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Osprey Packs Ariel 55 Backpack - Women's - 3400cu in

Item #OSP0075 | 0 in Stock

I was comparing the Ariel 55 to the Luna 70. I realize the Luna...

By Ranked #2052 - Weekend Packs (3000-4500 cu in) April 10, 2008

I was comparing the Ariel 55 to the Luna 70. I realize the Luna is twice as heavy (6lbs vs. 3.75). And, the Ariel I tried on feels great. But, I'm only 5'1" tall and small boned. I was attracted to the Luna. For only $40 more, it comes with a adjustable torso, detachable pack, and a petite (XS) frame. I'm new to backpacking, but wanted a bag that would last me awhile. Do you think at my height, and small torso length, the Luna would fit me better than the Ariel? I'm wondering if I should go with an XS bag vs. the S. I guess there is really no way to know unless I try both of them on, huh.

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

By Ranked #1715 - Weekend Packs (3000-4500 cu in) May 20, 2008

Did you get someone with an Osprey back measurer to check your torso length? It's key if you want to adjust heavier loads appropriately, and the inch or so too big really can make a difference when you get it loaded up. I'm not much taller than you (5'4"), and my torso is a S. I know that when I have the M packs on, it just doesn't work well for me when they're heavy (I don't notice so much if they're not heavy, so make sure wherever you go to try out packs that you load them up well--your gear will probably be better than their sandbags for trying stuff out, although that could simulate some water weight for you). If you truly are an XS, you probably want a pack that fits you. Size-wise though, you are looking at two different packs (55 litres vs. 70 litres), so you want to keep that in mind when making comparisons. Oh, and it looks like the Xenon replaced the Luna this spring, so either you'll get a good deal on a Luna 'cause it's on it's way out, or you may want to see what improvements they made to it with the creation of the Xenon. I have a Luna 90 from 2001, when they first created it, and I love it still, but I bet there are all kinds of good improvements and updates. Not sure if you're familiar with the "hip-belt, shoulder straps, load adjusters" method/order of adjusting straps, but that's key for a good fit too. Hope that helps! I'm in the market for a smaller personal pack myself right now and it can be time-consuming to make sure you truly get what you want. In the end though, I've found the only way to know for sure is to get it out and use it, so good luck!

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes

Tech Specs:

Material:
Nylon 
Volume:
[Small] 3200cu in; [Medium] 3400cu in 
Suspension:
AirScape 
Back Panel:
AirScape 
Hydration Compatible:
Yes 
Torso Adjustment:
No 
Detachable Pack:
Available 
Sleeping Bag Compartment:
No 
Rain Cover:
No 
Access Types:
Top 
Gear Loops:
No 
External Pockets:
1 Front, 2 side 
Snowboard Carry:
No 
Ski Carry:
A-Frame 
Recommended Use:
Backpacking 
Weight:
[Small] 3lb 11oz; [Medium] 3lb 14oz 
Warranty:
Lifetime 
Country of Origin:
United States 
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