Microadventureworld
  • About
    • Pacific Crest Trail Donations
  • Blog
  • Reviews
    • Backpacking Tents Backpacks Outdoor Accessories All
      Backpacking Tents

      5 Best Tents for Microadventures

      February 28, 2018

      Backpacking Tents

      Vango Banshee 200 Review

      February 26, 2017

      Backpacks

      Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

      February 22, 2018

      Outdoor Accessories

      Petzl Actik Core Head Torch Review

      February 20, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      5 Best Tents for Microadventures

      February 28, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

      February 22, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Petzl Actik Core Head Torch Review

      February 20, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Vango Banshee 200 Review

      February 26, 2017

Microadventureworld

  • About
    • Pacific Crest Trail Donations
  • Blog
  • Reviews
    • Backpacking Tents Backpacks Outdoor Accessories All
      Backpacking Tents

      5 Best Tents for Microadventures

      February 28, 2018

      Backpacking Tents

      Vango Banshee 200 Review

      February 26, 2017

      Backpacks

      Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

      February 22, 2018

      Outdoor Accessories

      Petzl Actik Core Head Torch Review

      February 20, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      5 Best Tents for Microadventures

      February 28, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

      February 22, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Petzl Actik Core Head Torch Review

      February 20, 2018

      Outdoor Gear Reviews

      Vango Banshee 200 Review

      February 26, 2017

BackpacksGear Reviews

Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

written by Derek Cullen February 22, 2018
Osprey Exos 58 Backpack Review

When it comes to the best backpack for a Microadventure, the Osprey Exos 58 is often top of the list for many ultralight hikers. You will find many small and useful features with this backpack but what makes this the best backpack for Microadventures is the incredible lightweight nature of the bag.

Osprey Exos 58 – The Smaller Size

The Exos line of Osprey has several options which accommodate the requirements of most outdoor adventures.  For example, the Exos 38 has a much smaller size, making it an ideal option for a daypack.

In between, you also have the Exos 48 which is somewhat similar to the Exos 38. While this smaller version will shave off 20 oz. of weight from the Exos 58, it must be said that each option offers lightweight features, which make carrying the backpack a lot less cumbersome.

Basic Analysis – Ultralight Backpack

If you need an ultralight backpack for a Microadventure, but you want to avoid a frameless model, the Exos is a great option. Here is a more in-depth analysis of the Exos 58:

Picture of an Osprey Exos 58

Comfort – The Exos is no doubt comfortable, considering the fact that it is super lightweight. The inner fabric of the waist belt is cozy while the straps are comfortable in spite of the minimal nature of the fabric. Furthermore, it is also 3 pounds lighter than most backpacks for a Microadventure. Ventilation wise, the backpack is well vented throughout to keep your back cool during summer trips making this the perfect companion in warmer climates.


Weight – With a weight of 2 lbs. & 8 oz., this ultralight backpack is almost one pound lighter compared to the next lightest on the market, the North Face Banchee 65 or REI Flash 65. For those whose main concern is the weight, yet, would still opt for a frame, the Exos ticks every box. The pack is even lighter than most frameless packs on the market. You may sacrifice a bit in terms of durability to get a much lighter package, yet not much, and you will find that it is not really a big deal especially if you just use it primarily on lighter treks.


Suspension – Despite having a weight of only 2 lbs. & 8 oz., the Osprey Exos 58 comes with a comparatively solid suspension. The pack is ideal for loads of up to 35 pounds. It features a pretty durable frame, although it does not have the kind of stiffness that will hurt your shoulder and hip. Thus, when carrying a load of 30 pounds, there is not much of a difference on the suspension when compared to the more robust backpacks.


Features – One of the best things about this backpack is the stretchy mesh pocket at the back. The pocket is fully secure and can be used for a lot of small items, which you wanted to get access easily. It can also be used to store smelly or wet clothing, or perhaps some trash. There is also a useful feature for attaching trekking poles or a mattress to the pack through a stretchy band at the bottom of the pack and another attachment right at the shoulder strap. The pockets on the waist belts are decent sized and can accommodate a small sized camera or smartphone. The lid of the backpack features one small pocket at the top and another mesh pocket down below. The mesh pocket is great as it allows you to be able to peek through its contents, however, the top pocket is a bit harder to access than the other pockets.


Adjustability and Sizing – Although the Exos is not technically adjustable, it comes in three different sizes, and this means that you will most likely find something that will suit you well, regardless of your height and body frame.


How Did I Test the Osprey Exos 58?

Outdoor Adventurer Derek Cullen

Having spent six weeks wild camping in the Wicklow Mountains and the West of Ireland, I can say that the Osprey Exos 58 is one of the best backpacks for a Microadventure.  Although slightly heavier as compared than some ultralight frameless backpacks, the difference is rather irrelevant. In fact, I find the backpack ideal for those who want to get their overall pack weight down under 20 to 25 pounds. It is also quite robust in spite of this incredible lightness.

Conclusion

The Osprey Exos is 1 lb. & 2 oz. lighter than the nearest rival yet this ultralight backpack will not give up a lot in terms of features, support, and comfort. While the choice regarding the best backpack for a Microadventure really comes down to what you need and what you want out of your backpack – there is no doubting the quality of Osprey.

Even regarding the best backpack for travelling the world, the Exos 58 is the kind of backpack that lives in a world between traditional backpacks and ultralight packs. Either way, when it comes to the practicality and comfort, the Osprey Exos 58 is my choice as the best backpack for Microadventures.

My Snapshot Review of the Osprey Exos 28

YOU CAN BUY THE OSPREY EXOS 58 HERE

Disclosure: Please note the trust my audience has for my advice is of utmost importance to me. Hence, I will only recommend equipment I love from brands that I trust. I was not paid to review this backpack and I purchased this bag myself. I am also without obligation to leave positive reviews for the product, I just know that this backpack works for me and it is likely to work for you too. This page contains affiliate links meaning I might receive a small amount from the supplier should you decide to purchase an item through one of my links. Thank you for supporting me.

Facebook Comments
Backpack Reviewbest backpack for a Microadventurebest backpack for Microadventuresbest backpack for travelling the worldbest backpacks for a MicroadventureExos 58Microadventure BackpackOsprey Exos 58ultralight backpackultralight backpack for a Microadventureultralight packs
1 comment
0
Facebook Twitter Google + Pinterest
Derek Cullen

Derek Cullen is an Outdoor Adventurer from Ireland, preparing to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018.

previous post
Petzl Actik Core Head Torch Review
next post
5 Best Tents for Microadventures

You may also like

My Big Three For Hiking the Pacific Crest...

April 1, 2018

Why I Will Not Be Using My Vango...

March 26, 2018

1 comment

What to Pack for a Microadventure Packing List - Microadventureworld February 28, 2018 - 3:30 pm

[…] Backpacks […]

Reply

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

About The Author

About The Author

Derek Cullen is an Outdoor Adventurer from Ireland currently preparing to hike the Pacific Crest Trail in 2018.

About Microadventures

Microadventures

Microadventures are short, simple, local, cheap – yet still fun, exciting, challenging, refreshing and rewarding.

Follow Microadventureworld

Penci Design

Microadventureworld Podcast

Promotion Image

Everything Micro | The New Podcast

Subscribe to My PCT Hike

The Micro Newsletter

Subscribe to my newsletter for the latest updates and outdoor inspiration!

Categories

  • Gear Reviews (3)
  • Hiking the Pacific Crest Trail (6)
    • Logistics for the Pacific Crest Trail (2)
  • Hiking the Wicklow Way (2)
  • Microadventures Ireland (1)
  • Microadventureworld (12)
  • Outdoor Gear Reviews (4)
    • Backpacking Tents (2)
    • Backpacks (1)
    • Outdoor Accessories (1)
  • Outdoor Movies & Documentaries (3)

Join the Community

Join the Community

Join the microadventure community and get inspired with outdoor adventures, gear reviews and advice from fellow adventurers.

Popular Articles

  • 1

    What Was the Meaning of Frodo’s Trek in Lord of The Rings?

    February 20, 2018
  • 2

    My Big White Thighs and Me (Outdoor Film Trailer)

    March 6, 2018
  • 3

    Microadventures Can Change the Way You Feel About Life

    February 6, 2018
Promotion Image

About the Author

Promotion Image

Micro Adventure Tours

follow @Microadventureworld on instagram

  • Why I Decided to Change My Name httpsyoutube1IA5cHalRY microadventureireland microadventureworld
  • Cycling the Namibian Desert In 2014 I spent one year
  • Camping in a Volcano We climbed up over the rim
  • Cycling from Cape to Cairo in Africa Every journey begins
  • Heres to the crazy ones the hikers the climbers the
  • NewVlog Can You Tell How i Feel?  mini snippet
  • I talk too much I have always talked too much
  • I am a dreamer and this is often the reason

Everything Micro Podcast | The New Podcast by Derek Cullen

  • Facebook
  • Twitter
  • Instagram
  • Youtube
  • Soundcloud

Copyright © Microadventureworld 2018. All Rights Reserved.


Back To Top