Review - Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Pack - Women's
Specs:
- Volume: 18 liters
- Weight: 1.8 lbs
- Material: High-tenacity nylon
- Frame Type: Frameless
- Hydration Compatible: Yes
- Number of Pockets: 5 + main compartment
- Gender: Women's
- Adjustable Torso: No
- Hipbelt: Integrated
Before we jump into the review - If you want to read our Best Daypacks for Hiking comparison article, you are welcome.
The Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Pack for women is a step up from its predecessors, offering a blend of durability and functionality tailored for the female hiker. Its design is sleek, and the fit is notably comfortable, thanks to the women-specific build. The shoulder straps contour well to the body, and the integrated hip belt provides ample support, ensuring the weight is evenly distributed.
Ventilation is commendable in the Tempest Pro 18. The mesh back panel does an excellent job of preventing excessive heat buildup, making it a suitable companion for hikes in warmer climates. The hydration compatibility is seamlessly integrated, allowing for easy refills and access, ensuring you stay hydrated throughout your journey.
Storage options in the Tempest Pro 18 are versatile. The main compartment, though not overly spacious, is well-organized, and the additional pockets are strategically placed for easy access. The external attachment points are a boon for those who like to carry trekking poles or other gear. The high-tenacity nylon material used in the pack not only feels premium but also stands up well against the rigors of regular hiking.
However, the pack isn't without its minor drawbacks. The lack of an adjustable torso might limit the fit customization for some users. And while the pack is resilient against light showers, in more torrential conditions, it's advisable to pair it with a rain cover to safeguard your belongings.
Diving into the technical: A Review of the Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Pack - Women's
Key Features:
The Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Pack for women stands out as a fusion of innovative design and meticulous attention to detail. One of its hallmark features is the AirScape back panel, which promises both structural support and superior ventilation. Another commendable feature is the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, which proves invaluable when navigating varying terrains.
Material:
The Tempest Pro 18 is constructed from high-denier nylon, a testament to its durability and lightweight nature. The fabric exudes a sense of ruggedness, suggesting that it's more than capable of withstanding the challenges of regular hiking.
Fit and Comfort:
Tailored specifically for women, the Tempest Pro 18 offers an ergonomic fit that aligns with the unique contours of a woman's body. The pack nestles comfortably against the back, ensuring that even during extended hikes, discomfort is kept at bay. Over multiple hikes, I found the pack adapting to my movements, making the hikes feel more fluid.
Capacity and Size:
With an 18-liter capacity, the Tempest Pro 18 strikes a balance between being compact and offering ample storage space. It's adept at housing essentials like snacks, a hydration bladder, a light jacket, and even some basic camping tools. Its design ensures that even when fully packed, it doesn't feel cumbersome.
Shoulder Straps:
The BioStretch shoulder straps are a marvel in design. They're not just cushioned but also exhibit a degree of flexibility, allowing them to mold to the wearer's shape. This ensures that the weight is evenly distributed, minimizing the chances of shoulder strain.
Hip Belt:
The integrated lumbar-to-hip belt is both functional and comfortable. It effectively channels the pack's weight to the hips, ensuring the shoulders aren't unduly burdened. The zippered pockets on the hip belt are a thoughtful addition, perfect for items that one might need to access frequently.
Ventilation:
The AirScape back panel truly shines in the ventilation department. Its ridged foam design facilitates consistent airflow, ensuring that the back remains relatively cool, even during more intense hiking sessions or warmer days.
Durability:
Osprey's commitment to quality is evident in the Tempest Pro 18. The nylon material, paired with top-notch zippers and buckles, ensures that this pack is in it for the long haul. Having taken it through varied terrains, the pack showed no signs of wear or tear.
Water Resistance:
While the nylon material inherently offers some resistance to light showers, for more substantial rainfall, one would need an external rain cover. It's worth noting that the pack doesn't come with an integrated one, so having a separate cover or ensuring your items are in waterproof bags is prudent.
Organization and Access:
The main compartment of the Tempest Pro 18 is easily accessible, thanks to its top zipper design. Inside, there's a dedicated sleeve for a hydration reservoir, ensuring that your hydration needs are always within reach. The internal organization is intuitive, making packing and accessing items straightforward.
External Pockets:
Beyond the hip belt pockets, the Tempest Pro 18 boasts stretch mesh side pockets, ideal for water bottles or other quick-access items. The LidLock helmet attachment is a bonus for those who might use the pack for activities beyond hiking, such as biking.
All in all, the Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Pack for women is a meticulously designed daypack that promises both comfort and efficiency. Whether you're embarking on a short trail or a day-long expedition, this pack is poised to be a dependable ally.
Osprey Tempest Pro 18 Women's Hiking Backpack , Titanium, Medium/Large ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ (4.8)
- Features: The product description and images suggest that the backpack has two ice pick attachment points and a trekking pole attachment. However, the actual product has only one ice pick attachment and lacks a trekking pole attachment. This discrepancy has caused disappointment among buyers.
- Comparison: The Tempest Pro 18 is observed to have fewer features than the Tempest 20, yet it is priced $50 higher. This has raised concerns about its value for money.
- Overall Recommendation: While the Osprey brand is known for its quality, potential buyers should be cautious about the described features and ensure they match their requirements. It might be worth considering other models like the Tempest 20 for a better feature set at a lower price.