Brian,

The REI Cruise UL 60 is a fairly light pack with what I consider the minimal padding I can get by with and it has a quite decently rugged Dyneema reinforced material, far better than the 1st version.

For me I must have an internal framed pack. Osprey EXOS would be my current choice. And I do believe in their philosophy that the few ounces saved by not having a frame do not make up for the discomfort in the carry of a frameless pack (W/the 30 -35 lbs. necessary at some resupply stops on long trails).

Eric
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"There are no comfortable backpacks. Some are just less uncomfortable than others."