Osprey

A Brief History of Osprey

Founded in 1974, Osprey is one of the most well-known and respected brands in backpacks and outdoor gear. Based in Cortez, Colorado, Osprey's reputation is built on high-quality, innovative and comfortable packs designed for hiking, backpacking, climbing and more. Osprey's founder, Mike Pfotenhauer, first began sewing and selling backpacks from his home in Santa Cruz, California in 1974. Pfotenhauer was an avid outdoorsman who was frustrated by the lack of comfortable, high-quality packs at the time. He began designing his packs with an emphasis on fit, comfort and ventilation. The fledgling company was run out of Pfotenhauer's garage and car. As word spread among the outdoor community about the innovative Osprey packs, demand began to grow. In 1987, Pfotenhauer moved the company to a larger factory in Cortez, Colorado where Osprey still operates today. Through the 1990s and 2000s, Osprey experienced steady growth and expansion. They pioneered the development of backpack suspension systems to improve carry comfort. Osprey also integrated cutting-edge technologies into their product designs. Today, Osprey is one of the most popular backpack brands in the world. Their packs are sold globally through outdoor speciality retailers. While Osprey has grown into a true powerhouse brand, they've stayed true to their roots - creating innovative, comfortable and high-performing packs for all types of adventures.

Osprey Quality and Materials Overview

Osprey is renowned for their meticulous attention to detail and quality when it comes to materials and construction. Their packs are designed for durability over years of intensive use on trails worldwide.

• Materials - Osprey uses high-tenacity nylon fabrics that are light yet abrasion-resistant. On higher-end models, they use premium lightweight fabrics like Dyneema Composite Fabrics. Zippers are oversized and feature beefy cord pulls for easy use with gloves on.

• Stitching - Critical high-load seams feature flat sewn or binding tape seams for added strength. Bar-tacks reinforce potential stress points. All stitching is precise and clean for longevity.

• Foam - Open cell foams with varying densities provide cushioning and structure at different locations like shoulder harnesses, hip belts and back panels. This balances comfort, support and ventilation.

• Frames - Internal peripheral and central aluminium frames transfer weight effectively and add stability. HDPE framesheets complement the frames with structure while maintaining flexibility.

• Testing - Osprey's 'All Mighty Guarantee' offers comprehensive lifetime repair or replacement coverage for any damage. This speaks to the faith they have in their construction quality and materials.

Osprey's Backpack Lineup

Osprey offers an extensive range of backpacking packs designed for various activities, gear-hauling needs and user sizes. Their packs come in three main styles:

Daypacks

When it comes to packs optimised for day hiking and short trips, Osprey offers an array of thoughtfully designed daypack models ranging in volume from 20 to 40 litres. These lightweight yet durable packs provide just the right amount of storage for essentials like extra layers, food, and water during quick missions on trails. Among the most popular daypacks in Osprey's lineup are the classic Daylite and Daylite Plus models, prized for their simplicity and versatility at 20 and 30 litres respectively. The streamlined Stratos 34 has an ultra-breathable AirSpeed back panel and built-in rain cover, while the Trailvolt 30 incorporates a sleeve for Osprey's Hydraulics reservoirs. For added organisation, the Hikelite 26 and 18 models feature the handy Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole carry system and dual stretch mesh pockets on the hip belt. And for larger loads, the Rook 50 has load-hauling capability more akin to a backpacking pack thanks to its lightweight peripheral frame. Across Osprey's daypack selection, users will find carefully shaped shoulder straps, adjustable sternum straps, and padded hip belts or hip wings to distribute weight comfort during wear. Side mesh pockets, exterior attachment points, integrated blinker lights, and trekking pole loops add convenience to the trail. When you need just the essentials for a quick day hike or commute, Osprey's dialled daypacks deliver.

Multi-Day Backpacking Packs

For backpackers looking to venture deep into the backcountry on multi-day trips, Osprey's robust lineup of larger volume packs provides ample capacity for gear, food, and water needed on extended adventures. Ranging from 50 to over 100 litres, these workhorse packs are prized for their ability to comfortably haul heavy loads over miles of terrain. Crown jewels of the category are Osprey's Aether and Ariel packs, available in 60 to 85-liter models. These packs feature Osprey's advanced Anti-Gravity suspension systems, warranting their popularity with thru-hikers and weekend warriors alike. For those counting ounces, the lightweight Exos 58 has an airy mesh suspension and ultralight but durable fabrics that make loads feel lighter. The flagship Atmos 65 AG sets the standard for ventilated carry comfort thanks to tensioned mesh extending across the back panel and hip belt. For colder conditions, the Xenith 75 has an insulated AirSpeed frame sheet to mitigate heat loss. Across Osprey's sizeable selection of multi-day packs, users will find trail-ready features like sleeping bag compartments, removable top lids, trekking pole attachments, and access points to quickly reach gear. When you need to maximise your gear-hauling capability for those ambitious backcountry trips, Osprey's burly backpacking packs are ready for the journey.

Climbing and Alpine Packs

For climbers and alpinists taking on rocky faces and icy peaks, Osprey offers several packs purpose-built for technical ascents where agility and weight matter. Though stripped down, these models still provide ample space for essential climbing gear. Among the most popular is the Mutant 52, which combines a flexible, minimalist design with a POC-constructed breathable back panel. For larger loads, the Variant 52 is fully featured for multi-pitch routes, with a sliding chimney pocket to manage ropes. On big climbs, the heavyweight Xenith 75 excels with its lightweight compression straps and fully-opening side zipper for easy gear access. Key features across Osprey's climbing packs include ice tool attachments, daisy chain webbing, removable lid and top rope straps. Thin peripheral frames paired with Osprey's IsoForm hip belts transfer and stabilise loads while allowing dynamic movement. By focusing on optimising freedom of movement and keeping gear quickly accessible, Osprey's alpine-oriented packs excel when the terrain turns vertical and technical.

Key Osprey Backpack Features and Innovative Technologies

By integrating smart features and purposeful technologies into their packs, Osprey aims to create designs that enhance and ease the user experience on adventures.

• Anti-Gravity Suspension - Osprey's premier ventilation system is used in popular models like the Atmos and Aura.

• IsoForm Suspension - Uses a CM-shaped frame sheet for a contouring, customised fit. Found in packs like the Levity.

• AirScape Suspension - Lightweight system with ventilated ridged foam covered in mesh for breathability.

• Reservoir Integration - Dedicated sleeves and routing for hydration reservoirs on many models.

• Compression Straps - Strategically placed to stabilise loads and bring the weight closer to the body.

• Stow-on-the-Go Pole Attachment - Allows quickly attaching poles to the front of packs without removing them.

• Dual Access Points - Top and bottom access on some large Osprey packs for easy gear access.

• Removable Top Lids - Many Osprey packs have removable lids to save weight when possible.

• Sleeping Bag Compartment - Provides separate access to your sleeping bag without disturbing the main compartment.

• Trekking Pole Attachments - Already mentioned earlier, this smart feature allows quickly stashing poles when not needed.

Osprey Backpack Suspension Systems

A key reason for Osprey's success is their highly engineered backpack suspension systems. Suspension refers to the arrangement of shoulder straps, hip belts, frame structure and padding that make up a pack's carry system. Osprey has pioneered several innovative suspension technologies:

Anti-Gravity Suspension

The Anti-Gravity suspension system represents Osprey's premier carrying technology and offers a prime example of the brand's relentless innovation to enhance user experience on the trail. This highly engineered system is found on Osprey's most popular packs like the Atmos, Aura, and Levity. Its hallmark feature is the suspended mesh back panel which arches tensioned away from the user's back, creating an air channel to maximise ventilation and minimise sweaty back contact while wearing the pack. Seamless wraparound hip belts and harnesses complement the back panel shape to create an almost weightless carry sensation by effectively transferring loads onto the hips. Peripheral aluminium frames transfer weight to the hip belt while peripheral hoop carbon fibre rods give the back panel structure to maintain airflow gaps. Though technical under the hood, the anti-gravity system ultimately aims to provide fatigue-free comfort mile after mile, especially under heavy loads. This innovative suspension technology has garnered Osprey a loyal following among hikers seeking that elusive 'perfect carry'.

IsoForm Suspension

Osprey's IsoForm suspension represents another leading-edge carry system that enhances close-to-body comfort and control. This technology is found in lightweight, minimalist Osprey packs designed for fast and light ventures like the Levity and Lumina models. At the heart of IsoForm is a C-shaped frame sheet moulded from ultra-stiff composite with Vectran fibre that contours around the user's spine for a precise, customised fit. The frame sheet transfers weight onto Osprey's unique continuous wrap hipbelt that is carefully shaped to eliminate gaps and pressure points around the hips. This seamless interface between the belt and back maximises load support and stability when moving fast over rough terrain. Rigid frame channels along the periphery transfer weight effectively while maintaining incredible pack mobility and flexibility to twist and bend. For users wanting a supremely dialled carry for athletic endeavours, Osprey's IsoForm suspension provides an unparalleled body-hugging fit and agile responsiveness.

AirScape Suspension

For ounce-counting backpackers who still want comfort, Osprey's lightweight AirScape suspension shines. This ventilated system aims to eliminate sweaty backs using strategically shaped open-cell foam ridges spaced along a back panel. This creates open-air channels to enhance airflow instead of flat pads that cause surface contact and heat build-up. The ridged design contours the foam around the user's back for a customised fit versus flat sheets. Overlaying the foam is a highly permeable mesh that further aids breathability across the entire skin-to-pack contact surface. This suspension is found on popular ultralight Osprey models like the Exos and Eja packs. Though minimalist by design, the AirScape system still positions weight effectively by integrating slim padded hip belts and harness straps. By focusing solely on optimising ventilation, AirScape gives hot and sweaty packers welcome relief over miles in a featherweight format.

Osprey continues to innovate new suspension systems like the Anti-GravityTM Advanced seen in recent models. Their designs balance carrying comfort, ventilation, load distribution and flexibility - making the packs feel like natural extensions of your body.

Osprey's Sustainability and Social Initiatives

Beyond their excellent products, Osprey distinguishes itself as an environmentally and socially conscious company. They have several initiatives driving sustainability:

• All Mighty Guarantee → Osprey's lifetime repair policy means packs are built to last. This reduces waste and avoids tossing damaged packs prematurely. All repairs are done domestically at their Utah facility.

• Recycled Materials Usage → Many Osprey pack fabrics incorporate high percentages (up to 30%) of recycled polyethene terephthalate (PET) plastic from recycled bottles. This reduces landfill waste.

• Responsible Down Standard → Osprey's sleeping bags use responsibly sourced down that meets animal welfare standards. The down is Global Traceable Down certified.

• Environment Commitment → Osprey's headquarters runs on 100% renewable energy. They are Climate Neutral Certified and offset all company emissions. The brand partners with several environmental non-profits.

• Domestic Manufacturing → While many outdoor brands offshore production overseas, Osprey has maintained their wholly owned factory in Cortez, Colorado since 1991 to preserve domestic jobs.

• Workplace Safety → Osprey's workers do not cut, sew or weld any materials until they have passed certified safety training. This promotes employee well-being.

• Charitable Partnerships → 1% of Osprey sales are donated to non-profit environmental and social justice groups selected through an internal committee.

Frequently Asked Questions about Osprey Backpacks and Gear (FAQs)

Q: How do Osprey backpacks compare to competitors like Gregory, Deuter and REI?

Osprey stands out for their highly engineered suspension systems unmatched by other brands. Thoughtful features and innovations also give their packs great utility. Overall quality and performance are among the best.

Q: Is Osprey a good backpack brand for hiking and backpacking?

Yes, Osprey is one of the top recommended brands for these activities thanks to the comfort, features and durability of their packs. They have models designed specifically with hiking and multi-day carry in mind.

Q: Are Osprey backpacks worth the price?

The premium prices of Osprey packs reflect the exceptional materials, construction quality and carrying designs. While not cheap, they deliver excellent value by providing years of comfortable outdoor use.

Q: Where are Osprey backpacks manufactured?

All Osprey packs and gear are manufactured at their wholly-owned factory in Cortez, Colorado USA. This ensures tight quality control and enables their lifetime guarantee.

Q: What is the best Osprey backpack?

It depends on your needs and preferences, but some of their most popular models are the Atmos, Aether, Ariel, Exos and Talon series designed specifically for hiking and backpacking activities.

Q: How do you wash an Osprey backpack?

Start by emptying the pack. Use a damp cloth with mild soap to spot clean. Never submerge or machine wash your pack - this can compromise the materials. Air dry completely before using again.