"Very Good". I wouldn't say "Perfect".

By mer3114407 Ranked #589 - Backpacks July 24, 2009

There are things that this pack does well. And then there are things it does just "okay".

First the good. Its well-built and the zippers don't fail. The zippers come with easy access rings, and the teeth are large and sturdy. Everyone keeps harping on how large it is, but for my 4 day trip on Rainier, it was just enough. I routinely carried 60 lbs in it, no problems.

I'm 5'6" and 136lbs. I got the Medium and that fit me comfortably. I have to admit, it wasn't as comfortable as others I've tried, but its amongst the top 3. I think few will disagree, its a comfortable pack. My only gripe on the size and fit is that it does shift a little too much for my personal taste. But maybe if I got the small, that would be different.

Now, my major gripe with the bag is that it doesn't have any side access. With a large bag, its very useful to include a side zipper so you can retrieve things from the middle of the pack. That would have given this 5 Stars in my book. Additionally, it doesn't organize very well. It would have been nice to be able to get some exterior pockets and additional organization.

Still, it did the job in fine style. And I love the color. For anyone who's interested, this is a link to my Rainier Trip video:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3j99yIFgndc&fmt=18

View Details: Osprey Packs Aether 85 Backpack - 5000-5400 cu in

Helpful Votes: 1 Yes