AETHER is a classic model of Osprey's traverse and tent-catching backpacks. The latest model, which incorporates the Atmos AG , which has been well received for its new, comfortable feel, is
the AETHER AG, which I myself started using it in the third generation released in 2010, and have been fascinated by its stable carrying comfort and the functions scattered throughout the parts, and have been using all the previous models. So this time, we will be reviewing this fifth-generation model, focusing on the new features, "AG Suspension" and "Daily Daypack," while comparing what has changed from the previous model.
table of contents
General features
The Ether AG incorporates the "AG suspension," which has become a hot topic for its unparalleled comfort as Osprey's classic model for traversing . This is a luxurious model that takes advantage of the convenience of the "Stow on the Go" wakizashi mode, a large front and side pocket, a delayed day bag that transforms the canopy into an attack backpack, and a flap jacket cover that can protect and compress the cargo space of the main body.
Recommended points
- The AG suspension is comfortable to carry, making you forget the weight
- An attack backpack with a rich function that can be used actively
- Large capacity but easy to use front and side mesh pockets with no quirks.
- "Stow on the Go" trekking pole attachment that enables wasteless action
- Excellent cost performance
Points that interest me
- It has a slightly more weight than the previous model (and also has more convenient features).
- Hydration is stored inside the unit again.
- The fluffy feel of the AG system may vary depending on whether you like it or not.
Item appearance
From left to front, back and sides
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, J (60L only side) zipper |
| 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 current model's highlight is the back system with anti-gravity force
The first thing that stands out is the AG (Anti-Gravity) suspension that was installed this time. The system installed in the Atmos AG been changed to Ether AG
the current long-term traverse model, Genius (photo below), each part is boldly hollowed out, making it cool, but the weight resistance is up to 27kg, the same as the previous model.
A comparison of the back of the Ether AG (left) and Genis (right).
At first, I was worried that the fit was sacrificed, but when I actually put my gear in and tried to take action, the mesh back, which was placed so that it was covered from the shoulders to the waist, fitted like a sticking fit to the body, giving it a unique sense of unity.
The belt part is cushioned, yet breathable with mesh, and is also moderately hollowed out and lightweight.
When I actually carry it on my shoulder, I think it feels like I'm carrying it against gravity, like the words "AG" (Anti-Gravity). Despite the cool appearance of the mesh fabric, the inside of the mesh feels like it sticks to your body, following your body, naturally dispersing the weight to your waist. Especially when I carried a luggage weighing less than 15kg (which is physically impossible) I was surprised to see almost no weight on my back or shoulders, and it seemed like the luggage was being pulled upwards.
There are three models available: S, M, and L, but the quick torso allows you to easily adjust the back length, and it also comes with a hip belt that can be used to choose the size and heat-molding (we didn't try thermoforming this time), so I'm grateful that you can fit your body without being too nervous.
The canopy has been transformed and has evolved even further
Another major change in this update is the top lid (canopy). An interesting new feature called "Daily Daypack" has been added that transforms into an attack backpack. Until the previous model, the canopy could be used as a waist bag (lumbar pack), but it had the weakness of being low in capacity and having to attach external cold weather gear.
There are also models that come with attack backpacks in other companies' products, but this model uses the top lid as is, so you can utilize the outer gear loop, and although it is a lightweight attack backpack, it has a strong tear strength on the bottom (= the top part under normal circumstances) which is a major advantage.
There are also hydration sleeves, chest straps, ice tool loops, and small pockets with key loops, so it's probably Osprey's honesty that he doesn't assert himself, even though he can be used as a real debuck.
The canopy has been transformed into a convenient, fully-usable sub-pack with attachments and other features.
You can use the loop to attach external cold weather gear, or connect maps and camera bags to the chest. Another key point is that the interior can be accessed via the zipper in the center, making it easy to take out rain gear and light crampons. You can store this much luggage (photo below) with just the lid alone, so you can use it as an attack backpack. It is not completely waterproof, so I think it's more reliable to use a waterproof stuff sack or something similar.
Despite being a sub-sack, it has excellent storage capacity so that it can be used as a daypack.
There's more convenient storage
Even though it's an overseas manufacturer, can we do it this far? We will introduce some useful features that you will find in the rest of the space.
When you think of Osprey, the Wakizashi mode "Stow on the Go" (photo below) is such a convenient feature that some people answer "this." This attachment allows you to temporarily store trekking poles even while you are still taking action.
"Stow on the Go" quickly secures the pole while you're on the move.
This is also a simple new feature, the "flap jacket" is a flap for protecting the cargo space and compression when you want to remove the top lid (photo below). In addition to protecting the main unit when depotted, you may also use it to remove the top lid from the beginning to reduce weight.
When there are little luggage, you can compress it compactly with the "flap jacket" and compression strap.
Of course, there are zipper pockets located on the left and right sides (photo below). It is also water resistant and can be used to store cameras and other foods.
The dual access side pockets (photo below) are one of the reasons I would like to recommend Ether. It is convenient because it allows you to put on and take off the water bottle while walking, and its stretchability allows you to pull out the bottle that is pushed deep inside while preventing it from falling out. As it is dual, there is an upward entrance, so if used in conjunction with a compression strap, it can securely store long items such as shovels.
The stretch side pockets can be stored from above and at an angle, and the handle at the entrance is also very detailed.
The kangaroo pocket function, the "Stretch Mesh Front Panel Pocket" is also larger than other models, and is extremely useful, temporarily plunging into shells and fleece, and throwing used rain gear (photo below). In the photo, there is a casually packed fleece and synthetic jacket, but there is still plenty of room to spare.
The front pocket is somewhat strong and has a sturdy strap, so it can be used for winter gear.
A basic function that allows you to access the main body cargo space with a J zipper (side zipper only 60) and the sleeping bag space through the lower zipper. The lower storage space can be adjusted to a single air chamber by adjusting the divider strap.
The zipper that allows direct access to the inside of the main unit is an essential feature for large packs.
And it's a function that is so obvious that it's a basic function that even the instruction manual only contains a few characters. I will once again note that the Sternum strap (chest strap) is a rescue whistle (photo below). This is an item you want in case of an emergency. We are careful to solve problems such as not wanting to buy it, not wanting to hold it even when you don't use it, and not being able to put it out on the spur of the moment. Although it is a basic idea that comes with Osprey's small model Talon and the Duro model of the Trerun model, it is lovely simple and doesn't appeal to it.
A sternum strap with a whistle that is simple and safe.
Things to be bothered
Weight gain from the previous model
Due to the introduction of AG suspension and the daily daypack, each model has an additional 200g weight. However, the comfort of carrying is improved from the previous model, and in the event of an emergency, it can be used on a stand-alone flap jacket and is suitable for use on a stand-alone weight.
Hydration storage goes inside again
This may also be due to the balance with the AG suspension, but the hydration storage unit, which was previously used to allow the main unit to be inserted and removed without opening and closing, has now become internally retractable. The rating may change if you use it all the way through, but it still feels inconvenient that you can't put in and take out hydration without stress once you've packed your luggage.
For better or worse, it has a unique floating feeling that makes your back float
You may get used to it as you adjust and use it, but the back space and the long strap that connects the shoulder harness makes the shaking look slightly noticeable and fluffy. This is especially true for light luggage, and although it is not possible for the luggage to float on the top, you will end up with the illusion of being pulled to the top. It may be that the size adjustment is a bit delicate, as well as the habits involved.
Summary: What kind of activities do you recommend?
As an evolution of the Ether, which has been well-known as a model for traversing from a tent stay of 2-3 nights, it can be used for trekking for four seasons, including winter. Each function is straightforward and easy to understand, and it is expandable to carry around a variety of tools with you using the compression strap, and has a wide range of features that are appreciated by beginners. In particular, the attack backpack has a function that can be used alone, and is also likely to be reused for hot springs and strolling after descending the mountain, making it convenient for mountain hiking using public transport. Above all, try the comfort of carrying the "AG suspension", which is also named in the newly adopted model.
Yamano Keisuke
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