Gossamer Mariposa Backpack

Gossamer Mariposa Backpack- Large $225

I bought the Mariposa about 4 months ago and have used it on at least 4 day hikes with usually 20-28 pounds in it. My intent was to use it for my up coming thru hike, but I've decided to go with a ULA circuit instead. I thought I'd give a review about why I won't be using it to assist others considering this pack.

To cut to the chase--I have broad shoulders (6-04" 210 lbs), and the Mariposa's should straps are just too narrow. I bought both a large and X-large backpacks (I sent the X-large back) to compare. The X-large is taller, but the shoulder straps are not any wider. The straps, which are now angled a slight amount (older models apparently were sewn strait across the top), were still too close together, and too flat (no outward angle).

The things I really liked about the pack are: the weight (29 oz for large), top closure, the aluminum stay has an awesome shape that really fit my lumbar area, the padding on the shoulder straps and hip belt is excellent, and lastly, the 7 pockets are great.

If I were king and wanted to make improvements to the pack, I'd have two outer pockets on both sides of the pack instead of the one long pocket on one side, and I'd make the top of the shoulder straps a little (1"-2") farther apart and/or angle them more (esp on large and x-large packs).

Side note--I measure the distance between my ULA circuit backpack should straps and they are actually closer together than those on the Mariposa (by about 1/4 inch). Upon closer inspection, I noticed that the Mariposa's straps are sewn almost strait across the top with very little outward angle. The ULA's, on the other hand, are angled a considerable amount.

So, the two variables that need to be considered is the spacing between the top of the shoulder straps, and the angle at which they're sewn to the pack body.

Hope this wasn't too confusing, but there you go...