The AETHER is Osprey's signature backpack for hiking and camping. This season's latest model, the AETHER AG the Atmos AG 'll
review this fifth-generation model, focusing on the new features "AG Suspension" and "Daylid Daypack," comparing the changes from previous models.
table of contents
General features
The Aether AG is a luxurious model that combines the best of everything, incorporating Osprey's popular AG Suspension, which provides unparalleled comfort and comfort . It also features a convenient "Stow-on-the-Go" wakizashi mode, large front and side pockets, a Dilid Daypack with a transformable canopy that transforms into an attack rucksack, and a flap jacket cover that protects and compresses the main compartment.
Recommended points
- The AG suspension makes the bag so comfortable you'll forget its weight
- An attack pack with a full range of functions that can be used actively
- Large capacity yet easy to use front and side mesh pockets
- "Stow-on-the-Go" trekking pole attachment for efficient movement
- Outstanding cost performance
Points that interest me
- It is slightly heavier than the previous model (but has more convenient features)
- Hydration is now stored inside the pack again
- The soft feel of the AG system may be a matter of personal preference depending on the person
Item appearance
From left: front, back, side
Main Specifications and ratings
| Specs | |
|---|---|
| item | OSPREY AETHER AG 60 |
| material |
|
| color |
|
| Size (back length) |
|
| Capacity (liters) | 60 |
| weight | S=2.26kg, M=2.34kg, L=2.36kg |
| size | Height 83 x Width 39 x Depth 31 cm (M size) |
| Variations |
|
| Main Access | Top, bottom and J (side only for 60L) zippers |
| Rear system | Anti-Gravity Suspension |
| Rear length adjustment | Not available (models above 32L are possible) |
| Hydration compatible | ◯ |
| Rain cover | × |
| Pocket attachment |
|
| evaluation | |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ |
| Stability | ★★★☆☆ |
| Ease of use | ★★★★★ |
| Storage and functionality | ★★★★★ |
| Versatility | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability | ★★★★☆ |
| General | ★★★★☆ |
Detailed review
The highlight of this model is the back system that is named "anti-gravity"
The first thing that catches your eye is the new AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension, which incorporates the system previously installed in the Atmos AG has been changed to Aether AG
the current long-term mountain climbing model, the Genis (photo below), each part has been boldly hollowed out, making it look cool, but the weight capacity is still up to 27kg, which is the same as the previous model.
Comparison of the backs of the Aether AG (left) and Genis (right)
At first, I was worried that this would mean sacrificing fit, but when I actually put the gear on and tried it out, the mesh back, which covers from the shoulders to the waist, fit snugly to my body, giving me a sense of unity like I'd never felt before
The belt part is cushioned and made of mesh to ensure breathability, and is also lightly hollowed out to ensure it is lightweight
When I actually put it on, I felt that it defies gravity, just like the name AG (Anti-Gravity) suggests. Despite the cool appearance of the mesh fabric, the inside of the mesh feels like it sticks to your body and conforms to it, naturally distributing the weight to your hips. I was particularly surprised when carrying loads under 15 kg, because (although this is physically impossible) I barely felt any weight on my back or shoulders, and it felt like the load was being pulled upwards
It comes in three models: S, M, and L, and the quick torso allows you to easily adjust the back length.It also comes with a hip belt that is heat-moldable and available in a variety of sizes (we were unable to try the heat molding feature this time), so it's great that you can get it to fit your body without having to worry too much
The canopy transforms, making this an even more evolved attack pack
Another major change in this update is the top lid. An interesting new feature has been added that allows it to transform into an attack pack called a "day lid daypack." Until now, the canopy could be used as a waist bag (lumbar pack), but it had a drawback in that it had limited capacity and cold weather gear had to be attached externally
There are other companies' products that come with an attack sack, but this model uses the top lid as is, so you can use the outer gear loops, and even though it's a lightweight attack sack, the bottom (= the top part under normal conditions) has high tear strength, which I think is a big advantage
It also has a hydration sleeve, chest strap, ice tool loop, and small pocket with a key loop, so it can be used as a full-fledged daypack, but the fact that it doesn't make a bold statement is typical of Osprey's honesty
The canopy can be skillfully transformed into a convenient sub-pack with attachments and other accessories for full-fledged use
You can use the loops to attach cold weather gear or attach a map or camera bag to the chest. The central zipper allows access to the interior, making it easy to access rain gear, lightweight crampons, and other items. The lid alone can hold this much luggage (see photo below), making it an excellent attack pack. It's not completely waterproof, so using a waterproof stuff sack or similar would be even more reliable
Despite being a sub-pack, it has enough storage capacity to be used as a daypack
More convenient storage
In the remaining space, we will introduce some useful features that will make you think, "Wow, this is a foreign manufacturer!"
When it comes to Ospreys, some people will say "this is it," but the convenient feature is the Wakizashi mode "Stow on the Go" (see photo below). This attachment allows you to easily store your trekking poles while on the move
"Stow on the Go" allows you to quickly secure the pole while on the move
Another modest new feature is the "Flap Jacket," which protects the main cargo area and compresses it when you want to remove the top lid (see photo below). In addition to protecting the main body when depotting, it may also be useful to remove the top lid from the start to reduce weight
When you have less luggage, you can compress it compactly using the "flap jacket" and compression straps
Naturally, there are zipper pockets on both sides (see photo below). They are reasonably water-resistant and can hold cameras, snacks, and other items
One of the reasons we recommend the Aether is its dual-access side pocket (see photo below). Its flexibility allows you to attach and remove a water bottle while walking, and its stretchability allows you to pull out a bottle that's pushed all the way in without dropping it out. As the name suggests, it also has an upward-facing opening, so when used in conjunction with the compression straps, you can securely store long items like a shovel
The stretch side pockets can be accessed from above or diagonally, and the handles at the openings are a nice touch
The kangaroo pocket and the stretch mesh front panel pocket are larger than other models, making them perfect for temporarily stuffing a shell or fleece inside, or for throwing in used rain gear (see photo below). In the photo, a fleece and a synthetic jacket are haphazardly stuffed inside, but there's still plenty of room
The front pocket is fairly sturdy and has a sturdy strap, so it could be used to hold winter gear
The basic function is a J-zipper (side zipper only for the 60) that allows access to the main cargo area, and a bottom zipper that allows access to the sleeping bag compartment. The bottom compartment can be adjusted to a single compartment by adjusting the divider strap
A zipper that allows direct access to the inside of the main body is an essential feature for large packs
And it's such a basic feature for an Osprey product that even the instruction manual barely mentions it in a few words. It's worth noting again that the sternum strap (chest strap) doubles as a rescue whistle (see photo below). It's an item you'll want in an emergency, but it's a thoughtful solution to problems like not wanting to buy it, not wanting to carry it when you're not going to use it, or not being able to get it out in an instant. It's a basic concept that's also found on Osprey's smaller model, the Talon, and the trail running model, the Duro, but the simplicity of it not being flashy is lovely
A sternum strap with a whistle for added security
Things to be bothered
Heavier than the previous model
The weight of each model has increased by 200g due to the introduction of AG suspension and the Daylid daypack, but the carrying comfort has improved compared to the previous model, and in a pinch, you can use it with just the flap jacket and keep the weight the same
Hydration storage is now internal again
This may also be due to the AG suspension, but the hydration compartment, which could be accessed without opening or closing the main body in the previous model, has been retracted internally again. My opinion may change after using it for a while, but I still find it inconvenient that I can't access the hydration pack easily once it's packed
For better or worse, it gives you a unique floating sensation, like your back is floating
You may get used to it as you adjust and use it, but the space on the back and the long straps connecting the shoulder harness make it feel a bit loose and fluffy. This is especially noticeable when carrying light luggage; in reality, the luggage doesn't float at the top, but you get the illusion of it being pulled upwards. This may be due to the quirks of the bag, making it a bit tricky to fit
Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?
As an evolution of the Aether, which was well-received as a model for 2-3 nights in a tent or for long-distance hiking, this pack can be used for four-season trekking, including winter. Each function is straightforward and easy to understand, and the pack's compression straps allow for expansion, allowing you to carry various tools, making it a great addition for beginners. The Attack backpack in particular can be used on its own, and it also looks like it could be used for hot springs or walks after descending the mountain, making it convenient for mountain hikes using public transportation. And above all, be sure to experience the comfort of the newly adopted "AG Suspension," which is also the name of this model
Keisuke Yamano
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