I'm hoping that those of you who've used the adult versions of these packs can help me with a lightweight pack for my grandkids. That's why I'm posting here instead of in the Hiking with Kids section.

The packs on my "final" list are the Mountain Laurel Designs Kids' Prophet and the Gossamer Gear Mariposa (the small size is small enough, just barely, to fit the kids). The kids are 6 and 8 (the younger is actually the same size as her brother and a stronger hiker, so I don't mind giving her the same weight--maybe it will slow her down so big brother won't feel left behind!).

I don't want half the weight that they can carry to be the pack itself, which is the case with the standard kids' packs such as the REI Comet and the Deuter Fox. With either of the packs I'm looking at, they can carry their sleeping bags (TNF Tigger), sleeping pads (cut-down Z-Rest), most or all of their extra clothing (not all for the Mariposa because the pack is half a pound heavier), snacks and a pint of water for a total of about 7 lbs. Translated, this all means that if the pack itself is light enough, Grandma won't have to carry their personal stuff, just their food and the bigger tent.

The Mariposa appears to have a more supportive suspension with the stays and the Sitlight pad in the back. It also happens to be on sale. (That's actually a disadvantage because it means I have to get it right now.) The Prophet, on the other hand, is frameless, but is half a pound lighter and appears to be built sturdier otherwise.

My question: With a stiff sleeping pad and a tent pole inside, will the Prophet be supportive enough so that the weight will transfer to the hip belt and not pull on the shoulders? Or should I get the Mariposa? What do you think? Remember that while 7 lbs. is less than a daypack load for us grownups, it's almost 15% of the kids' body weight, so it's like 20 lbs. for a 135-lb. adult.

Thanks very much for your help!