Gregory VS Osprey

[The Warrior]

Any thoughts about these 2 brands? Going to get a new pack, and was wondering what people thought, especially between the Gregory Baltoro series versus the Osprey Aether series. Thanks.

[VinoNoir]

I have an Osprey Atmos 50 and I love it.

It's:

-lightweight.
-has adequate space for my particular load out (held enough gear for a 5 day, 42 mile loop).
-durable.
-has a fantastic warranty.

My only complaint is the shoulder straps. They are thin, as to save weight, and after 8 miles, with 40 lbs on your back, the straps dug in a bit. After 5 days it got old, but lessened with the reduction of food weight etc. This isn't a problem on shorter trips with lighter loads, and could easily be remedied by wrapping some foam around the strap where it rests the tops of your shoulders.

Otherwise, I love the pack.

Hope this helps, and good luck in your search.

[Lars]

I have an Osprey Aether 70 that I always use when out backpacking. The pack is comfortable, durable, everything is easily accessible, and they offer an awesome warranty. Definitely worth the money.

[WFR]

I've owned an Aether 60 and it's very close to the perfect pack for 3-4 days if your load doesn't get over the 40 lb. mark.
I was usually carrying 32-35 and it was very comfortable.
I've since gone lighter and now use a Go Lite Pinnacle. Almost the same volume but a much lighter pack.

It really boils down to personal preference, fit and the way you like to load your pack.
Both are good brands.
Find a store that will let you put weight into them and walk around the store for 30-45 minutes.

Keep in mind that the larger your pack is the more you will carry.
I have my load down to the 30-33 lb range now for a 4-day trip.
Trying to figure out how to get under 30 lbs next.

WFR

[ucgreen]

The most important thing to know is which specific pack fits you better--I'm sure one of them will work out. They are both very reputable companies that make excellent packs. I tried on both the Baltoro and Aether and ultimately decided to get a granite gear (nimbus trace). It just fit me a bit more comfortably than the others. I have a friend that backpacks with a baltoro and loves it; says it fits like a glove.

Go to a store that will let you load both of them up and take a walk around in them.

[wooly bugger]

Both manufacturers make a great product, each with their own individual qualities. They also both have good customer service. The Gregory's tend to fit me better, but I like that almost all of the Ospreys have sleeping pad straps built in to the base of the pack. A good fit is the most important factor in picking a pack so I'd recommend a trip to REI. Good luck