Osprey Atmos 50 vs. Camelbak HAWG

[KwaiChang]

HAZ Listers - pretty sure I already know the answer to this one BUT - I need it beat into my head.

Which pack would YOU buy and why?

Osprey Atmos 50 or the Camelbak HAWG

An FYI - not planning on "Backpacking" just extended day hiking. Like I said I pretty much know what direction I am going but I would like to hear from you guys, the experts of what you think.

[nonot]

For dayhiking, 50L is more than you will likely ever need. If you are planning on doing something besides just hiking, then it may fit the bill, but I think there are better options in that price range.

For dayhiking, I don't think it matters what pack you get, as long as it is comfortable and big enough for what you need. For Arizona, thorns will shred up some of the lightest weight stuff, so look for something that seems a bit tougher.

[Grasshopper]

Osprey Atmos 50 or the Camelbak HAWG

I'm not into Osprey, but the Camelbak HAWG was intended to be part of Camelbak's Mountain Bike product offering. The size (1159 cubic inches), and some of the storage compartments are designed more for biking needs rather than hiking.

This past January I purchased the newly designed Camelbak Fourteener 26 for my longer day hiking. It has 1587 cubic inches with enough storage compartments, overflow, and extra water bottle compartments to satisfy my need for all the stuff (my ~25 lbs worth) I carry on my day hikes for that unexpected overnight..

[John13np]

I just bought the HAWG, and it's great for bikes, but I would not use it for dayhiking. Myabe look into the CamleBak RimRunner?

[sbkelley]

I have the Atmos 50 and love it. Owned it for ~3 years and have heavily used it. I've taken that thing through thick brush more than once and it's held up admirably.

Yeah, it's a little big for most dayhikes, probably better suited for a short overnight backpack trip. But I like having the extra space to carry more essentials, like water, food, survival gear...oh, and a beer for the top