Additionally, I also considered the fact that this particular backpack has a lightweight peripheral frame, which is why I gave it a generous three. The difference is in their height, therefore smaller size with shorter height offers 2 liters less volume at 46 Liters. This takes the weight off the backpacker’s shoulders and provides a balanced, comfortable carrying experience.

Osprey Kestrel 48 Review (The Award Winning Pack) Osprey Kestrel 48 Review (The Award Winning Pack)

The Kestrel is also ready for winter duties with twin ice axe loops, an integrated and removable rain cover and multiple lashing points across the front that work well to secure crampons. I love hip belt pockets as they make it easy to access my phone for photos, stash an energy bar, and safeguard my lip balm.We’re used to excellence from Osprey – the brand has held its position at the top of the backpack market for years. As we already know, the tensioned back panel can quickly be adjusted to fit a wide range of torso lengths whilst also providing ventilation to reduce sweating ( and if you are not breaking a sweat out on the trail, then you ain’t trying hard enough! Before you start fitting the pack, loosen off all the straps as this will make it easier to get the correct tension later. In this way, the Kestrel shares some characteristics with the Aether in that they both have features that make walking more enjoyable. The Kestrel's AirScape™ backpanel prioritises comfort and stability by maximizing ventilation and breathability.

MUST READ: Osprey Kestrel 48 Review • Honest Review for 2023

Depending on exactly where you want the sternum strap to be placed, you can slide the sternum strap up or down the rail it is attached to. Remember that your hips carry most of the weight of the pack, so this should be firm but comfortable. Tighten them until you feel the top part of the pack rest against your pack, over tightening them will create excessive pressure on the front of your shoulders. The point where the shoulder straps attach to the main body of the pack should be roughly half way down your shoulder blades; this ensures that the shoulder straps rolls evenly over the top of your shoulders to distribute the weight correctly.The Kestrel 48 is a functionalist hiking backpack that offers the essential features where they are really needed and cuts all the excess ones which, let’s face it, are seldomly ever even used. His biggest travel achievements include pushing a shitty tuk-tuk into the Himalayas, leading a group trip to Pakistan and surviving many near death experiences. If you’re going on some daring adventure deep into the jungle and need a serious 100% waterproof humidty-proof backpack, then check out my in-depth review of the best waterproof backpacks for adventurers. We feel that Osprey strikes the perfect balance between offering plenty of functionality and durability, and being affordable for the lay-person.