I currently have an Osprey Exos 46 in a medium and am interested in exploring other options. It's a little large for my need so I'd prefer something in the 35L range. I'm thinking of getting the Exos in a 34 in a large and hope it fits better since the hip belt on my 46 doesn't fit exactly right.

Anyone have other suggestions? I have a GG Kumo but learned that I like the nice internal frame and especially the airvent that the Exos provides, it's worth the extra pound for me.

Thanks!

If you like Osprey and want to stay in that product take a look at the Hornet 32 or 46 in any size of the two your sub 2 lbs . I lost the HYD. bladder and dropped in a piece of T-rest Z lite pad for extra "frame" and I love it.

The 46L (S is 1lbs 8 oz and L is 1 lbs 12) is feather lite and with a Zpack bag and tarptent you won't break 4 lbs.
You go with a tarp you are Gold.

IMO you get a bullet proof warranty and a pack that is ready to rock!

I love my Boreas Buttermilk 40, but try and size one up before you commit to it since it's not very adjustable.

Granite Gear is about to come out with the Leopard, and I think the small is like a 39? Not sure, but it's very lightweight and fancy-looking.

Thanks guys, few questions on the hornet. What is the back panel like? Is it vented or just firm foam? Can you fit water bottles in the side pockets and access them while you are walking?

The GG one looks interesting, a little steep on the price though.

I saw a GG Vapor Trail shredded to bits on a thru-hiker who said he wasn't happy with the durability. The new one looks tougher though, so take that with a grain of salt. Also, your mileage may vary from his experience.

You can get a feel for the pad at osprey,s site to get a look if that helps
Basically it is formed foam and pretty comfy the stretch match sides are very tall so not good for bottles
I use a zpack strap bag( Not technical name) for 20oz bottle

Thanks, it looks like the Hornet is going to be a little short on the torso for me. Thanks for the idea though

Do you have an REI or someplace you can try before you buy?
If not, I think Deuter offers a vented back that has an adjustable torso length.

ETA: I was wrong. Only adjustable vented back they have is a 42liter and it weighs over 3 lbs.

Also, I may have interpreted your meaning wrong when you say the hipbelt doesn't fit right. I assumed it was a torso length issue, but maybe it was just the design? If the later, then you probably want to look at other brands, as a smaller version of what you have will probably have the same issue.

Deuter does have a 38 liter vented back for 2lb. 11oz.

http://www.deuter.com/en_US/backpack-details.php?category=119&artnr=44841&title=Spectro%20AC%2038%20w%20%2F%20NOLS

Edited by stingray4540 on 02/28/2013 02:35:45 MST.

I've got a couple of packs for sale in the Gear Swap forum.

One is a BPL Absaroka size medium. It's still new. Fits your volume and approximate weight range.

The other is an Osprey Atmos 25 size medium. It's a little smaller than what you're after, but has the Osprey suspension and back panel you like. It's a pretty nifty panel loading pack with a robust suspension.

The ArcTeryx Nozone 35 is a cool little pack weighing in at 35 ounces for a regular size. I got it last year cause I impressed with the super thin, rigid and lightweight frame system. Pretty cool pack for only 2 pounds.

http://arcteryx.com/product.aspx?language=EN&gender=mens&category=Packs&model=Nozone-35

You should be able to find one on sale.

Will Rietveld's review , EH's website .

How about a Vaude Ultralight Rock 35 for $58? $38 if you get their email coupon deals.

http://m.sierratradingpost.com/mobile/vaude-rock-ultralight-35-backpack-internal-frame~p~4184v/

35 liters, removeable frame sheet, 2lbs 6oz.

I'd take a look at something from Hyperlite Mountain Gear. They make great packs in fairly rugged Cuben. I have the Porter 4400, and it carries very well, at less than 2 lbs. They have a range of choices that should satify you.

http://www.hyperlitemountaingear.com/

Thanks for all the advice. Lots of those packs look good, I've fallen in love with the mesh ventilated back though and I'm worried that I won't like a firm foam back.

Do any other packs in this weight range outside osprey have the ventilated backs? The deuter one looks nice but its a little heavy...

ventilated .

Edited by annapurna on 02/28/2013 12:17:45 MST.