The Osprey Kestrel 68 backpack is a rugged trekking companion that will elevate your outdoor experience to new heights. With a generous volume of 68 liters and the innovative AirScape backpanel, this backpack offers exceptional comfort, versatility, and functionality.
Size and Weight: Perfectly Balanced
The Kestrel 68 is crafted from durable 210 Denier and 630 Denier nylon, ensuring its suitability for any adventure. With a fixed volume main compartment, it offers ample space for all your gear. Weighing in at 1920 grams, slightly more than the claimed weight, the Kestrel 68 remains lightweight without compromising on durability.
The Osprey Kestrel 68 is a nice pack if you want just one pack for all your adventures.
The Kestrel Family: A Backpack for Every Journey
The Osprey Kestrel family offers a range of backpacks to cater to your specific needs. The Kestrel 68 is the largest in the series, perfect for those who require more storage space. If you prefer a smaller option, the Kestrel 38, Kestrel 48, and Kestrel 58 are also available. For female adventurers, the Osprey Kyte 66 is the perfect alternative with its specialized design.
Carrying System: AirScape Comfort
Osprey has garnered praise for its AntiGravity carrying system, but the Kestrel 68 boasts the equally impressive AirScape backpanel. This backpanel features an S-curve design, contouring to your back for optimal comfort. The foam ridges, covered with a fine mesh, provide excellent ventilation. The steel wire frame further enhances stability and support.
The AirScape back panel is comfy and ventilates nicely.
Adjustable Back Length: Tailored Fit
Finding the perfect fit is essential for a comfortable trekking experience. The Kestrel 68 comes in two sizes: S/M for back lengths from 41 cm to 51 cm and M/L for back lengths from 48 cm to 58 cm. The adjustable shoulder straps ensure a customized fit. Rest assured, the Velcro system keeps everything secure, even with a fully loaded pack.
The back length is adjustable.
Hip Belt: Functional and Flexible
Unlike the Atmos series, the Kestrel features a collapsible hip belt for easy pack-on. The foam padding offers both firmness and comfort, ensuring a snug fit. The hip belt can be adjusted using the attached straps, accommodating hip sizes ranging from 75 cm to 125 cm. The two spacious zippered pockets on the hip belt provide convenient storage for small essentials.
Two pockets on the hip belt with a large pulling tab.
Shoulder Straps & 'Stow-on-the-Go': Functional and Secure
The Kestrel 68 features firm yet comfortable shoulder straps. The load lifters and adjustable sternum strap ensure a customizable fit for any hiking situation. Elastic loops on the straps conveniently secure the hydration pack hose. On the left shoulder strap, you'll find the 'Stow-on-the-Go' trekking pole attachment, offering quick and easy storage for compact lightweight poles.
The stow-on-the-go is a user-friendly system for storing 'trekking poles'.
Main Compartment: Versatile Storage
The spacious main compartment of the Kestrel 68 is accessible from the top, bottom, and front, providing convenient access to your gear. The top opening is generously sized, allowing for easy packing. A cord with a pulling tab keeps everything secure, while a large red compression strap relieves pressure. The U-Zip suitcase opening on the front panel offers quick and easy access to your belongings.
The Kestrel has a large opening on the top.
Raincover and Additional Features: Prepared for Any Weather
The Kestrel 68 comes with a hidden raincover located underneath the sleeping bag compartment. While functional, it lacks high visibility and reflectivity, making it less suitable for low-light or nighttime adventures. The backpack also includes attachment points for ice axes, trekking poles, and a sleeping pad, ensuring versatility and convenience.
The suitcase opening on the Osprey Kestrel 68 is very practical.
Sustainability: A Focus on Durability
At Osprey, sustainability is a top priority. While specific details on their sustainability efforts are limited, they prioritize long-lasting, durable products. Their commitment to sustainability is evident in the upcoming Archeon series, set to launch in Summer 2020. Osprey's dedication to creating products that withstand the test of time is commendable and aligns with their "Leave no trace" principles.
Verdict: The Ultimate Backpack Companion
The Osprey Kestrel 68 backpack has proven to be a reliable, versatile, and practical companion for all your adventures. With its comfortable carrying system, ample storage options, and durable construction, it offers the perfect balance between functionality and comfort. While minor improvements could be made to certain features, the Kestrel 68 remains a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts. With a retail price of €200.00, it offers excellent value for a fully loaded backpack. Overall, the Osprey Kestrel 68 receives a rating of 9.1 out of 10 for its outstanding performance and quality.
For more information, visit www.ospreyeurope.com.
Note: Measuring your back length can be done by hand or with the assistance of the Osprey PackSizer 2.0 app. Both methods ensure a perfect fit for optimal comfort.
