Talon 22 Mens Hiking Backpack, Eclipse Grey, Large/X-Large

I like the pack and its fairly comfortable. The hydration compartment is severely lacking however: its very narrow and the shoulder straps get in the way of loading it. My Aquamira bladder worked, but it was a huge challenge to get it in, and theres a flimsy sheet of plastic on the top of the pack that crumples under the weight of any water bladder other than Ospreys (which has a sheet of firm plastic in the bladder itself). Ospreys bladder is also narrower than any other bladder on the market, meaning you basically have to buy theirs to make it work correctly with this pack.

Did a 4.5 mile hike near Palmer Lake, Colorado. The pack was very comfortable for the 2 or so hours I was walking. Stays close to the back and I sweat less than my other pack. The waist belt took some pressure off my back which I needed. And the pole holder works very well once you learn how to do it.

Loved this backpack through vacation, hiking, and adventures.

Very good build quality but central zip opens so wide, so it is impossible to access while back pad weared. E.g. my wife or son can’t put/pick anything from the main compartment when backpack is on me, without having everything inside fell to the ground.

I have 3 other Osprey packs of varying sizes. An Osprey Manta 34, an Escapist 32, and a Farpoint 40 for travel. They all have their strengths. Ive been using the Escapist 32 as a daypack and it serves that purpose well but its more of a day to day use backpack. Good for bike commuting but doesnt have the structure to distribute a load for a longer day hike.

I think that the first thing that I noticed was that the waist straps sit on my hips which takes that much more weight off of the hips. Pole holding straps work well. Cooling mesh is comfortable (Ive only hike with it in cool conditions, so dont know how well it cools in hot weather.)

Really impressed. Carry’s load really well. Comfortable. Well made.

The Talon 22 is well made, comfortable, and versatile. Ive hiked with it a few times already, and it has become my all-time favorite backpack overall. However, it is lacking in one area -- there are very few zipper pockets inside the main compartment. If like myself, you prefer to keep things organized inside your backpack, perhaps carry a smaller bag with zippers inside the main compartment.

My husband, son, and I have other Osprey packs, some of which weve had for many years, so Osprey is a brand we know, trust, and love. Osprey has an awesome guarantee, their All Mighty Guarantee, and their packs are thoughtfully designed and well made. Although written by me, the following is from the perspective of my husband and son.

Size is perfect for my needs (Day hiking). It’s well constructed and so far I’m very happy with it.