For the long days (and overnighters) without the bike, the new Osprey Aether AG thru-hiker backpacks marry their monstrous capacity with a lightweight construction and comfortable fit system. They Anti-Gravity straps and back panel design keep the weight balanced and well supported on the hips and shoulders while keeping it from sticking to your back. That means a lighter feel, better breathability, and optimized mobility.
The waist belt comes in multiple sizes and is custom heat moldable, and a mesh bridge between cushioning panels helps it draw in for a better overall fit. Available in men’s (above) and women’s (below) sizing and colors, there’s more to them than just comfort…
The women’s Arial AG packs come in 55, 65 and 75 capacities, and the men’s Aether in 60, 70 and 85. They come with plenty of compression straps, ice axe and walking stick loops, zippered hip belt pockets and a removable top…
…that converts to a summit-ready daypack. Retail ranges from $290 to $330 depending on size. More details at OspreyPacks.com.
GRAND TRUNK
If you’ve been in the market for a hammock lately, you’ll notice there are a ton of options. Grand Trunk is one of them, and now they’re setting themselves apart a bit more with the new Junior Hammocks for kids. They’re sized for kids up to 16 years old, maxing out at 150-200 pounds.
Available in three styles -Safari, Rising Stars, and Elephunk- for $44.95 each. Weight is 16oz, dimensions are 9’4″ x 4’6″, and they use marine-grade carabiners. They come with 5mm starter ropes that give you about five feet on either end to find trees. Add their upgraded straps ($29.99) at time of purchase and it’ll knock 20% off the total. And you definitely want the straps, they give you an extra 10′ of total reach, opening up more places to hang the hammock. And they’re stronger and come in colors. Lifetime warranty on everything.
