Osprey Exos vs Kestrel: Which Backpacking Pack is Right for You?

Osprey is a renowned brand for producing a range of backpacks. They have some fantastic backpack lines Exos and Kestrel are two among them.

Though both the series have some similarities, some unique features are there which make them outstanding.

According to the review of many users, these two backpack series are the best for hiking and camping trips. Despite being produced by the same company; they have become the competitor to each other.

So, there is confusion among the users determining the best backpacks between Osprey Exos vs Kestrel.

Therefore, here is an Osprey Exos vs Kestrel analysis for would-be-buyers:

Comparison Between Osprey Exos vs Kestrel:

Osprey Kestrel series has a strong interior structure; thus, it is firm and long-lasting. At the same time, it makes the bag heavy.

On the other hand, Osprey Exos backpacks are lightweight, comparatively small, and easy to carry for everyone, although this is also a shortcoming of it regards loading heavy gear.

In spite of being spacious, the Kestrel series can hold loads of gears. Also, it is easy to carry due to its adjustable and comfortable straps.

However, its shoulder straps and hip belt are not well padded. Exos series has good aeration because of back mesh panels, so does the Kestrel series.

It has an air suspension system for which the back and the bag have a distance and enough airflow.

Moreover, it has plenty of useful small side pockets as like as Exos series. Yet, Kestrels’ water-bottle pocket is somewhat difficult to reach out while reloading, but Exos series has a superb solution creating side access for reaching water-bottles.

With the top and bottom accesses, kestrel backpacks have an attached rain cover and an external and handy water-bladder to clean and refill in the wilderness.

In contrast, Exos has the water-bladder inside the backpack on the rear side of the backpack.

What makes some kestrel backpacks an ideal choice for snow trackers its walking pole attaching system. Exos does not have such options.

Overall, Osprey Kestrel series is perfect for snow-camping or long trips where carrying heavy loads are necessary, whereas, Exos series is fit for short and hasty tours that require light-weight gears.

Here I have tried to give you the two most useful and recommended Osprey backpack reviews as if you can choose any of the two…

Osprey Exos 58 Men’s Backpacking Backpack Review:

We all know that when we travel we all want to take all the necessary things with us. That’s why we need a large backpack as if we can store everything without too much effort.

Who does not want to buy a lightweight backpack that can help for easy hiking? You will feel less weighty if you buy this Osprey Exos backpack for travelling.

Some people travel regularly and some are seasonal travelers but this Osprey backpack is suitable for both kinds of people. Most people like it for its super lightweight and it is also expandable.

I mostly prefer and recommend it for its large storage, durable material and less weight. If you are a stylish person and always try to buy something that is unique and super cool, then you can just look at this Exos 58 backpack. It is so beautiful and attractive.

It has no hip pockets but you don’t need to worry about it because there are some other side pockets that can solve your requirement. You can easily reach out to the side pockets when you need a water bottle or any other things like snacks or any gadgets.

Its main section has enough space to store your sleeping bag, tent, food and many more.

Your back will not sweat much as it has used airspeed suspension to increase breathability on your back.

Osprey Exos 58

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Osprey Exos 58 Features:

Removable floating lid: Yes

AirSpeed Suspension: Sweat down

Internal Hydration Reservoir Sleeve: Up to 3L

Sleeping Pad Straps: Removable

Compression Straps: Yes

Trekking Pole Attachment: Yes

Product Dimensions: ‎ 24 x 18 x 5 inches

Department: ‎ Unisex

Manufacturer: ‎ Osprey Packs

Pros

• Aerodynamic design
• Large capacity for a lightweight pack
• The bag is waterproof
• It has an adjustable suspension system

Cons

• Hip belts have been removed from the pack to make it smaller and lighter

At the very end, I will just say, you won’t find any flaws in this Osprey Exos 58 backpack. So you can grab this backpack without any doubt.

Osprey Kestrel 48 Men’s Backpacking Backpack Review:

When backpacking, you want to have the right gear to keep you comfortable during your travels. Is your backpack hogging too much of your space? Or do you need more comfort when carrying heavy items? Kestrel 48 Men’s Backpack has got you covered.

It offers plenty of space for all your clothing and changes, plus the comfort that comes with the open air-flow design that allows air to flow unobstructed.

The Kestrel is a pack for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts, and we’re sure you’ll appreciate all of their features. With a strong and durable design and the variety and durability of materials, you’ll be able to easily carry heavy items without worrying if your pack will crack or miss the mark.

Osprey’s are the most versatile bags ever made! It is made to handle heavy loads.

This particular Osprey model is one intended for overnights and is packed with features such as an adjustable torso length (for dialing in the perfect fit) and plenty of load-carrying capacity.

Osprey Kestrel 48

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Most Useful Features of Osprey Kestrel 48:

A flexible, breathable air mesh back providing comfortable back support for a sit-down position. The AirScape is made with a ridged foam that is constructed with a high-density foam core for form and function.

If you know you need to beat the rain, but don’t want to risk ruining your backpack by taking it in all day, our integrated and highly protective rain cover is here to help.

The Side Zipper Access designed to allow the main compartment zipper to be accessed from the outside of the bag, making it extremely easy to reach your gear.

This is the ideal bag for anyone who has realized the importance of having quick access to their gear.

Osprey Exos vs Kestrel

The StraightJacket side compression straps help you keep your stuff snug and tight so that nothing is going to move no matter what the situation is. The straps are adjustable, so you can figure out your perfect fit. It’s a great way to secure loads and attach bulky.

It’s every hiker’s dream to have the latest trekking poles to take on the trails, but instead of the hassle of carrying them, it’s much easier to simply put them on your pack where you’ll always have access to them. The Stow-on-the-Go attachment system allows you to keep your trekking poles always handy without weighing too much.

Whether you are hiking, biking, fishing, hunting, boating, swimming or traveling, the External Reservoir Sleeve is the perfect backpack accessory to simplify refilling and protect your pack contents from spills in all conditions. The External Reservoir Sleeve made in the USA and in sizes to meet your individual needs.

There is Sleeping Bag Compartment. The Sleeping Bag Compartment allows you to divide your sleeping bag into two compartments.

Have a snack? So Have a phone? Have a tool? have keys? Don’t worry, now you can keep these always with you as you have hip belt pockets.

Pros

• Flexible
• External Reservoir Sleeve
• Straps are adjustable
• Versatile bags

Cons

• No issues found

After all, the Kestrel is an all-around pack that’s ideal for anyone who wants to take their adventures to the next level.

Conclusions:

If you compare between Osprey Exos vs Kestrel both the backpack lines are so close in terms of features, money value, brand name, and comfort that campers often get puzzled while buying a backpack.

Kestrel is preferred by many for its strong structure, durability, built-in pack cover, separable water-bladder, and walking pole attachment system.

On the contrary, Osprey Exos series is dear to some hikers for its ventilation system, easy access of gears, and thinness. Still, Kestrels’ extraordinary aspects outweigh the usefulness of Exos series to some extent.

Therefore, Kestrel is more popular than Exos to the regular campers who go for long tours and tracking.

Nevertheless, Exos has its own kind of users, campers who like lighter trips, use it more than using Kestrel. Exos series is also popular among lady trackers.

Hence, campers can choose their desired backpack from these two series based on their need.

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