Osprey Talon 55 £180

While other backpacks might polarise opinion, the Talon 55 feels like a really safe bet.

Osprey’s Talon range, which comes in a whopping nine sizes from 6L up to 55L, as well as several female-specific Tempest versions, is a long-standing and ever-popular product line, with a stellar reputation. The Talon 55 features an AirScape back system – a tight mesh web atop ridged EVA foam panels and a lightweight peripheral frame – combined with a wraparound harness and hipbelt. This ensures a close-tothe-body carrying experience, stable load distribution, and decent ventilation courtesy of airflow channels.

You also get a top-loading main compartment, two side pockets, stretch mesh stash pocket, internal key clip attachment, removable sleeping pad straps, hydration reservoir sleeve, dual zippered hip pockets, and attachment points for ice axes and trekking poles. The pack is made from bluesign-approved, recycled, high-tenacity, 100-denier and 210-denier nylon with a PFC-free DWR coating.

IF WE’RE BEING FUSSY

Some may find the carrying experience a little stiff and rigid. The zipper on the top lid pocket would be better if it was wider, and overall Osprey has possibly over-engineered this pack. Do you really need so many straps, toggles, pockets and features?

VOLUME 55L

WEIGHT 1464g

SIZES Small-medium, Large-XL. Women’s: Tempest XS-small, medium-large

Verdict

A feature-rich, well-designed, solid all-rounder of a backpack from a top brand – but it’s not exceptionally exciting or innovative.

“Feature-rich all-rounder”