My Bioflex C7 2 series has recently developed a a couple of cracks in the plastic on the hip belt. Having never really liked it that much I am now looking for a replacement. I really like my Talon 33. So heres the question...

 What is the benifit of the Argon over the Aether apart from being newer! I tried both on in the shop and personally found the Aether to be more comfortable. But I would like to get a 85 liter one but these don't seem to be avalible in the UK.

 Has anyone had any expirences of either pack?

I've got the Aether,

I cant fault it, I find the back system works well and is comfortable. It's much lighter then a lot of the similar pack of the same size so for me thats good.

It's well built and seems strong enough to last a good while. The hip belt can also be custom moulded to fit you - I think you might need to do this at a shop though.

 I'm well pleased with it!

I dont have much experience with the argon but have a shot with my mates aether a couple of times.  I fits really well and has a much more appetising price tag!  I think the argon is designed for heavier loads and is made of more durable material (i am no expert remember).

 Steve

I've had an Aether 60 for 12 months and agree with what Zubald said. The weight transfer to the hipbelt is very effective, so much so that occasionally I loosen the hipbelt and let my shoulders do a bit of the work to give my hips a breather. I do get a bit sore around the hips, but at  5' 10" and 10 st. I'm a bit on the lean side.

The Aether has 3 horizontal compression straps which are very useful for strapping on extra gear. You might be able to manage with the Aether 70 as opposed to a heavier 85 litre pack. The Osprey website gives the carrying capacity for all their packs.

Cheers for all your input, I'm probally going to gor for the Aether in 70, though I'm going to try and see if I can gat my hands on the 85 first.