For my knees on hills above 10% that are a mile+++ long I want a one to one ratio. 34 front 34 rear. or 32 front 32 rear etc....
If it's just a short city block I am fine with standing.
I have a gravel bike with road wheel set just for this reason. I prefer the lower gears plus it's dual purpose bike with two wheel sets.
The aethos is sick!