[Lucia]

Hi!

I have 2 backpacks, an Osprey Aura AG 65L, and a ULA Circuit.

The Osprey was my first backpack, I got it when I was 16, and I used it for shorter trips (max a week).

My second backpack was a ULA Circuit with X-pac material. It was customizable, and I added a few things, including a Y-strap at the top, and bottom straps. I also chose for it to have S-straps for the shoulder straps. I used this backpack to thru-hike the Pacific Crest Trail, and it might be my favorite piece of gear.

ULA Circuit:
+ Easier to keep balance (feels like a part of you)

+ A lot lighter than the Osprey

Osprey

+ Stays comfortable with heavier loads

+ Loads of different pockets/ways to store stuff

+ Less sweaty

Right now, I have a clear preference for the ULA Circuit. My gear is light enough that it is comfortable at all times (base weight ~7kg), and I don’t need all the storage options that the Osprey has. The main reason I like the ULA Circuit more is because the hiking is easier, it sits closer to your body, and on trails that are a little bit more technical, the backpack allows for more control than the Osprey, which can feel unstable at times. However, the Osprey was a great backpack to start with, especially as the rest of my gear was heavier as well back then, and I’m not sure the ULA would still have been comfortable with the heavier load.

If anyone has questions, let me know!

(I added some pictures of me with my ULA, and of a friend of mine with the Osprey (without the brain))