Osprey Stratos 18

Osprey Stratos 18 – A stellar daypack.

Anyone who has used in Osprey pack before tends to become a life long user. Want to see what all the rage is about, but aren’t ready to commit to a full size pack? Then check out of of the companies daypacks. The Osprey Stratos 18 daypack gives you many of the features found on its big brother counterparts.

The Osprey Stratos 18 has a tension, countered mesh backpanel. This backpanel is form fitting and not only gives you a comfortable fit, but aids in keeping Osprey Stratos 18 stable and circulating airflow. The Osprey Stratos 18 also uses the AirCore harness system to help you carry heavy loads.

Hip belt pockets give you a place to store all your must have items. The Osprey Stratos 18 uses a typical zippered, panel loading design. The front zippered pocket on the outside of the pack is made with a water resistant zipper. The front stretch pocket is also a great place to store shedding layers.

The Osprey Stratos 18

The quick & dirty:

Where you can get one:
Amazon: $99

Why the rock:

• Osprey AirCore suspension features twin fiberglass struts
• Tensioned, contoured mesh backpanel
• Zippered panel-loading design
• Front stretch pocket
• Front pocket with a water-resistant zipper
• Sewn-in hipbelt and harness–both Spacer Mesh–are contoured and anatomically shaped to provide extra control and comfort
• Hydration-compatible design
• Top grab handle and twin ice axe loops

Why it bites:

• Slightly small, even for a daypack

Seat-of-the-pants rating: 9 out of 10

Take th Osprey Stratos 18 out on a few day hikes and you will see why backpackers swear by them. I think its safe to say that once you give the Osprey Stratos a few test runs, you’ll be making your way to the store for a bigger Osprey pack.

Looking to buy? Check out these sites:
Amazon: $99