I'm really interested in these backpacks because I was having difficulty deciding between the Atmos AG and the Aether. I have an older Deuter Act Lite 75+10 which is OK, but since it's a 'one-size fits all' model, it's not ideal for me. I'm 5'9" 160 pounds, and think it's intended for someone larger.

Though I'm really impressed with the Atmos AG, I was leaning towards the Aether mainly because I like the removable lid that converts into a day-pack (though I'd prefer a backpack like my Deuter rather than a lumbar pack). I also like that the Aether is better for heavier loads than the Atmos.

I have some older, somewhat heavier gear (sleeping bag, tent) that still works just fine, and I don't want to spend several hundred dollars on spiffy new equipment just to have the latest UL gear. I also tend to hike in the late Summer and early Fall when temps drop near freezing, so I often need to bring extra thermals to sleep comfortably. Most of my trips are about 3-7 days and my total payload is typically about 40-50 pounds.

While they haven't been released yet, based on cursory info the Aether and Ariel AG seem to combine the best elements of the Atmos AG and the previous Aether version. The Aeather/Ariel AG seems to combine the breathablity and mobility of the AG system with the custom fit and higher load-capacity of the previous aether version. They also have the removable lid/day pack which the Atmos doesn't.

I'll be really interested to see how effectively incorporating the anti-gravity system into the Aether/Ariel works.

https://gadgetswizard.com/osprey-introduced-aether-ag-ariel-ag-series-spring-2017.html

https://outdoorindustry.org/press-releas...stomizable-fit/