Light, Versatile, Durable, Comfy Backcountry Pack

By paulba Ranked #575 - Overnight Backpacks (2000 - 2999 cu in) January 9, 2008

I have owned the Atmos 35 for over a year, and must have used it over 50 times (without ANY wear). The comfort afforded by the airmesh backpanel has the ability to make loads of almost 30 pounds feel like nothing. I started by using it for dayhikes, and there was more than enough room for my stuff, but the compression straps keep it tight and snug against your back. The hipbelt pockets are a great for snacks, camera, etc. The axe loops and ripcord clips can be used to carry trekking poles very securely. I moved on to overnight trips, and to my surprise, found that there was enough room for everything -- including my Mountain Hardwear Raven 2 tent! The packed performed EXTREMELY well on several overnight trips. I have used my Atmos for longer mountain biking excursions when I need more room than my camelback could offer. Indeed, I found it to be more comfortable than the tiny camelback, despite being capable of holding about 20 times as much, even on a long bumpy ride. Now, into my second winter, I am finding that the pack works impeccably for snowshoeing (I found a way to strap snowshoes using side pockets and axe ripcord clips!), and its close conformance to the body make it great for backcountry nordic and touring applications. I went on a trip to the White Mountains two weeks ago involving 12 miles of x-c skiing in the woods while carrying snowshoes and lots of other gear. I could have asked for a better-functioning pack for that trip. I also found the pack to perform incredibly well during alpine climbs in the Presidential Range. Everything about this pack rocks. Those used to the traditional "tube" pack may be perturbed by the curved backpanel, but believe me -- the space of 35 liters is there -- you just have to get used to packing a little differently. The attention to detail is all there, the materials used are so light and so durable. My 2 pound Atmos doesn't have a scratch after a year of HEAVY use. Oh, and I should mention -- it is still the most comfortable pack I've ever put on my back!

View Details: Osprey Packs Atmos 35 Overnight Backpack - 1900-2300 cu in

Helpful Votes: 0 Yes