Lightweight Internal Frame Packs: a State of the Market Report – Part 2: The Packs

James,
I should have added that the Aarn Pockets do have built in stays that rest on the hipbelt and that is why you can transfer all of the weight to the hip belt.

This is me about 10 years ago striking an Aarnpack pose :

I have had 18kg (40lbs) inside that combo with around 5-6 kg in those pockets. (mostly water)
BTW :
I tried a prototype made from a couple thermorest bags about ten years ago

do you mean an Aarn made prototype or something you put together yourself ?

"This is me about 10 years ago striking an Aarnpack pose :
aarn pack pose"

Good taste in pants. ;0)