User Review: Osprey Ariel 65

Took Osprey Ariel 65 on my Nepali trek. It is light, on which my sherpa also did comment. He was greatly enthused by the pack. We managed mostly my things, his small bundle and bits and pieces from his 10 yr old son.

The bottom compartment held my Daimor scheidegg sleeping bag well. Obviously there would be more room - even for a pair of sports shoes if only a summer sleeping bag were put in.

For a longer trek, especially at relatively high altitude, great thought has to be put into what one is packing into a sack this size. It can be done. Invest in quality, dry easy thin layers as opposed to bulk.

The pack took all of what I needed. It is good that Ariel 65 does not go too wide, as some backpacks do. It also draws in well, when taking less.

The lid took the wet weather trousers,anorak and pack protector well. I did feel that when fully packed, the rim around the lid could have come down a bit more snugly over the sack, just as additional protection when walking in mid weather change.

For my height, 5'2", it was very comfortable - none of the head hitting at the back that occurs with some - very comfy. Hip belt super snug. At some points between 10-15 kg, it really did not feel that one was carrying that weight.

Carrying the sack through from relatively high altitude, through to temperate and semi tropical zones, the circulation around the back was excellent. None of the clamminess that most backpackers experience. So that fancy bit of pink foam shaped like a market egg tray really does work. I have not as yet had reason to take off the lid to use it separately. So I can't comment on that.

The side elasticated bits took a litre water well, the odd immediately usable insect bite stick, rub or shareable snack. Later, they would also take a sports shoe each. En route, used the front one for wipes, small hand towel, toothbrush, small cup, flattened loo roll, sunscreen spray, lip salve,maps. (Found putting anything into trouser pants a real drag.)

This sack adjust very well, especially with the top straps, it enables one to achieve a good balance. I am looking forward to using it again - and see how it goes on a longer trek. When taken off, it also sits proud - which is good if one doesn't want to see the sack toppling over into mud or other unspeakable slush.