Osprey Xenith v Aether

[Hughesy]

Hi all,

First time asking for advice - I have searched both models of backpacks but it hasn't answered my query.

My research thus far has pointed towards an osprey backpack - in particular the Aether 85. Whilst in store I also came across the Xenith 88.

Is anyone familiar with both and able to compare the two? They both appear to have very similar features, the Xenith having side access and the Aether having J access to the main compartment. Only other difference according to Osprey's website is the suspension - Standard v Peripheral.

Not being familiar with backpacks, is someone able to compare the two and possibly advise which way to go? (Xenith is slightly more exxy)

FYI, main reason for purchase is Aconcagua, however I'd want it to be useful years later as well, whether it be a weekend trip, or other longer scaled expeditions.

[johnrs]

Hi Hughesy
If you are carrying high and long
Have a look at the Berghaus Expedition Light 80.
80L, 1.5 kg or less, mininimalist climbing pack design
but comfortable enough up to 25kg.
John

[Hughesy]

Thanks John, will look into it

[horsecat]

85L is quite large. I assume you're doing all your own load carries? If not, can you look at something around 40 - 50L? Much easier to deal with in cramped tents up high plus they're lighter which is very noticeable at altitude. Lowe Alpine do some great packs for the big hills which might be worth considering. But if you feel you need an 80L then go with that (I have needed a 110L on one expedition for massive carries )

[benjabimon]

Don't quote me on this, but I believe the Xenith has slightly better suspension (mostly the shoulder straps and hip belt) as it is geared to carrying heavier loads. I think the material used on the pack might also be thicker. If you plan on carrying lots of weight and can afford it, then maybe go with the Xenith.

I definitely recommend you go get fitted for the right sized pack though

[ErichFromm]

I have the Aether - so can only comment on that. Observations:
- wish it had more pockets
- The top that comes off to be a bum bag is wasted on me - would prefer it to be more storage as with my Deuter
- Very light - when there is nothing in it the whole thing is super light
- I like the water being external to the bag - easy to refill
- it's 75L and this seems right, I figure if you don't need all that space you can just tighten a few straps. Would prefer that than not having the option
- the 'special fitting" option for the waist belt they have instore is a waste - just wear it and it will naturally change with your body temp
- otherwise a good pack with no real complaints - no real excitement either. It's about as good as the Deuter pack I got off ebay second hand for $60......

[wayno]

xenith is a more heavy duty pack, carries heavier weight better, stand up to bush bashing better..

[RonK]

I have them both. Toss a coin

And get a smaller size.

[Hughesy]

Thanks for the responses all. Yes needed to do my own load carries, and I have history of back problems so have decided to go with the Xenith. I figure an extra $80 to reduce chances of a trip ruining back problem is well worth it.
After trying the Aether, the Berghaus Expedition scared me with the little support provided.

[Sandbars]

I don't even know if this applies here - but it might be worth making sure it doesn't! I have an Osprey Aura - I have loved it so much that I have both the 50lt and the 60lt - I have tried other packs, but this one feels right, carries right etc. So, what does a girls pack have to do with you? Well, I was in Paddy's yesterday, trying on a hiking shirt that has some weirdly placed zips - so to make sure the zips wouldn't be rubbed by the chest strap - I wandered over and put on an Aura. Shock, horror. The new version is quite substantially redesigned - and I hate it. Like REALLY hate it. Not sure if its just the poor Aura*, or if Osprey have "improved" more of their range - but if you are buying online, make sure you are getting the version that you tried on - because if you loved the old one, you might not love the new one, or vice versa!

*of course, it could just be me that hates the improvements too!

cheers

Julie

[metastable]

I had the same dilemma and ended up purchasing the Xenith. A couple of reasons. I hike with my 8yr old, so I am the pack horse of 90% of the equipment. The Burlier Xenith with its myriad of pockets and larger sizes seemed better suited to this. Also the burlier harness was more to my liking. It also seemed more robust that the Aether (but then I was coming from a 20yr old Aiking pack, so everything seem flimsier than that )

[benjabimon]

I don't even know if this applies here - but it might be worth making sure it doesn't! I have an Osprey Aura - I have loved it so much that I have both the 50lt and the 60lt - I have tried other packs, but this one feels right, carries right etc. So, what does a girls pack have to do with you? Well, I was in Paddy's yesterday, trying on a hiking shirt that has some weirdly placed zips - so to make sure the zips wouldn't be rubbed by the chest strap - I wandered over and put on an Aura. Shock, horror. The new version is quite substantially redesigned - and I hate it. Like REALLY hate it. Not sure if its just the poor Aura*, or if Osprey have "improved" more of their range - but if you are buying online, make sure you are getting the version that you tried on - because if you loved the old one, you might not love the new one, or vice versa!

*of course, it could just be me that hates the improvements too!

cheers

Julie

I think it's their new 'Anti Gravity' suspension system that they've used for the Aura and Atmos. I've heard mixed things so I'm not sure what to believe, but I guess it comes down to what works for each individual. I'm tempted to at least see how they fit, but I might feel the same way.

[dagsands]

I hav the aura AG 65, and it's fantastic, absolutely love it. The straps are appropriately crafted for a fuller chested woman. But mainly the anti gravity system really works and I rarely felt the weight of my 15kg pack on a 6 day walk last week. Excellent posture, perfect amount and size of pockets Etc. Love it.