When it comes to selecting the perfect daypack for hiking, the Osprey Talon/Tempest 33 has emerged as a standout choice. Designed to provide the comforts of a multi-day pack condensed into a 33-liter option, it has quickly gained recognition for its plush feel and comprehensive feature set. Testers have praised it for its remarkable carry performance and user-friendly adjustments.
The Talon/Tempest 33 is available for $190 at REI and weighs in at 2.8 pounds for men's and 2.7 pounds for women's versions. Among its pros are exceptional comfort, best-in-test adjustability, and ample organizational options; however, some drawbacks include smaller pocket sizes and limited water resistance.
A primary contributor to the pack's comfort is the thick layer of EVA foam that lines the hipbelt and shoulder straps. This design, featuring broad hipbelt wings, distributes weight effectively around the iliac crests, allowing for a balanced carry without discomfort. “We never felt any rubbing or chafing, even when the pack was fully loaded,” noted one tester, highlighting the pack's capability in handling significant weight.
Fit is equally crucial, and the Talon/Tempest excels with its five inches of adjustable length—a full inch more than its predecessor, which is more than any other daypack tested this year. This innovation not only enhances comfort but also maintains cost-effectiveness by allowing for a single men's and women's version. “The system is easy to use and allowed testers ranging from 5’4” to 5′ 8” to dial in their perfect size,” said a representative from Osprey.
Tracey Perillo, a pack tester, recounted her experience using it on a challenging 43-mile trek across the Italian Dolomites. “The pack carried weight so easily I was able to tote 24 pounds of snacks and gear without issue,” she explained. However, she did express a desire for an included raincover, as the pack’s DWR coating was inadequate during unexpected weather.
In Colorado’s Flatirons, a volunteer wildlife monitor shared her experience with the Tempest version while trail running. “Between the backpanel adjustability and robust compression straps, it was easy to ratchet this pack down until it was flat and wobble-proof,” she said, emphasizing how the pack's design allowed for a seamless fit comparable to that of a running vest. This adaptability allowed her to arrive on time for her monitoring shift despite a tight schedule.
Additionally, this tester praised the pack’s construction, noting its 100-percent recycled high-tenacity nylon remained intact after a tumble down a cactus-covered hillside while running. “It moved with my body just like a running vest,” she reiterated, showcasing the pack’s impressive agility during movement.
Breathability is another feature worth mentioning. The pack's design includes horizontal cutouts behind a translucent mesh panel, promoting airflow. “Even after running, my back was barely damp,” she stated, signaling that the cooling feature, while not perfect, added some comfort on hot hikes.
The organizational capabilities of the Talon/Tempest 33 are also beneficial for outdoor adventurers. Two hip belt pockets provide ample storage for snacks or a phone, while hydration options include a reservoir pouch, accommodating Nalgenes in each side bottle pocket, albeit the latter requires removing the pack to access.
For anyone seeking a comfort-centric daypack tailored for long and demanding hikes, the Osprey Talon/Tempest 33 stands out as an exemplary choice. Its perfect blend of support and organization solidifies its status as a top contender in the realm of daypacks.