Osprey Talon 44 Backpack Review

Features:

The Talon 44 is Osprey's lightest multi-day backpack. It is designed for cragging and climbing as well as light overnight and thru-hiking trips. It features a top-loading design with zippered sleeping bag access, a floating removable top lid pocket, front and side stretch pockets, and an aluminum rail with composite side struts for excellent load control. The AirScape back panel is designed to provide airflow between your back and the pack. The mesh-covered perforated shoulder straps and hipbelt are lightweight and feature pockets. An external hydration pocket makes accessing your reservoir quick and easy. Pack also features dual ice axe loops with bungee tie-offs, sleeping pad straps on the bottom, side compression straps, tow loop, and a blinker patch.

Specifications:

Size: 27 x 10 x 8 in. (69 x 25 x 20 cm)
Volume (sz. S/M): 2,600 ci. (42 L)
Fits Torso (sz. S/M): 16-18.5 in.
Fits Waist/Hips (sz. S/M): 30 - 34 in.
Material: 70d x 100d Nylon w/160d x 330d bottom
Pockets: 4 exterior + main
Weight: 2.38 lbs (1.09 Kg)

Initial Thoughts:

After receiving the Osprey Tallon 44 pack, I immediately noticed how lightweight it is. This pack is even lighter than my daypack! Fortunately, lightweight does not equal poor quality. The Talon 44 appears extremely durable and well-made. All stitching and seams are clean and secure. The components (zippers, pulls, cord locks, buckles, etc.) feel strong and functional.

I was easily able to load all my mountaineering gear into this pack with room to spare. With a 25-pound load, the Talon 44 pack is very comfortable and well balanced. The side stretch pockets easily accommodate my tall one-liter water bottles. My three liter hydration bladder fits great in the external hydration pocket. The large exterior stretch pocket on the front works well to hold my aluminum shovel, but it would also easily secure my climbing helmet. The interior is affords enough space for my climbing and weekend backpacking trips.

In The Field:

I have been able to use the Talon 44 pack several times on various day-long mountaineering trips. This pack is well-suited to my usual load of approximately 25 to 30 pounds. I have found it to be comfortable while wearing bulky winter clothing or light spring layers. There are ample adjustment and compression straps, making packing very efficient. My favorite feature, beyond the pack's lightweight silouette, are the numerous strategically placed pockets. I especially appreciate the pockets on the hipbelt and shoulder straps. I store snacks here for easy access while hiking or climbing.

Durability has been great so far. The lightweight material used on the Osprey Talon 44 has taken the abuse of bushwhacking, ice/snow, and carrying sharp climbing gear (crampons, ice axes, etc.). Beyond a few dirt stains, it still appears new. There are no signs of stress on any of the straps or buckles and the zippers function flawlessly.

Another nice feature on this Osprey pack is the zipper pulls. One can easily slip a finger into them with or without gloves on. The ice axe loops function perfectly and I even discovered that the loop formed from the excess strap on either of the shoulder straps can temporarily store an ice tool. Large, bulky loads are no problem with the adjustable lid and numerous tie down points. The adjustable loops at the bottom of the pack can easily accomodate a tent or sleeping pad.

See Eureka Peak, Mount Hood, and Mount Mitchell adventures where the Osprey Talon 44 Backpack was used.

Final Thoughts:

I have been very happy with my Osprey Talon 44 backpack and would highly recommend it. I look forward to using it on all my trips due to its ample space and ultralight weight. Available from amazon.com.