Have researched packs until exhausted and have my pack choices for my 2018 AT flip thru hike (heading north from Harper's Ferry then returning to it to head south) narrowed down to a Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 and the Osprey Exos 58. Both look to be great packs but can't seem to find anybody online that has both and offers a side-by-side comparison as to what they liked and didn't like about each against the other. Would really like to know which of the two are more comfortable and had fewer problems for real long hikes.
Really like the tent side pocket on the Mariposa; and all the other external pockets. Really like the lifetime warranty on the Osprey and the overall design of it. I've gone to REI and been fit with the Exos and it felt good...have not found a Mariposa to try out.
So far, I'm estimating to be at about 25 pounds base weight before food/water. I drink lots more water than the average person (medical condition) so will carry a few extra liters besides a couple of SmartWater bottles, otherwise in good physical shape with lots of camping experience from international motorcycle adventuring but limited hiking experience.
Anybody here have (or had) both of these packs and can provide some feedback regarding these two when matched up against each other?
Thanks!