By: Anna Schwyter
The Osprey Aura AG 50 L Pack is equipped with their brand-new anti-gravity suspension system that definitely lives up to its name. Even when fully packed, the weight on my hips, back, and shoulders is unbelievably light. The suspension is designed so that there are absolutely no pressure points or hot spots to bear the brunt of your load. It begins at the top of the back and continues all the way down and around through the hip belt. Needless to say, I’m impressed.
The pack was true to capacity; 50 L is perfect for a few days out on the trails in warm weather. That being said, this is not the pack I will take out in the winter, just due to space limitations and that I’ll be carrying bulkier gear. The brain has two pockets, one much larger than I expected. This is great for carrying all of my snacks without having to take my pack off on the trail.
Some features that I really like about this pack would be its sleeping bag compartment zipper, quick draw water bottle pockets, hip belt pockets, and the detachable brain for carrying smaller loads more conveniently. The sleeping bag compartment was large enough for my bag, stove, and water filter, which saved space up top and helped me carry more of the weight towards my hips. Features like the quick draw and hip belt pockets are essentials, as they lessen the amount you have to stop to take off your pack to grab things like water, lip balm, or a camera.
Although I’m a huge fan of my Aura AG 50 L, one thing that I think the pack was lacking is sleeping pad straps. Sure, it’s easy enough to attach your pad to a pack with string or carabineers, but I much prefer pad straps. To solve this, I ended up sticking my pad between the brain and the pack.
Overall, I am very pleased with the pack and excited to take it out on many adventures to come. I rate it 4.5 out of 5 stars, only losing points for the lack of pad straps.