I actually have a dry spot in camp where there is massive tree coverage so I'm not socked up in the sawtooth.
Let's talk about the exo 3500. Things I love:
Easy pack to get around in. It really cinches down to almost nothing. Lightweight easy to adjust and carries a load well. The drink ports come out over each shoulder strap this a great feature. The main bag is pretty waterproof I was out in a downpour last night and everything stayed dry inside. The side pouches are super cool for stuffing the nalgene in or stuff you want quick access to. The front access zip is really nice also so you can get to the main bag items without unloading the pack.
Things I don't like:
The 3/4 inch buckles are a pain in the rear to adjust. You need 2 hands to cinch them down. Not easy at all.
The top lid is great if the pack isn't full up but otherwise with a full load your gear in the slot pockets are going to get wet if your in rain with a full load.

Steve/Lenny you should make this wider so it covers the side pockets. Also if you want to stuff the snow color full then your lid isn't going to make it over the top of the pack because they sewed it on the front side. A quick fix for exo to make is let the lid free float with adjustments on both sides.
Overall I'm really happy with the exo I stuffed a shit ton of gear into it that most people didn't think would fit. All of the stuff in this photo made it to camp.
I packed in with close to 60 lbs with water and carried my bow and a stove lashed to the bottom I had no issues with the load shifting on me or pulling me back.
