Osprey Exos 48 Review: Osprey's Run at Ultralight Backpacks

[@lorismith8479]

I have the Exos 58L and LOVE IT! It does have the stash loop on the left that hooks into the loop clip on the shoulder strap…made for hiking poles but super handy 😊

[@jordankelly7058]

Just bought this bag last month. I am new to backpacking, so I was looking for something that wouldn’t break the bank, but also give me an enjoyable entry to the activity. I tried this on at Eastern Mountain Sports and immediately knew it was going to be my choice. Incredibly comfortable and the ventilation on the back is crucial for me. I only have a handful of miles on it, but I’m looking forward to seeing how it does next month when I head out into Baxter. Thank you for validating my thought process and purchase of this pack!

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to help Jordan, enjoy the trails!

[@joshbilyeu5245]

I have a previous version which is pretty much exactly the same except it doesn't have an adjustable torso. As far as those webbing straps getting in your way, just don't put it underneath all of them you don't need to, just flipping into the pouch loosen the top strap and then slide it over and sinch it down and then when you need it just loosen it real quick and it slides right out. I use it all the time. The stow on the go thing for the poles is amazing In fact I have fabricated a similar system and installed it on most of my other packs as well. I find it a must-have now as I transition through different terrain and I can quickly put the poles away when I need to scramble or hit flat terrain, we're stopping to take a break. I don't ever put them on the back/side anymore.

[@lorismith8479]

I like having the food for the day in the outside pocket…saves from having to pulling out everything from the main compartment

[@inlesinlet]

Talking about bang for their buck: I got the Eja 48 (female version of this) back in 2018 on sale for around 80 USD! It doesn't have hip belt pockets, like the newer versions of the backpack, but it was my first backpack for overnighters and such, and honestly, it's been great. Five years later I've only managed to go on less than a dozen overnighters, and this pack's been perfect. I hope I'll manage to build up my health to a point where I can do more camping, and when I get to that point, I'll probably want to get a different pack. But for someone just getting started and really wanting a lightweight pack, getting this on sale in my torso size and a color I like... It really felt like the camping gods were looking out for me :D

[@emonty62]

Digging my Osprey Exos 58

[@Away.Aweigh.A.Way.]

I was debating between this and the Gregory Focal as they are incredibly similar. Two design choices ultimately led me to choose the Focal. 1. The side compression straps on the Exos running over top of the side pockets is a non starter for me. The Focal will let you reroute the side compression straps under or over, allowing you to cinch down your pack while leaving the side pocket accessible. 2. While the adjustable harness is nice for dialing in the fit, the little webbing loops with a toggle that connect the straps to the frame seem like a potential point of failure that was too much of a risk. If that failed on trail, you’d have an incredibly difficult time repairing it. I’ve carried the Focal on three trips for a little over 100 miles now and it’s exceptional. I’m sure the Exos is an excellent bag, but the Focal edges it out on a couple of key points, and manages to do it marginally lighter as well.

[@antduke2361]

I have the focal and iid say it's pretty rubbish in comparison to.older Exos model I had the one before this one reviewed. The focal two things broke on it my first use and it carries the same weight heavy I have found compared to EXOs

[@h2olog]

Agreed on the side pockets. I returned a new Exos after I discovered I couldn't slide SmartWater bottles in and out when the side straps are cinched tight.

[@bateptesicus]

Hi, I have the same debate now and I am more for Osprey and that's because I have Gregory Zulu and Osprey Talon to compare. Gregory has two big downpoints: when it gets wet in pouring rain it stays wet for ages, second - the frame and the hip belt is a very stiff frame which makes it hard to store and operate with in some camping conditions. Would you be able to tell me how is it with Focal?

[@seedmole]

Oh hey, I just picked up the Exos 58. Pretty nice pack considering its weight capacity -- it carried 30 pounds very well. And the trekking pole holder works well. The side-entry pockets work better than nothing, but the compression straps run over the outside of them so they're still a bit finnicky imo. I ordered a shoulder pocket from Gossamer Gear to give it a spot for holding my big new phone, as the hipbelt pockets are pretty tight. Also I saw that they have a Exos Pro line, which somehow comes in at almost a pound lower than this. Very intriguing...

[@david_onthetrail]

I love the trekking pole attachment system on the Osprey packs, I use mine all the time. It is a great feature when you need your hands free, and a lot quicker than what you have done putting them in the side compression straps. Give it a try Eric. Other than that, great review.

[@timmo971]

I can’t see myself ever bothering to claim on the lifetime warranty. If it’s 10 years from now and it needs repair I’m probably going to upgrade to a better newest lightest whatever design that’s out at that time just like I’ve done so far. A breakage is usually the last straw not the first. Osprey are good tho. I’m on a 65lt Atmos LT. Not quite UL but close and a great suspension system I agree. That’s what sold me plus the side pockets are really useful. Same thoughts about the side straps I wish they were inside of the side pockets and didn’t interfere with bottles etc. But overall a good experience. Accurate review.

[@personal.YouTube.channel]

It's made similar to an ultralight pack. With one or two extra bells and whistles. But Not Too Much of them. I like the pack. I'm considering this pack. I'm a BUSHCRAFTER ! But I have UPDATED my gear. Using ultralight gear to considerably lighten my pack weight. As a bushcraft I need a slightly more robust pack. But not too heavy of one. This seems to be more durable than an ultralight pack. But lighter than a conventional pack. ( It's a nice middle ground pack )

[@jeffhartman5166]

I love that that you can slide a water bottle in the side pocket horizontally. I use smart water bottles and I’ve never had a problem getting them in or out of the pocket and I didn’t have difficulty with them rubbing my sides. Much easier access than trying to contort my arms to place the bottles in from above.

[@HarryKuloh]

Quoted for truth

[@laurencecook7652]

I have one and use the side pocket. It's a bit fiddly but I can put my nalgene bottle back in top first and wiggle it in so it ends up vertical.

[@BackpackingTV]

You make a good point I bet the water bottle pocket design is better suited to smart water bottles than Nalgenes.

[@isegrim1978]

I scored the 58l version just yesterday for 114 bucks. I am quite happy, but I definitely need to get a feel for those straps.

[@bradleydraifinger]

where?

[@isegrim1978]

@@bradleydraifinger I went to a local „Globetrotter“ store and they had on sale. My idea was to test the backpack in the store instead of just buying it online. And I got lucky.

[@justo316]

I have this backpack. I have no problem with the cinch straps as opposed to having buckles. For me, it's an ideology thing. I'm not accessing anything cinched down until I get to camp so even if it takes a few seconds longer, it doesn't matter and I'll take that weight saving and less potential points of failure. My hiking poles go in the ice axe loop and clip spot if I'm not sure I'm going to need them rather than the side pocket. If I know I'm going to need them, then the stow on the go attachment is perfect. The brain can be as fiddly as they want to make it. The only time I would ever consider taking it off is at home so it doesn't need to be quick. If the lack of a buckle saves cost, weight and is more secure, then👍 I do wish Osprey allowed us to reroute the cinch straps under the side pockets like they used to. I use a water bladder, but if I had to rely solely on side pocket access for water, it could get annoying. I am thinking of replacing this pack though with the Atmos. I personally didn't love the Exos hip belt. I felt I needed something a bit thicker and more substantial for my load (which is on the heavier side). I prefer the simplicity of the Exos though.

[@BackpackingTV]

I love your thoughts! Thanks for the breakdown.

[@sidneymoon8586]

I have an older version of the Eja 48 and 58, the woman’s version of this pack. It is the most comfortable, lightweight pack I’ve ever owned. I use smaller water bottles and am able to reach them through the side pocket openings which I is one of the things I like best about the pack. This year I purchased and am testing out the lighter Eja Pro. I’ve used it on a couple of training hikes and like it so far. It’s hard for me to find packs that fit, as I am smaller woman with narrow shoulders and wide hips. Osprey packs are extremely comfortable for me.

[@BackpackingTV]

Glad to hear that Sidney! About the water bottles I think I need to use Smart water bottles to make it work with this pack.

[@funnyweeman]

I know im late to this video but i just managed to get this pack for £54. On clearance at my work and then staff discount on top of it. Buzzing

[@sun0]

Got the old 58. The trekking pole loops are so awesomefor me. Including the way it's easy to stash water on the go.

[@BackpackingTV]

I do like to hear that!

[@h2olog]

The new design no longer allows you to run the side compression straps inside the side pockets. Stashing water bottles on the go has been rendered virtually impossible.

[@larsjrgensen6753]

Thanks for a good and detailed review as always. A couple of comments from me anyway. I have an Exos 58 and I am very happy with it. Comfortable, light and with a well-ventilated back panel. Exos is a lightweight backpack, not an ultralight backpack. To keep the weight down, they use narrower straps and fewer and smaller buckles. For the same reason, the backpack is without a large zipper on the front. As this is not a heavy duty back pack, replace your heavy duty nalgene with smaller smart water bottles, and the access to the side pockets will be much easier. :)

[@BackpackingTV]

Yeah I think that's a good distinction about light vs ultralight. Osprey uses the term ultralight in how they market it but yeah I don't think it *actually is. And yes I'm old school with the Nalgenes and am slow to adopt Smart Water bottles, but I see why people use em!

[@larsjrgensen6753]

@@BackpackingTV I understand what you mean. I, also old school, have used Nalgene bottles for many years, but now it's smart water bottles in spring, summer and autumn and a Nalgene in winter (following your recommendation for a hot water bottle).

[@ruthconner4923]

I just bought the 48 and 58 exo for 80 buck total... Excited

[@realjoshuayang]

Where did you buy it from?

[@5ervalkat192]

Great review! I agree with all your cons. I mostly use a Waymark Lite 50, which is a 2lb framed pack. It’s very comfortable for a three day hike. For longer trips, I got the Osprey Ariel Pro (55L?). The men’s is the Aether Pro. It has those annoying tension straps on the sides which I removed. I also took off the brain, which uses clips(so yay). That gets it to about 3lbs. What I like is it carries more weight comfortably, has a massive (hugging style) hip belt, and is ventilated. It’s a very simple bag though, with zero pockets other than the hip belo ones. You’d likely hate that.

[@BackpackingTV]

I do actually like the Waymark Lite 50! I prefer that one over the Hyperlite actually.

[@peterfagley772]

You are being more than fair, given the multiple reservations, the price point should be much lower in my opinion. A previous review/advice by you got me to buy Mystery Ranch and I couldn't be happier!

[@briangarner]

I have this one, it's pretty good!! This review hits the highs and lows perfectly.

[@SamClarkPhotographerAdventurer]

Thanks for the video. I am looking to get the female version in the 58lt soon. I'm also a photographer. Perhaps you can try the walking poles quick storage for the tripod. Might work! :)

[@zatch01]

Struggling to decide between this bag and the Atmos ag50 LT for hot humid hiking. Sadly I can’t try anywhere near me

[@mootrail9487]

The two way side pockets are brilliant and also something many users just don't get. Reroute the compression straps inside the mesh pockets (tiny slots next to the buckles allow you to do so). Now the side pockets are not restricted unnecessarily by the straps. Slip your tripod / poles in the pocket and flip the top strap or lower over, flip it off to remove. Not secure enough? Add a carabiner or clip or etc. to clip in / secure your tall gear. Now onto the best part of these pockets for bottle users. Ok Mr. Dinosaur, dump those wide mouth Nalgenes; Smart Water bottles work best, but a slim top Nalgene will work as well. Stand your bottles up tall, never sideways. 1. Grab the base of the bottle from the bottom slot and pull out to drink. Reinsert by: 2A (two handed). Hold the lower slot open with the left hand (left pocket example) then push the top of the bottle in with the right, then finish pushing it up vertically with the left. 2B (one handed narrow top bottle) Grab the bottle near the top to replace, flipping the side slot open with the bottle top or use your pinky and ring finger to hold the slot open (my preferred way). Then just push it in, standing it up tall.

[@wad6216]

you cant route the straps on this new model Exos under the pockets, so you obviously don't have it

[@NicholasComfort-nv4yx]

I have the older 58L. It's hard for me to recommend anything else than Osprey packs, largely because they're the only packs I have experience with. I typically leave the brain at home, but I wish there was at least one hip belt pouch. Mine has trekking pole loops on the left hand side. Two things to keep in mind though: 1) I wish it was more water resistant 2.) keep the weight light if you want to be comfortable.

[@BackpackingTV]

Water resistance seems to not be it's strong suit. And yeah for most of these packs you gotta keep your weight down if you wanna be happy with em. Thanks for your perspective!

[@RussoRich11]

Thanks for the gear review - you do a great job...just one thought - why does almost every reviewer I've seen use a heavy Nalgene bottle. The 70s called, they want their bottle back! :-)

[@the_towerhand1873]

Osprey, bring back the aether ag. Current aether plus, with the atmos ag suspension and bit stiffer frame. Or make the atmos open to the main compartment like the aether does. Not on the sides.

[@andreasweber7828]

Comparing to my Levity 60, this would be the pack that I’d like to have. Better hip belts, better shoulder straps, better and more durable materials. Side pockets for water bottles are an issue on the Exos but so are the pockets on the Levity because they get pretty tight and impossible for you to store your Nalgene bottle once it’s out. Unless you take off the backpack . Ok, the Levity 60 is about 300 to 400 Gramms lighter bit that comes with flimsy materials. The levity used to be 240€ in Germany but doesn’t feel like the one and only for the rest of my life.

[@TurboLoveTrain]

I always assumed those side attach straps were for cross country skis... they're not really great for poles IMHO. I have a Kestral 48 and a Kode 22 and I use the clip-strap on the pack to go through the hand loops on the trekking poles (on the bottom) and obviously the clipable-straps on top to hold the poles upright... I don't have a use for a fixed loop that doesn't unclip.

[@filipg9950]

Thanks for this episode. Interesting review. What is your prefferable brand? Best regards.

[@dantkr]

Been using this pack for a year. One of the clips from the torso adjustment broke off. Osprey fixed it. General durability is not as good as the Kestrel I previously used, but I guess this is what we get going lighter. I find the belt pockets to be almost useless as they’re too small and have no room in them to deal with small waists like mine. I can’t get anything in them apart from a thin pair of gloves and sometimes need to unclip waist just to be able to access them. If you’re close to 30” waist like me then the waist pockets will be no use to you.

[@gregheselton5883]

Same with the hip pockets and I’m 34” hard to zip up and can’t hold much so I use them for some drink packets and that’s about it

[@natehikes]

I have the old model Exos 48. GREAT PACK. I hate that I love it so much actually..

[@BackpackingTV]

How old? I love that you love it!

[@backpackingcapebreton]

The old Exos design has simple buckles on the lid for super fast and easy detachment. Can’t believe they got rid of them. I’m assuming those quick clips were a common point of failure on the packs? My only explanation.

[@BackpackingTV]

I bet you're right. Likely a regular point of failure.

[@ggs0605]

Beautiful hiking area! Where is that? Thank you!

[@BackpackingTV]

I'm in the Sedona area.

[@franc016]

I use this backpack for a month and more than 600 miles now on the Compostelle path, and agree with the confort you notice and the annoying lack of bottom or side acces. But you missed the fact that there is no rain cover coming with it (the Atmos i had got one), and then you need to add one as the backpack isn't waterproof at all. This add some more weight. And even with the extra rain cover, the belt pockets will be soaked. Don't let anything critical in them. I would have appreciated that these pockets at least were waterproof as it's the place i usually put useful things. These pockets are also too small to put a smartphone in, and that's also annoying.

[@BackpackingTV]

You raise up some great points, thanks Francois!

[@craig3401]

I agree with the side straps can be annoying the talon system was better where they could be moved inside.

[@BackpackingTV]

I've heard this a few times now, thanks!

[@jmacmillan029]

How well does a Bear Vault BV500 (or the new BV475-trek) fit inside this size of pack? Do you end up having to strap it to the top? I have some longer trips in the Sierras for later this season planned and looking for a new UL/LW pack. Thanks!

[@jasonmcochran]

I bought the Exos 48 (a couple years ago) to use with a BV500. That bear can will fit in a Large size 48 pack, but it is super tight and causes you to have to pack everything else around the bear can, even more than normal. I returned it for an Exos 58, which fit the BV500 oriented in either direction much better. If you don't need the extra capacity, you can use the tension straps on the sides to reduce the excess capacity and keep the weight of your gear closer to your back.

[@BackpackingTV]

Sounds like Jason has this questions dialed, thanks!

[@jmacmillan029]

Thanks @@jasonmcochran that really helps me out! I'll probably go for a 55 or 58L size pack. Also interested in the Exos Pro but the additional weight savings might not worth the extra cost involved.

[@MeOutside]

You can stash your tripod between the pack and the brain. Just be mindful how far it sticks out. Or instead of running it behind the compression straps; keep it in front of them and use a loop of shock cord to secure the top of the tripod.

[@BackpackingTV]

I'm sure I'd find ways around this particular inconvenience if I was stuck with the pack long term. But given how much I use a tripod I just won't wanna do that dance. I understand that that's a unique thing to me though, most backpackers won't deal with that!

[@6foot8jesuspilledpureblood82]

What is that chest rig that you are using!? Great review this one might be good for my girlfriend

[@brickpangborn1505]

I heard you mention you’ve been using the kestrel, as well I saw it quickly during your review of the aura. I recently purchased the 68L version, and it is the first time I bought a brand that had options that actually fit my torso length. I love how it fits, but would love to learn more about how it stacks up against other 65L+ bags. Especially since I typically pack it to 30lbs+ (food and water included).

[@SpaceCaptnFace]

ive had the osprey 65l, a kelty coyote 65 and a deuter 70+..... sold gave my kelty to a buddy last week to do the wonderland trail and the deuter i donated. nothing beats ospreys back ventilation... ill gladly carry the extra weight for an osprey

[@BackpackingTV]

I haven't used the larger Kestrel version, just the 48. I thought it wasn't all that comfortable. The Exos was far more comfortable. but if you've never had a pack that has an adjustable torso I think you'll find that to be quite helpful in making it better suited to you. Since I haven't used that sized Kestrel it's hard to say, but I'd imagine you would be better off keeping the weight as close to thirty pounds as possible or it might be quite the strain on your shoulders.

[@northernswedenstories1028]

Is this new version squeaky?

[@UnkemptBushell]

I'm curious about your criticism of access. Aren't the vast majority of packs accessed mostly via the top i.e. roll tops? If anything, the brain adds more accessibility than most packs imo.

[@Albertoabrian]

So what about the 38L. Is the torso adjustable? And what do think that 38L vs The Nort Face Hydra 38L ?

[@BreathNino]

Mystery ranch FTW🎉

[@CharmingGecko]

I think you meant to type Durston.

[@davidshirley6850]

Looking to get the new osprey exos pro ....supported to be their lightest pack yet....you are spoiled with mystery ranch shoulder straps

[@BackpackingTV]

haha, yes, them MR shoulder straps are luxury.

[@kylestokley91]

I know it’s late but have you tried the 38L? I got one and I’m curious to see how much I can fit compared to my atmos ag 50. Thanks

[@Elde0002]

What trail is this? It looks beautiful.

[@jonsanford2515]

The “Stow on the go” trekking pole system might make a great place to put your tripod if you’re constantly removing it from your pack. If the brain attachment is the same as the Atmos, it is confusing to reattach. But, it gets easier once you do it a few (dozen) times. 😅. But since it isn’t useable as a day pack once removed, I either keep it attached, or leave it at home. I’ve never had to figure it out in the field.

[@BackpackingTV]

I think the stow on the go feature for trekking poles seems like a good idea I just don't think it would work for a 3 lb tripod. Good points about the brain tho! Thanks!

[@jonsanford2515]

@@BackpackingTV woof. 3 lbs is probably a little heavy.

[@vianaalimentar1663]

did you know 48liter is only the main pocket, in all osprey backpacks

[@mootchs]

Well if this is just a beginners backpack, what are the competitors or advanced bags in this range that one can go to? Also a beginners bag for just multi-day camping or ultralight?

[@pinkfloydhomer]

The Exos Pro is considerably lighter. I am not sure what the drawbacks are, apart from price.

[@ChristopherMarshburn]

How do you compare the comfort of this with the Atmos 65, which I believe you reviewed a whole back.

[@hollernathan]

Atmos AG on a different level. In a good way

[@crlaf1978]

I think for me, considering that my pack is an actual cycling backpack, just being able to afford an actual backpacking pack one day would be nice 😂

[@BackpackingTV]

haha good luck to you!

[@crlaf1978]

@@BackpackingTV well, you save up for the good stuff. But what I use is great for minimalist/ ultralight 😂

[@spencers6263]

Let’s gooooo!

[@kyfisher3662]

I got the 58L and it's way too big, wish I got the 48L

[@toriaezunoakanto]

丁寧な説明ありがとう。

[@Reapus]

A backpack that weighs over 2 pounds is not ultralight. This pack weighs 2.7 pounds.

[@coolbreezeoutdoors7177]

Hey Eric great video, but, please do yourself a favor and stop stowing your trekking poles tip up. One fall and you have a spear through your head or neck.

[@BackpackingTV]

haha thanks for your concern! I do it because I've worn holes in lots of pockets putting the metal tips pointing down.

[@TheDLiT]

What kind of hat is that?

[@cnerup]

You are looking for nits to comment about on buckles....

[@Steven-hf7rg]

LOOKING FOR USED BACKPACKING EQUIPMENT SITES??

[@BackpackingTV]

There are a few options out there, just google used backpacking gear USA and you find some sites. REI has used goods: www.rei.com/used/shop/camping-hiking

[@stiingya]

Put the base of the tripod in the pocket and then only slide the top of the tripod beneath the top most section of the zig zag strap? Easy Peasy....

[@shanedoyle8933]

Shoulder straps are not comfortable. Very uncomfortable. Bag is great otherwise.

[@ittotaq]

Bruh, how could you not review the osprey exos pro which is actually the real version of ospreys version of ultralight. This is the regular exos which is super old.

[@_sk_videos]

There's an obvious bias towards Mystery Rancher bags on this channel, he's probably affiliated with them and getting kickbacks. Every time he mentions a feature of the Osprey, he's like " ... but its crap and I don't like it".

[@BackpackingTV]

I do regularly remind people that I have a partnership with Mystery Ranch here so of course you should take that into account. However I genuinely try to give people honest reviews. I don't think this bag is crap and I feel like I actually have quite a few positive things to say about it. That being said, I don't love it for the stated reasons. For the price it's actually a pretty good pack.

[@justjonoutdoors]

It’s a great pack - just make it weigh 3 pounds..! 😂

[@acewastxken]

First one to watch the video

[@logictd567]

why didn't you use the actual feature the company implemented for tracking poles?! Why not try to actually use the gear loops before complaining? Jesus grandpa, this review was on some lazy Dan Becker level lol