Backpack: Osprey Aether 85

In addition to training I'm starting a series of posts about the gear I will be using. Last week I went to Eastern Mountain Sports in Albany and was properly fitted for a backpack. This included chest measurements and weight bearing tests. The majority of pack weight should ride comfortably on the hips and not tight on the back. I chose the Osprey Aether 85:

Many years ago when I did my first long distance touring trip to Kansas City, I carried a backpack for the first three days of my trip. As many touring cyclists can attest, bicycling with a back pack is back pain. After cycling with a backpack for thirteen days I learned my lesson: take proper weight distribution seriously, and take the weight off the back for long trips. On this trip weight distribution is critical. As I will be traveling solo with a minimum ten days of food and water, I will be carrying over forty pounds of food, water, and gear. The size-large 5400 cubic inches Aether 85 fits my frame well. The pack rests snug on my hips, with little potential for chafing around the shoulder strap.  Additionally, I can also have the straps heat molded to fit my hips more snugly.