Osprey is to launch a new range of backpacks in spring 2012, the new lightweight Syncro, and we’ve just received an early sample to take a closer look.
First things first, unlike the bike-specific Raptor, the Syncro is designed as a versatile backpack for outdoors use, whether it’s mountain biking, walking, climbing or commuting to work.
A key feature is its lightness, with a lightweight nylon fabric keeping the weight down to 730g for the 15L sample we have here. It’s available in a slightly lighter 10L capacity or bigger 20L model too.
Another noticeable design feature is the Airscape back panel, a suspended hammock to allow generous airflow around the back and avoid a sweaty base layer, while still keeping the pack close to your back for good stability.
The BioStretch harness and hip belt with an ErgoPull closure keeps it securely in place. The main straps are made from thick foam to distribute weight load.
Cargo capacity is split between two main comparments, with the front, and smaller, pocket lined with mesh compartments for storing tools, money, phones and other bits and bobs. There’s a further two external side mesh pockets.
We said earlier that this isn’t a bike-specific pack, but it will still accommodate a bladder and will happily take Osprey’s Hydraform Reservoir
As with the Raptor, there’s the novel LidLock for attaching your helmet, which you may or may not find useful.
It’s available spring 2012, with two colours (red or black) and 10, 15 and 20L, costing £60, £65 and £70 respectively.
We’ve become fans of Osprey packs since they launched into the mountain bike market a few years ago, and this new pack feels like the high quality bit of kit we’ve become used to from the brand. It’s all very nicely designed and it even looks good, not something you can say of a lot of packs.
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