User Review: Osprey Atmos 50

Osprey Atmos 50
Above: The current Atmos 50, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed May 17, 2007 by jasonplancaster

Rating:
Size: large
Max. Load Carried: 40 pounds
Height of Owner: 6 feet
Price Paid: $150

It's hard for me to not rate this backpack five stars, but being that it is the only backpack I've ever used, I'm not sure a five star rating would be appropriate.

I bought mine two years ago and have used it for two 5-day backpacking trips in addition to quite a few day hikes to crags with loads of climbing gear.

I love the vented back and the fact that this pack is comfortable on my back without a shirt. Its design allows me to clip all kinds of things to the outside while keeping the essentials inside. It works perfectly with a Camelbak hydration bag as well as having a few "easy access" locations to store food while hiking.

I have a couple complaints that will keep it from getting the fifth star:

First, the waist straps are ALMOST too large for me. I'm 6 foot exactly and have a 29 inch waist. I needed the large size for my back and shoulders, however the belt barely fits me. I generally keep it as tight or almost as tight as it can be made. If I ever lost some muscle or weight, this pack would not fit me properly.

Second, this pack is really for someone who is going light to ultralight. On my most recent trip which was actually 6 days, we ended up splitting our supplies and restocking after 3 days. While nice to have that option, I would have had a lot of trouble finding the room for 6 days worth of supplies. I'd say this pack will at most get you through 5 full days even if you have a very compact sleeping bag, sleeping pad, tent, and only do a Jetboil with freeze dried food. Something to consider if you're the kind of person that likes a couple jars of peanut butter, some cheese, and other luxury items.

All that said, my girlfriend liked the pack so much that she also bought herself one. It fits her almost perfect! Definitely give this pack consideration.