I used this pack backpacking through Asia for two months. I found that 15kg was my max ideal comfort weight. I was so rough with the pack and it still doesn't have a single snag. It was the perfect size and I had bulky things packed like my camera, hiking shoes and the weight always felt evenly distributed. It's really easy to adjust to fit you perfectly which is great as I can adjust it so all the weight is on my hips and not my shoulders - as I have a small frame this is really important as my shoulders hurt quickly if they are carrying a lot of weight. I'm going to take it on a multi day hike soon and can't wait to try it out for hiking as it has a built in sleeve for a water bladder. Highly recommend this pack!

Kate

NSW, Australia

I ordered the Ariel 55 way back in 2009 and since then it's been deep into wilderness areas, stuffed into the overhead compartment on my way to foreign countries, and lugged around with teaching supplies for my environmental education jobs. It's a fantastic pack!! I just recently sent it into Osprey to have one of the metal frame pieces replaced, and they also patched two holes on the side pockets! Now my pack is ready to jump into another busy summer outside! I have broken the waist buckle several times, but that's an easy fix. The pack itself is also a smidgen too tall for my body, but that's my fault. Everything is easily adjustable, I love the pockets and straps, I've strapped all sorts of stuff to the outside of this pack!

Christie B

Greenville, Maine

I got my Ariel in sand. It was my first backpacking bag and I haven't found a more comfortable style yet. There is plenty of room for storing gear and the convertible top daypack has been my savior on scrambles during longer trips. I've taken it on two day trips and 5 days and it serves perfectly for both. I would definitely buy this bag again.

BJ

Medford, OR

$30 dollars more than the older model and still no rain cover

LP

New York