Osprey Exos

UL Backpack

Loading Up

When it comes to loading ease, there’s a lot to like about the Exos 58. As with most UL packs, there’s a single top entry point. You pretty much just start dropping your gear in and stack accordingly. The interior features a 3-liter hydration bladder sleeve, which has it’s pros and cons. With a full bladder, it’s a good way to keep it contained and upright, however—fully filled—it reduces storage capacity significantly. With our food in our Ursack, it wasn’t a big deal; just a little reorganization. With a bear canister, it was a pretty tight squeeze. It’s the additional loading areas that we really like, starting with the two dual-entry side mesh pockets. We use one for our insulated water bottle and the other for our ultralight camp chair—two items we want quick access to. These pockets are nice and deep, so can hold sizeable items. The side entry slot makes reaching behind for our water bottle quite effortless. The Exos doesn’t feature any hipbelt pockets, but we had no problem using these side slots to stash a few snacks and other small essentials to keep within easy reach. And then there’s the quick-release floating lid with two zippered compartments—we love this feature! This is where we keep our toiletry bag, rain gear, tent essentials and electronics, and can easily pop it right off and toss in our tent when needed. On the outside, the Exos features a large mesh front pocket where we keep our camp sandals, tarp and water filter; it’s also great for stashing wet clothes. Add to all that an easy-access trekking pole attachment, exterior tool loops and a detachable sleeping pad strap and we’re good to go.

Strapping On

When we got our hands on Osprey’s first AG pack (the Atmos) a few seasons ago, we thought we had discovered the ultimate in backpacking comfort. That comfort carries straight through to the Exos. On the inside, the pack is supported by an ultralight 4mm alloy frame, which gives it a nice, sturdy structure. This is good for keeping the pack from collapsing on itself while loading or unloading. On the outside, the harness consists of a tensioned, AirSpeed 3-D mesh back panel that conforms to the body for a perfect fit. The mesh material also provides excellent air circulation between our back and the back of the pack—very nice for staying cool on trail. The mesh hipbelt is a bit on the minimal side, but is enough to maintain comfort and tailor a nice fit to support our fully-loaded weight (30 lbs.). The harness is topped with two of the cushiest shoulder straps we’ve ever worn. These are also made of ventilating seamless mesh to help prevent those sweat-soaked shoulder straps that deer and goats love to chew on. Attached to the harness are two load-lifter adjustment straps that let us fine-tune the pack for a perfect fit.