OSPREY ARIEL AG/ AETHER AG

Hunting for a good backpack that will last you – hopefully a lifetime – is a challenge. Several top brands are worthy of attention, but deciding which one really deserves your hard-earned rands is a matter of what fits your needs best.

Osprey’s been making packs for almost 50 years, and when you purchase one of their models, you can be assured of top-end workmanship, clever design, and, above almost everything, their ‘All Mighty Guarantee’, which states that Osprey will repair any damage or defect, for any reason, free of charge, even if the pack was made way back in 1974.

The Ariel AG 65 and Aether AG 70 (the model pictured here) are women’s and men’s multi-day packs boasting innovative features and a customisable fit. ‘AG’ is for antigravity – no, they don’t quite hover behind you while you walk, but this technology, with its continuous, suspended lightweight mesh panel that distributes the weight across your lumbar area, is as good or better than anything on the market.

In addition to the internal hydration-reservoir sleeve, the large front J-zipper access to the main compartment, and multiple compression straps (which keep your gear inside safe and secure), the lid can be converted to a detachable daypack, a highly practical option when you don’t want to carry the bigger pack around for whatever reason. RRP R5 199 (for either pack)

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