This is a lighter version of the well-established Atmos AG 65 backpacking pack, which I first reviewed in 2016. It has the same back system with an air gap between the curved frame and a tensioned mesh backband that extends into the hipbelt. This makes the latter really hug the hips and support virtually all the load. The padded sections of the hipbelt can be adjusted in length to fine tune the fit too. The shoulder harness can be adjusted up and down but you can’t make the padding longer as you can on the AG 65. Overall the carry is much the same though. Osprey says it’s for loads up to 18kg. I think that’s conservative as I’ve carried over 20kg in it.
Chris Townsend’s verdict
The weight saving over the Atmos AG 65 is only 200 grams and this is still quite a heavy pack. It does cost £60 less though. Which is best depends on which features you prefer.- Comfy Carry
- Pockets
- Weight
| Quick specs | |
|---|---|
| Price: £230 Weight: 1.925kg (S/M) Capacity: 65 litres Materials: recycled 210D nylon honey comb contrast, PFAS-free DWR Closure: detachable, extendable lid with four buckles, zipped side Back: peripheral wire frame, ladder torso adjustment, spacer mesh tensioned back panel Hipbelt: tensioned, padded, shaped Pockets: stretch front, 2 stretch side, 2 zipped hipbelt, 1 zipped lid Features: side compression straps, lower sleeping pad straps, ice axe loops, rain cover in base Sizes: men: S/M, L/XL, women: XS/S, M/L Women’s/Men’s Version: yes (women’s the Aura AG LT 65) URL: https://www.osprey.com |
The packbag is a bit simpler than on the Atmos AG 65. There’s no bottom compartment, only one side zip, only one lid pocket, no front zipped pockets, and no system for attaching trekking poles. There are still six pockets however. I really like the big stretch front pocket for storing wet gear and the large lid pocket. The side zip access is useful too. I don’t miss having side zips on both sides or a lower compartment.
The lid is extendable and can be removed. There’s a flap to cover the load if you do the latter. It has buckles to attach it to the front straps.
The weight saving over the Atmos AG 65 is only 200 grams and this is still quite a heavy pack. It does cost £60 less though. Which is best depends on which features you prefer. As far as load carrying comfort goes they’re identical. My choice would be for the AG LT as I prefer simpler designs.
