Thoughts on SMD Feather pack?

Don't have any insight into your original question about the Feather.. But thought you may want to consider the MLD Burn (got around 2,800 A.T and New England miles on it and still looked new – awesome pack up to maybe 24 lbs (for my shoulders at least)) and also take a look at the NEW Gossamer Gear Gorilla – that is my UL pack for this year and thus far it is absolutely perfect in all regards – small form, good weight transfer for heavier UL food/water carries, slim and sexy profile, and seemingly very durable lightweight Dyneema, along with a very functional and well designed top closure system and sewn in strap padding. Just some more options.

I don't have a Feather but do have both the Swift and Starlite so can comment on the similar features.

Durability (i.e bushwacking) will be even better with all fabric pockets vs. the mesh. I have never had any issues with the mesh other than rubbing against sandstone and wearing holes.

The wing belt works well, the most I have carried in my Swift is 32#, with out the stay, and the belt worked well but that is getting near the comfort level. I might talk to them about getting it sewn on instead of the clips even though they have changed clips for more comfort.

The pad pocket works really well in transferring weight, I use a 36" ridgerest in it but have also used inflatables. The no sweat back panel fabric is also a good feature that other packs don't have.

The new top can be either standard roll top or lower profile zipper closure depending on your load.

Don't know if you have seen this from the SMD website it appears to be the most extensive discussion I've seen.

http://www.sixmoondesigns.com/smdnews/125-feather-first-look.html