Trip report- backpack help

**Latch** · 04-25-2014, 20:40

Just finished another 52 miles of AT from a few miles in from Georgia to the Nantahala Outdoor Center. Great trip! I think my hiking companions are starting to understand how much more comfy I am than they are! I was high, dry and feeling good in the morning!

On another subject, I m looking to put my 17 year old Gregory Shasta Backpack on the shelf. I am really struggling on what pack to get. I would love to hear what pack you use and how much do you love it. BTW, I am leaning toward Osprey Aether 60 or ULA Catalyst. Thanks! A couple trip pics are attached.

**southern9** · 04-25-2014, 20:51

I believe there is an Aether in the for sale section.

**Chris183** · 04-25-2014, 20:53

Looking comfy! I just picked up an osprey exos 58. It's super light weight, very minimalist and above all : comfortable. One of the very few packs that have kept my back dry.

**BackpackerGuy** · 04-26-2014, 03:46

Check out the ULA Ohm 2.0.
VERY light and versatile pack!

**CeeVee** · 04-26-2014, 05:40

I have an osprey exos 58 large an older one (second hand) I got because I value the mesh panel.
The main bag is not 58 liters, more like 40. The other pockets, when the main is loaded, are harder to use efficiently. The waist belt pockets are closer to the pack than the belt buckle, the padded sections of the belt are short and the adjustable straps on the belt are long. All in all mine I wouldn't term mine a large more like a medium-large. Maybe that's an Asian or European large?

**Slowanderer** · 04-26-2014, 06:19

I have and use ULA packs exclusively now. I highly recommend them. Give them a call and check them out.

**Latch** · 04-26-2014, 08:37

I am looking for something about 60-65 liters. My Gregory is like 80 plus. I have gotten a lot of bulk out of my pack using a hammock and switching from synthetics to down. Bring on some more advice please! ULA is tempting but I wonder about comfort... I know the new Osprey designs are supposed to help keep your back cool.

**BackpackerGuy** · 04-26-2014, 08:54

I had many of the same concerns you did. The ULA Ohm, while listed at slightly over 50 L, can really top out at probably 65 L, because of how it is designed. The nice thing is, if you happen to pack only 35 L in it, it can really compress and cinch down nice and small and compact. I don't think I will ever need to buy another pack again.

**BackpackerGuy** · 04-26-2014, 08:57

Also, getting a smaller pack will help force you to rethink what you are taking on a trip and you will invariably shave space and weight in the process. If your pack weight is consistently above 30 pounds, then I would not recommend the Ohm.

**CeeVee** · 04-26-2014, 18:58

Repacked my Osprey EXOS 58 today and weighed it. Mild weather rigged
NO water, NO food, Hammock, Tarp, Cook kit, and etcs # 21, 7 oz. Surprised at the light weight.