Osprey has been a household name in outdoor sports for more than 40 years. The choice of both professional and amateur athletes the world over, they are known for their innovation, design and quality. All Osprey backpacks come with a limited lifetime guarantee against defects in materials and workmanship.
Osprey backpacks are durable and lightweight, designed for rugged outdoor use. When choosing a backpack, it is important to do so based on your individual needs and preferences in order to ensure that you have the one that best suits you. Here we compare two of Osprey’s best selling units in order to help you narrow down your options.
Atmos 50
Atmos is the series that “redefined expectations about weight, ventilation and comfort in backpacking.” With a customized fit, fully adjustable torso-length, interchangeable harnesses and an adjustable hipbelt fit, this backpack is ideal for overnight or extended trips. It weighs in at just over three pounds (the largest of the three sizes is 3 pounds, 4 oz.), meaning hikers can carry all of their essentials comfortably and safely.
Features:
The Atmos features a torso-adjustable interchangeable shoulder harness for an exceptional fine-tuned fit. AirSpeed suspention optimizes balance, ventilation and support, and the exclusive hipbelt design features a six-inch adjustment range for maximum comfort. All Atmos series packs are hydration compatible, feature dual ice-tool loops and bungee tool tie-offs for gear storage.
Pros:
Traditional top-load design, front pockets with water-resistant zippers, lightweight construction and fully adjustable harness straps for support, comfort and function.
Cons:
The Atmos 50 comes in three sizes. The smallest of the three is not large enough for overnight excursions, however the two larger sizes are more than sufficient.
Exos 38
The Exos series was first introduced in 2008, and has quickly become a favorite with trekkers and ultralight enthusiasts who are unwilling to sacrifice their comfort. This 2014 redesign is the result of Osprey’s never-ending search for the very latest in technology and innovation.
Features:
The Exos 38 features Osprey’s patented AirSpeed suspension, torso-specific sizing and ergonomic design. With removable lid, key-straps and attachment points, two interior multi-function pockets and a total of six exterior pockets, the Exos 38 provides plenty of storage space without sacrificing comfort and functionality.
Pros:
Improved harness and hip-belt support, updated materials and hardware for a lighter, more streamlined design, finer weave mesh on side and hip-pockets are stronger and more snag-resistant.
Cons:
No internal organization pocket means gear can shift during use, requiring readjusting.
Conclusion:
Both of our test packs are rated very highly for durability and functionality. For day or overnight excursions, the Exos 38 is a perfectly acceptable choice. For the serious trekker who spends days, weeks or months in the wild, the Atmos 50 provides a larger, more organized approach, with trekking pole attachment, adjustable hipbelt and interchangeable harnesses. The Exos 38 is priced in the mid-$100’s to mid-$200’s. The Atmos 50 is priced considerably higher, however for the serious outdoorsman it is well worth the investment.
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