Review of Osprey Backpacks

Review of Osprey Backpacks
Osprey makes advanced backpacks for everything from mountaineering to day hiking. The sizes of the backpacks range between 400 cubic inches and 6,700 cubic inches. All Osprey packs include full suspension systems with shoulder and hip straps. One feature routinely found in Osprey packs but not in those of competitors are mesh pockets located directly on the hip belt. This is not the only hip-belt innovation, since many Osprey models are also perforated to save extra ounces. Other features include floating-top lids, compression straps and water-bottle pockets. They also include innovative exterior storage, whether in the form of pockets or elastic-drawstring attachment points.

Perks

Known for using lightweight materials, including aircraft aluminum and durable nylon, Osprey focuses on lightweight durability. One of their most famous perks is the AirSpeed ventilation system, which keeps the body of the backpack separated from the user's back, producing the circulation most backpackers expect only from external-frame backpacks. Osprey is also known for proprietary storage systems, including detachable sections, stretchy pouches and custom attachment points.

Sacrifices

Due to the curvature found in Osprey's frame, designed to increase ventilation, the user must deal with an oddly shaped main compartment in many Osprey models. Also, because of the emphasis on lightweight products, their suspension systems tend to be slightly less padded than competitors' packs, such as those by Dana Design and Gregory.

Bottom Line

Osprey backpacks are some of the most innovative on the market today. They are also an extraordinary value, with most multiday packs between $100 and $200 dollars. Expect lightweight and long-lasting durability when setting out on the trail with an Osprey backpack.

Article Written By Louie Doverspike

Based in Seattle, Louie Doverspike has been a professional writer since 2004. His work has appeared in various publications, including "AntiqueWeek" magazine, the "Prague Post" and "Seattle Represent!" Doverspike holds a Bachelor of Arts in English from Hamilton College.

Write for Trails.com
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