I saw the new copper Axios 50 at MEC locally and it looks like a decent pack. I was hoping someone might have some insight on it. REI, Moosejaw are usually good to find some user reviews but I guess it's pretty new so no one has had the chance yet. My other option is the Osprey Atmos 50 or the Gregory Z55. I've thought about getting the Granite Gear Vapor but I don't think they're available in Canada so I'm hesitant to buy a pack without being able to try it. Thanks in advance for any help. This website has become a Godsend for helping me (a noob) buy all my gear.

I have the 35 I bought for climbing. It literally just came out this month, i'm using it this weekend on a climbing trip. There super narrow so it'll be hard to stuff gear in the bottom though. the 35 for me has a ton of room leftover after I stuff my essential gear in. I could use it for 4 day trips if I don't use my Tarptent.

Edited by rcowman on 03/21/2010 22:52:46 MDT.

Also check out Campers' village Outdoor show next week they might have some vapors and meridians left for like $80. get there early I got a Golite pinnacle for $50 (reg 180CAD)and Vasque climbing boots for $100(raidators I think there like $450CAD) that was when they sold cool stuff though.

It starts Thursday at the Mayfield Showrooms. call the west end store for the time.

Like you, I need info on Arcteryx Axios 50 pack. I've seen it briefly, seemed really nice. Especially in regard to its organization and function. I've seen no reviews since its new. Has anyone tried one of these? I'm testing a Granite Gear Meridian Vapor and Nimbus Latitude, but even the Meridian is a touch larger than I probably need, and the panel-loading features of these may not work perfectly for me. What I liked about the Axios was the generous kangaroo and the big side zip access to main compartment. Also the roomy divided top pocket...Functionally like a panel loader but yet not one.

I too looked at it at MEC and sadly, felt it was gimmicky and the quality did not seem up to par to previous Dead Bird packs that I have owned. I can't see that backpanel lasting very long.

i Have found that my axios digs into the sides of my neck like all arcteryx packs so its getting returned at mec. the funny thing to is no climbing features on a climbing bag. no ice axe holders, crampon pocket or racking features inside.

It seems like it's basically their Arrakis 50 but stripped down with less features and worse materials.

My GF and I both use the 08 Made in Canada Acrux packs. She actually bought a 2010 Bora from REI (Made in China) just to see how it matches up and it went back after the first hike. She said the fit isn't there and I could tell the finish work was no where as good either.

Personally, I stay away from Arc'Teryx "affordable" gear. As you can get something from another company for the same money and it be better quality. Their upper end stuff is still pretty good though.

with 30 lbs+ in mec ... wasnt too comfortable

not as comfortable as the bora 50, you could really feel the frame in yr back ... i guess you could prob bend the frame a bit but only after u buy

the bora is 500g heavier .... but for me its no contest ... lol

and there are no ice axe loops on it !