User Review: Osprey Aether 70

Osprey Aether 70
Above: The current Aether 70, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed July 5, 2006 by Oregonlahar

Rating:
Design: top loading
Size: 4,200
Number of Pockets: 4
Max. Load Carried: 45 lbs
Height of Owner: 6ft
Price Paid: $229

I have hiked about 50 miles so far with my Aether 70. So far, so good. There are aspects about this bag that are fantastic, the weight, price, features are all top notch. In particular, I like the elastic pockets, straps and the airscape back. When hiking in hot weather, my skin has a tendency to get rashy and pimpley (blah) and I have noticed that it is less with the Osprey.

I have not yet had the hip belt heat molded to fit me, perhaps that would help with the fit better. As a typical male, the hip belt slips right off my hips. Perhaps on the other biggest reasons I bought this bag is because of the adjustability Osprey packs have. The average weight I carry is about 40 lbs. This pack is more comfortable than my old one but not yet as comfortable as I had hoped.

So 4 stars instead of 5 with the hope that with the adjustablity and heat molding it can get even more comfortable.