Osprey Aether 75 Backpack

At the same time, my ability to carry somewhat larger loads has lead me to find a larger backpack. In my search, I decided to look for backpacks that met the following criteria:

• Absolutely as lightweight as feasible. Anyway I can save weight, the better.
  
   
• Good support system that moves most of weight of the load onto my hips, not my back. It also has to be comfortable.
  
   
• Big enough to carry the load I want (about 4,500 cubic inches).
  
   
• Has enough features (such as ice ax strap) to meet my needs.

In my research, most of the backpacks that meet the above criteria (except for weight) ran between 5 and 6 pounds. A few were lighter, but there suspension system was a little weak. After I got done with all of my research, the backpack that came to the top of the list was the Osprey Aether 75. Here's why it is world class:

• There are lots of options for size and fit. First of all, the Aether 75 comes in two sizes. The medium has a 4,500 cubic inch capacity and weighs 4 pounds 11 ounces. The large has 4,700 cubic inch capacity and weights 4 pounds 15 ounces. I tested the large model. This weight is on average about a pound less than comparable backpacks.
  
  In addition to two capacity sizes, the harness comes in three sizes and the waist belt comes in four sizes. And once you select the size appropriate for you, you can also adjust the size even more for a "perfect" fit.
  
   
• When Osprey designed the Aether, they didn't cut any corners when it comes to the support system. The backpack can easily support up to 50 pounds comfortably. The support system is very comfortable and there were no pressure spots when wearing the bag (once it is adjusted properly).
  
  The support system is made out of a high-density polyethylene framesheet, has a single removable composite stay, and dual composite struts, all contributing to the lighter than average weight. The composite struts anchor the load lifters and the waist belt, transferring most of the weight to your hips. In addition, the load-lifter straps work with the struts and the framesheet to keep the pack snugly against your back, helping to boost stability.
  
   
• I really like the waist belt. Many of the ones I have tried were either not supportive enough, too firm, or couldn't be easily tightened. But the Aether 75's belt is very supportive, has just the right amount of softness, and is very easy to tighten around your waist. As you tighten the belt, you can feel the weight being transferred from you back to your hips.
  
   
• The bag has two compartments, one for your sleeping bag, and the other for everything else. This divider can be removed, if desired, for one large compartment.
  
   
• The bag is top loading, and has a detachable fanny pack at the top of the bag. When attached, it can be used to hold small gear. When detached, wear it on your belt for short jaunts from your base camp.
  
   
• Outside of the bag, there are two mesh bags to hold water bottles, and a third, larger, mesh bag for storing other gear. There are also two ice ax loops, two loops for storing a sleeping pad, and fasteners for compressing your bag once it is packed.
  
   
• The back panel of the pack is well-ventilated, helping to prevent a build-up of too much moisture during warmer weather.
  
   
• The fabric is made out of ripstop nylon and coated with urethane and a DWR. This is one tough-built pack, and should last a long time.

This pack is good for multi-day backpacking and light mountaineering.

Using the Osprey Aether 75 Backpack  in the Real World

While I have not been able to carry a huge load in the Aether 75 yet, I have been very happy with the weight load I can carry. The pack is very comfortable once you have it fitted properly.

As you are already aware of, this bag has many size and fitting options. Because of this, you will probably want to visit an Osprey dealer and have the proper variation of the pack sized for you. Proper fit is important for comfort, and you will want to take the time to ensure that you get a good fit.

Once you get the bag, you will need to learn how to take full advantage of it. No instructions come with the pack, but you can download the instructions from Osprey's website. You should do this because the pack may be a little confusing at first to use. All the adjustments can be a little overwhelming. But once you get the hang of it, you will easily and quickly be able to adjust the pack each time you put it on, for the optimum fit.

Recommendation

If you are looking for a quality backpack of about 4,500 to 4,700 cubic inches that is both lightweight and comfortable, it is hard to beat the Osprey Aether 75.

If 4,700 cubic inches isn't enough, consider the Osprey Aether 90. Other than being larger, it is the same exact backpack. The medium is 5,500 cubic inches and the large is 5,700 cubic inches. I have not tried these, but if I was looking for a larger pack, I would seriously consider them.

If 4,700 cubic inches is too much, consider the Osprey Aether 60, 45, or 30. Each of these bags is very similar, just smaller.

Product Notes

Besides what has already been described about this pack, it comes is two colors: blue and green. For women, Osprey offers the Ariel line, which is virtually identical as the Aether line, but sized for women. The MSRP for the Aether 75 is $239.99.