Osprey Aura 50L

This is a superb 50 litre pack. It's nestled perfectly in between "large enough to pack your life into" and "comfortable enough to carry for long distances". Once you have reined in the top of the pack from wobbling around (tighten the top straps), it feels very secure and comfortable whether you are walking or climbing. My only gripes are that it doesn't (like the Stratos 24l) stand up vertically but opts to pitch forward instead making it tricky to load and even trickier to set down in wet conditions (lest it take a nose dive into a puddle). It doesn't come with a raincover, but I was using drybags anyway. Finally, aside from various pockets and compartments on the front and top, the main chamber can only be accessed from the top. This is annoying. In the real world, packing a rucksack is difficult enough when you're trying to distribute weight around your back without having the added inconvenience of knowing that stuff at the bottom isn't coming out till the pack's empty.

(Written by: magicguppy)

I assume the Aura is the ladies version of the Atmos ? I recently purchased the old version of this rucsac and am well impressed Simply putting it onto you back it feels right and "snug" I bought this for winter walking as I do carry a lot of gear and found it perfect The inside needs to be packed carefully and the outside pockets take lots of extras (side pockets take 2 "lucozade2 size bottles) The pockets on the hip belts are very useful It doesnt come with a rain cover and the lid needs ot be tightened up to avoid "wobble" Cant wait to try it out for wildcamping

(Written by: vick )

I wish they wouldn't keep changing the names tho'! The Atmos 50 is an outstanding pack, as was its predecessors, and I expect the Aura to be even better. Lightweight and comfortable - especially with that mesh back panel - yet more than adequate for several days in the hills. The 'frame' can restrict getting your sleeping bag in and out but is not a major problem. The lycra front pocket can be both bonus and nuisance but all in all an excellent and well thought-out pack. No back adjustment but it does come in 3 back lengths to compensate. Well worth its high price.

(Written by: ADC101)