At the end of the day, all of the high end backpacks are going to be a quality product, however, they can differ significantly in their approach. The fit is what is crucial however. just like a pair boots, what fits one person perfectly, might not fit another person as well. I have the luxury, living in CO, to have tried on many packs before buying the one that fit me best. That happened to be an EXO Mountain Gear. I also liked their more "minimalist" approach and light pack weight. What I usually suggest to guys doing this for the first time, is buy a nice pack, but dont buy the top-of-the-line, as you dont really know how you'll like it, what features you really will use in the real world, etc. etc. Go to an REI and try on as many packs as you can with weight. Get properly fitted and know how to wear the pack. Even if you dont buy one from REI, just doing this you will gain alot of knowledge on what types of packs fit your body style, what size you are looking for, belt style that is most comfy, etc.
