Coming from a Gregory Palisade, I found this backpack very comfortable. Since purchasing this summer, I've taken 2 trips totaling about 50 miles. My pack weighed between 30-35 lbs at the start with water.Things I like-- comfortable. The hip belt never hurt me. The torso adjustments are limited, but easy to make (make sure you choose the correct size). I highly recommend going to REI to find out how to fit a pack (would have bought from them but they didn't have this in stock). The weight felt easy. I admit that this is coming from a pack that, after all these years, weighed in at a whopping 8 lbs alone!-- the waist belt removes and attaches to the lid to form the best fanny pack you ever imagined!-- 2 good front hip belt pockets-- waist belt adjusts to your size with velcro, and then you can use the pull straps.-- Access to the internal pack from the outside. I never used this feature.-- large mesh, stretchy pocket on the back of the pack. I found this great for stuffing clothing I might need quickly like a rain jacket or a cap or something.Things I didn't Like-- #1 - and, I admit, in the beginning, this was almost a deal killer for me....no straps on the bottom to put a sleeping pad. Why? So, 1 trip (see pics) I fastened the large roll to the back of the pack (worked fine). 2nd trip I brought a blow up pad that fit inside.-- You cannot put the water bottle back in the pack with it on. I challenge you to work this feat of dexterity! Getting it out was hard but not impossible.-- The stretch strap on the side pocket didn't tighten when I had my nalgene bottle in it. I think it was a little too wide for the pocket's liking. Still you could use the strap that clicks and then tightens if you wanted too (pain b/c that would be each time taking the bottle in and out), but I didn't loose the bottle.Overall - I am really glad I purchased this pack.