[pct-l] Opinions? Gossamer G4 vs. Mariposa Plus

[Madeline Yacoe]

I am trying to decide which pack to buy for a 2011 thru hike and I would
like input from people who have tried these.

It looks like the Gossamer G4 is lighter, bigger, and cheaper than the
Mariposa Plus. The only differences I see are the Y strap vs. lash strap
closure, slightly different pockets on the right side, slightly different
shock cord loops, and the aluminum curved stay. I don't really understand
the difference.

Pack comparison chart:
http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/pack_matrix.html
G4: http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/G4.html
MARIPOSA PLUS:
http://www.gossamergear.com/cgi-bin/gossamergear/Mariposa_Plus.html

Have you tried frameless packs? The Mariposa comes with that aluminum curved
stay, which I think is supposed to transfer weight more effectively to the
hip belt. I'm not really sure how much of a difference that will make, or
how effectively the pad will do that job. If it makes a big difference, it
would probably make the Mariposa more comfortable. Otherwise, I'm inclined
to go for the slightly larger pack. Any ideas?

Thanks,
Madeline