Osprey Packs

Hikelite 26L Backpack

This Pack Packs A Wallop

Familiarity:

I've used it once or twice and have initial impressions

Size Bought:

OSFM

Height:

5' 11"

Weight:

225

I am sublimating my COVID cabin fever by loading up on gear. This pack caught my eye locally, but they did not have the gray/yellow combo I wanted; giving me the opportunity to patronize Backcountry as I would always prefer to do, Here's what I like about this pack: First, the Airspeed suspension is the best in class for keeping your back cool. Second, I like the rigid frame of this pack, so it doesn't collapse on itself if not completely full. Third, the "size" fits on my back perfectly = not too big and not too small. Fourth, as another poster below noted, this pack holds a lot for its 26L stated size. Fifth, while some people might wish the front "shove it" pocket was mesh, I am not a mesh fan, so I like this version just the way it is. Finally, the top pocket for sunnys etc is a nice feature too. People can grouse they wished it had pocket(s) on the waist belt, or a more robust bungee on the water bottle side pockets; but Hey! at $100 this is a feature-laden bargain! One final note: The pictures really don't do justice to all the nice colors of this pack. The blue is rich blue, the orange is bright safety orange and the black is a rich black with gray trim = all very nice. I just happen to like yellow, so the yellow trim on the gray model appeals to me. The interior on mine is also bright yellow, so I can see down to the bottom of the main compartment. I am delighted and think you would be too.