Osprey
Aura 65
vs
Osprey
Ariel 65
The Osprey backpack line has dozens of different models for every use. At times, it can be difficult to choose between them. While some of these models differ greatly, others are very similar. This is why we have created our Osprey Aura 65 vs Ariel 65 comparison.
Many people are interested in the Aura and the Ariel because they are top-rated backpacks. Moreover, they seem to be almost identical. But that is not exactly the case. There are few features differences that you need to be aware of before you decide between them.
Before we delve into the comparison, we will go over some of the similarities.
Osprey Aura 65 vs Ariel 65
What They Have In Common
Lets get right to the facts. Below are the features that the Aura and the Arial share:
- Removable top lid: You can remove the top plates of these backpacks in order to make them lighter and have a slimmer profile. Once removed, simply place the flap jacket over top of the main compartment opening and compress your gear with the compression straps.
- Ice tool loops and bungee tie offs: You can place your ice tools onto the accessory loops of these backpacks. They also have bungee tie off for various other kinds of gear.
- Continuous mesh: The mesh continues from the back panel to the hipbelt. This makes for seamless transition between the two, thud making these backpacks super comfortable.
- Sleeping pad straps: You can put a sleeping pad inside of the special straps at the bottom of the backpack. You can remove these straps if they are not needed.
- Compression straps: You can compress the gear in your backpack using the compression straps provided.
Differences Between The Aura 65 And The Ariel 65
The Ariel 65 is generally considered the higher end model between these two backpacks. For the unique feature lists below, we have provided you with their differences.
Unique Features of the Aura 65
- Dual front panel pockets: The Aura 65 has two vertical zippered pockets on the front panel. This allows you to store items that you will need to access on a frequent basis and keep them separate from the main compartment.
- Fit-on-the-fly hip belt: The hip belt of the Aura 65 is adjustable but the variance of up to 5 inches. This is suitable for those who either have a very small waist are very large waist.
- Adjustable harness: The harness on the Aura 65 is adjustable to your torso length.
Unique Features of the Ariel 65
- Custom moulding comfort: Due to the custom moulding technology of the Ariel 65, it is more comfortable to wear than the Aura 65. This is been confirmed by many customers of the Ariel 65 who had also tried on the Aura 65.
- Stretch mesh pocket: There is a front stretch mesh pocket that you can use a separate your wet gear from the main compartment. You can also use it to store large pieces of clothing, such as your coat. This is a great way of saving space in your main compartment so you can store more gear.
- Sleeping bag compartment: The sleeping bag compartment in the Ariel 65 has a removable divider. The divider serves to separate your sleeping bag from other gear.
- Internal reservoir sleeve: You can purchase a water reservoir from Osprey, and put it inside the Ariel 65’s internal reservoir sleeve. This is a great way of keeping hydrated over long hikes. The alternative is to put a water bottle inside of the side mesh pockets.
- Convertible top lid: We love the fact that the removable top lid of the Ariel 65 converts into a day pack. The day pack can be taken out with you on short hikes or treks into the city.
Price Comparison
Due to the fact that the Ariel 65 is more fully-featured, it is usually more expensive than the Aura 65. If you’d like to see current prices for the Aura 65 and the Ariel 65, please see below:
The Verdict
If you’re looking for hiking backpack with all the bells and whistles, the Ariel 65 is a great choice. It gives you an internal reservoir sleeve and a removable day pack. These two features alone are worth the price in gold.
But if you’re looking for a simpler backpack, the Aura 65 has all the features that you would ever need. It is less pricey than the Ariel 65, and really packs a punch.
If you have any questions regarding the Aura 65 and the Ariel 65, please leave it in the comment box below.