Friday, July 26, 2013

Osprey Kestrek 48 Pack Review


My review of this bag is an honest one. I didn't get this backpack for free as a test to review. I bought it with my own money based on other peoples reviews of it. This is what I think of this bag...

Right off the bat I have to say that I'm not a fan of the lid not coming off. On one spring trip I stuffed it extra high then had to remove items because I couldn't close the top. I took out a sweater, one I wish I had later on. If the lid adjusted, I would have been warm, period.
My standard size fit is a Med/Large, but this bag is too large around the waist. I'm returning it for the Small/Med bag and adjusting the spine to fit my shoulders and waist.
I like the side pockets as my tent poles and rodent sack fit perfectly.
The side mesh pockets are also nice. I hold quick grab food there to eat during the hike.
The wide mesh pocket was important for me, I wanted to be able to gab quick clothing out of here. It has worked out perfectly for this.
The pole straps are fantastic. The compression straps work perfectly. And it has a lot of tie points.
It has a ventilated back which is great for the summer months!
The water pocket is long, and holds my 3 liter water bladder perfectly. However, despite reviews saying the water compartment is located outside the main compartment, I disagree with them. You slide your water into a compartment which seemingly is located just behind the main compartment, but when you open the bag and look inside, the water sack is right there, located INSIDE the main compartment! Unfortunately with this bag, water spills are still a scary factor to think about when purchasing. I counteracted possible spills by purchasing two Sea To Summit waterproof cinch sacks, one for my sleeping bag and one for my clothes.
The bag is light, comfortable, and compresses nicely.
My only major complaint about this bag is that I have to tighten down my shoulder and waist straps every so often during the hike, as they give way making it loose and uncomfortable at times.
 Out of 5 starts, I give this bag 3.5. I wanted to love this bag. But as it turns out I just like it. I'm keeping it, but only until something better comes along.

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