Osprey Aether 70 vs Xenith 75
Osprey’s bags are famous. They are known for their superior quality and durability. In the following article, we are going to compare two Osprey models, Osprey Aether 70 and Osprey Xenith 75. Both are bags suitable for backpacking and mountaineering. Indeed, the Xenith has a slightly larger capacity than the Aether, as indicated by the numbers in their names. However, that’s not the only difference. Osprey Xenith 75 is quite more expensive than Osprey Aether 70. Below, let’s see the more detailed comparisons between Osprey Aether 70 and Osprey Xenith 75.
Design
Osprey Aether 70 is noticeably smaller and more compact than Osprey Xenith 75, and that’s not only because of the different capacity. Osprey Aether 70 is coming with less foam. But it indeed has the IsoForm5 harness and CM hipbelt, both of which help to create the perfect fit and comfort suitable for heavy loads and long miles. On the other hand, Osprey Xenith 75 is also coming with moldable harness and hipbelt for a customizable fit, but the shoulder and hipbelt are both beefier. This can be good, especially for a user with a large physicality, as the bag will distribute the weight to a wider area. In addition, Osprey Xenith 75 is a little heavier than Osprey Aether 70. Weight management is crucial in backpacking and mountaineering; you’d prefer a lighter bag if you are going to walk for a long distance.
Features
Osprey Aether 70 features a removable top lid that enables you to transform the bag into a daypack. There is the FlapJacket cover integrated with the bag. It is very useful for lidless use. The bag possesses multiple access ways besides the large front J-zip access. On the other hand, Osprey Xenith 75 seems to focus on comfort, as it features a reversed spacer mesh back panel for smooth, breathable contact surface and the Lightwire suspension for even weight distribution.
Both models have ice axe loops, trekking pole compartment, outside pockets, tent straps, and hydration bladder. But Osprey Xenith 75 indeed has more internal pockets than Osprey Aether 70. While additional pockets are always handy, you should consider that putting more inside the bag will increase the total weight altogether.
Osprey Aether 70 vs Xenith 75
Conclusion
In general, we recommend you to choose Osprey Aether 70. It is quite more affordable, yet the capacity is decent. The design is compact and lightweight. Osprey Xenith 75 is only viable if you really need the additional storage.
