it's the right size?@!

Edited by jbrinkmanboi on 10/26/2008 15:27:45 MDT.

The side compression straps of the Exos series can be reconfigured so that they run underneath the mesh side pockets.

Right. Good Exos pictures available here:

http://www.outdoorsmagic.com/news/article/mps/uan/5613

I'm quite interested, as the Talon is a very good pack but without the Atmos' trampoline back panel. Best of both worlds?