Osprey Exos 58

“I just bought a Durston Kakwa 55 to replace my Exos 58 (the black/red one with no hip belt pockets). I quite like the Exos, and have used it on some long-ish trips, but I find the hip belt is too thin/small/lacking in padding for heavy loads (and I'm anticipating 7-8 days between some resupplies, and a bearcan, on my JMT+ trip in Aug) and the suspension/vented back frame tends to squeak in a way I can't see to get rid of (it drives me crazy), and the "big" middle mesh pocket on the front doesn't hold a lot. The Kakwa appealed to be because it's supposed to carry a pretty heavy load well if required (up to around 40lbs), the pockets are good, I like the rolltop and Y strap I can use to hold the bearcan, it's more water-resistant than the Exos, and the hip belt looks more substantial (and has pockets!). Also because I have a Durston X-Mid tent and love it, so I'm kind of sold on the brand. My only reservation is how sweaty my back might get without the venting of the Exos, but I guess nothing is perfect.”