The Aarn Natural Exhilaration is our high-performance, 100% waterproof multi-purpose lightweight balance pack for one-day or multi-day outdoor adventures.
With this comfortable backpack, the FlowMo harness allows for superb agility with glue-like stability while the frame automatically shapes to your body and bends when you’re traversing the hills, biking or skiing. This lightweight daypack doesn't round out, even when it’s stuffed full. The back length adjustment is easy with the pack and the optional Balance Pockets allow you to carry heavy loads comfortably.
- FEATURES
- SPECIFICATIONS
- BALANCE POCKETS
- MORE ACCESSORIES
- DESIGN
- FITTING
- WHAT MAKES AN AARN PACK DIFFERENT?
- TESTIMONIALS
The Natural Exhilaration is one of the top hiking backpacks from Light Hiking Gear and it features U, V, and Flexi-flow, an Auto-mould frame with a perimeter wire and hollow 6001 T6 alloy stays, and an Auto-form hipbelt, making it one of the best balance bags on the market. This comfortable backpack is perfect for cycling, skiing, and hiking alike.
- Backpack adjusts up to 15 cm in length, True-fit shoulder straps, and Flow-thru stabilizers for ultimate comfort and balance.
- Design features a waterproof Dri-liner, 1 lid pocket, 3 outside stretch pockets, and a closed cell foam sit mat for security and organizational purposes.
- Web front compression with loop lock holders holds verticle tools and web-loc side compression with hyperlon reinforcement holds ski attachments.
This is the best hiking pack for those who want an adventure without the heaviness of a backpack. The Natural Exhilaration bag comes with a hydration hook, hang loop, and exit slot and can be attached to ice axes, skis, snowboards, and trekking poles in both the front and rear side of the bag.
Front Balance Pockets allow for high weights without feeling intrusive. Balance Pockets attach easily to Aarn’s comfortable backpacks and convert easily into a daypack after clipping on the shoulder and sternum straps. Hiking, backpacking, and exploring the outdoors has never been easier!
- Either 10 or 12 liter front Sport-Regular Balance Pockets, or 15 liter or 18 liter Expedition Balance Pockets can be used with this pack. Pockets provide greater stability and balance, and a more upright posture. This translates to much less fatigue and strain.
- Shoulder and sternum straps are included for converting the pockets into a daypack, which is carried on the front of the body for maximum security and easy gear access.
- Front pockets have waterproof Dri-liners, accessible zip flaps to protect items from the rain, and four mesh exterior pockets with compression cords.
- The design of the Front Balance Pockets, which includes four mesh exterior pockets with compression chords, is to provide maximum comfort, organization, and accessibility. Attach to the Aarn balance pack for an unmatched outdoors experience.
(Click on Buttons to See and Evaluate)
- Sport Balance Pockets - Mid-volume: balances unobtrusiveness and weight carrying ability
- Expedition Balance Pockets - Large-volume: for balancing heavy loads.
(Click on Buttons to Evaluate and Purchase)
These allow you to clip climbing hardware on the larger models with Pelvic Form Hipbelts.
Alternative to sternum straps when Balance Pockets are not used.
Hold tent, poles, foam pad, etc. on pack sides.
Allow skis to be attached to the pack sides and locked to prevent movement
Allow a snowboard to be attached to the pack and locked to prevent movement
Instructions also apply to attaching Balance Pockets to Featherlight Freedom
This summer I went on Mountain Leader training and then did 2-3 day walks using the Natural Exhilaration. It is without doubt the best well balanced and designed pack I've ever used in the 40+ years I've been in the Outdoor Business! Keep up the good work mate!
David Spronson, Windermere, UK.
Natural Exhilaration + Expedition Balance Pockets
The concept behind Aarn packs made intuitive sense to me the first time I heard about them.While I'd never had major problems with pain or discomfort while hiking and backpacking, I'd never had a pack that I really liked. Particularly with a heavy load, I usually found myself cycling through a few different positions as each one became uncomfortable; there was never any single position that didn't pull or push on something harder than was sustainable. So I was excited to try out an Aarn pack on a recent ascent of Mt. St. Helens. St. Helens is a long, steep, full day hike, and requires enough weight (4+ liters of water, layers, camera, etc) to give a good assessment of utility and comfort. On previous ascents I'd used either an Arc'Teryx Bora 40 or an extremely full Mountainsmith lumbar pack.The Bora 40 basically worked fine, though with some shoulder soreness despit e a seemingly well functioning hip belt and a very sweaty back at the end of the day. While lumbar packs solve both of those problems, carrying that much weight for a long time would cause quite a bit of discomfort on my hip bones by the end of the day because the full weight was pulling back against them the whole time.
Enter the Aarn Natural Exhilaration. After spending maybe 15 minutes to get the pack adjusted for my torso and loading it up, I immediately noticed how comfortable the pack felt. There was no pressure or weight on my shoulders at all; the Balance Pockets were functioning as advertised. More impressive to me was that the way the weight rested around my waist via the hipbelt was immediately comfortable and distributed the load front and back. Once we got hiking there were some added benefits I hadn't anticipated.
First, it's incredibly nice to be able to access gear without having to take the pack off (or even stop hiking). Anything that's in the Balance Pockets can be easily taken out and put back on the move, and they're big enough for water, snacks, sunglasses, a hat, and anything else you might want on or off during the day. This meant fewer stops and a steadier pace.
Second, before using an Aarn pack I wouldn't have thought to complain about poor balance while using a normal pack or a lumbar pack. Once we got on the long boulder fields of St. Helens though, I noticed a major improvement. I was able to move as though I wasn't wearing a pack at all, confidently walking across the tops of boulders whereas before I would have chosen a more conservative route.
I was tired by the end of the hike, but none of that was due to the pack; I had no shoulder/ hip soreness or hot spots. The pack felt heavier while I was picking it up to put it on that it did once on, something I've experienced before and more evidence that the balance system distributes weight more efficiently than other packs. While the pack is a bit trickier to size and pack than a normal daypack, it's worth the slight effort in every way. I would recommend these packs to anybody who hikes or backpacks regularly with weight, even if you think your current pack is comfortable.
Brice Keown, WA, USA
36 Liter Aarn Natural Exhilaration Backpack
The Aarn Natural Exhilaration is our high-performance, 100% waterproof multi-purpose lightweight balance pack for one-day or multi-day outdoor adventures.
With this comfortable backpack, the FlowMo harness allows for superb agility with glue-like stability while the frame automatically shapes to your body and bends when you’re traversing the hills, biking or skiing. This lightweight daypack doesn't round out, even when it’s stuffed full. The back length adjustment is easy with the pack and the optional Balance Pockets allow you to carry heavy loads comfortably.
- FEATURES
- SPECIFICATIONS
- BALANCE POCKETS
- MORE ACCESSORIES
- DESIGN
- FITTING
- WHAT MAKES AN AARN PACK DIFFERENT?
- TESTIMONIALS
The Natural Exhilaration is one of the top hiking backpacks from Light Hiking Gear and it features U, V, and Flexi-flow, an Auto-mould frame with a perimeter wire and hollow 6001 T6 alloy stays, and an Auto-form hipbelt, making it one of the best balance bags on the market. This comfortable backpack is perfect for cycling, skiing, and hiking alike.
- Backpack adjusts up to 15 cm in length, True-fit shoulder straps, and Flow-thru stabilizers for ultimate comfort and balance.
- Design features a waterproof Dri-liner, 1 lid pocket, 3 outside stretch pockets, and a closed cell foam sit mat for security and organizational purposes.
- Web front compression with loop lock holders holds verticle tools and web-loc side compression with hyperlon reinforcement holds ski attachments.
This is the best hiking pack for those who want an adventure without the heaviness of a backpack. The Natural Exhilaration bag comes with a hydration hook, hang loop, and exit slot and can be attached to ice axes, skis, snowboards, and trekking poles in both the front and rear side of the bag.
Front Balance Pockets allow for high weights without feeling intrusive. Balance Pockets attach easily to Aarn’s comfortable backpacks and convert easily into a daypack after clipping on the shoulder and sternum straps. Hiking, backpacking, and exploring the outdoors has never been easier!
- Either 10 or 12 liter front Sport-Regular Balance Pockets, or 15 liter or 18 liter Expedition Balance Pockets can be used with this pack. Pockets provide greater stability and balance, and a more upright posture. This translates to much less fatigue and strain.
- Shoulder and sternum straps are included for converting the pockets into a daypack, which is carried on the front of the body for maximum security and easy gear access.
- Front pockets have waterproof Dri-liners, accessible zip flaps to protect items from the rain, and four mesh exterior pockets with compression cords.
- The design of the Front Balance Pockets, which includes four mesh exterior pockets with compression chords, is to provide maximum comfort, organization, and accessibility. Attach to the Aarn balance pack for an unmatched outdoors experience.
(Click on Buttons to See and Evaluate)
- Sport Balance Pockets - Mid-volume: balances unobtrusiveness and weight carrying ability
- Expedition Balance Pockets - Large-volume: for balancing heavy loads.
(Click on Buttons to Evaluate and Purchase)
These allow you to clip climbing hardware on the larger models with Pelvic Form Hipbelts.
Alternative to sternum straps when Balance Pockets are not used.
Hold tent, poles, foam pad, etc. on pack sides.
Allow skis to be attached to the pack sides and locked to prevent movement
Allow a snowboard to be attached to the pack and locked to prevent movement
Instructions also apply to attaching Balance Pockets to Featherlight Freedom
This summer I went on Mountain Leader training and then did 2-3 day walks using the Natural Exhilaration. It is without doubt the best well balanced and designed pack I've ever used in the 40+ years I've been in the Outdoor Business! Keep up the good work mate!
David Spronson, Windermere, UK.
Natural Exhilaration + Expedition Balance Pockets
The concept behind Aarn packs made intuitive sense to me the first time I heard about them.While I'd never had major problems with pain or discomfort while hiking and backpacking, I'd never had a pack that I really liked. Particularly with a heavy load, I usually found myself cycling through a few different positions as each one became uncomfortable; there was never any single position that didn't pull or push on something harder than was sustainable. So I was excited to try out an Aarn pack on a recent ascent of Mt. St. Helens. St. Helens is a long, steep, full day hike, and requires enough weight (4+ liters of water, layers, camera, etc) to give a good assessment of utility and comfort. On previous ascents I'd used either an Arc'Teryx Bora 40 or an extremely full Mountainsmith lumbar pack.The Bora 40 basically worked fine, though with some shoulder soreness despit e a seemingly well functioning hip belt and a very sweaty back at the end of the day. While lumbar packs solve both of those problems, carrying that much weight for a long time would cause quite a bit of discomfort on my hip bones by the end of the day because the full weight was pulling back against them the whole time.
Enter the Aarn Natural Exhilaration. After spending maybe 15 minutes to get the pack adjusted for my torso and loading it up, I immediately noticed how comfortable the pack felt. There was no pressure or weight on my shoulders at all; the Balance Pockets were functioning as advertised. More impressive to me was that the way the weight rested around my waist via the hipbelt was immediately comfortable and distributed the load front and back. Once we got hiking there were some added benefits I hadn't anticipated.
First, it's incredibly nice to be able to access gear without having to take the pack off (or even stop hiking). Anything that's in the Balance Pockets can be easily taken out and put back on the move, and they're big enough for water, snacks, sunglasses, a hat, and anything else you might want on or off during the day. This meant fewer stops and a steadier pace.
Second, before using an Aarn pack I wouldn't have thought to complain about poor balance while using a normal pack or a lumbar pack. Once we got on the long boulder fields of St. Helens though, I noticed a major improvement. I was able to move as though I wasn't wearing a pack at all, confidently walking across the tops of boulders whereas before I would have chosen a more conservative route.
I was tired by the end of the hike, but none of that was due to the pack; I had no shoulder/ hip soreness or hot spots. The pack felt heavier while I was picking it up to put it on that it did once on, something I've experienced before and more evidence that the balance system distributes weight more efficiently than other packs. While the pack is a bit trickier to size and pack than a normal daypack, it's worth the slight effort in every way. I would recommend these packs to anybody who hikes or backpacks regularly with weight, even if you think your current pack is comfortable.
Brice Keown, WA, USA
- Sport/Small (10 Liters
- Sport/Regular (12 Liters)
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Let customers speak for us
"I honestly couldn't have made this documentary without the Aarn Photo Balance Pockets. I was carrying a 5d Mkiii with a 24-105 lens, a 14mm prime, and tripod and they were all within hands reach at any time. The weight distribution was amazing as well. It's a little unwieldy to get on and off. Otherwise, brilliant."
Great value to distribute weight and easier than I thought to attach and remove. Pockets everywhere
LIGHTWEIGHT COMFORT
This is by far the most comfortable pack I've ever used. I've previously used packs from Macpac, Montana, Osprey and Kathmandu and none of them come close to the comfort of the Peak Aspiration. All the weight gets comfortably carried on your hips to the point I get tricked into thinking I'm carrying less weight then I actually am. Being able to tighten the top and bottom of the hip belt means it doesn't need to be uncomfortably tight like a lot of other single piece belts. I don't typically carry enough to justify using the front pouches and the pack works amazing this way. It's not necessary to use the front packs for it to be super comfortable. I'm a convert and don't see myself ever using anything else.
REKINDLED MY LOVE OF TRAMPING
I had stated to become reluctant to go on tramps due to the discomfort from my previous pack - sore hips, tight neck and shoulders, rubbing on my back. I brought the Aarn Featherlite Freedom pack and wow - 5 days/85 km with none of these - just tiredness and the joy of reaching the hutt each day. I wish I had brought one years ago!
Awasome
Absolutely love my Aarn pack, so comfy and light. No strain or pain and can walk for mikes and miles
I am a botanical artist and do a lot of sketching and photographing of plants in the field. I have gone through a lot of packs to find the right fit for my equipment. Finally after searching endlessly for a daypack that would hold my art supplies and my camera equipment, the Aarn Balance Pack has proven the perfect solution. I carry my camera equipment up front in the Photo Balance Pockets so I have instant access – no longer do I have to constantly take off my backpack- and I carry my paints, paper, water, sketching tools, clothing and food for the day in the pack. Since herniating a disk in my back several years ago balancing gear up front with and behind is much easier on my back than a backpack. Happily the Aarn design also does not sacrifice manoeuvrability for tramping and climbing. It is very useful to be able to attach the same Balance Pockets to either a full sized pack or a daypack, depending on trip length. Even in hot weather the Balance Pockets do not make the packs hotter and I have used them in some very hot places! I now use this pack exclusively on all my tramps from New Zealand to Bhutan and beyond. Excellent.
The Photography Balance Pockets make it really easy to keep the camera at the ready - it's very easy to grab the DSLR out of the pocket, even with a 70-300 lens attached. When it comes to changing lenses, its like having an extra pair of hands. The load balance was amazing - totally different to my normal experience. Last weekend I packed my normal day-hike winter safety gear, food, 1.5 L of water, then loaded the pockets with my DSLR, 3 lenses, binoculars, GPS, plus a second point-and-shoot camera. The load just never seemed to be an issue.
The elastic pockets worked well for stowing filters. I found the dry sacs spacious enough to make for easy use. This is a good feature as most inexpensive DSLR's and lenses aren't weather or dust sealed.
Aarn's Photo Balance Pockets have completely changed the way I take pictures whilst in the backcountry. As a long-time contributor to Wilderness Magazine I'm always striving to capture beautiful moments of people having a good time in the outdoors.
The Photo Balance Pockets help me having my camera and lenses available at all times without having to take my pack off. The other day I even caught myself changing a lens while walking. They are as much a camera bag as they are a safe container to handle my expensive camera gear while climbing up a mountain. My gear worries crossing rivers are a thing of the past, too. I just roll up the dri-liners and all that will get wet is me. Turning them into a day pack is another nice feature. Once I have made camp I can keep on exploring with a lighter pack.
With my camera gear safely and comfortably available at all times I can be fully in the moment and capture the story of a day in the mountains while it is happening.
I have been using the AARN Photo Balance Pockets with a number of pack models for several years now. The photo pockets have quickly become my case of choice for travel and field photography. Each compartment has individual dry bags for each piece of gear. Typically, I will carry an SLR (w/out battery grip) with a wide-angle lens in the larger compartment. On the other side, I fill the dry bags with various lenses and/ or a flash. There is more storage in the bottom each pocket that can house smaller lenses, or needed accessories. Access is one of my favorite features of the system: a top zip allows for quick grabs when needed. Each piece of equipment is protected with a dry bag, and some thin padding. I have taken my systems on several extended expeditions and have never had an issue with the padding. The final feature that has been a HUGE bonus for me is that the balance pockets detach and become a smaller backpack on it's own. This is truly great for those smaller hikes or urban travel with a camera system.
Fantastic!! Exactly what I was looking for in a pack, light, comfortable, brilliant front pockets for spreading weight.
New Fav pack!
Bought this as a smaller fastpacking option to my Aarn mountain magic and absolutely love it! Easily got my overnight gear including tent and bedroll in and will be able to fit a few days worth of food.
Awesome piece of gear that nobody else seems to offer! Works great!
SO COMFORTABLE
Absolutely the most comfortable pack for my shoulders and neck that I have ever had in 25 years of tramping.
PAIN GONE
"I broke my back some years ago (T7 and T8) and have problems now carrying weight for any length of time. I get a real pain like a knife stabbing me between the shoulder blades. But, not when using your Balance Pack design!"