Great ultralight backpacking choice
I have owned many Osprey packs over the years as I have consistently found they have the most innovative designs and highest level of quality. The EXOS 50 continues that tradition, with impeccable quality and a boatload of features. The Exos 58 weighs a full pound less than the Osprey Atmos 50, yet is actually capable of carrying a heavier load (odd since the Atmos is rated for 40 pounds, the Exos for 30 pounds). The hipbelt wraps nicely and is very supportive; the load is limited by the shoulder straps which are thin in both dimensions (width and thickness) - but that's how you get a pack this light. I'd say the 30 pound rating is about right, any more than that and the shoulder straps will start to irritate. But the fact is, if you're researching this pack you are already starting to count ounces - and unless you're going out in mid-winter there is no reason you should be carrying more than 30 pounds anyhow. The EXOS packbag carries more gear than I expected for a 58L rating and the extension collar will accomodate oversize loads (such as the beginning of a trip when you are starting with a week's worth of food). There are multiple lash points and it is really easy to shove your rain coat, fleece, etc. into the stretch front pocket to be retrieved at a moment's notice when the situation calls for it. Some people don't like the thin side compression straps but I have found them to be adequate and effective. Osprey has done a better job than most at creating a full-featured, yet ultralight pack and everything works the way it should. I'm really not a fan of the orange and grey colors but that's what you put up with for an otherwise outstanding lightweight pack. If you haven't tried an Osprey pack before, it's time that you take the plunge and this pack is a good choice to do it.

best 60L pack you can get at end of 09
It is superlight and yet sturdy, even has all the pockets. Great attention to detail. I hope it lasts like my previous ospreys.

Well designed and super light
Osprey have really outdone themselves with this pack. All the new design features to save weight are well thought out and well engineered. The hipbelt is extremely comfortable and the straps are even thin to save on weight. I like the pack as a whole but I just wish it was a 65 liter and not 58.

Lightweight and well thought out
I love this pack. It is for those carrying low pack weights over multiple days. It is definitely designed for the backpacker and has a minimum number of practical pockets and low weight strapping. I'm not sure how useful the side net pockets are as the compression straps go over them. And I am a little concerned about how the small buckle and the mini-compression straps will hold up. This might test Osprey's lifetime guarantee. Unfortunately the hipbelt in the small was too small (for some reason this info is not included in the sizing here) so I had to re-order a medium. This pack is not adjustable for torso length so I suggest you go to the Osprey website to be sure of sizing for you.