The Escapist comes from Osprey growing range aimed at cyclist, putting its experience of building packs for the outdoors world into a range of bike-specific hydration packs.
The new Escapist is described by Osprey as being intended for “day-long bike adventures or overnight hut-to-hut bikepacking trips” which means it’s got loads of cargo capacity and is light and durable enough to stand up to such epic riding.
Its huge cargo capacity is cleverly distributed. The main compartment is uniquely split into two, with a removable divider zipped into place with access from the bottom or top of the pack. With the divider in place gear and clothing can be easily organised: the bottom pocket could be used for damp kit or a wet waterproof jacket for example.
There are smaller organiser compartments inside, two mesh side pockets, a rain cover, a unique LidLock for stashing your helmet, and a large mesh pouch on the front. For keeping your GPS or digital camera handy there’s a small zipped pound on the shoulder strap. And for keeping food at hand there’s more pockets on the waist belt.
With such a large range of cargo capacity, and the resulting to carry a solid amount of weight but the Airscape Ventilated back panel uses moulded panels and soft foam straps to make carrying the pack a comfortable experience, even on longer rides with a days worth of kit and food. Large padded waist straps and chest strap help support the pack.
We found the Escapist especially useful for commuting to the Bikemagic office, and then heading off for a couple of hours riding after work. There’s more than enough space for carrying spare clothing, tools and our lunch, and reflective detailing, a light attachment point and high-visibility rain cover help you standout on the roads.
The Escapist is available in three sizes (20, 25 and 30-litre ) we tested the 25l and found it the perfect size for our requirements. It costs £69.99. There’s no bladder included, though there is a specific compartment ready to receive one. You do get a lot of bag for your money.
Verdict
As with all Osprey packs, the Escapist it brilliantly made and attention to detail is fantastic. It’s just a shame a bladder isn’t included in the price.
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