Have Osprey finally cracked lightweight backpacks?

Gear news

19 July 2008 10:41

We tricked, bullied and persuaded backpack brand Osprey into giving us all the juicy details about Exos at the OutDoor Show 2008 in Friedrichshafen, Germany. It's their new, incredibly light sack that they say doesn't scrimp on features or comfort. 
 
Due to hit shops this January, the largest, 58 litre Exos weighs 990g, tipping the scales way below lightweight rivals Lightwave, whose 60 litre Wildtrak60 comes in at 360g more. This is like adding a midweight fleece or softshell to your load, but Lightwave's sack does have the advantage of being 20 pounds less expensive.

Light rucksacks often shave off features on their weight saving quest, but Osprey make a saving on each feature instead by using the lightest zip toggles and clips on the market combined with super-slimmed down compression straps and skinny stow loops for poles that you can operate whilst you walk.

The side mesh drinks bottle pockets are angled for easy access, the hipbelt and shoulder straps use die-cut venting foam for light, airy comfort and a simple, featherweight T6 powder-coated aluminium frame and crossbrace and mesh ventilated back system provide carrying comfort.

So have Osprey finally cracked the issue of comfort and useable features with their new lightweight sack? Keep your eyes on Trail magazine for technical editor Graham Thompson's first test on the Exos as it goes into store this January.

The Exos comes in three sizes, 58, 46 and 34 litres, which weigh 990, 840 and 780g and cost £140, £130 and £100 respectively.