Women looking for a versatile pack for weekend trips, canyoneering, or extended trips with a go-light emphasis will certainly appreciate the Osprey Ariel 55 backpack. A trimmer version of its big sister, the Ariel 65, this backpack offers the same great harness / suspension system but in a smaller version. If you're budget conscious about your pack purchase, you don't have to settle for a generic fit. The editors at Backpacker magazine would agree, as they tagged the Ariel 65 (the 55's big sister) a Best Buy in their 2006 Gear Guide. The Osprey Ariel 55 women's backpack features the IsoForm custom moldable hipbelt that uses heat to achieve a precise fit. These hipbelts come in four women's specific sizes. Furthermore, the Isoform shoulder harness is available in four sizes, also contoured to fit women best. The pack to body surface of both the hipbelt and shoulder harness are entirely seamless, reducing the chance of pressure points developing. Next, the AirScape suspension, a carefully assembled sandwich consisting of an internal framesheet with single aluminum stay, ventilated rubber foam backpanel, and peripheral 7075 AL rods evenly transfers the weight to the hipbelt and shoulder harness for a terrific carry. The Osprey Ariel 55 backpack offers a number of useful features. A highlight is the two-way stretch woven front pocket, great for stowing almost any piece of camping equipment imaginable.
very comfortable
It served me well, two years in the Peace Corps, 8 day dessert hike and 5 day canyon hike. It holds up well sliding against rocks, light and sturdy. Forces you to pack efficiently. Even combats airport wear and tear with my 4.5 month backpacking African journey.
Outstanding Fit
I love my Osprey Ariel 55! I just completed a section hike on the PCT with it and was just as impressed as I was when I bought it on the CT in 2006. It's just the right size for me. The only thing I've done to it was buy a smaller hip belt, because I lost weight and the one of the pack was too big. It protected my body and back quite well, as I had the misfortune to fall twice, and roll down the hills.
Great pack!
I bought my Ariel pack about a year ago and have been very happy with it. I was reluctant to let go of my 15 year old external frame Kelty that I loved, but after my first trip with the Ariel was amazed at how comfortable this pack rode. Scrambling around on rocks and uneven areas is no problem, the pack remains close (but not uncomfortably so) and did not throw me off balance at all. The hip belt is very comfortable, it expands easily and I was impressed with how much the 55 could hold. The fit is perfect, and it's very sturdy. I highly recommend it!
