Sometimes you have to stop and pick the flowers. Photo: Lindsay Gough//The Inertia
The Osprey Aether Pro 75 is not an ultralight backpack. I just want to get that out of the way before the mob of ultralight purists cry foul at the thought of a five-pound backpack. But this is an awesome option, especially for backpackers who often carry heavy loads or bulky gear.
We named the Aether Pro the best Upgrade Pack in our guide to the Best Backpacking Backpacks. Why? Well, with such a well-designed pack, it’s possible to have a massive loadout and still comfortably carry this pack with even weight distribution. While some people may argue that lighter is better, there are a few things that stand out about the Osprey Aether Pro 75 ($400) that are worthy of recognition.
| Pros | Cons |
| Sustainable materials | Heavy by today’s standards |
| Thoughtful design | On the pricier end of the spectrum |
| Solid frame with airflow |
Osprey Aether Pro: First Impressions
Weight: 5 lbs
Capacity: 75L
Frame Type: Peripheral hoop
Closure: Roll + cinch
Available In: Men’s (Aether Pro), Women’s (Aerial Pro)
There’s no debating the size of this thing, and for many people, it will seem like a bit overkill. But as someone trained in First Aid, as well as the need/want to document the journey, I may be biased toward bigger rigs that can pack in more than just the essentials. So for weekend warriors who never spend more than a couple of nights out of their pack, a 75-liter version probably is too much.
With that part out of the way, what makes this pack special is just how well-designed it is to carry large loads. Smaller packs still often feel or carry heavier due to their weight distribution on the hips and back. So the first thing I noticed: It’s easy to carry heavy loads in the Aether Pro without feeling overburdened.
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Notable Features of the Osprey Aether Pro
The big standout feature is the comfort. Although an objective metric, I’d argue that it’s the most important. What’s the point of a bunch of bells and whistles if you start to feel sore after a couple miles?
Speaking of whistles, a nice-to-have feature of this pack is the integrated whistle in the sternum strap. It’s one less thing to think about when packing and it’s right where you need it when you need it the most.
This pack is also available in the similar Osprey Aerial Pro 75, which is designed specifically for women.
The primary material on this pack is bluesign-approved ripstop polymer and nylon, and it was among the most durable I tested without feeling bulky. It really stood out as being stronger than others and if that adds a bit of weight to the pack, so be it – It’s worth it in my opinion to have some extra ounces and not have your bag rip a hole out in the middle of nowhere. Being a bluesign product means that Osprey is taking the supply chain into account, and that lends to a more responsibly made pack. It goes without saying perhaps, but if you care enough about the planet to be exploring it by foot, it’s probably wise to seek out responsibly sourced materials.
The premium materials keep the wet out and the contents nice and tight, even on a large load. Photo: Steve Andrews//The Inertia
Another great feature that I didn’t realize I’d love until using it was a simple flap on top of the main compartment allowing top compartment to be removed. While a removable top piece isn’t unique, the flap helped keep debris out of the main compartment when pared down. It helps to have the option for when you don’t need to have a massive pack but don’t want to have a quiver of packs sitting around.
The removable top compartment makes packing to any size quick and easy. Photo: Lindsay Gough//The Inertia
Drawbacks of the Osprey Aether Pro
Size and weight are the obvious concerns, and that’s fair enough. This pack was made for people where carrying a pack is part of their living and likely need to have a bit more packed than the average person. But pro gear is made to last, so the size and weight tradeoff will be up to you based on how much you’re using the pack.
One annoying part of the pack was that, while the hip pockets were generous in size, it wasn’t easy to unzip and zip with one hand while the pack is on. I could get it with a bit of finesse but it’s not the easiest maneuver. All they needed to do was move the pockets a bit forward and this solution could be solved.
And finally: At $400, this pack is pricey. We think it’s worth it for the premium materials and excellent features, but there are great packs for much less.
The back panel and padding on this backpack are next level. Photo: Steve Andrews//The Inertia
Final Thoughts
The Osprey Aether Pro 75 is certainly not for everyone, but those who take backpacking seriously will appreciate its attention to detail, quality materials, excellent padding, and well-engineered weight distribution. Thru-hikers may scoff at its size and weight, and weekend warriors may find it too much. But If you’re doing an extended trip of 7-10 days and want to bring a few extra personal items along with you, this is the perfect pack to help you go the distance.
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Editor’s Note: Don’t miss the rest of our top-pick packs in our guide to the Best Backpacking Backpacks. For more gear reviews and features on The Inertia, click here.
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