My semi-review of the 2012 Osprey Aura
I am calling this a semi-review because although I did test the new Osprey Aura 50 backpack, I did it in an unconventional way. I loaded it up with a little weight and wore it around the gear shop I work in, for 5 hours. I only put 10lbs in it because my ankle is still weak, I was wearing my Merrell Tetra Launch boots, and still had to perform all of my duties, such as climbing up and down ladders, fitting customers with backpacks, ringing at the register, etc. Yet, I can honestly say, I am impressed.
One of the biggest changes Osprey made to this pack is that it is now adjustable to fit a variety of torso lengths. I have a short torso, and their past designs didn’t fit me properly. This was sad for me because I loved how lightweight is was and still is (3lbs 5oz). It has other features like:
Lite-Wire frame and 3D tensioned breathable mesh back to allow maximum ventilation
Stow-On-the-Go holder for trekking poles
Zippered pocket on the hipbelt, (which I love for snacks on the trail)
A floating top lid
Dual ice axe loops with bungee tie-offs
Hydration pack compatible
Two zippered pockets on the front
Sleeping pad straps on the bottom
The color choices are Eggplant Purple and Pinon Green
The MSR is $199.
The only thing the 50 liter pack doesn’t have is the zippered compartment on the bottom for your sleeping bag, but the 65 liter version of this pack does. Bottom line is, I am excited about this pack and think Osprey did an amazing job. I can’t wait to test it out for real, outside!
For more information, check out Osprey’s Website.
