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Reviews > Packs > Internal and External Framed Backpacks > Osprey Atmos AG and Aura AG 2016 > Test Report by Michael Mosack

OSPREY ATMOS 65 BACKPACK
TEST SERIES BY MIKE MOSACK
LONG-TERM REPORT
May 01, 2017

CLICK HERE TO SKIP TO THE FIELD REPORT
CLICK HERE TO SKIP TO THE LONG-TERM REPORT

TESTER INFORMATION

NAME: Mike Mosack
EMAIL: mosack(at)earthlink(dot)net
AGE: 53
LOCATION: San Diego, California USA
GENDER: M
HEIGHT: 6' 1" (1.90 m)
WEIGHT: 240 lb (109.00 kg)

I've been backpacking for over 30 years, doing day trips, weekenders and week-long or longer trips throughout the year. I backpack in all climates and seasons, from summer desert trips to Spring/Winter camping in Michigan, California and Grand Canyon, Arizona. I rely on my equipment constantly. I prefer to go lighter when possible and I am always trying new items. Quality and reliability of items are paramount to me over price and weight.


INITIAL REPORT

PRODUCT INFORMATION & SPECIFICATIONS

Manufacturer: Osprey Packs Inc.
IMAGE 1
Image from manufacturer's website

Year of Manufacture: 2016
Manufacturer's Website: www.ospreypacks.com
MSRP: US $260.00
Listed load range for this pack is 30 - 50 lbs (13.5 - 22.5 kg)
Other details:
Made in Vietnam
Manufacturer's warranty -
So, the manufacturer offers a warranty that, well, actually I think it better if you just read their statement directly. I quoted it here.
"All Mighty Guarantee
Osprey will repair any damage or defect for any reason free of charge - whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday. If we are unable to perform a functional repair on your pack, we will happily replace it. We proudly stand behind this guarantee, so much so that it bears the signature of company founder and head designer, Mike Pfotenhauer.
* If you live outside the United States, please visit the International Customer Service page to locate the overseas Osprey Distributor closest to you."

I am testing the Medium (MD) size.
Listed Volume -
SM - 3783 in3 / 62 L
MD - 3967 in3 / 65 L
LG - 4150 in3 / 68 L

Listed Dimensions -
SM - 31h x 15w x 15d in (79h x 38w x 38d cm)
MD - 33h x 15w x 15d in (84h x 38w x 38d cm)
LG - 35h x 15w x 15d in ( 89h x 38w x 38d cm)

Listed Weight -
SM - 4.39 lbs (1.99 kg)
MD - 4.58 lbs (2.08 kg)
LG - 4.92 lbs (2.23 kg)
Measured Weight of tested product: 4.58 lbs (2.08 kg)
Fabric -
Main - 100D X 630D Nylon Dobby
Accent - 210D High Tenacity Nylon
Bottom - 420HD Nylon Packcloth

The product manual is available in multiple languages and there is a convenient link to each on the manufacturer's website.

The Osprey Atmos 65, hereafter called the "Backpack" or "pack", is an internal frame styled hydration compatible backpack that is offered in three sizes. This pack has numerous features and lots of pockets for fit and storage options. The pack design includes some removable items for customizable options which also could help to reduce overall weight for those interested in that.

A few notes on the features -
"Anti-Gravity Suspension"
The backpanel is of lightweight mesh extending from the top of the backpanel to the hipbelt designed for comfort and ventilation. This is supposed to contour the body for fit and unrestricted movement.

IMAGE 2



"Organization"
This pack has a lot of pockets, both for internal and external storage. There is an adjustable stretchy mesh front pocket for external storage options for immediate and easy access to some items. There are also two zippered front pockets allowing additional internal storage options. There are sleeping pad straps that are both adjustable and removable as desired.

IMAGE 3



"Flapjacket"
Or "Flatjacket" as the manufacturer lists both names for the same feature (I'll call it a flap). Regardless of the specific name used, it is a fine feature as it is a fixed flap of material designed to cover the top opening to the pack. The flap remains there as a top cover when the removable floating lid is not connected. Therefore, I can still keep my gear inside the pack dry when it's raining when the lid has been removed for use as a day pack or just to reduce overall weight and bulk.

IMAGE 4


"Anti-Gravity Suspension"
A full frame designed to transfer the pack load away from my back and shoulders and towards my hips.

"Anti-Gravity Backpanel"
Top to bottom mesh that seemingly wraps for a fully ventilated fit.

"Anti-Gravity Mesh Harness"
Adjustable harness with a load lifter bar designed for load transfer and comfort

"Anti-Gravity Fit-on-the-fly Hipbelt"
Mesh wrap at the hip designed for load transfer and comfort
Adjustable hipbelt

IMAGE 5


Hydration compatible - A hydration bladder, although not included, can be installed and carried within the pack and supported by an internally sewn clip hook and a dedicated pocket. The hydration tube can then be routed through a centrally configured hole which can be seen in the provided photograph. It is in the black-colored section of material in the center of the photograph.

IMAGE 6

INITIAL IMPRESSIONS

The primary material of the pack container is Ripstop-style nylon, so it is lightweight and strong. The shoulder straps are well padded and anatomically curved to reduce pinching or uncomfortable chafing often experienced with straight shoulder straps.The hipbelt fits snugly and comfortably around my hips and it supports the weight of my pack to the point where I barely notice the added weight of my filled pack while wearing it. All of the fasteners, adjusters, zippers, cord-locks function properly. The numerous pockets also seem to take up little pack volume when empty and seem easily accessible when filled. I'll be able to more accurately identify any problems or benefits of this pack later, once the testing phase has begun.

READING THE INSTRUCTIONS

No instructions were included with the purchase of this pack, however, the manufacturer does provide an owner's manual online. Additionally, there are informational links for Size and Fit, Pack Care, How to Pack your Pack, and FAQs.

TRYING IT OUT

Trying out the backpack, I looked over the entire pack and verified all seams were intact and all zippers zipped, all webbing adjusters and cord-locks functioned properly. This pack appears to be manufactured following high quality standards. I then filled the pack with about 30 lb (13.5 kg) of stuff to give it some bulk and tried on the pack.

The hipbelt has a natural curve sewn in as well as a manufactured spring-like hug as it "wants" to contract. So when I go to connect the hipbelt around my waist, the padded belt seems like it "wants" to be there. It actually adds to my comfort and security rather than detract from it. The space I've seen between the padded hipbelt and the waistband webbing that all of my other packs have, is covered with breathable black-colored mesh material on this one. You can see the mesh in the hipbelt and the backpanel photos above. It is also sewn into the backpanel, possibly to provide additional structural integrity to the backpanel as it appears it is pulling it away from the pack and aiding in ventilation. Access to the hipbelt pockets is easy and convenient while wearing the pack. Reaching the side mesh pockets isnt difficult either.

There is a stiffener pad within the shoulder strap that slipped and twisted within its sleeve when I tried pulling on the pack the very first time. Knowing this could now happen, I have not had it happen again since. I know I'm careful in how I grab and handle the shoulder straps as I pull on the pack, but I do not know how it twisted or how I am not repeating the issue. I found that fixing the twist was very easy and I was able to do it while still wearing the pack. The sternum strap is adjustable, both for tension as well as via the sliding vertical "rails" on the interior of the shoulder straps. This enables me to slide the sternum strap down so it isn't choking me while wearing the pack. I hate it when my gear tries to kill me :)

The pack is easy to adjust for a personalized fit and it then feels as if it is securely part of me without restricting movement. I realize it is quite early, but I'm kind of loving it so far. I'll add additional pictures of these areas in the Field and Long Term Reports as necessary.

SUMMARY

It is always a good day when I get a new piece of gear and today, it is no different. This pack, on initial inspection, appears to be a quality product. It is easily adjustable, fits comfortably, securely and does not seem to impede movement. With a filled pack, I barely noticed it was there. I hope that impression is confirmed during the testing phase which is about to start.


FIELD REPORT

FIELD LOCATIONS AND CONDITIONS

Day hike - approximately 5 miles (8 km) in the area of Eastern San Diego County, California, USA.
Conditions: Maintained trails, grassy areas, some concrete sidewalks and maintained roadway shoulders. Temperatures ranging from approximately 70 to 80 F (21 to 27 C) as it warmed throughout the morning.

Three-day trip to the Pacific Crest Trail section in Laguna Mountain region of Southern California, USA
Conditions: Foot trails and forest access dirt roads. Temperatures ranged from approximately 55 to 80 F (13 to 27 C) and elevations from approximately 1000 to 4000 ft (300 to 1200 m).

FIELD PERFORMANCE

You probably noticed the long time since my Initial Report. I had computer issues that delayed my completing my report until now. I am hopeful that my personal situation did not negatively impact any expectations of BackpackGearTest.org or Osprey Packs Inc.

IMAGE 7
My normal pack contents


The above photo shows the pack and most of my normal pieces of equipment. What isn't seen is my food, water, fleece and / or rain jacket, etc., as typically I take only enough clothes that I can comfortably wear at once through layering, depending on the situation. Your hike may differ.
I generally take my full pack with me during even simple day hikes as I prefer to use every hike as additional training and to ensure I am always comfortable with my gear.
The pack is comfortable to wear. Its ride feels quite stable during a casual walk or even while scrambling. The hip belt has enough range to fit a large variety of waistlines (even mine) and it keeps the pack's weight off of my shoulders.
The hydration bladder pocket holds my 3 L bladder easily.
I found that the side access helps me to locate items that may have moved during the day and gain access to them without having to remove everything from the pack.
IMAGE 8
I found that the pack design allows my back to breathe, stay cooler, and drier throughout the day. Nothing much I hate more than to end up dripping with sweat and having my pack soaking it up. Fortunately, I don't have that problem with this pack.
IMAGE 9


LONG-TERM REPORT

LONG-TERM TEST LOCATIONS AND CONDITIONS

Two-day trip in the area near the Klamath River Recreational Area in Northern California where the conditions included clear and sunny skies with temperatures that ranged from 65 to 94 F (18 to 34 C).

Five-day trip to Mehan Lake and Red Flats areas of British Columbia, Canada
Conditions: Foot trails and open wilderness. Temperatures ranged from approximately 28 to 48 F (-2 to 9 C) and elevations from approximately 1800 to 2300 ft (550 to 700 m).

PERFORMANCE IN THE FIELD

I am loving this pack. I have not had any issues with it during this phase. All of the zippers and fasteners work well and the straps adjustments stay put throughout the day's activities. This pack has remained as comfortable as the day I first put it on. Packing items in it is easy and retrieving items even easier with the available multiple entry points. The pack holds the load quite well and rides very nicely. I often forget it is on while walking. I have not had any issues with rubbing or hot spots while wearing this pack.
The choice of materials in the construction of this pack has proved to be able to handle abrasion and impacts with ease.
The removable lid is nice for weight savings, but I would appreciate it also being designed to be quickly used as a standalone daypack. Just having a feature of a removable lid and then not being able to use it as a fanny pack seems a waste. The extra container is right there and it already has some webbing and clips after all. Surely, designing it to turn it into a fanny or day pack option isn't that much more work.
There isn't a rain cover included with this pack and that is a disappointment to me. It seems that it would be a staple accessory, much like a couple of spare webbing buckles in case one breaks on the trail - especially since many buckles today are customized for each manufacturer and no spare buckles were provided with this pack.

IMAGE 10


This pack has a ton of pockets and yet the pack remains quite light. It wears very comfortably and is extremely stable while allowing a lot of ventilation between the pack and my back.

My hiking style differs from what I believe is considered normal in that I prefer to have loops for my hands rather than using hiking poles. I still struggle with knowing I'm carrying the weight of the poles when I rarely use them for their intended purpose. I do, however, often take and use one or two poles depending on the shelter I plan to use. I really like multi-purpose uses, so if the poles can help with my tent or tarp, I'll take them. Anyway, I would like to see a better method to have the option of connecting hand loops to my shoulder straps. Maybe even a perfectly positioned clip or a sewn reinforced loop. There are two loops sewn around each of the shoulder straps already, but they are more designed for routing something through than carrying a load.

I also really like the zippered access through to the side/bottom portion of the pack. I like being able to have immediate access into the pack through any opening other than just the top. It helps when looking for items that may have moved or shifted throughout the day. There is a zippered entry separating the bottom third of the main compartment. I have used this more times than I care to think about while searching for something in the pack I packed near the bottom. It has been great not having to pull everything out and just be able to enter through the closest portion of where my item is located.

I've been surprised how evenly the pack's suspension spreads the load and I feel no pressure point pain. The suspension handles my pack weight up to about 40 lb (18 kg) very well. I have yet to try to load it heavier than that.

SUMMARY

This is easily my most comfortable pack. I hardly even notice I have a pack on. I have not had any shoulder strap twist like I get with other packs. I think this pack ventilates very well. The hip belt adjustment allows me to get my fit right the first time and adjusting the pack is easy while wearing it.

IMAGE 11


Some of my favorite features are as follows...
1. The suspension system that allows very good ventilation and weight carrying ability. I often forget I am carrying a pack because it is so comfortable.
2. That it is hydration compatible and that there are openings on both sides of the pack to allow me to route the drinking hose from either side. Additionally, inside the pack there are two hooks and a loop to allow me options of how to connect or hang the bladder.
3. The zipper opening that allows me entry into the lower portion of the pack's contents quickly and the added option to separate the pack into two separate main compartments.

If I were asked, I would offer a couple of ideas to the manufacturer for future options...
My "wish" list would include the following...
1. I would have liked to have been provided an extra set of buckles (side-release and friction) in case of needed replacement or repair. It's often almost impossible to find them in local retail stores as each manufacturer gets more and more unique in the designs of their own products.
2. A small repair or patch kit.
3. An included rain cover.
4. To have the removable top cover convert to a day pack.
5. The hourglass designed shape of the large stretch mesh front pocket is a little restrictive for shoving things like a jacket into it. Maybe make it just a little larger for the larger guys like me who buy the larger packs.

I would like to thank Osprey Packs Inc. and BackpackGearTest.org for allowing me to test the Osprey Atmos 65 backpack. I feel very lucky to have had this experience.

This report was created with the BackpackGearTest.org Report Writer Version 1. Copyright 2017. All rights reserved.

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