Backpack pad suggestions

When deciding between the Ohm 2.0 and the Gossamer Gear Gorilla I thought I would like the outside pad on the gorilla for the reason you mention.  I got both packs, but found the gorilla was as hot or hotter.  I returned the Gorilla because of fit.  Both seemed like great packs and it would have been tougher to choose if the gorilla was the next size down.

As for the heat, YMMV so give it a try.  It would still make it easier to use as a sit pad.  Maybe a few pieces of duct tape would suffice for a trial before cutting our sewing.  I’d be a little worried it may affect the way the pack rides.

When deciding between the Ohm 2.0 and the Gossamer Gear Gorilla I thought I would like the outside pad on the gorilla for the reason you mention.  I got both packs, but found the gorilla was as hot or hotter.  I returned the Gorilla because of fit.  Both seemed like great packs and it would have been tougher to choose if the gorilla was the next size down.

That was my plan, but I got impatient and ordered the Ohm 2.0.  Meanwhile the Gorilla has been out of stock longer than expected.  Between the two I expected the 2016 Gorilla to perform better at heavier loads since the stay fits into a pocket on the hip belt and the Ohm stay seems less substantial.  But the Ohm seemed quite comfortable at 30 pounds; the design seems to be sufficient for the load.

I’ve shoved my Thermarest sit pad between my back and the pack and everything seemed to stay perfectly in place walking around the house, suggesting it might work for straight-up trail walking.  Maybe not so good if I was doing a lot of contortions.