Osprey Men's Aether 70 Backpack

I used the backpack on a 50 mile hike on the Appalachian trail in North Carolina in April 2013. I carried about 30 pounds and the pack made it seem like 5. The load transfer to the hips was accurate and comfortable. The shoulder strap pads and back of the pack NEVER got wet with sweat (I still find that amazing) and the adjustable shoulder, hip, chest and load straps allowed me to refine the fit so that nothing hurt. The removable top was used as a pillow which was useful. I never used it as the daypack hipbelt that it was meant for, but under different circumstances I could see how it would be useful. The multitude of compression straps kept the load tight which allowed me to keep a good centre of gravity and hence a good balance throughout the hike. The bag material is tough although not waterproof. I kept the sleeping bag in the bottom compartment where it was meant to be, but inside a waterproof bag which gave me piece of mind. I bought a raincover at Walmart for about $5 which fit fine and kept it dry in the rain. 70 litres was more than sufficient for the 4 day hike carrying the sleeping bag, mattress, tent, food, clothes, cooking set, first aid kit and miscellaneous items. The exterior water bladder sleeve was handy and perfect for the Osprey 3 liter bladder that I purchased separately. All in all, a good product that enhanced my hiking experience.