My wife and I did a day hike this weekend, as I am coming back into backpacking after a 15 year hiatus, and she just got a bunch of new gear for christmas.

My old Jansport Rockies 100 did the job for a long time... but I think it's time to retire that beast. Especially since this time around it left actual bruises on my hips (and I'm a pretty burly guy).

I'm looking at going much more lightweight option.

Looking for an Osprey Aether 60 (I would consider a 70, but I'm looking at through-hiking the AT in a few years). I'd prefer the 4th gen option, but I'd consider the previous generations!

I'm also considering the Talon 44, as it seems as though it would be a fine thru-hiker option, and be a very nice short-stay kind of backpack.

Thanks in advance