User Review: Osprey Stratos 40

Osprey Stratos 40
Above: The current Stratos 40, which may differ slightly from the version reviewed.

Reviewed March 24, 2007 by M. Pierce

Rating:
Design: Top-Loading Internal with side zipper access
Size: Medium: 2400 Cubic Inches / 40 liters
Number of Pockets: 2 mesh (on hip), 1 top (with an inner mesh pocket inside), 1 back (no zipper, just a flap on the outside of the main comparment) can be used for hydration, + main comparment (with access to hollow back area for winter hydration storage).
Max. Load Carried: 30-35 lbs.
Height of Owner: 5'8"
Price Paid: $122

I'm impressed by the design and construction of this pack. I bought it for day/weekend hikes and trips; plus, I wanted a pack that I could use for travel.

The Stratos 40 meets my requirements. It weighs in under 3 pounds, but still feels like it is a sturdy pack. The frame distributes the weight very well. The straps are intuitive and easy to adjust quickly. The front straps (hip, breast, and shoulder strap) are easy to adjust on the fly while you're wearing the pack. It can manage a bulky load well, while being able to comfortably accommodate a small load (the straps are well arranged to minimize its size).

You can manage 30-35 lbs. with the pack, but it isn't perfectly comfortable. I walked around a city for 5-6 hours with 30-35 lbs. of weight and I was a bit sore, though the straps are new and I am a little out practice. It is definitely more comfortable for long periods when it is in the 20-30 lbs. range.

One downside is that the water bottle slots won't accommodate larger Nalgene bottles, and the main compartment will consume the water bottle space if you don't pack carefully.

A big plus for me was that I could fit it into the overhead of a 737 with the top adjacent to the door (oriented depth-wise). The pack wasn't completely full, but it could be pretty close to full and still fit.

I'd highly recommend the pack. If you need something that will regularly carry 30-35 lbs., I would recommend something in the 45-50L capacity range. However, if you only rarely need to pack heavily then this pack will be perfect for you.