Great and a very informative video. I have just ordered this backpack, and thanks to your review, it looks as though I've made a good choice. Thank you John 👍
I'm not sure why it's called an entry level backpack, some of us that have been backpacking for over 30 years simply look for value at a good price and that what the rook offers. I have many packs, one that costs over $400 and I'd rather use my Osprey Rook 50 on the majority of my trips. It holds my tent, clothing, rain gear, food, and ditty bag with no issue and I can hike 4 nights/5 days with the 50. I use the 65 for trips of 5 nights/6 days and more up to two weeks out. In 1988 I thru hiked the AT with 3700 cubic inch pack with no problem. Anyway, great video, I just hate the term "entry level" because many of us with thousands of miles choose those type packs and we are by no means entry level hikers.
This is a good point Jami. I was at a product launch exhibition last week and visited the Osprey stand. They were very keen to talk about their latest £260 rucksack. As I mentioned in the video, the Rook does everything I need it to, and I can't justify spending huge amounts on a rucksack. The rep on the stand did agree that unless you were carrying 25 - 30 kg, that the £260 bag was probably overkill. Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment, this means a lot to me 🙂👍
@@thecampingastronomer8554 Sounds great! I have the 50 & 65. I live nearby to the AT, so the gets lots of usage on weekends. I use the 65 for longer trips when I meet up with family in other parts of the US and longer trips as mentioned before. I use both of them more than my other packs and really need to clean things out. Have a great day!
Do you recommend the 65 for a beginner that can’t afford the more condensed/packable gear and might overpack due to lack of experience and then get something smaller or start with a 50-58?
@@jamicrawford6729 it’s nice to know I’ve purchase a pack that meets your standards. Im just getting into backpacking and thought this seemed like a great pack for getting out there
@YANCADANK I reckon that a 65L sack it pretty much ideal, especially if you are buying more budget items like sleeping bags which can take up a lot of space.
A good review you have made. This looks like a good entry level pack and with the usual good quality from Osprey. I love the 65 l size as I get enough gear with me for a weekend stuff, but is prevented from taking too much with me. When I am on longer trips I use a 95 l pack. Anyway, I am very happy with my gear from Osprey and the Rook looks like value for money! Greetings from Ant!
Hi Ant, thanks for watching and commenting 👍. Many years ago I had a 95 litre pack which I was just about able to carry. Sadly I am now too old to be able to carry it 🤣🤣
Top review. Very insightful and helpful in my own purchasing decisions. Feedback would be if you could include a brief overview of competitor bags but otherwise, great content, thanks!
This is very true. Its possible to spend a lot of money on a bag, so I was interested to see how an entry level option from a premium brand would work out. I can't justify spending vast sums of money, so this one pretty well hit the spot. Thanks for watching and for your support as always 👍🙂
The bag is abrasion resistant and should last a long time. It is not waterproof, which is where a waterproof cover comes in. I am hoping to have mine for at least 10 years.
@@footprints_of_farabi the back length adjusters are quite stiff, and you only need to make the adjustment when you first buy the rucksack. Consequently, I am not expecting a failure to occur of this feature.
Good afternoon John, great look into the Rook, we love our Osprey packs, we have tried various sizes and brands over the years, nothing comes close to and Osprey pack. You definitely get what you pay for, worth the cost. Such well designed and built kit. Loved your video for this one, have a great weekend, Ceri and Kat ☕👍♥️💼
Great review video. I was initially looking at the Osprey Aether 65 but for me (in Canada) there's over a $150 difference in price. Thank you for going over the features of the Rook!
I have this same pack in mallard green. It is a great pack for the price, especially since I got it on sale for $130 USD. I have used it 3 times now hiking the Sierras here in California and I have to say it is quite comfortable. I don't mind the simplicity of the pack because it keeps the weight down. I would like to try Osprey's AG system though sometime. Thanks for the review!
@@thecampingastronomer8554 just took this on an 11 day trip and the pack squeaked like crazy. I don’t know if it’s the small metal frame, but it drove me crazy. Looking for something new now
@@natlovell122 I think that a constant creak every time you take a step would drive you round the bend. Any idea of what you are going to replace it with?
@@thecampingastronomer8554 I’m looking at the Sierra Designs flex capacitor 40-60 liter, the Mountainsmith Scream 55, and the REI Flash 55. If you have any other recommendations let me know
Thanks for the review i was looking for Black Friday bargain backpack so I picked this one up for £90 compared to others on display this was a standout I do a lot of bike touring but it's always nice to get out for a hike in the mountains. This will do me super impressed so far.
The female version has a shorter back length and slightly different padding, plus a different aesthetic. Other than that it's identical. Mrs C.A might complain if she was carrying 15 kg though 🤣
Out of all the reviews and website info ive looked at on this pack , your review is the only one that mentions the actual dimensions of the back length in cm . Its ok them saying 'one size' as they all do but what is it ?! Its not like it isnt important! Thanks , now i know 👍
Thank you, glad you found it useful I just popped over to your channel and subscribed. I see you do a lot of stuff in my happy place, the Lake District 🙂
Glad you found the video useful Harry. If you can, try and purchase from a shop rather than the Web. Because the pack only comes in one size with four back adjustments, it's worth trying to make sure it fits before you buy. Thank you very much for taking the time to watch and comment, its much appreciated 😊
Would you recommend going with the 65 for a newbie? I can’t afford the ultralight gear so I was thinking I’d need more capacity for the less packable gear I’d be using In the beginning. I don’t see myself doing more than 3 nights anytime soon.
Hi, I have been umming and arghing over this brand and your detailed vid has made me reach a decision. I am new to hiking and want to try wild camping and generally getting out in the fresh air. Thanks again! 🙂
Glad you enjoyed the video. I hope your new rucksack gives you lots of pleasure, and that you have a great time out hiking and camping. Thank you very much for watching and commenting, your support is much appreciated.
@Morphaplasm this is a common thing. The reality is that nobody knows you are there so you are safer than if you were walking around town. It is hard to get your head round initially - a couple of glasses of wine helps a lot here 👍
Hello Sanjay, yes there is a pouch in the main compartment for a hydration pack, and a little hole through which you would pass the tube. Thanks for watching, have a good weekend 😊
Great and a very informative video. I have just ordered this backpack, and thanks to your review, it looks as though I've made a good choice. Thank you John 👍
I really enjoy using mine Mick, and think that it's very good for the money. I hope you like yours when it arrives. Have a great weekend 😀
@@thecampingastronomer8554 And you mate. 👍
I'm not sure why it's called an entry level backpack, some of us that have been backpacking for over 30 years simply look for value at a good price and that what the rook offers. I have many packs, one that costs over $400 and I'd rather use my Osprey Rook 50 on the majority of my trips. It holds my tent, clothing, rain gear, food, and ditty bag with no issue and I can hike 4 nights/5 days with the 50. I use the 65 for trips of 5 nights/6 days and more up to two weeks out. In 1988 I thru hiked the AT with 3700 cubic inch pack with no problem. Anyway, great video, I just hate the term "entry level" because many of us with thousands of miles choose those type packs and we are by no means entry level hikers.
This is a good point Jami. I was at a product launch exhibition last week and visited the Osprey stand. They were very keen to talk about their latest £260 rucksack. As I mentioned in the video, the Rook does everything I need it to, and I can't justify spending huge amounts on a rucksack. The rep on the stand did agree that unless you were carrying 25 - 30 kg, that the £260 bag was probably overkill.
Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment, this means a lot to me 🙂👍
@@thecampingastronomer8554 Sounds great! I have the 50 & 65. I live nearby to the AT, so the gets lots of usage on weekends. I use the 65 for longer trips when I meet up with family in other parts of the US and longer trips as mentioned before. I use both of them more than my other packs and really need to clean things out. Have a great day!
Do you recommend the 65 for a beginner that can’t afford the more condensed/packable gear and might overpack due to lack of experience and then get something smaller or start with a 50-58?
@@jamicrawford6729 it’s nice to know I’ve purchase a pack that meets your standards. Im just getting into backpacking and thought this seemed like a great pack for getting out there
@YANCADANK I reckon that a 65L sack it pretty much ideal, especially if you are buying more budget items like sleeping bags which can take up a lot of space.
A good review you have made. This looks like a good entry level pack and with the usual good quality from Osprey. I love the 65 l size as I get enough gear with me for a weekend stuff, but is prevented from taking too much with me. When I am on longer trips I use a 95 l pack. Anyway, I am very happy with my gear from Osprey and the Rook looks like value for money! Greetings from Ant!
Hi Ant, thanks for watching and commenting 👍.
Many years ago I had a 95 litre pack which I was just about able to carry. Sadly I am now too old to be able to carry it 🤣🤣
Nice John, my Osprey 68 Kestrel did me proud recently you get what you pay for and more with the osprey gear..Nice vlog..keep them coming..👍👍
Thanks Norman. You would have needed a good bag on your recent epic trip 🙂
Nice review! Meticulously explained. 👍
Greetings from Himalayan Kashmir
Thank you very much for watching, glad you enjoyed it. Hope you have a great weekend 😊
Top review. Very insightful and helpful in my own purchasing decisions. Feedback would be if you could include a brief overview of competitor bags but otherwise, great content, thanks!
Thank you Joshua, glad you found it useful, and thanks for the feedback 👍
That looks like a good all rounder Jon 👌. I don’t think there’s such a thing as a perfect bag.
This is very true. Its possible to spend a lot of money on a bag, so I was interested to see how an entry level option from a premium brand would work out. I can't justify spending vast sums of money, so this one pretty well hit the spot.
Thanks for watching and for your support as always 👍🙂
thanks for making this video, its really helpful
Thanks for watching and commenting. Glad you found it useful 👍
Great review!
Thank you for watching and your kind comment 🙂
Is polyester good? Will this last long time, in every weather condition?
The bag is abrasion resistant and should last a long time. It is not waterproof, which is where a waterproof cover comes in. I am hoping to have mine for at least 10 years.
@@thecampingastronomer8554 thanks for the quick reply. What about that torso adjustment frame. It seems weak to me, feels like it is easy to break.
@@footprints_of_farabi the back length adjusters are quite stiff, and you only need to make the adjustment when you first buy the rucksack. Consequently, I am not expecting a failure to occur of this feature.
Hi there, May I ask your height/weight (approx :-) ) please. Thank you.
No problems Jonathan.
I am about 175cm height and weight about 63 kg.
@@thecampingastronomer8554 lucky you 😜
@@jonathandance7372 🤣🤣
Good afternoon John, great look into the Rook, we love our Osprey packs, we have tried various sizes and brands over the years, nothing comes close to and Osprey pack. You definitely get what you pay for, worth the cost. Such well designed and built kit. Loved your video for this one, have a great weekend, Ceri and Kat ☕👍♥️💼
I'm sold on Osprey bags now, just hope I don't want to buy more and more expensive ones 🤣.
Thanks for watching and have a great weekend 👍
I've spent the entire evening looking for a video like this!
Thank you
Using mine for th West Highland Way soon.
Hi Jon, I am very pleased with mine and I'm sure yours will stand you in good stead. Good Luck on the West Highland Way 👍
Great review video. I was initially looking at the Osprey Aether 65 but for me (in Canada) there's over a $150 difference in price. Thank you for going over the features of the Rook!
You are welcome Pete, glad you found it useful 👍
I have this same pack in mallard green. It is a great pack for the price, especially since I got it on sale for $130 USD. I have used it 3 times now hiking the Sierras here in California and I have to say it is quite comfortable. I don't mind the simplicity of the pack because it keeps the weight down. I would like to try Osprey's AG system though sometime. Thanks for the review!
I think the green version looks really nice. Thanks for watching and commenting on my video, this means a lot to me 🙂
@@thecampingastronomer8554 just took this on an 11 day trip and the pack squeaked like crazy. I don’t know if it’s the small metal frame, but it drove me crazy. Looking for something new now
@@natlovell122 I think that a constant creak every time you take a step would drive you round the bend. Any idea of what you are going to replace it with?
@@thecampingastronomer8554 I’m looking at the Sierra Designs flex capacitor 40-60 liter, the Mountainsmith Scream 55, and the REI Flash 55. If you have any other recommendations let me know
@@natlovell122 I think the Sierra Designs one is the one I have heard good things about 👍
Excellent review thank you 👏🏻 I've been considering this pack and you may have just convinced me.
Thanks Rob, glad you found it useful 👍🙂
Thanks for the review i was looking for Black Friday bargain backpack so I picked this one up for £90 compared to others on display this was a standout I do a lot of bike touring but it's always nice to get out for a hike in the mountains. This will do me super impressed so far.
£90 is an absolute blinding bargain for this bag, well done on that Jon. You really can't go wrong for that price 🙂
It’s £94 on Amazon today I’ve got the exos 48 but need something a little bigger think I’m going to get it
That sounds like a decent deal to me , I think you should press the button 👍🙂
Osprey's "entry level" is far superior to all other rucksack manufacturers; I'll go with Osprey "entry level" anytime!
I agree Lee, it is by far the best rucksack I have ever had. Thanks for watching and commenting, hope you have a good week ahead.
Didn’t realise there was a female version! What exactly are the differences? Or maybe Mrs or Miss CA could try it out? 😝
The female version has a shorter back length and slightly different padding, plus a different aesthetic. Other than that it's identical. Mrs C.A might complain if she was carrying 15 kg though 🤣
Out of all the reviews and website info ive looked at on this pack , your review is the only one that mentions the actual dimensions of the back length in cm . Its ok them saying 'one size' as they all do but what is it ?! Its not like it isnt important!
Thanks , now i know 👍
Thank you, glad you found it useful I just popped over to your channel and subscribed. I see you do a lot of stuff in my happy place, the Lake District 🙂
@@thecampingastronomer8554 I do try and get there as much as i can , problem is its just not often enough !
Hope to be back out soon 👍
Good review, thanks for sharing. Be safe and be lucky.
Thanks Wol, glad you liked it. All the Best to you 🙂👍
Just bought one of these and it’s ideal for my wild camping,cheers John
I hope you enjoy using your Bernard. Thank you very much for watching and taking the time to comment, your support is very much appreciated 👍
Thank you Sir , I just bought this bagpack ....perfect for me :)
Hope you enjoy your pack Andy. Thanks for watching and commenting, its really appreciated 👍🙂
Great review and great location mate thank you for that atb pal 😀👍
Glad you found it useful, and enjoy the rest of the weekend 👍🙂
Great insights and review! Have been debating purchasing this compared to more expensive osprey packs, and I think I may now go for the Rook!
Glad you found the video useful Harry. If you can, try and purchase from a shop rather than the Web. Because the pack only comes in one size with four back adjustments, it's worth trying to make sure it fits before you buy.
Thank you very much for taking the time to watch and comment, its much appreciated 😊
Would you recommend going with the 65 for a newbie? I can’t afford the ultralight gear so I was thinking I’d need more capacity for the less packable gear I’d be using In the beginning. I don’t see myself doing more than 3 nights anytime soon.
Hi, I have been umming and arghing over this brand and your detailed vid has made me reach a decision. I am new to hiking and want to try wild camping and generally getting out in the fresh air. Thanks again! 🙂
Glad you enjoyed the video. I hope your new rucksack gives you lots of pleasure, and that you have a great time out hiking and camping. Thank you very much for watching and commenting, your support is much appreciated.
@@thecampingastronomer8554 Though the first night out in the middle of nowhere is giving me the creeps! 😳😂😂
@Morphaplasm this is a common thing. The reality is that nobody knows you are there so you are safer than if you were walking around town. It is hard to get your head round initially - a couple of glasses of wine helps a lot here 👍
Good show and information on the pack thanks
Thank you for watching and commenting, glad you found it useful 🙂
Nice video. Cheers.
Glad you enjoyed it. Thanks for watching 🙂
Can you fit a hydration pack in it
Hello Sanjay, yes there is a pouch in the main compartment for a hydration pack, and a little hole through which you would pass the tube. Thanks for watching, have a good weekend 😊
@@thecampingastronomer8554 thankyou for your i have just rewatched the video and you do explain there is a space in there thanksanywah
@@sanjay0196 you are welcome 😊
Just ordered one today for a trek across america 🇺🇸
Fantastic, have a great trip 👍