Osprey Aether 70

Priced: $196.99 - $279.99 Rated:   - 5 stars out of 5 by 42 reviews.
Osprey Aether 70
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Available Colors:
Gearx $196.99
29% off
Regularly: $279.00
Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) $219.98
21% off
Regularly: $279.00
Moosejaw $219.99 - $279.00
21% off
Regularly: $279.00
FontanaSports.com $222.99
20% off
Regularly: $279.00
Rock/Creek Outfitters $223.20
20% off
Regularly: $279.00
Massey's Outfitters $278.94
Christy Sports $250.95
10% off
Regularly: $279.00
Mountains Plus Outdoor Gear $278.50
Appalachain Outdoors $278.95
Rock/Creek Outfitters (closeout)
(close out )
$278.95
USOutdoor.com $278.95
Al's Sports $278.99
Half-Moon Outfitters $279.00
Mountain Gear $279.00
O2GearShop.com (Spring 2012)
(Spring 2012)
$279.00
O2GearShop.com (Spring 2013)
(Spring 2013)
$279.00
PeterGlenn $279.00
Ramsey Outdoor $279.00
REI $279.00
SummitHut.com $279.00
SummitOnline.com (2013) $279.00
Zappos.com $279.00
Denali $279.99
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Osprey Aether 70 -

Osprey Aether 70 Backpack is perfect for a small weekend trip and has plenty of space to bring everything you need. This versatile and lightweight backpack has tons of pockets to store everything from the little necessities in your Hip belt Pocket to all your gear in the top pocket. If the skies open up you'll have a built-in rain cover that can help keep everything dry. You'll have two ice axe loops and AddOn Attachment so you can carry some of the extras on the outside. This backpack has a Sleeping Bag Compartment as well as Sleeping Pad Straps so wherever you decide to lay down for the night you'll know that you carried all you need to keep comfortable. For comfort throughout the day you'll have an AirScape Backpanel with Ridge Molded Foam and Smooth Space Mesh Lumbar Fabric. The airflow helps keep the back cool and less sweaty plus you'll have lost of increased and support. The material on the Osprey Aether 70 Backpack is very durable and tough so it can handle the rough outdoors and ensure that all your gear and equipment remains in good shape regardless of how long you spend in the wilderness.

Support and Cushioning:

  • HDPE framesheet and a center aluminum stay protect your back from bulky or pointy items and support heavy loads
  • Removable IsoForm CM (Custom Moldable) hipbelt offers superior load support with dual-density foam for enhanced support and an anatomically contoured shape
  • New IsoForm4 CM™ hip belt balances firmness and cushioning for optimal carry
  • AirScape™ mesh back panel with foam and mesh lumbar is cool and supportive
  • IsoFormCM™ removable hipbelt with ErgoPull™ is cushioned and supportive for optimal hauling

Frame:

  • Suspension with LightWire™ frame, center stay, and frame sheet distribute weight
  • Suspension features a peripheral frame, a smooth, spacer-mesh back panel, single stay and an internal framesheet

Insulation:

  • 3 horizontal compression straps cinch the load down closer to your center of gravity
  • Dual front StraightJacket™ compression straps tighten load down
  • InsideOut™ Compression on stretch side pocket can be routed internally or externally to hold gear down

Hipbelt:

  • Men's Isoform4 CM Hipbelt and Harness
  • Top lid can be removed and converted into a lumbar pack; hipbelt can be removed from the pack and attached to the lumbar pack for comfortable carrying
  • Dual zippered hipbelt pockets add storage where you can easily reach it
  • ErgoPull hipbelt closure provides extra leverage in cinching, drawing tension along top and bottom-not through the center-to relieve hipbone pressure
  • Heat-moldable foam using Osprey in-store CM hipbelt ovens
  • Osprey-certified custom molding available in most stores—check your local REI store for a custom hipbelt molding oven
  • Running down the sidewalls, the peripheral frame anchors to the load-lifter straps and hipbelt, transferring the load to your hips and resisting sag

Weather and Wind:

  • Spacer mesh surface with no sewn seams

Sizing:

  • 2/3 length aluminum stay

Comfort:

  • Comfortably carries up tp 65 lbs

Zippers:

  • J-zipper panel access on the front of the pack body makes stowing and accessing your gear a breeze, even when it's buried deep in the pack
  • Front J-zip provides quick access to main compartment
  • Zippered top pocket stores small items and doubles as a lumbar pack
  • New zippered hip belt pockets provide secure storage

Pockets:

  • Top pocket converts to lumbar pack with built in belt
  • Front mesh stash pocket provides a place to quickly stuff gear

Fabric:

  • Dual-entry, stretch-woven side pockets keep essentials easily accessible, and a stretch-woven front pocket with welded vent accepts Osprey AddOns (sold separately)
  • 210D nylon block shadow
  • Osprey Aether 70 pack shaves weight yet remains tough with a 210-denier double-ripstop nylon and 420-denier nylon packcloth body and 500-denier plain-weave oxford nylon bottom
  • 420HD nylon pack cloth

Fit:

  • New spacer mesh IsoForm4™ harness provides comfortable fit
  • Adjustable, men-specific IsoFormCM™ harness dials in comfortable, stable fit

Padding:

  • Removable sleeping pad straps provide an external lash point for pads
  • Removable sleeping pad straps let you cinch on a bit more extras
  • Trekking pole attachment, side gear straps, ice axe tool loops, cord loop attachment slots and removable sleeping pad straps accommodate a variety of alpine gear

Ventilation:

  • Dual-density foam harness with spacer mesh promotes airflow and wicks away moisture during warm weather and intense activity

Hydration:

  • External hydration sleeve in back panel provides an easy place to store a bladder
  • External hydration sleeve in back panel simplifies refilling and protects pack contents from spills
  • Hydration-compatible design features reservoir sleeve and dual drink tube exit ports for on-the-go hydration (reservoir sold separately)

Straps:

  • Straightjacket compression with 3 horizontal straps let you securely compress the contents whether full or nearly empty, and without sag or load distortion
  • Red internal compression strap keeps gear tight against your body with a compact center of gravity
  • Red compression strap is visible and easy to use

Upper:

  • Upper and lower side compression straps stabilize the load

Features:

  • Dual ice axe loops provide a place for your axes
  • Single 6061-T6 center stay maintains back panel shape
  • Built-in Raincover (Europe Only)
  • AddOn™ Attachment
  • Externally accessible bottom compartment with a wide mouth and divider accommodates all types of sleeping bags
  • Two ice axe loops and handle wraps
  • AddOn Compatible
  • StraightJacket compression ensures that everything stays exactly where it should
  • Recycled HDPE framesheet with weight-reducing cutouts
  • Stow-on-the-Go™ system stashes trekking poles without requiring pack removal
  • Straight Jacket compression
  • Sleeping bag compartment with divider makes your bag easy to find
  • Includes a Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment so you have both hands free when you need them
  • Airscape backpanel
  • Hook-and-loop adjustable yoke allows 4" / 10cm of fine torso adjustment
  • Add-On™ Attachment lets you attach compatible Osprey daypacks
Christy Sports

The Osprey Aether 70 is an ideal size for the vast majority of backpacking adventures.  Its Airscape backpanel provides superior breathability and pack to body comfort while the IsoForm CM hipbelts offer a heat molded fit with gender specific cuts.  With added features like J- Panel access, Stow-on-the- Go trekking pole attachment and an improved suspension technology, this backpack remains the #1 choice for adventurers of all calibers.  The Aether 70 will carry what you need - whatever your favorite adventure.


Features:
AddOn™ Compatible.
Convertible Top Pocket - Lumbar Pack.
Hydration Compatible.
InsideOut™ Compression.
J-Panel access.
Red Internal Compression Strap.
Sleeping Pad Straps.
Tool Attachment.

Size cu. in. liter lbs/oz kg.
S 4000 67 4/13 2.14.
M 4200 70 5/1 2.23.
L 4400 73 5/4 2.33.
XL 4600 76 5/6 2.42


Dimensions.
Dimensions are shown as length (height) x width x depth.
In: 33.5 x 15.0 x 13.4.
Cm: 85 x 38 x 34


O2GearShop.com (Spring 2012)
A favorite of everyone from weekend warriors to elite mountaineers, the third-generation Osprey Aether 70-liter backpack has been turning heads for more than eight years. The 2010 Aether is equipped with Osprey's LightWire alloy peripheral-frame suspension system, which combines an Airscape ribbed foam back panel with a recycled HDPE framesheet with weight-reducing cutouts. The LightWire system distributes the weight evenly across your body, so you'll feel as nimble on mile five as you did your first few steps. The pack also includes a gender-specific IsoForm CM hip belt and harness. Made of heat-moldable foam in Osprey's CM in-store hip-belt ovens, the hip belt and its ErgoPull closure close comfortably around your mid-section while adding support. The harness, meanwhile, includes 4 inches of fine torso adjustment, with hook-and-loop adjustable yokes. And with four hip belt sizes, four harness sizes, and three torso sizes, the Aether boasts an unparalleled fit range for both men and women.
USOutdoor.com
Light on weight and packed with features the Osprey Aether 70 backpack is ideal for the vast majority of backcountry enthusiasts. Its Airscape backpanel provides superior breathability and pack to body comfort while the IsoForm CM hipbelts offer a heat molded fit with gender specific cuts. Sleeping pad straps and a sleeping bag compartment help amplify stowage for added gear necessary to survive during extended excursions. Like a good friend this backpacks got your back.
An ideal size for the majority of backpackers, the Osprey Aether 70 backpack will carry what you need - whatever your favorite adventure.

Rock/Creek Outfitters (closeout)

Aether 70 is a backpacking, mountaineering light pack that is an ideal size for the majority of backpackers. The Aether 70 will carry what you need whatever your favorite adventure. The Aether 70 has the innovative Airscape suspension system which has dual peripheral aluminum rods that stabilize load and transfer weight close to the body. Also a nubbed foam backpanel with grip mesh covering providing superior breathability and ultra-comfortable pack to body contact.
The BioForm CM, IsoForm CM, and Exposure CM hipbelts (patent pending) are a revolutionary advance in the area of custom fit hipbelts. All Osprey's packs feature  ErgoPull closure that draws tension along the top and the bottom of the belt with split support wings. Their superb hip pad design offers a fit that is comfortable right off the shelf. With the additional benefits of in-store heat molding, Osprey brings you the best fitting hipbelts you've ever worn.


Moosejaw

The Osprey Aether 70 Pack is a backpack ready for any conditions and any level of experience. Lightweight yet durable, this pack is constructed to last with a LightWire alloy frame and ripstop nylon. This pack has an astounding range of fit, thanks to the adjustment straps all over the bag and the hipbelt that can be molded to fit your hips. Features specific places for things like sleeping pads and trekking poles, and a roomy place to fit whatever you need to carry. The top pocket converts into a lumbar pack for smaller trips. A favorite for over eight years, Aether packs are now in their third generation and ready to make your carry comfortable. You'll love it so much you'll want to marry it. That's probably legal somewhere.


PeterGlenn

The mid-sized pack of the line, the Osprey Aether 70 Backpack has space for up to a week in the backwoods, but maintains a light, versatile profile. The AddOn™ system lets you attach an Osprey Daylite pack for more versatile hauling. A full suspension system distributes the weight so it doesn’t drag you down.

Specs:

Features:


Denali

The Osprey Aether 70 Liter Pack is an ideal size for a variety of backpacking and mountaineering adventures. Packed with features to improve everything about your adventure this backpack remains the #1 choice for explorers of all calibers.


Mountain Gear

Treat yourself to the comfort and versatility that an elemental god himself would appreciate when you strap on Osprey's Aether 70 backpack. Light enough to carry the name of the Greek upper sky, the AirScape suspension provides ultra-comfortable body contact without hindering your ability to be light-footed.


Appalachain Outdoors
The Aether 70 from Osprey has all of the features you want in a pack without sacrificing weight. With it's built in rain cover, easy side access, and add-on options, this backpack will take you places you have only imagined until now. Stick your camera in the hip belt pocket so you never miss that perfect shot!
Mountains Plus Outdoor Gear

This pack from Osprey is perfect for Backpacking and Mountaineering.
Lightweight and comfortable Aether 70 is a versatile pack with adequate space and organization for weekend or weeklong trips lasting 3 to 7 days.

Features:

       
Volumes and Weights.
US and International weight and volume specifications


Zappos.com
An ideal bag for light backpacking and mountaineering.
Features AirScape Suspension – peripheral 7075 AL rod, ventilated nubbed foam back panel, and internal framesheet with single aluminum stay.
Large main compartment will hold all of your gear.
Welded stretch woven front pocket delivers extra carrying capacity.
Top pocket converts into a fanny pack.
Dual entry stretch woven side pockets all for easy access to water bottles.
Spacious, zippered sleeping bag compartment provides organized load division and easy alternative access to the main pack body.
Side carry loops to secure skis or poles for stable and easy transport.
IsoForm harness with dual density foam and IsoForm CM™ hip belt provide a custom, heat molded fit for extra comfort.
Internal back panel hydration sleeve with dual exit ports.
SummitHut.com

The bestselling backpacking series on the market just got even better. Known for its ability to be taken all over the world, from the summit of Everest to a backpack trip through your local wilderness, the fourth generation of Aether from Osprey builds upon its reputation for combining clean design, custom fit, and outstanding load carrying comfort. Amongst a plethora of upgrades, the new IsoForm4 CM™ hip belt adds stiffness and padding for even better performance with heavy loads. Amazingly, all this comes with no increase in weight.


REI

Slip the Osprey Aether 70 pack onto your back and enjoy the comfort of a custom, heat-moldable hipbelt and a superb, lightweight design for your backcountry adventures.

Imported.


Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
Built-in hydration sleeve with dual exit ports converts this bag into a hydration pack.
Half-Moon Outfitters
Removable IsoForm CM (Custom Moldable) hipbelt offers superior load support with dual-density foam for enhanced support and an anatomically contoured shape
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Review RatingNumber of Reviews
20
13
1
2
0
Activity:Backpacking
AddOn Compatible:Attach a Daylite or Solo daypack using the built-in cord loops.
Adjustable Torso Length:22"+ (XL)
Adjustable torso:Lightweight backpack
Backpack style:Backpacking
Backpanel:AirScape backpanel with nubbed foam and grip mesh covering provides superior breathability and ultra-comfortable pack to body contact.
Bottom Width:11 in
Capacity:Medium - 4200 cu.in. 70 liters / Large - 4400 cu.in. 73 liters
Carrying Capacity:Up to 65 lbs.
Country of Origin:Vietnam
Custom Fit Options:IsoForm harness in multiple sizes and gender specific cuts features spacer mesh surface with no sewn seams for superb comfort and contoured fit
Depth:6 in
Detachable Pack:yes
Dimension:33" x 17" x 15" / 85 x 44 x 37 cm
Dimensions:SM 4000 cu. in. (67 li.), MD 4200 cu. in. (70 li.), LG 4400 cu. in. (73 li.)
Empty Weight:Size M
Fabric:210D nylon/ 75D nylon stretch ripstop/ 500D nylon oxford
Fits Torso Length:SM - 16 - 18 1/2 in
Fits torso:Lightweight backpack
Fits waist/hips:Lightweight backpack
Frame Type:Internal frame
Frame material:No
Gear capacity (L):Internal
Gear capacity (cu. in.):Internal
Gear loops:Ski/Trekking pole loops secure skis or poles for easy, stable transport
Handle Drop:5 in
Handle Length:10 in
Height:24 in
Helmet Carrier:no
Hip Belt:IsoForm CM™ Hipbelts provide custom, heat molded fit in multiple sizes and gender specific cuts
Hydration Bladder Included:no
Hydration Compatible:A backpanel sleeve with hanger holds 3-liter and smaller hydration reservoirs. Route the hose out the slot on either side of the pack.
Ice Axe Loops:yes
InsideOut Compression:The compression strap on the side stretch woven pocket can be routed externally or internally to secure your gear
Isoform Cm Hipbelt:Heat moldable foam (using Osprey CM in-store hipbelt ovens) with ErgoPull hipbelt closure
Isoform Harness:Spacer mesh surface with no sewn seams, hook and loop adjustable yoke allows 4"/10cm of fine torso adjustment
J-Panel access:Provides quick access to packed gear.
Load Range:50 - 65 lbs / 22.7 - 29.5 kg
Material:210-denier double ripstop 420-denier Oxford 500-denier Kodra 840-denier stretch power mesh
Max Capacity:S: 67L, M: 70L, L: 73L, XL: 76L
Middle Width:10 in
Number of External Pockets:3; Dual entry stretch woven side pockets allows easy access to water bottles, Welded stretch woven front pocket delivers extra carrying capacity
Number of Pockets:4
Number of exterior pockets:70 liters
Number of stays:No
Organization Pocket:no
Pack Fabric (Primary):420D nylon pack cloth
Pack access:67 liters
Pack loading:No
Padded Laptop Compartment:No
Primary Access:Top Access
Raincover included:76 liters
Shipping Surcharge:Yes
Shovel Pocket:no
Ski / Snowboard Carrier:no
Sleeping Pad Straps:Every Aether/Ariel Series pack features removable sleeping pad straps.
Sleeping bag compartment:73 liters
Strap Drop:15 in
Strap Length:30 in
Suspended mesh back panel:No
Suspension:AirScape suspension
Tool Attachment:Each Aether/Ariel Series pack features dual ice ax loops and bungee tool tie-offs
Top Width:10 in
Torso Length:S <18.5 in.M 18-20.5 in.L >20 in.
Trekking Pole Loops:yes
Trip Length:Extended Trip (>3 nights)
Type:Backpacking
Ultralight:Backpacking
Unique Feature:2/3 length aluminum stay
Volume:S 4000 cu. in.M 4200 cu. in.L 4400 cu. in.
Volume Range:70+ Liters
Weight:S 4 lb. 13 oz.M 5 lb. 1 oz.L 5 lb. 4 oz.
Weight - metric:Internal
Weight Capacity:Over 50 lb.
Compare specifications to related products.

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Subcategories of Backpacks, Daypacks & Bags:

Osprey Aether 70 Reviews:

Positive Reviews:

Amazing! Tall/skinny watch shoulders tho

EXCELLENT pack!

MY BACKGROUND/USES:
This was my very first pack. I now lead trips occasionally and am still using the same pack for upwards of 5 years. It is showing virtually NO signs of wear and tear (quite unbelievably actually, after a good wash the pack looks practically new).

I am a "comfort-minimalist". The 2 options REI gives you are not a good representation of all backpackers I don't believe. I take as little gear as possible, but I do still take all the basic essentials shaving weight wherever possible.

Perfect size for small-medium trips (up to a week max probably; I'd struggle to fit food in here for longer than that).

BEST FEATURES:
-VERY comfortable overall. Very adjustable. Usually can't even tell you have the pack on (except my shoulder issue, see below).

-Tons of pockets on all sides and the "O-rings" on the zippers making opening and closing the pack, esp the zipper above your head, a BREEZE. I honestly can't imagine going without this feature as I use that pocket nonstop (snacks, camera, gps).

ISSUES I HAVE ENCOUNTERED:
-I carry a 4 Liter hydration pack and it does not fit in the hydration pocket. It is not really an issue since I just lay it down inside the bag, but there has been an incident where I took a bump and my hydration pack leaked into my bag a tiny bit. Very minor issue.

-The shoulder padding could be a tiny bit better. It isn't bad, but after a few days trek, I tend to bruise on my collarbones while the rest of my body is super happy. I do have bony collarbones, but still :p

-Along with the shoulder padding problem; I often find the shoulder straps are a little too long so I have to use my hands to push them forward (even when the adjustment straps are all the way in, the issue is at the top of the "main" shoulderstraps, the part that goes over the collarbones and is not adjustable....its just too long for my very tall/slender build). I am a tall, skinny individual (6'1; 135lbs) and so this may be a problem with all packs for me. I don't really know b/c I've been so happy with this one I haven't needed to try any other packs.

IMPROVEMENTS I WOULD MAKE: (Not really issues, but the bag would be even better with these)

-Pockets on the hipbelt area.

-Larger hydration bladder pocket and move it to the outside of the pack (I think new models do this actually, not sure).

-More pockets on the outer "sides" of the bag. It is just fabric and there is certainly room to put a pocket there.

There are already plenty of pockets and space, they are all accessible and the pack is very comfortable. I would absolutely recommend it to most everyone, but CHECK THE SHOULDERSTRAP LENGTHS TO MAKE SURE THEY ARENT TOO LONG FOR YOU IF YOU ARE A VERY SLENDER PERSON, ESP ON TALL MODELS. That is the only gripe I have with this pack....

if my shoulderstraps were 1.5-2" shorter I wouldn't even know I was wearing this pack (remember, I'm really skinny for my size, this likely won't be an issue for the majority of you)
Mani A at REI on 03/03/2013

Great Pack

This is a great pack. I decided since I am getting older that I needed a better pack to keep up with the scouts in my son's Boy Scout troop. I read hundreds of hours of reviews and tried on many different packs...normally placing 30 pounds in each bag to "test" it out. I decided on the Aether. I tried out the 60 and 70. I placed a weekend load into each. I compressed and abused each. I was torn between the 60 or 70- do I really need the 70? But at 1 oz more in weight...and with the great compression...why give up the flexibility of the 70? Like I said, I am getting older...so comfort and the right gear counts. I am past my ultra light days!!! With that said, I don't normally carry over 25 pounds...but I love me a pillow and other comforts that can be a bit bulky. The Aether 70 has great water pockets (You can place them straight in or "pull" style with the upper front opening in the pocket), a large sleeping bag opening (I can place my 15 degree down bag and tent in the same space (minus poles of course), it has a divider that can be hooked and unhooked as needed to separate sleeping bag area from the cavity of the pack, large zipper entrance on the front instead of using the top opening (makes for easy extraction of small stuff), great compression and expansion, fits and feels perfectly on the body (it has an adjustable harness…but I didn't need to adjust from the original set up) and I can hardly feel any weight. Impressive! I did not "heat" mold the belt- doesn't need it. The pockets on the belt are large and very nice. Words cannot describe how well the belt cinch's when you pull them. Excellent. The top pocket in large and can carry all my small stuff in one place. A second pocket would have been idea...but still love the entire design of the pack. Oh- this year's model has the hydration port on the outside. Even with a 70oz bladder filled, I hardly noticed it there as I hiked. I bought the medium Osprey rain cover for it...works perfectly. Space to have stuff on the outside if needed. Don't get the large...it would be way to big. Wish it had a drain hole though. Overall, a perfect multiday or weeklong (or more) pack. It will fulfill what I need it to do and more as I progress through the Boy Scouts with my son. It has great features, light, excellent support and with Osprey's warranty and REI support- a win/win forever. I am 5'9", 160 pounds with a torso of 18.5". I bought the medium. I used the "stock" harness and belt- they are perfect for my size. Good luck!
Tom on the Mountain at REI on 03/03/2013

best pack I've owned

Bought this pack May, 2011 and have used it at least 30 nights and an untold number of day trips. I took it to Eagle cap, Oregon for 50 mile trip over 5 days (stuffed it as full as I could) and it performed flawlessly. This is my 4'th backpack and by far the absolute best. I didn't know it was possible to backpack for many hours and be comfortable at the same time. I started using this pack for day trips as well because its so comfortable. The adjusters are very effective. I like all the pockets although I would have liked 1 or 2 small zipper pockets on the waistband for easy access. I really appreciated REI for measuring my back and fitting me to this pack (there are 4 sizes). The pack is very durable and shows no signs of wear even though I take it on the road everywhere I go. I've hiked with a group of guys for a number of years and have watched the various brands and have noted their various weaknesses (broken belt clips, internal frames that poke through, rubbing on the hips or shoulders). The people I been with who've been using Osprey packs have not had these issues. I feel very happy with this product.
cwk at REI on 03/03/2013

Great Pack for the money!

On this packs first trip (2 weeks in southern Italy including a Vesuvius summit) it definitely exceeded my expectations. Comfort level was excellent on long hikes and the location / ease of use of pockets was great. One word of warning, if you are a tall guy like me (6'5'') and order the XL, please know that the belt is labeled a Large. When I got my pack in the mail I was concerned that the merchandise tags, denoting XL, where mistakenly placed on a Large since the belt tag says Large. After bring the pack into the Chicago store re-trying on the Large, the XL is noticeably longer and a better fit for me. Also, there's no need for an XL airport carrier, it hits nicely in a Large.
Jessica at Moosejaw on 05/19/2012

Big pack for everything

A very solid and dependable pack! With the osprey rain cover on this pack, you can go just about anywhere. It easily stayed dry through a whole day of rain. (probably longer had i felt up for it).

I take the hip strap off for easy storage in over head bins on airplanes. Even when the plane and the pack are full, the pack still can squeeze in.

This is a nice big pack that has room for everything and this is where you can get into trouble. If you try to fill it up for a weekend backpacking trip, you've pack far too much. Now if you also like to layer equipment or aren't very organized, this pack can be a bit of a headache.
topnotchrunner at Mountain Gear on 04/04/2012

Really good.

Really, it's good. There's literally nothing wrong with this pack. It's super comfortable, looks awesome, packs well, what else do you need? The water bottle holder thing is kinda weird, but that's okay. The Osprey hydration packs that you can buy are awesome, they fit perfectly, have that nifty handle, and a cool magnet that clips to it. Talking about this pack though, It's awesome. The form fitting hip belt is frilly and I didn't notice much difference, but you get some cool street cred when you say that your hip belt if form fitted to your hips. The access points are good, my pack looked only a little bit messy after I had to grab something out of it. Really guys, this pack rocks.
Thomas at Moosejaw on 10/21/2012

Excellent Pack!

Is it wrong for me to love a backpack? Wow. I have used this for 2-5 day trips. I had originally purchased the EMS Longtrail, but had to return it since it didn't have front access. I exchanged it for the Aether 70 which VERY comfortable and packs very nicely. The load does not shift as much as others I've experienced. Also, the hip belt, even though it's not thickly padded, fits nicely. Two issues: 1) It lacks external gear pockets (other than the front stretch pocket, and two for water bottles; 2) it has no pockets for gear on the hip belt. Other than that, the pack is AWESOME for the money.
drangler at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 03/03/2013

Great pack! Keep it in the green!

I recently used this pack for an 8 day no-resupply trek through the Ouachita National Forest along the Ouachita Trail. It performed flawlessly even though I had it loaded to 55 lbs (just outside the green handling zone) at the start. It wears "heavy" when it is loaded to that weight, but never became painful; it always carried the load on my hips. Great quality pack. Just a side note, I attached an Osprey DayLite to the back of the unit because I just did not have enough storage. If you are planning something like what I just did, go with the 85L. It will serve you better in the end.
Venture Crew Advisor at Rock/Creek Outfitters on 09/09/2009

Carry a lot of weight comfortably

Replaced an aging external frame pack with the Aether. Like night and day difference now that I know how to properly wear/adjust it. I loaded it for winter camping (about 50 to 60 pounds total w/4-season tent, bag, clothes, food for 8 days and some water, etc.) and then panicked when after a couple of miles I felt a searing burn in my hip. After adjusting the bag and carrying it higher, had no issues and can wear it comfortably for miles and miles. I'm guessing right now, but I think it is a good choice. Compared to what I had, the comfort and capacity is vastly better.
Why do I need a nickname at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 09/09/2011

One of the better packs that I've used to backpack!

This is my 3rd backpack used to travel abroad. I used it for 2 weeks on a trip all over New Zealand. By far, it was the most comfortable and easy to use. The hot mold technology is absolutely phenomenal! It basically just simulates years of use all in about 20 minutes. Here are some other features I love about this pack: Ability to add a daypack (which was really easy to add/remove)Accessibility - The front loading zipper makes it really easy to access your stuff!Compression - The pack expands and compacts with ease. I highly recommend this pack to a beginner/intermediate backpacker/camper!
Jared at Moosejaw on 12/13/2012

Negative Reviews:

Not as good as expected

Bought this pack for 2-3 day backpack trips. Went on my first trip 2 days 1 night for a total of 14 miles. Pack weighed in at about 25 without food an water. First of all I could not reach my water bottles when they were in the side pockets. No belt pockets to store snacks camera etc. I am new to backpacking so didn't even think about it. Most of all the pack was very uncomfortable. It was killing my hips. Went back to EMS and they are going to order me a larger belt to see if that helps. Very disappointed in the comfort level of this bag.
Surffishjimmy at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 09/09/2011

Good for ultralight winter trips

Purchased this as a weekend pack. I usually use Mystery Ranch packs exclusively, and was shocked at the slipping and lack of comfort in this pack when loaded with a 30-45lb load. I often hike places where there are no reliable water sources, so I carry 6-8 liters of water. This pack is not suitable for anyone who carries heavier weights. Maybe ultralight hikers would find it well suited for bulky but lightweight winter clothing and bags, but it's not great for the way I pack.
Audax at Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS) on 04/04/2012

Neutral Reviews:

Not a bad buy, I own it, but I find myself looking for something better.

I bought this 70 pack after I had to return the Osprey Atmos 65 for a zipper failure. Osprey has a great customer satisfaction guarantee, so I give them that. It's a slightly awkward pack going from the 65, but this is to be expected from any larger pack. I returned the 65 pack instead of replacing it, because I thought the design was somewhat flawed, I have no actual complaints about this series pack it really does get the job done well and it seems to be very sturdy. I probably should have purchased the 60 version, but I usually just cinch down all the compression straps tight and it flattens out nice.
Scott at Moosejaw on 11/09/2012