replacing a talon 44

It depends on how much space she is needing for her winter gear. I discovered that I needed a larger pack for my winter treks…so I bought a Golite Pinnacle. I have found that I just don't need pockets and lids anymore. Just an outside space to stuff my jacket or immediate things.

ULA packs are great and the material holds up well. She may find something to fit her needs.

The Exos looks like the suspension is similar to the Talon. Check the review here in BPL. Also, GG has the women's version, the Ki, that has some bells and whistles.

Yup, the Exos suspension should be very similar to her Talon. Support-wise, Granite Gear's Nimbus series would be more similar to what she's using now (versus Vapor). ULA Catalyst, Circuit, maybe the new Ohm coming out… Gregory Jade 60 a shade over 3 pounds… if none of those work out for her, tons of women love the Ariel (it just weighs about 4#). Cheers-

i have been waiting for the exos, the only backpacks i am comfortable with atm are the stratos and atmos , so ill probably get an exos to gain some weight and have the load closer to my back.

i have read the few BPL articles selecting some lightweight backpacks and so had a look at the ULA, the cathalyst seemed huge, ill try to see if i can see one to judge.
backpack is one the hardest item to choose :)