I HATE Osprey! But This Pack Changed My Mind

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[robinsonfriday]

" I'm not a fan of osprey packs; "I just don't believe that backpacks needs all these pockets, zippers and straps", but i really like this model, except, it lacks zippers and straps ! Hard to

[jonsanford]

The reason the Exos 55 seems bigger than the Arc Haul 60, is that Z packs includes the capacity of all the pockets in their number.
Most manufacturers list only “covered” compartments in their volume. Open pockets are unmeasured additional volume, since you can put bigger items that stick out in them.

Exos has 55L in the main compartment + brain. Stretch pocket and side pockets are unmeasured additional storage. Z Packs arc haul 60L is 47L body, 8L stretch pocket, 2.5 each side pocket.

[Lucariod]

An osprey atmos 65 was my first pack 5 years ago, and it’s the same one I use today. There is a lot of extra weight and unnecessary organization, but I love the pack. It’s incredibly comfortable and adjustable and there is no wear. I have no desire nor need to purchase a new backpack, so it saves me a lot. I don’t understand how you could actually hate the pack, even with every opinion you listed, but to each their own. I will gladly continue to enjoy my time outdoors because of my atmos.

[edolson]

I commented on one of your other videos but this should have been the one to comment on. I own this pack and love it. One signifcant modification, however, makes it much better if not perfect. My inspiration is the Gregory Focal 55. On that pack side compression straps may be routed hidden/inside the stretchy side pockets allowing compression at same time giving full use of stretchy side pockets even under f 7:28 ull compression. Problem with the Exos is the compression straps are permanently on outside of side pockets creating a real use problem when pack is fully compressed. What's more is the bottom side compression side is couple to/attached to the hip belt. My experience with this pack proves that this coupling s unnecessay and by decoupliing the compression strap from the hip belt results in more comfort and better function of the hip belt on my hips and then with a couple small 1/4" slits in ripstop fabric, a few hidden stitches plus super strong waterproof fabric glue, I have rerouted compression straps to under/hidden/inside stretchy side pockets. I also detached the upper compression and moved it. Now I have full use of stretchy side pockets and large front stretchy pocket even while the pack is under full ccompression. Water bottles and other items go in and out without a struggle whatsoever. Or even run longer items inside of side pockets yet still under comoression with full functional use of stretchy side pocket such as a water bottle beig put in or taken out without messin with the compression. The modification looks totally factory like it was designed that way. Side hipbelt pockets also are more functional being uncoupled from compression straps because when the belt is niw cinched down it does not stress pockets back in a weird way. This ended up being more comfortable as well. I wish there was a way to send pics. Anyway my mods added no weight and made the pack hugely more functional and just a little more comfortable.

[msterpunch]

I have an Osprey Talon 11L daypack and I fell in love with it the first time I used it. My partner and I hiked a trail that has a portion that requires rappelling down some pretty steep inclines on ropes and then 6km on very sharp rocks to a secluded cove. A well balanced pack is necessary for sure footing as if you wreck an ankle you'd need to call the coast guard in before the tide traps you. (Bay of Fundy, highest tides in the world) and on the way back as soon as we climbed back up the ropes we were hit with a severe thunderstorm (wasn't in the forecast). Deafening thunderclaps and heavy rains and the inside of the pack stayed dry (with my Nikon DSLR in there too). had some dry clothes in my dry bag and wasn't expecting wet weather at all so learned a lesson for next time.

Also I realized it was missing a piece for the stow on the go trekking pole feature and just emailing Osprey lastnight I got a reply in less then an hour that they were preparing to ship me out the part soon (my first time using a warranty like this)

I would love to get a Stratos 36 or 44 as an overnight or weekender. I only dabble in UL so the pro versions are a bit too rich for my blood but I would certainly try Osprey again.

My only complaint is that the cool Osprey logo wore off so fast. They should really embroider them or something.

[ericb.]

I've had a Gen.2 EXOS 58 for 6 years and love it. Most comfortable UL pack I have ever owned.
COOL FACTOID: On my ORIGINAL EXOS 58 I can store my waffle sit pad behind the mesh trampoline back. I cut off the pole carrier and lid flap. I always use the "brain". Still truckin' after all these years.

[tylern]

I love my Osprey pack. It took me thousands of miles across Europe, probably hundreds by foot. It was a great investment and quite durable. I am an athletic, stout guy and don't mind that it's not an ultralight backpack. I wanted size and features and quality construction and it delivered. It's ten years old and just as good as the day I bought it. Osprey would be my first choice for my next pack should I ever need one.

I just really loved the way it took an enormously heavy load and spread it across my body in such a way that I didn't really notice the weight.

[crstarkey]

I got hooked on Osprey years ago with my Xenith. Cavernous for long trips, comfortable, easy access. Sold it to a kid hiking the AT. I just bought a Atmos 65. The waist belt is tighter than I like so I'm looking to swap it out; but I got it at such a good price, I had to buy it. Your pack looks good so thanks for sharing.

[johncheeseman]

Good video, you left out the mighty guarantee. I send my aether 65 in at the 10 years old mark for repairs. In addition to the repairs, they put a new belt and shoulder harness on the pack. Pretty much a new pack.

[jayluikart]

Two trips with this pack for me and I’m happy enough I’m with it. Less back sweat than any pack I’ve ever used and comfortable enough when the load isn’t too heavy. I agree on the brain it’s generous size and can fit a lot. Combined with the side and back pocket and hip belt it’s good amount of storage for various things.

[adventureswithcorrine]

I have a Ren65 that runs just under 5lb. Packed I am hauling right a 40lbs. I use it as a day pack and come in at around 15lbs without my sleep system and food. Clearly, I am not a UL hiker! I'm a 5'2", over 50, overweight, female hiker. Finding anything that actually fits is a challenge. Osprey's adjustable everything works well in getting the pack fitted and comfortable.

[chansen]

I don't have time these days to do extended trips, so for all my overnight or three-day hikes, I don't mind a few more pounds for comfort, and my Osprey packs always deliver on that point!

[nicoleandjoshbaldwin]

I always recommend the exos for new backpackers because they can carry a lot of weight and are super comfortable.

[deeshunt]

I have a 5 year old Osprey Atmos 50 and I love it. The suspension and the mesh is what makes it for me. Also the bladder compartment with the little strap and clip is well thought out. It does weigh in at 4.5 lbs but it sure is comfortable and functions well enough that I don't feel the need to get anything else. Cheers

[NicholasComfort-nvyx]

I have one of the previous models of this pack and can definitely recommend it. There are somethings that I like better with the new version (hip belt pockets), but there are some things I like on the older model (more user friendly buckles, easy to remove brain, that kind of thing)... just preference but I'd still recommend it. Only wish it was water resistant.

[UnkemptBushell]

Osprey is ubiquitous in the UK as we don't have as much choice when it comes to backpacking brands. I tend to avoid them but I've recently purchased the Exos 48 (non-pro) as it cuts the nonsense. I'll be testing it next week but I like the look and feel of it so far. The suspension system and the ventilation it provides seems worth a little bit of extra weight.

[marekmigal]

Nice! I bought this exact backpack mere two weeks ago, and I love it just the same. The construction is comfortable, yet stable, and I experienced none of the weight shifting I dealt with before, when using older and cheaper backpack.

[travellingDAS]

A great review as always!

I tried to move away from my Osprey and tried a Mariposa 60. On paper the Mariposa is an awesome pack however for me there one huge problem in that without airflow between my back and my pack I really struggle. I just could not get comfortable with the Mariposa. In my experience, when it comes to packs, lighter is not always better, the key is comfort and weight transfer to your hips.

[jakedmagic]

I just thru hiked the AT this year using the Exos Pro. I loved it. The water bottle being accessible from the size was a godsend. I also didnt use the brain and had room to spare. I never used the red compressuon strap tbh.

10/10 converted a few anti osprey folks to

[christinadimauro]

You need the right tool for the job. My UL pack and setup work for most trails but not all. For my next trail, the Hayduke, I bought a nearly 5lb Atmos for the job because it can carry 40-50lbs. I’ll need that for the 30+ mile, up to 10-11 liter, water carries and 10+ day food carries. I could manage with a lighter pack but it would be uncomfortable AF.