Inside Look: Osprey Kestrel 48
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- Опубліковано 1 лип 2024
- The Kestrel 48 is a versatile utility pack capable of multi day treks, travelling or for those days when you just need to take a bit more stuff. Light enough for fast days out and ascents yet tough enough to handle heavier loads in comfort.
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The latest version of this pack: www.trekitt.co.uk/facetresults.aspx?Term=kestrel%2048
This is fantastic product video. Osprey should take notice.
Thank you so much for posting this. It was a very in-depth explanation of this pack. Your review was awesome, so much thatI bought the pack today. Cheers my good sir!!
Excellent video, thanks. I recently purchased a Kestrel 48 and this video explains really well the different features.
One of the best reviews I've seen of anything on UA-cam. Straight to the point but with useful details. Very well presented to - excellent! Thanks - Ben 👍
Thanks Ben 🙌
I'd like to add that while having the hydration sleeve on the outside is nice, if your pack is full, it's a royal pain to get a bladder back into that sleeve without emptying at least half of the pack regardless.
For that reason, I use a little male adapter on my Sawyer filter which plugs right into the middle of the Osprey bladder tube so that I can fill up the reservoir without sliding it out. It makes a world of difference! Especially for someone who sweats heavily like me - I have to refill my 3L reservoir a few times a day when out on long hikes.
P.S. Stow-n-go is absolutely awesome.
This is absolutely correct. I've had a Kestrel 48 for over ten years (minor changes over the years to the model) and the hydration bladder is indeed very difficult to get out if the pack is full. I'm certainly interested in your Sawyer adapter. That sounds brilliant!
What is Sawyer adapter? Where can I buy? And how is it inserted into the reservoir?
Gregory made a hydration reservoir that you could put on top of your rucksack which is called 3d trek 3-in-1. It's an additional cost but I think is worth considering.
ua-cam.com/video/t5NX_GPLdh0/v-deo.html&ab_channel=GregoryPacks
@@AlexeyDnepr sawyer fast fill adapter. You will cut your reservoir to attach the adapter but if your reservoir has a quick disconnect feature, you don't have to cut it anymore. The quick disconnect port is compatible with sawyer fast fill adapter
Best product review I've seen in a long time!! Very thorough!! This is definitely on my kit list
Thanks very much!
I was undecided between kestrel 48 and deuter aircontact, but you completely cleared my mind! Thanks a lot, wonderful video!
This was definitely epic product presentation. You don't need any other video. One vid and you are done, all covered, awesome job, really awesome job 🤘 well done and thank you sir!
Thanks for the kind words, glad we could help!
BEST FREAKIN BAG REVIEW ON THE INTERNET! Companies should take note of this video. It seems this is going to be the Pack I will purchase thanks to this video. The review from video leaves me with no unanswered questions making me feel at ease knowing what I'm going to get.
Thanks for your amazing comments, we aim to please! Paul.
Detailed review. Well done. Thank you. This is my next pack.
Thank you, for another nice and detailed review!
Superb review. Based on it the Kestrel is now on top of my "comparison list".
I still considering both kestrel 48 and rook 64
Great, video! Thank you. I just bought the 58 and now I feel like I have a much better understanding of the pack!
Glad it was helpful!
That is a REALLY wicked walk-through!! I got more helpful infos out of this than from the manufacturer's manual as well as the sales person where I bought it put together... it was fairly obvious, fairly quickly, how good this rucksack was going to be, but you've obviously put a lot of thought and passion into this 'inside look' as well as well-executed video technique, all of which really helped to make sure I understood all the features right. GREAT JOB - keep up the good work!!!!
Yes, his reviews are very thorough.
Absolutely agree! Such a nice informative walkthrough that I just needed. Plus, I’ve just ordered the backpack! Haha😁
@@hsnozgr You will not regret it, I think - I'm still using this backpack today, it's really a daily-use item. I've had over 20kg in it on multiple occasions, 10-15kg (2 laptops plus bike repair stuff, power packs, loads of other stuff too) is pretty much standard, you can spread the load wonderfully; functions are great, zips are not showing any signs of use. Other than that, it's _beginning_ to show some wear'n'tear in a very small way in a few places, but has, I'm sure, at least 3-5 years of such 'hard' use in it (the hip pockets have saved my body from suffering even a scratch on a 35mph downhill bike crash). I wish you lots of fun, satisfaction and general good use in the years to come :)!!!
One of the best product launches I've ever seen. Thumbs up and channel subscribed.
Welcome aboard and thanks for your comments.
Best review of the Kestrel 48 out there. Mine arrived today. (2nd viewing) subscribed.
Good to you have onboard bwty!
Great, thoughtful review like always!
Thank you for being a real professional.
Regards from Slovenia,EU
Brilliant review lads. Thank you
Brilliant video, explained in detail all I wanted to know on this pack. Thanks for sharing 👍🏼
So glad you liked it, thanks for watching.
Brilliant video, this is going on my wishlist
What a great review! This man loves his job.
I do indeed! Thanks for watching. Paul.
I've got the older version (2016 I believe), and was watching this because I enjoy your videos and wanted to see exactly what's changed since. I really love my pack, and I'm not sure which version I would want brand new today!
By far the biggest difference is that the original Kestrel has two long zippered pockets on the sides, whereas the recent versions have one pocket and a side access zipper. I'm truly conflicted about that. I think I prefer two compartments, but the side access would be really great too.
The new side mesh pockets are clearly better - very nice design! With the old ones, it's just practically impossible to reach back far enough to grab your water bottle with your pack on your back. As for the front kangaroo-style pocket, I'm also conflicted. I don't like that using the compression straps will also crush whatever's inside the pocket, but it does seem more secure (and looks nicer) than the previous plain mesh pocket. The compression strap at the top opening of the main compartment is also new and great!
However, the loss of one of the two pockets on the top/lid is significant to me, as I like to reserve the top (smaller) one for flat, precious things like passport, wallet, notebooks, etc., and keep the bottom one for larger items like sun screen, bug spray, compass and so on.
Overall I'm still not sure which version I prefer :)
Thanks for the review dear sirs, much appreciated!
Just awesome!! Great job :)
What a great review. I'm sold!
Love the review! Very well covered, thank you!
Thanks for watching!
Thank you for this comprehensive video
No problem!
great video. wealth of knowledge. thanks!!
🙏
Excellent video, great talk through, buying this for my son who is doing his DofE soon. Thank you
The Kestrel is the perfect pack for DofE. We hope he has a great time using it. Paul.
Great video. Congratulations.
Awesome video my friend.
Excellent video. Going to grab a 58l model.
Good choice!
Mobile Phones scratch with keys and coins around..... another great review and good to see how the packs look on you.
Thank you!
Thanks, great review
Went out a bought this pack today...many thanks 👍
I bought a Kestrel 48 (in exactly this blue color, no less) based on the completeness of this video. It's hard sometimes to differentiate between different Osprey packs of similar sizes--I was shopping between the Kestrel 48 vs Stratos 50, Talon 44, and Archeon 45. But I wanted the removable diaphragm between the main and sleeping bag compartments, and this video demonstrated this in the Kestrel 48.
Oh, and I pay attention to reviews of outdoor gear more when the review is done outdoors. Kudos on that.
Thanks for the kind words, glad we could help with the process! It is a little overwhelming given the amount of options out there. Harry
thank you sir! very thorough! helps alot!
You're welcome!
I would have never known about any of these things lol. Thanks for the video, well done!
Haha, glad we could help
great video showcasing the bags capabilities! if I may add however, i've never seen a rain cover implemented on a bag before and would of liked to see how that worked, but not a huge deal in the end anyways haha.
That's a fair point, we must have forgotten on this day of filming. Harry
This is informative
Best reviews out there. Simples
Thanks very much!
what an awesome video ! i'm a person who has day activities in a sort of office setting and being a creative person carrying my DSLR kit, i'm thinking to get this bag to have a one bag solution, instead of 2 bags... thanks for the video !
Good choice of pack for all your kit. Thanks for watching. Paul.
This is a great review!
Thanks very much!
Awesome video, guys! One thing I want to mention is that I do not believe the S/M has the water bladder on the outside, and it's not a velcro adjustment to give it that pocket. I just purchased mine from REI last week, and the adjustments are different, and the bladder pocket is definitely on the inside. I'm assuming it's only on the larger size or the older versions?
Thanks for the amazing info!!!!
Excellent review as always 👍🏻 how,much does the pack cost.
Thank you! RRP is £140, we sell it for £112. You can find it here: www.trekitt.co.uk/37936/products/osprey-mens-kestrel-48-loch-blue.aspx
Absolute top class product presentation, but also video and sound handling! A removable top would be very important for me, you write the Kestrel 48 has a fixed one. Is the top of the 58 removable? Actually I just want it expandable that I could put the tent on top if I have to.
Thanks for the kind comments. Technically the lid could be removed, but it'd be a bit of a faff. The lid can be extended upwards to reveal more space though! Kind regards, Harry.
Great review, as usual.One thing though, please quote the weight of packs that you are reviewing, I think its very important feature to know.
That's a fair point, we'll add that to our "to-do" list! Thanks for watching. Paul.
I typically use more rugged bushcraft packs but wanted to get more into lightweight hiking and was looking for a pack that would suit my likes , I chose the Kestrel 48 , its the perfect size for my typical 2-5 night packouts , and honestly its more rugged than I expected which is perfect being I can be rough on my gear so I buy nothing but quality and Osprey gear always has been . I also like that the hydration bladder compartment is on the outside , i dont use bladders but have found other uses for that space ......Only negative , the rain cover is obnoxiously loud lmao .....
I'm looking at this pack and the Fjallraven Abisko 45. I like the G-1000 material in the Abisko but the Osprey seems more functional. Any thoughts?
I actually own both and use them for different purposes Fallraven and Osprey are very comparable in this style the Abosko I would rate a little bit more rugged due to the fact that the side pockets are not mesh and it has a fully enclosed front pocket but at the same time the kestrel to me is slightly lighter and quick and easy access on the front and side pocket so it just depends on what you’re looking for you cannot go wrong with either I enjoy both of them amongst my already way too many ruck sacks/backpacks . I can tell you on both of them I have no problem carrying my GFB small forest axe as well as my 21 inch folding saw, by sliding the handles into each of the side pockets along with my water vessel of choice When I choose to take them along ...
I also forgot to mention as far as the kestrel the outer front pocket stretches out pretty good so depending on your purpose you can stuff a lot of quick access items in there such as rain jacket towel hats gloves etc. where is the Abisko is basically fixed
@@Aldocello1 I really appreciate your feedback as I lean more towards bushcraft and rugged equipment too. And I was wondering how I was going to mount my SFA and bucksaw to the Osprey. Might just have to get them both too and use the right tool for the job when needed.
Thanks again.
Not a problem that’s what we do share knowledge opinions experiences with gear, as I mentioned I have no problem fitting my axe or saw i in both .
Really good review gents. Would purchase if that pack fit a bigger guy.
I saw your dtailed good review.
thank for sharing!!!
hello from korea. ~
Thanks for watching and welcome.
Hi, I'd to know which rucksack you advise between Osprey Kestrel and Osprey Stratos you. The use I should make of it is hiking and trekking of one and more days. I'm looking for a versatile backpack, with a good backrest for long hiking but with tape to hang mattress, sleeping bag and snowshoes. I hope you can help me with the choice. Regards
The Stratos is more breathable, lighter and a little more stripped back. The Kestrel is tougher and has a few more features but is consequently heavier. I personally preferred the fit of the Stratos but it's different for everyone, so I'd try both on if you can.
Great review, as always! Thanks! I'm unsure what size of backpack I should get for 1-3 days hiking. I'd like to be able to take with me (apart from minimal clothing): a light synthetic jacket like haglöfs v mimic, some food and water, sleeping bag, and my camera kit (Mirrorless camera plus 2-3 lenses), trekking poles, phone, rain jacket. Do you think 36-38l is enough? I really like the fit of the stratos 36 (tried it on in a store). Other options I consider would be the Kestrel 38 or 48. Just not sure if 48 is too big or 36 too small..
I live in Switzerland and would mainly hike in the alps. But would also take it for Hikes abroad in the future if possible.
If you're not taking a tent, you may be okay with a 36 litre pack. I use a Fjallraven Friluft 35 as my winter daypack with a Fujifilm X-T2 and a few lenses, and there's definitely enough room to squeeze a lightweight sleeping bag in there as well. If you can, I'd try this on as the bag also opens from the front, allowing you to grab your camera gear out without unpacking the whole lot. Harry
Thanks! Appreciate your swift feedback! I'll order one and check whether it's big enough. Otherwise the stratos 50l could be an option..I noticed it is not that much bigger, actually. Side/front access is a must for me :)
Good review. Any comparisons between the Kestrel 48 and the Talon 44 that you could share - pros/cons?
I noticed the Talon 44 is rated for about 5 lbs heavier loads than the Kestrel.
In our experience, the Kestrel carries heavier loads more comfortably and is more suitable for general backpacking, whereas the Talon is more suitable when moving a little faster and lighter. The Talon can also be folded and compacted, making it great for travel as well. Kind regards, Harry.
Trekitt
Thanks for the feedback. I have been leaning toward the Kestrel 48 (given it is only about 1 lb heavier), but thought it was interesting that Osprey showed the Talon 44 as having a higher weight capacity.
I have an Aether AG 70 for my current pack and a Talon 33 for my day hike pack. Just looking for a lighter summer pack. I am also looking at a Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60 liter (only weighs 1.9 lbs) vs the Kestrel 48, but I do like Osprey :-) .
Hi Paul, good video as always.
Both Rook 65 and Kestrel 48 have the same price level. which one is more fit for 3-4 days hiking?
It depends how small your tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat pack down. I know I can personally get all my overnight kit into a 45 litre pack, but if you like to take more creature comforts or have a sleeping system which won't pack down particularly small, the 65 is a safe bet. Harry
@@trekitt thanks Harry. My tent is 4p, with affordable sleeping bag, and foam-made sleeping mat. I think, this 48 bag would be enough. I've got the point. Thats about the big three right?
I’m seriously considering getting one. My only problem is the two straps below, meant I presume to carry a sleeping bag, seem to me very thin. Could you please tell me if a 6.6lbs tent (15” long, 7” wide) fits in the loops? It looks like the loops, even when completely widened, are very narrow.
Thanks a lot
Hi James, thanks for watching. Personally I'm not a big fan of hanging things off the outside of any pack, it unbalances the load and can be incredibly annoying as things swing around as you walk. The two straps at the bottom are primarily designed to carry foam roll mats (rarely used nowadays), which are notoriously difficult to fit inside the main body. You'd be better off separating the poles from the tent fabric and packing them individually in the pack, the fabric will compress better without the poles which can be then slipped down the inside of the main compartment, taking up hardly any room.
Do you change the buckles yourself so that you can do the reverse compression trick at 6:10? Mine are identical at both ends so I cannot tie them together. Thanks!
Just twist them over to match up with the opposite side.
Hi, great review. Is the Kyte the same as the Kestrel, but for women?
Correct!
What do you think makes more sense the Kestrel 38 or 48? I am planning to do a lot of different kind of travelling. Couple day backpacking, weekend trips, a holiday for a couple of weeks... I'm a female
Osprey produce a female version of the Kestrel called the Kyte, so we'd recommend having a look at that instead as it'll feature a backsystem/overall shape more suitable for the female frame. In regards to sizing, I'd opt for the larger of the two. There's only a very slight weight difference and it'll allow you to comfortably pack a tent, sleeping bag, mat, food, etc without worrying about space. I'll pop a link to the Kyte 46 below. Kind regards, Harry.
www.trekitt.co.uk/37942/products/osprey-womens-kyte-46-siren-grey.aspx
Made me realize i ordered wrong size. 5'4" and ordered a M/L. cancelled and ordered a S/M. Thank you!!
You’re very welcome, we’re glad to be of service.
Спасибо! Уже имею этот рюкзак, но не знал некоторых особенностей. Респект.
Hello, thank you so much for your excelent videos :D
Between the kestrel and the rook wich one you think is better, I can't decide between them an to worst i can't try them, i have to buy it online xDD
Can you help me? :D
The Kestrel has more features and is overall a more superior bag; as a consequence it does cost a little more though.
Hi, is there a size/volume difference between the S/M and M/L sizes? The Trekitt website says there is a 2L difference in capacity - just wondering where that comes from? Cheers
Hi, there is indeed a very small difference in capacity between the two sizes due to the back lengths. To be honest, it's negligible and wont affect the use of the bag. It's far more important to get the torso length right, than worry about the capacity. The info came from the Opsrey user manual.
I have a Alps Mountaineering Lynx2. Would it be appropriate to attach it to the “sleeping pad straps” at the bottom?
If possible, we'd always recommend having your tent stashed away inside the pack; preferably as close to your back as possible. A good tip is to whip the poles out of the stuffsack and store those separately; this allows the tent to pack down far smaller. The straps at the bottom of the bag are primarily for compression and storing a tent there will throw your balance off a bit. Kind regards, Harry.
hello, thanks for the review. what do you think is better, the kestrel 48 or the stratos 50?
Both are great packs, it mainly comes down to fit and which backsystem you prefer. I had a Kestrel and really liked it. Harry
I'm trying to decide on either the kestral 48 or the 68 liter. According to the Osprey website the kestral 48 has these fabric materials: MAIN: 210D x 630D Nylon Dobby
, ACCENT: 420HD Nylon Oxford, BOTTOM: 500D Nylon Packcloth
The kestral 68 has Main: 210D (70x140) Nylon Double Diamond Ripstop
, Accent: 420HD Nylon Packcloth,
Bottom: 420HD Nylon Packcloth.
of the two backpakcs which would you said would be most durable?
I've just had a look on Osprey's website, and it seems both are made using the same 210D x 630D Nylon Dobby fabric. This is the EU site we're using, however, so it may be different if you're looking at the US site. Of the fabrics you've listed above, there will be virtually no noticeable difference in durability. It just comes down to whether you need those extra 20 litres. Kind regards, Harry.
I'm very new to hiking/backpacking, and was wondering if this would be suitable for wild camping over the course of a weekend (1-2 nights), or whether I should opt for a slightly larger option; for example the Kestrel 58? Which seems impossible to find anywhere online to buy at the moment.
Generally you'll want to be looking between the 40-60 litre range for traditional camping - which size you opt for depends on the pack size of your tent, sleeping bag and sleeping mat. If you're not sure, it's probably wise to go for the larger size, as this can always be compressed down, whereas obviously the smaller packs can't be expanded. Harry
@@trekitt Do you have any suggestions for a pack that's between 40-60l? As like I mentioned, I'd love to buy a kestrel 58, but everywhere I look is completely sold out.
@@jamesbright742 This would be a good alternative. 50 litres standard but can be expanded to 60 if you need to add extra kit: www.trekitt.co.uk/rucksacks/technical-packs/deuter-mens-futura-air-trek-5010-blackgraphite__41154
What was the name sleeping pad? And the color code of the bag? Great review!
This bad boy: www.trekitt.co.uk/sleep-shelter/sleeping-mats/exped-synmat-ul-m-sleeping-mat__33217
The colour of the bag is Loch Blue: www.trekitt.co.uk/rucksacks/technical-packs/osprey-mens-kestrel-48-loch-blue__37936
Great video. Very informative and well done. I own a 38L and agree with all your opinions. But I have to question your comment that you have a "short" torso. Sure your legs are quite long, but nobody 6 feet 3 tall has a short torso. Maybe you should check the measurement again.
@PirateRay I can assure you that my measurements are correct and that your assumptions about people of height are misguided. Thanks for watching. Paul.
Hi there, awesome video 👍 do you happen to know the max load capacity for this rucksack? My average kit weight including food and water is 16kg or 31lbs.
Hi Darren, the max load is around 18kg for the Kestrel 48. Kind regards, Harry.
Trekitt - Thanks Harry, really appreciate your help. 1 final question if I may, for multi day hikes (2-3 days) in the uk winter. Would you recommend this size or the 58ltr? If I helps, I do like to carry a few comforts.
@@darrengough4400 Personally I would go for the 48, but it largely depends on the size of your tent, sleeping bag and cooking system. For reference, I have a Rab Neutrino Pro 400 sleeping bag, MSR Hubba Hubba tent and an MSR Windburner, which will all pack into a 40 litre pack without any issues. That being said, the 58 is only £15 more on our website at the moment, so if you're happy carrying a little extra weight then the 58 would also do the job perfectly. I'll pop a link to our Kestrel range below. Harry.
www.trekitt.co.uk/facetresults.aspx?Term=kestrel
Did you mention the emergency whistle on the shoulder strap?
Good point!
Does it have a side stretch packet where the side access zipper to the main compartment is located?
Yes. There is a stretch pocket on each side of the pack.
Could this pack be used as a carry on bag if not over packed?
Hi James, our advice is always to check the bags dimensions with your airline. My personal and practical experience tells me that anything over 40 litres is pushing it.
Can you please tell me how the sleep mat works at the bottom from mr daft
If you have a foam roll mat you can use the straps at the bottom to secure it to the outside of the pack to save space inside the pack. We wouldn't recommend keeping an inflatable mat here as it may be more likely to get punctured, but these are usually considerably smaller and would work well next to the sleeping bag in that bottom compartment.
What do you recommend between the exos and kestrel 48?
The Kestrel is a bit more robust and will stand up to more abuse, but the Exos is lighter and more minimalist for those trying to shed weight. It all comes down to where your priorities lie and which one is more comfortable when you've got it on. Kind regards, Harry.
Looking for a pack, I’m torn between this and the Talon 44. What would you guys recommend?
Talon is lighter and arguably more versatile but less comfortable when loaded up with plenty of weight. I'd go for the Talon for fast and light use, and the Kestrel for carrying more weight at a slower pace.
@@trekitt thank you for the insight!
Is the top part of the backpack removable?
Hi, the top pocket on the Kestrel 48 is fixed to the main body.
IS THERE A FIT DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE KESTREL 48 S/M - M/L? MY KESTREL FEELS TOO SMALL FOR ME BUT I'M NOT SURE WHICH IT IS. IS THERE ANY VISUAL WAYS TO TELL IF ITS EITHER A S/M OR M/L?
Yes, the S/M has a shorter back length than M/L. You'll need to measure your back length and compare to the sizes below. It will probably have a small tab near the back panel with the size on; or it should say on your receipt. These are the back lengths of both sizes:
Back length (S/M) - 40.5 - 51cm
Back length (M/L) - 48 - 55.5cm
@@trekitt Thank you very much!
Will this work as a carry on for flying?
I wouldn't have thought so. Dimensions are below though if you want to check with your chosen airline:
Dimensions (cm’s) - 75h x 34w x 32d
do you think this would be totally inappropriate for a female frame 5"2? i have found a good deal secondhand online but worried itll be too big for me (s/m size).
Yeah chances are it'll be too long. You'll need the female version which is the Kyte. We made a 'how to fit your rucksack' video a while ago with Hannah who is also around the same height and she uses the Kyte 36.
38L or 48L for carrying camping gear (+tent) for one night wild camp?
It depends how big your tent, sleeping bag, sleeping mat etc is. Personally, I can fit all of my overnight gear into a 38 litre bag as it's all fairly lightweight and packable (down sleeping bag, lightweight 1 man tent, pocket-sized stove), however, if you prefer to use a synthetic sleeping bag, a roomier tent and more creature comforts, I'd go with the 48. Kind regards, Harry.
@@trekitt Thank you! I went for the 48. With a 2-Man OEX tent, inflatable sleeping mat and lightweight Sleeping bag, it's left me plenty of room for clothes and spare items.
Which dry bags do you use?
Paul uses Exped: www.trekitt.co.uk/exped/storage/dybags--and--stuffsacks
Would you prefer Lowe alpine Altus over this?
All depends which fits you best and has the exact features you require. I'd recommend trying both and making a decision from there, as both are just as well made and feature-packed as the other. Kind regards, Harry.
Thank you Harry. Greetings from India.
what's the maximum waist size.
There isn't a given measurement unfortunately, but having put the pack on I'd say around 40". Kind regards, Harry.
I luckily found one of these for $5 at a yard sale
That's a good find!
New subscriber here.
Welcome 🙌🏻
how tall are you ?
Paul is 6ft 3".
Try maximizing your pack space by putting your sleeping bag in either a big trash bag or a big soft dry sack instead of its stuff sack. Same goes for yout tent. Its amazing how much more room it gives you.
Sorry, we're going to need you to elaborate! We're not sure how this would decrease the pack size.
@@trekitt Omitting the stuff sack for the sleeping back allows the sleeping bag to fill out the entire bottom of the backpack. That way you won't leave any volume unused. Just push it down real hard to the bottom of the pack. In contrast, when you're using stuff sacks for your tent and sleeping bag, you'll end up with many little space that remain unused.
i have 1 :D and buy only around 70$