Sunday, November 14, 2010

Osprey Aura 50 Backpack: Product Review

We did a much longer thru hike of the Wapack Trail this weekend. The weather was ideal- in the high 50’s. I packed an assortment of layers in case we might need something- but didn’t really load the Aura up with a ton of weight. So how did the Aura perform on a longer trip with more gear? Here are my thoughts:

Osprey Aura Backpack

Osprey Aura 50: Balancing the weight

Even though I wasn’t carrying what I would consider a heavy pack for our ten mile hike, I still had a substantial amount of water and food (which as we all know tends to be the heaviest part of our gear). With that in mind I found that it really is all about the weight distribution for the Aura backpack. It doesn’t have the stiffest frame in the world, so how you pack your things really impacts comfort.

Osprey Aura 50: Compartments

The Aura backpack’s real selling point is the well thought out compartments. The top pouch is super roomy which is great for sticky a rain jacket or your mess kit. The waist belt include two small mesh zipped pouches for things like chapstick and tissues. There are also plentiful tie downs for sticking a sleeping pad or tent poles.

The Aura Backpack Final Thoughts

I would definitely recommend considering the Osprey Aura backpack in the 50 if you need a roomy day hiking pack or small backpacking pack. Overall, the pack fits very nicely and has many well thought out features. The only cautions would be to really pack the backpack carefully when not carrying a full load- or else it just gets awkward and wobbly, but then again most large backpacks will when not fully loaded. Lastly, I wish the price point was a bit lower ($199). Osprey’s packs are generally pricier than your EMS brand or REI brand pack- so sometimes that could really hamper your decision.

Osprey Aura

Osprey Women's Aura Backpack

Osprey Women's Aura Backpack

Osprey Women's Aura Backpack

Side Pockets

More detailed specs here and here.

Disclaimer: Product Reviews are based on opinion only and are not intended to condone, encourage, or promote a product. Some products are sent to me by the manufacturer or affiliates and are mine to keep. I mention this specifically on products sent to me. Compensation and/or product and/or services never interfere with the review of the product. Otherwise, products and services are purchased by me for personal use. The backpack was purchased by me.

4 comments:

Anonymous said...

thanks for this. I have been looking for a backpack without going down the DofE 65l route. Have to admit, this one is the one that has taken my fancy the most. Your review, plus pictures has been most helpful.

I look forward to hearing how the pack hold up on longer and colder trips.

you got yourself a new reader :)

Betty Mountain Girl said...

Thanks for the comment Dani! The pack has really worked out so far. I tend to bring it everywhere and it tends to have just enough space for most outings. Glad to have you as a new reader too :) You are too kind.

Anonymous said...

Thanks for the lovely review. Would you be doing review of http://www.testfreaks.com/sleeping-bags/snugpak-softie-12-osprey/ I found this and think its a great sleeping bag I woudl like review of this is because sleeping bag is very personal item for me and just wanted another hand at what you had to say about it. Thanks.

Kate said...

Love your review! I've been using the Osprey Ariel 65 for a few years now for 8-10 day trips and absolutely love it :) Such a fan of osprey packs I just picked up one of their hydration packs... that makes four osprey's in our house! I'll be doing a review of the Ariel 65 soon :)