The Editor of the Outdoor 100, Will Renwick, recently tested out the 2017 edition of the Osprey Stratos 50 on a big trek across Wales and he was hugely impressed by it. This, the Sirrus, is the women’s version and as we’ve found out, the gender differentiation goes far beyond different names or colours.
It’s all about the back system which is ergonomically designed to provide a female-specific fit. There’s careful thought to the shape of the hipbelt, shoulder straps, and the harness as well, which has an easily adjustable yoke that allows the back to be shortened or lengthened.
“It’s their focus on these kind of details, coupled with such an innovative approach when it comes to functionality, that makes Osprey one of our favourite brands at the moment.”
The previous version of the Sirrus 50 kept the main part of the bag suspended off the back with a tight – but not too tight – meshing, and this new model takes this a bit further, bringing the meshing not only down the whole back but seamlessly around the hipbelt as well. This belt then has comfortable foam padding underneath it with numerous holes for air low. The result is an extremely ventilated, airy system that minimises sweat and spreads pressure evenly across the back.
It’s a backpack aimed at hikers, walkers and campers who are looking for an option with enough space to fit everything needed for an overnight camping adventure, including any heavy winter kit that might be necessary. It’s worth pointing out that there are also smaller versions in the form of 24, 26 and 36-litre capacities.
