I am looking at purchasing a new backpack. I am looking for something big i can do solo trips, climbing expeditions, extended traveling and possibly some mountaineering. A 75-85 Liter pack seems appropriateMy question is, what is the real difference between the Argon and the Aether?I was also considering getting the Arc‘Teryx Altra but I am affraid it might be gimmicy and I was wondering what people thought about the rotating hip belt. is it really that helpful or is it actually more strenuous on your lower back.
Well the real difference is the weight. The Aether is a stripped down lightweight version of the Argon. It will have a lighter suspension system, less features, and possibly a lighter material. It is about 1.5 lbs lighter if I remember correctly, which is significant, but you will sacrifice on features and comfort. Either way, 75-85 L is a big bag. Dont get me wrong, I own the Aether 85, but trust me, it is big. Way too big for solo hiking. Most solo trips, except dead cold winter ones, should only require 50L or less. I have only used the 85L bag for multi-day mountaineering trips. It is probably best to get mulitple bags, and if you think you will be doing the hiking first and foremost, I would get that type of bag first. As far as the Arcteryx bag goes, Im not familiar with it, but their gear, while expensive, is very high quality. I don't think they would make gimmicky gear. The downside with their gear, especially packs, is that they are inexcusably heavy (usually).
