FEATURES
The Anti-Gravity (AG) back system holds the pack away from the torso to make the relatively high weight of 2270g surprisingly comfortable. There is 65 litres of capacity and a top-entry lid covering an extra top-entry cover (a Flapjacket). You also get huge front zipped pockets, a stretch compression pocket, hip pockets, compression straps and side stretch pockets. 5/5
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FIT
The Atmos AG 65 for men comes in two sizes (M, L), and the women’s Aura AG 65 comes in two sizes (S, M), with each pack having an additional 3 inches of adjustment vertically on the back length. The hipbelt fits particularly closely and really clamps to your body, while top tensioning straps and side hipbelt side straps enhance the fit and stabilise the load. 5/5
COMFORT
The Anti-Gravity (AG) back system is extremely good as it holds the body of the sack away from the wearer with a ‘trampoline’ design to allow more airflow, but simultaneously it feels like it is holding the pack close to the body and is very stable. A neat trick! Despite its weight of 2270g it actually feels lighter and more comfortable in use than heavier packs. 5/5
IN USE
The base and main compartment provide the main storage, but the huge zipped front pockets are very useful as is the stretch front pocket. The ability to combine the compression straps with the mesh side pockets is great for backpacking. The lid can be extended vertically or removed, and there is an additional non-removable ‘Flapjacket’ cover to the main compartment. 5/5
VALUE
It’s not the lowest-priced sack, but compared to others the price is good for the additional performance and comfort benefits. 4/5
VERDICT
A superb backpacking rucksack if you want maximum comfort and performance when walking long distance paths with big loads. It won Trail’s ‘Approved’ accolade. 4.8/5
Review by Graham Thompson
First published in Trail magazine April 2016