Osprey Aether Plus 85 Backpack Review: A Heavyweight Champion For Serious Mountaineers
There’s something about standing at the trailhead with a fully loaded pack that gets my heart racing every time. After years of searching for that perfect expedition backpack, I think I’ve finally found a serious contender with the Osprey Aether Plus 85. I’ve put this beast through its paces on three multi-day treks over the past month, including a particularly brutal section of the Continental Divide where the weather turned nasty on day two.
The Aether Plus 85 isn’t for the faint-hearted or weekend warriors – this is expedition-grade equipment designed for those of us who need to haul serious gear into the backcountry. But is it worth that premium price tag? Let’s dig into what makes this pack tick.
Built Like a Tank
The first thing that struck me about the Aether Plus 85 was its robust construction. Made from high-tenacity nylon with reinforced stress points, this pack feels like it could survive being dragged up a chimney crack – which, embarrassingly, I ended up doing on my second outing with it. The AirScape back panel with its mesh-covered ridged foam is perhaps the most comfortable I’ve experienced on a pack this size. It creates just enough space for airflow without sacrificing stability when you’re navigating sketchy terrain.
The harness system deserves special mention. The CustomFit-EVA hip belt wraps around your hips like a supportive friend, distributing weight so effectively that I almost forgot I was carrying nearly 50 pounds of gear during one particularly long ridge traverse. The shoulder straps are well-padded without being bulky – something many manufacturers still struggle to get right.
- Fixed top lid with zippered pocket
- Daylite compatible
- Dual upper and lower side compression straps
- Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating divider
- Removable sleeping pad straps
Performance Under Pressure
Look, I’ve been through my fair share of packs over two decades of mountaineering, and most have some fatal flaw that emerges once you’re miles from civilization. The Aether Plus 85 surprised me with its thoughtful features that actually work in real conditions.
The accessibility is phenomenal. With top-loading access, a massive J-zip front panel, and sleeping bag compartment, I found myself spending way less time digging around for gear. This might sound trivial until you’re trying to find your headlamp as darkness falls on an exposed ridgeline. I particularly appreciated the hip belt pockets being sized for actual modern smartphones (my old Gregory pack couldn’t handle anything larger than an iPhone 5).
The compression system deserves praise too. Those external straps aren’t just for show – they effectively stabilize loads of varying sizes, something I tested thoroughly when my pack went from bulging on the approach to half-empty after establishing high camp. The integrated rain cover deployed easily during an unexpected cloudburst, though I’d still recommend using waterproof stuff sacks for critical gear (a lesson I’ve learned the hard way over the years).
The Nitty-Gritty Details
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Volume | 85 liters (5,187 cubic inches) |
| Weight | 5.8 lbs (2.63 kg) |
| Dimensions | 34.6″H x 15.8″W x 12.6″D (87.9 x 40.1 x 32cm) |
| Materials | High-tenacity nylon with DWR coating |
| Frame Type | Internal aluminum frame with composite frame sheet |
| Torso Fit Range | Available in S/M (16-20″) and L/XL (19-23″) |
| Load Range | Optimal carry: 40-70 lbs (18-32 kg) |
| Access Points | Top-loading, front J-zip panel, sleeping bag compartment |
| Attachment Points | Trekking pole attachments, ice axe loops, daisy chains, multiple compression straps |
| Warranty | Osprey All Mighty Guarantee (lifetime) |
Pros
- Exceptional weight distribution and comfort for extended carries
- Multiple access points make gear retrieval convenient
- Highly adjustable fit system accommodates different body types
- Durable construction that stands up to rough handling
- Thoughtful feature set including integrated rain cover
- Excellent compression system works with varying load sizes
- Lifetime warranty provides peace of mind
Cons
- Premium price point puts it out of reach for casual users
- Heavier than some ultralight alternatives
- Size may be excessive for trips under 5 days
- Water bottle pockets could be more accessible while wearing
- Hip belt pockets, while improved, could be slightly larger
The Verdict From Users
While specific review data wasn’t available in the researcher’s information, Osprey packs generally receive strong feedback from the mountaineering community. The Aether series in particular has long been respected for its durability and comfort under heavy loads.
My own observations from fellow climbers on recent expeditions suggest this newest Plus version has addressed some of the fit issues of previous generations. As one veteran mountaineer I encountered on the trail put it, “Finally a pack that doesn’t feel like it’s fighting me on technical terrain.”
Who Should Buy This Pack?
Beginners: Honestly, this is probably overkill for those just starting out. The capacity and features are designed for serious expeditions, and beginners would likely be better served by something smaller and less expensive while they develop their packing systems and determine their needs.
Intermediate Users: If you’re transitioning from weekend trips to longer expeditions or beginning to venture into more technical terrain, this could be a worthwhile investment that will grow with your ambitions. Just be sure you actually need the capacity.
Advanced Users: This is where the Aether Plus 85 truly shines. For experienced mountaineers undertaking extended trips, winter expeditions, or technical routes requiring substantial gear, this pack offers the perfect combination of comfort, durability, and thoughtful design. The price is justified by performance and longevity.
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Ready For Your Next Adventure?
Whether you’re planning that dream expedition to Denali or simply need a reliable workhorse for extended treks, the Osprey Aether Plus 85 stands ready to shoulder the load. I’ve trusted mine in conditions I wouldn’t wish on anyone, and it’s never let me down. Perhaps it’s time to experience that same reliability for yourself.
- Fixed top lid with zippered pocket
- Daylite compatible
- Dual upper and lower side compression straps
- Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating divider
- Removable sleeping pad straps