I am having a quandry surrounding my current backpack, and may be interested in replacing it. I have an Osprey Aether 70, which I really like, except for the hip belt. It is an isoform belt that was never molded. I do not find this belt comfortable, and in fact, my right leg goes a little numb when I am packed. I mainly weekend hike, and I have gotten my load down from 40ish to just under 30 (fully loaded, with 2.5 l water, fuel and food), and I now have a significant amount of unused space in my pack.

I am considering going to an under 3lb pack (my Aether 70 weights in at just over 5lb). I do really like the Ospreys, but would consider something else. Top of my list is the Exos 58.

What other packs should I be considering for a 25-30 lb load? I am very weight conscious, but I do like some comforts and am not looking to go much below a 25 lb pack weight.

Any and all advice is welcome.