Osprey Size Guide - Men’s & Women’s Backpacks

Posted on: 2024-11-22

f you’re reading this article, it’s likely because you’re planning to purchase an Osprey backpack. However, you might be unsure which size to order. Choosing the right size is essential for optimal comfort, as it not only determines the height of the pack but also the length of the straps and the hip belt.

In this article, we’ll guide you through selecting the Osprey backpack size that best fits your body. Contrary to popular belief, choosing a backpack size is simple and requires just two steps: measuring your torso length and matching it to the size chart.

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1. How to Measure Your Torso Length

This step is the same for both men and women. Measuring your torso length involves three simple steps:

Step 1: Locate your C7 vertebra. This is the bony bump at the base of your neck, at the top of your back. If you can’t feel it, tilt your head forward to identify it more easily.

Step 2: Place your hands on top of your hips. You should feel your iliac crests.

Step 3: Measure the distance between your C7 vertebra and your iliac crests, following the curve of your spine as shown in the illustration. It’s helpful to have someone assist you with this step.

Now that you have your torso length, you can consult the size guide for men or women

2. Osprey Backpack Sizes for Men

Torso length

Corresponding size

38 to 51 cmS/M
46 to 60 cmM/L
54 to 64 cmL/XL
43 to 50,5 cmM/L (new models)
48 to 58,5 cmL/XL (new models)

Tip: Check whether you’re buying a new or older model. If the backpack is available in three sizes, it’s an older model. If only two sizes are available, it’s a newer model. The Atmos, Exos Pro, and Talon are examples of newer models.

3. Osprey Backpack Sizes for Women

Torso length

Corresponding size

33 to 43 cmXS/S
40,5 to 50,5 cmM/L

Starting in 2023, women’s backpacks are available in just two sizes, making it even easier to find the right fit. Rest assured, each model is adjustable at the hip belt and straps to suit your body shape.

4. How to Adjust Your Backpack

Once you’ve received your backpack, proper adjustment is essential for comfort:

  1. Load your pack with your gear to simulate real conditions.
  2. Loosen all straps—shoulder straps and hip belt—before putting it on.
  3. Adjust the back panel length to fit your torso.
  4. Put on your backpack. If necessary, readjust the back panel length.
  5. Secure the hip belt. It should sit snugly on your hips.
  6. Tighten the shoulder straps enough to provide support without restricting breathing or causing shoulder discomfort.
  7. Adjust the load-lifter straps located at the top of the backpack on your shoulders.
  8. Fasten the chest strap to ensure the shoulder straps stay in place and don’t slip outward.

Experiment with the adjustments until you find the perfect configuration. A well-fitted backpack makes all the difference on your adventures !

A Word About Lyophilise & Co 🌶

Based in Lorient, Lyophilise & Co is the go-to reference for freeze-dried meals and high-quality outdoor gear. Whether you're a hiker, skipper, trail runner, bushcraft enthusiast, or bivouac lover, we offer a wide range of technical products tailored to all your adventures. With over 2,000 items available, we support your expeditions in France and abroad.

If you have any questions, our experts are here to help and will gladly assist you:

☎ +33 (0)2 97 87 23 73
✉ team[at]lyophilise.com

We also have a showroom open Monday to Friday:

📍 6 bis rue du Sous-Marin Vénus, 56100 Lorient, France

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