Osprey Highlander Review

"After an extensive search for a new backpack I've finally found a system I'm happy with, the Ospray Highlander. This one is quite a bit similar to the Silhoutte but without a seperate dividing panel between the sleeping bag and it' about 1000 cubic inches less space. The Highlander is 4500 cubic inches but at time of purchase the dealer should give you the option of choosing if you want to upgrade the back panel to a small detachable pack. I got the 1100 cubic inch one which boosted my overall space to 5600 cubic inches. There is a dividing panel at the bottom but it does not really zip closed but just sort of floats there to seperate the sleeping bag. Enough of the techno babble, lets get on with how it feels: I ended up getting a meduim size womens harness because it is made out of one piece of material rather then a big double paneled peice that kept rolling off of my narrow shoulders. Once I got used to what all of the different straps on it and how to use them, it's really a breeze to load and unload. I've been conditioning myself for a trip to the Palisades coming up in August so I have been loading it up with 40 pounds(and am working up to 50)and going on extended hikes for at least a couple of hours and after some strap height adjustements and such it's starting to fit like a glove and it doesn't even cause my back to hurt in any way so far. The upper pack is removable to use as a fanny sack and I use it to store a hydration system in. It seems that people are skeptical of these new hydration system but it sure seems easier to be able to bite on a hose and drink then open and close a water bottle. I've been very impressed so far and I would say it is comparable to the Dana Designs Terraplane."

"I Own 3 Osprey packs and they all ROCK! The design of Osprey packs have always seemed just a little more comfortable to me than other manufacturers.

When I bought my 3rd Osprey, I was determined to try another brand. I searched high and low and ultimately came back to an Osprey.

The Highlander is a large pack that is designed to carry the heaviest loads. I have carried 80+ lbs with my Highlander comfortably and with minimal adjustments during use.

I have used the Highlander in all climates, terrains, and seasons. It has always performed to my satisfaction or higher. In fact, one time I was climbing Gannet Peak (highest in Wyoming) and decided to butt-glissade down about 800 ft. I was a beautiful day and the glissade was way fun. During the glissade, my speed approached uncontrollable and I was launched into the air by a huge sun cup. My Highlander was the first thing to hit the ground and I heard a slight rip.

When I finally stopped, I inspected the pack to find that one of the straps that transfers the weight to the hip belt had been ripped off by the severe landing.

We were about 80 miles from our destination, and I was not even worried because I knew that the Highlander would make it. I did some back-country engineering and started hiking. I made it to Green River Lakes with no problem.

When I got back, I took the pack to my local retailer and they hooked me up with a new hip belt for free. That was all I needed and the pack is as good as new.

I am sold on Osprey. I think that they are they most underrated packs on the market.

Do yourself a favor and stop looking at the over-glorified packs that everyone talks about and get a REAL pack made by backpackers in Colorado."

"I have owned my Highlander for 9 years. I will probably never need another pack. I have hiked the Austrian Alps, Italian Dolomites, Sierra Nevada Mountains, Grand Teton and the list goes on. Quality: The pack looks and functions as good as new and I am known for destroying packs in one trip! I've loaded this pack beyond capacity and carry it easily. Yea, 90lbs and it was asking for more. Zippers are hearty and do not come apart. Comfort is great with more adjustments than options on a Cadillac making this pack comfortable on long hauls. The narrow profile of the pack is another comfort that allows you to safely navigate tight obstacles with out the worry of hanging up on trees or brush. If you can fit through so can the pack. In addition, that narrow profile makes the pack feel more stable and inline on your back. I never feel out of balance no matter where I pack things. Osprey Customer Service A++ I did crush the plastic bottle attachment that came with the pack. Told them what happen within the week I had a replacement no questions asked and zero, nada, nil cost to me. It been so long I don't even know if they make this model; however, if this pack echos newer models I wouldn't think twice and would purchasing an Osprey."