Osprey Sportlite 25 £90

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Affordable price, fully-featured, comfy carry, lightweight

- No raincover, not much rigidity

Osprey has a stellar reputation and its long-standing ranges – Talon/Tempest and Stratos/Sirrus – are award-winning. But if you’re after something different, the unisex Osprey Sportlite 25 is new for 2022. It’s a sporty-looking, minimalist 25-litre pack at an affordable price (£50 less than the Talon 26).

The AirScape back system – a tight mesh web atop two diagonally-ridged foam panels – delivers a comfortable carry. The mesh provides ventilation, yet you still get a stable feel, ideal for balance and freedom of movement. The frame is flexible, so will lack the stability and rigidity some hikers desire, but for light summer loads it’s fine.

The main selling point is the quantity of features: external hydration bladder sleeve, sternum strap whistle, hipbelt pockets, front stash pocket, ample straps and toggles, two bottle pockets, and three compartments. Some walkers will prefer the added tech and premium construction of more expensive Ospreys, and AirScape can still get sweaty. But ultimately this pack gives you Osprey’s long-standing expertise in a well-priced, sporty design.

■ Weight 810g ■ Volume 25 litres

■ Back sizes Small/medium, medium/ large ■ Versions Sportlite 15, Sportlite 20, Sportlite 25, Sportlite 30 ■ Main fabric 100D high-tenacity recycled nylon