Kit Review – Osprey Hikelite 26L Backpack

I was supplied with the Hikelite backpack from Osprey, via their friendly in-house PR and SEO guys (thanks Lucy).

Hikelite has an ‘Airspeed trampoline’ suspended mesh backsystem, the idea being that it keeps you maybe cooler than usual when out on a day hike.

Well, this was the summer to test that out!

Osprey Hikelite Backack review
The hikelite packed with my DSLR, a couple of lenses, water for the day and some scooby snacks. The straps stay comfortable even with a fair bit of weight in the pack. I should have worn a different colour tshirt, I know 😉

I went for the 26 litre rather than the 18, but both have the same features (pretty much all you need for a day in the hills):

  • AirspeedTM suspended mesh ‘ventilated trampoline’ backsystem
  • Integrated & detachable raincover
  • Stretch mesh side pockets and side compression straps
  • Internal hydration sleeve
  • Removable webbing hipbelt
  • Zippered panel access
  • Trekking pole attachment
  • The empty backpack comes in at 0.73Kg

So, what is it like to wear? In a word, really comfortable. Okay, that’s two words.

Osprey Hikelite Backack review
The Hikelite out with me on the hills above Marsden.

And I can attest – in the hot weather we have had all summer – to the Airspeed back being great for ventilation. It really does make a difference when you are feeling hot and sweaty on top of the moors!

I went for the (shitake) grey and yellow design but the Hikelite comes in five other colour-ways. I seem to gravitate to greys and yellows, an older backpack i picked up in the states a few years ago is the same colour combo. As is a larger multi-day pack I have.

The Hikelite is a comfortable backpack for a day out with some weight in it (DSLR camera, water bladder and food), with nice and wide shoulder straps.

And whilst this summer didn’t mean constant rain for once, having the integrated raincover is another plus for the backpack. Recommended.

 

3 thoughts on “Kit Review – Osprey Hikelite 26L Backpack”

    • Hi Jane, on the website for £80. But I noticed it is less on Amazon and looks like the seller is still Osprey (assuming an official account etc).

      It’s definitely a grey – but I know what you mean in one of the photos, may have been the camera dealing with the sunshine / exposure 🙂

      Reply

Leave a comment

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.