Backpacks Advice

Hello fellow Lady hikers,

I’ve been using the Osprey AURA AG 50 for some time now, and while I have a love-hate relationship with it, I’ve encountered a significant issue with heavier loads. Anything between 8 to 12kg, and I’m loving it, but beyond that, it becomes a real pain.

Recently, during the Amatola trail with a pack weighing 14kg, my hips were so sore that I couldn’t even wear pants with elastic belts comfortably. I’m 1.72m tall, weigh 53kg, and to top it off, I don’t have much hip structure.

Despite years of hiking experience, I haven’t found a suitable solution, and now I’m on the lookout for a new pack. If anyone here has faced similar challenges or has recommendations for packs that might suit my body type and preferences, I’d greatly appreciate your advice.

Thank you in advance for any insights you can share!

No replies so far…
Did you resolve your issues?

The only advice / observation that I have is to try and adjust your pack so you carry the weigh higher up. I had a similar issue and found that if the pack sits higher on my back the pressure was less or at leas different on my hips…
Its no a scientific explanation - just what works for me - I could just be weird though! hahahaha

Osprey is one of the best for heavier loads due to chonky straps, but at 14kg you pushing both the pack and your body to the acceptable limit.
Would a better solution not be to try and reduce the pack weight to under 10kgs?