Lets dive into this 4 hydration pack comparison of the Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno 24 vs Coulee 20 vs Osprey Sirrus 24!

Osprey Tempest 20 Hydration Pack Review

One of the most commonly-sold women's day packs on the market is the Osprey Tempest 20. It is appropriate for a range of round-trip adventures, but especially ones in which hydration is key. Along with a 20-liter storage capacity, it features compression straps to tighten up your load, and some gear attachments to accommodate things like trekking poles and a helmet. Interestingly, the hydration compartment is actually an external pouch.

So should a leak occur, your other belongings won't get quite as drenched. However, even though the compartmentalization is intuitive, because it's placed right behind your shoulders, it can be tricky to actually access the bladder when the bag is full. And the chamber ends up being way too narrow for a larger reservoir (i.e. 3L). So just be aware of that.

Osprey Tempest 20 Specifics

The Osprey Tempest 20 only weighs about 2 pounds (depending on the specific size) and retails for $160 (USD), but…that does not include an actual hydration bladder. You'll have to buy that separately (so budget for around $200 all-in). 

Gregory Juno 24 Hydration Pack Review

The Gregory Juno 24 day pack also weighs in at just a smidge under 2 pounds. It retails for $140 (USD), and the water bladder is included. So right off the bat, this pack screams value. I carried the Gregory Juno 24 on a day trip through the mountains of Montana, with a generous 3 liters of water, plus my other day-hiking essentials, and was perfectly comfortable the whole time.

The pockets are plentiful on the Gregory Juno 24 and there are a few gear loops to help extend its 24L carrying capacity. The bladder slips in nice and easy, and also clips in to reduce the sloshiness as you move about the terrain. Something to watch out for is that you properly thread the screw-top lid that Gregory's bladder comes equipped with.

It's easy to misalign, especially if you're raring to get back on the trail, which will then lead to the always annoying leakage before you know it. But as a counterpoint, I find the nozzle's pop n' lock system to be more intuitive and leakproof when compared to the twisty-style found on some other bladders. 

Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 Day Pack Review

The next rad day-hiking/hydration pack on the docket is one that you've heard us talk about before. The Mystery Ranch Coulee 20 is a little pricier for a hydration day pack ($180 USD, without the bladder) and a pinch heavier (2.6 pounds), but as is always the case with Mystery Ranch, this bag is comfy, well-designed, and built-to-last. Unlike the Tempest and the Juno, the Coulee 20 is more of a classic day-hiking backpack that can accommodate a water bladder, rather than a hydration pack with some extra storage space for basic hiking gear.

The tri-zip flay opening is an awesome set up, making it easy to access any gear at any time. The hip belt pockets are also on point, the yoke system is constructed to handle heavier loads, and it is adjustable for different torso lengths. While the back padding is super cushy, I have personally found it to be a bit on the warmer side. This is great if you're hiking in cooler temperatures, but something to be mindful of if heading out into the desert heat. 

Osprey Sirrus 24 Hydration Pack Review

Let's bring it back full circle back Osprey – consistently one of the best-selling backpack brands. The Osprey Sirrus 24 weighs in at 2.7 pounds (i.e. the heaviest on this list) and retails for $180 USD (*not including the bladder*), but it also has that slightly larger, 24L volume (tied with the Gregory Juno 24 but the Sirrus carries more externally), and it is clearly the most backpack-like backpack out of the four. It has the same robust frame and adjustable yoke system that we've seen on some of Osprey's other trekking bags.

There are nice deep external pockets for additional goodies and compression straps to manage the extra bulk, the use of buckles all the way up the sides is useful for bringing tripods and trekking poles along for the ride, and the breathability of the back panel and shoulder straps is the clear stand out of the lot. 

Final Thoughts on Women's Hydration Day Packs

At the end of the day, it's hard to pick one best pack, but the value and performance of the Gregory Juno 24 is tough to argue against. If you're looking for a general bang-for-your-buck bag, then go with the Juno. If you're someone who is planning on doing some fast-packing/trail running/scrambling, then I think Osprey's Tempest 20 would be the way to go. If you're looking for something that can handle longer hikes then check out the Gossamer Gear Loris 25.

The post Osprey Tempest 20 vs Gregory Juno 24 vs Coulee 20 vs Osprey Sirrus 24 | Women’s Hydration Pack Comparison appeared first on Hazeadventure.

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

Women's Mystery Ranch Bridger 65

I started out my backpacking career with the Mystery Ranch Bridger 65. It's not only the pack that I'm most familiar with, but after trying an assortment of other options, it remains my favorite. Simply put; nothing has compared to Mystery Ranch in terms of how the pack fits on my body, and the comfort that comes from that. Each hiker will have their own top priorities, but for me, fit and comfort overrides weight, utility, price, and all other bells and whistles. 

One of the specific design features that I love from the Bridger 65 is the running-vest-style chest piece. The straps are nice and thick, which allows them to cover more of the chest, evenly distribute some of the weight, and eliminate any pinch points. It honestly feels like a bra. And as a bonus, there are generous pockets built in that are great for carrying bear spray, water bottles, or any small, other quick-access items. 

Other things I like about this pack are the hip belt (my favorite of the bunch), and the dual zipper, front flay opening(s) – there are two! 

Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 Notes

The Bridger 65 doesn't have the same kind of back ventilation as the other packs I'll talk about today. I've never actually noticed feeling overheated while hiking with this one, but I know Eric has commented on back sweat build up while logging miles in hotter climates. 

With a retail price of $375 USD, this is also the priciest pack out of the three – not by a large margin, but sometimes every penny counts when putting together a backcountry kit. 

And finally, at 5.5 pounds, the Bridger 65 is also the heaviest backpack that we'll be looking at today. I know some of you bean counters out there might gawk at that weight, but I would just encourage you to consider how well this pack carries heavier loads. Sure, Mystery Ranch may be able to shed a pound or so by making certain comfort concessions, but then the total perceived pack weight would be more noticeable on long days. Personally, I just like feeling at one with my bag. I don't care what the scale says. 

Gregory Deva 60

I've only just started using the Gregory Deva 60 but I'm happy to report that it is right up there with the Bridger 65 in terms of comfort and carrying capacity. I felt like I was bouncing around in the mountains, hardly aware that I had multiple days worth of gear on my back. I suppose I did notice some slight pinch points on the shoulder straps when compared to the Bridger, but I also expected that since it has a standard design, rather than that innovative running-vest approach. 

The Gregory Deva retails for $330 (USD) and weighs 4.6 pounds, although it's worth noting that it has a slightly smaller volume capacity than the women's Bridger 65 and Osprey Aura 65.

The Deva has lots of separate storage compartments. There's an external mesh pouch and two front zippered pockets outside of the main chamber (which also flays open like the Bridger). 

This might be a minor consideration for many, but I'll call it out anyway: this pack provides the best water bottle storage (followed by the Osprey Aura and then the Mystery Ranch Bridger). 

A little sizing note: based on my experience, if you're in between sizes, err towards the smaller option. You'll be able to expand the torso length from there, which is super easy with their sliding velcro system.  

Because of how well the Gregory and Bridger carry the weight and function on the trail, I would say these are better suited to advanced backpacking trips, whereas our last contender is probably the go-to option for those in search of a simpler pack (but with some caveats!). 

Osprey Aura AG 65

Remember how I said comfort is my top priority? Well unfortunately, the Osprey Aura 65 was very uncomfortable for me. I could feel it right away and the problems only grew as the day wore on. The hip belt is much too stiff and wants to pull in towards the frame of the pack. I understand what the thought process  might have been for it to automatically wrap around your body, but the real-world result just doesn't land.

The shoulder straps were also thin and a little stiff, though to spare my hips any more grief on day two I simply unbuckled the belt and shifted all the weight into my shoulders. Not an ideal set up, but it got me through – so some credit is due for the shoulder straps. Although…the cross-section of the yoke system dug into my upper back, which was probably exacerbated by this makeshift approach. 

Osprey Aura 65 Details

I recognize that Osprey is super popular and that a lot of people find them comfortable (or at least don't find them actively uncomfortable). This just wasn't the case for me, and so I want to honestly convey that message to my fellow backpackers. If you are interested in trying the Aura 65, it weighs in at 4.6 pounds (tied for the lightest with the Deva 65) and will set you back $340 USD (i.e. #2 in terms of price). 

In closing, I don't plan to continue using the Osprey Aura 65, but the Gregory Deva 60 and the Mystery Ranch Bridger 65 are pretty much interchangeable in terms of their awesomeness. Both do a great job at comfortably carrying full loads, but I'll give the Bridger 65 my ultimate stamp of approval for anyone wanting to feel extra supported and chafe-free in the chest region. 

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

The post Osprey Aura vs Gregory Deva vs Mystery Ranch Bridger appeared first on Hazeadventure.

Below is my personal review of the pack. I want to give female backpackers a better sense of what this very popular, multi-day bag is all about. 

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

About Osprey's Aura AG 65L Backpack

Weight: 4.6 LBS (2.08 KG)

Retail Price: $340 (USD)

For a basic reference, 4.6 pounds is on the higher end of normal for a backpack of this volume. Ultra-lighters will scoff at that figure, but women looking for a multi-day trekking bag that balances features, comfort, durability, and weight, will be right at home. $340 is also on the higher end of cost for a quality backpack of this volume. 

Osprey Aura 65L Pack Review: First Impressions

My first experiences with the Aura 65 left something to be desired. Right away, I noticed that the padding on the hip belt was stiff and thin (which is kind of the exact opposite of what padding is supposed to be). As a result, my first day on the trail with the pack brought bruising and chaffing to the point where I was forced to unclip and shift the bag's weight to my shoulders.

Thankfully, I wasn't carrying a full load and so I was able to manage. My shoulders felt comfortable, which I think speaks positively to their padding and design in that area. On day two, I was able to play around with the belt so that I could strike a balance between dispersing some of the load without re-aggravating the same spots. 

More Thoughts on Comfort for Osprey's Aura 65

Despite my suboptimal outing with the Aura 65 backpack, I realize that the comfort of a large trekking backpack can be rather body-specific. The way my hips are configured, and the way I wear my pack, may not translate to your world. And even though I found the hip belt stiff, this may be resolved after a reasonable break-in period. The belt seemed to want to stay close to the body of the bag. I think in time it would not only soften, but form better to my body.

Another body-specific woe that I experienced was the positioning of certain contact points that compartmentalize the back panel. Eric and I both felt that the pack was properly fitted (both in terms of general size and specific trailside finagling), and yet those touch points bothered my shoulder blades.  

Notable Design Features of the Aura 65 Backpack

Switching to some positive topics, I found the Osprey Aura 65 to be intuitively accessible and generally well-designed. I particularly liked the assortment of pockets on the back. They were great for stashing snacks, and I can see a rain jacket going perfectly in one of these spots.

I also thought the top-loader was top notch. It has a straight zipper that is easy to work back and forth (sometimes the curved zippers can be sticky), and I didn't feel like all my goodies were going to fall out if I opened it fully. 

Another combo of solid features is the fact that the bag stands up straight when you set it down, and the main compartment has side access points. This meant that getting my gear was easy. I didn't have to pull everything out of the top, or wrestle with my bag as it flopped flat on the ground. 

Unfortunately, the ease of access and high-functioning zipper principles don't translate to the bottom sleeping bag storage area. This part of the pack has a curved zipper that is not only inherently hard to use, but Eric, over the course of his years on the trail, has identified this feature as being vulnerable to failure over time. But ease and longevity aside, I also just found the compartment to have insufficient volume. I had to really work my sleeping bag to get it to fit in there. 

Includes a Rain Cover

Though we didn't need it for our desert excursion, Osprey includes a rain cover with the Aura AG 65 L backpack. That's always a nice bonus because it saves procrastinating on another purchase, and if you hike often enough, the rain will eventually find you. 

What did come into play, and was much appreciated in the desert climate, was Osprey's Airspeed back ventilation system. While no pack will completely eliminate back sweat, some do a great job of taking the edge off. The Aura 65 is an excellent example of this. Any time there was a slight cross breeze, I could feel that air circulate between my body and the bag. That was pretty cool! 

The Osprey Aura 65 Backpack is Super Easy to Fit

Even though I had issues with uncomfortable contact points, I still loved how easy it was to customize the fit of the Aura 65 backpack, and I am confident that this will create a lot of happy customers.

Most backpacks use a yoke system that has to be adjusted when it's off your body. You therefore have to do a bit of trial and error guesswork before you're good to go. But the Osprey Aura 65 can be adjusted while you're carrying it.

Playing around with the fit while on the move is what helped make the second day much smoother than the first. So expect to spend all of two minutes in the parking lot before setting off, and then know that you can make changes on the fly. 

Who is Osprey's Aura AG 65L Backpack for?

The Aura 65 is designed for a spectrum of female hikers, but more so for those in the intermediate experience level, or those seeking to embark on more rugged backcountry adventures. I wish that I felt more comfortable with this backpack, but sadly, it just didn't gel with my individual curves and posture.

So take some time in the store to make sure it feels right by you. And if you're looking to log big big miles, you may want to consider something that is either lighter, or undeniably more comfortable. 

While this particular review may sound a bit raw (but not as raw as my hips were that first day…hey oh!), I know you guys appreciate honest feedback to help inform your own purchases. I can see why some people might love the Aura 65, and therefore I definitely recommend that you do a bit more research, and spend some time playing around with it at your local outdoorsy store.

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

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Eric and I got to test out a couple of Mystery Ranch packs while trekking in Wyoming's Wind River Country, and so I thought I would share my thoughts on the women's Bridger 55. There are differences not only between the 55 and 65 options, but also intentional design nuances for the women's line.

If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Gossamer Gear Mariposa 60.

ABOUT THE WOMEN'S BRIDGER 55 BACKPACK

Price: $329 (USD)

Weight: 5.2 LBS (2.4 KG)

Volume: 54.7 L (3,340 cu-ins)

Dimensions: 28″x13″x12″ (71x33x30cm)

Is the Bridger 55 Women's Backpack Comfortable?

I loved the Bridger 55 right off the bat. Even though I had been using a 40L pack prior to this, the larger upgrade felt like a better fit and it distributed the weight a lot more effectively. I initially tried the extra-small, but switched to the small because I'm long in the torso. With the right size, even distribution, and tons of padding, I felt like this bag was hugging my body, rather than awkwardly bogging me down.

I also really appreciated how the women's design sits on the hips. Since us ladies tend to have higher and wider hips, generic bags can cause bruising (something I've dealt with plenty in the past). This didn't happen at all with the Bridger, which was such a nice change!

Is the Women's Bridger 55L stable?

Stability goes hand-in-hand with comfort, and Mystery Ranch packs regularly excel in both categories. Eric likes the Bridger 65L and the TerraFrame 65L backpacks by Mystery Ranch. Mystery Ranch does a great job with their crafty yoke system and articulating hip belts, so these packs move in unison with the body. Some other packs out there can have a sloppy lag when shifting around on the trail.

How do you adjust the Women's Bridger 55L yoke?

Mystery Ranch uses an easy-to-adjust system to fit their backs to different torso lengths. There is a plate behind the back padding that can be used to divide the velcro on either side. This allows the yoke to slide up or down to the individual's sweet spot. Once that's done, the velcro reconnects and you're all locked in.

As long as you get the right overall size, it's easy to dial in the exact fit. Historically, I've had a hard time getting backpacks to fit in a satisfying way, but with the Bridger 55, it took about 2 seconds before I was ready to rock.

Are Mystery Ranch packs durable?

You betcha. Mystery Ranch backpacks are meant to last a lifetime. They have a track-record of working alongside the military, firefighters, and hunters, and they have put that hardcore approach into their whole line. From things such as heavy-duty straps/buckles, to abrasion-resistant fabric, these packs can take a punch. Sure, the enhanced durability does add some weight, but that's an acceptable trade-off in my opinion.

Fit on the Women's Bridger 55

Because women and men generally have different dimensions (particularly in the hips, shoulders, and chest), a women's-specific backpack will have a slightly different fit/contour. For example, the Mystery Ranch Women's Bridger 55 was much more comfortable for my hips than the men's version.

Running Vest Design

I also found that the running-vest-style chest straps accommodated my, well…you know! TMI be damned, women who are in the market for a great trekking bag should know that as someone who straddles the line between a C/D cup (and wears a padded sports bra), I didn't notice the straps at all – no chaffing, no pressure points. If anything, I felt like it gave me a little more support in this area.

Removable Chest Straps

If you do have any issues, you'll have the option to adjust or even remove the buckles. But before you ditch them, make sure to fully test how the fit/feel changes. For example, I found that the lower strap helped pull the shoulder straps out of my armpit area, and into a more comfortable, centered position.

Minor Design Issues

One of the things I noticed during my first snack break was that when this pack is full, the orientation of the top pocket is not ideal. I unzipped the lid to grab a bar and everything I had in there fell out. You wouldn't notice this at first glance because it only tilts on this angle when filled to the brim.

Eric's Bridger 65L didn't do the same because he had a bit of dead space in his when we went hiking. Something that stood out to Eric about his Bridger 65 was that the bottom external straps (that are meant to stow a tent or sleeping pad) were on the short side. If Mystery Ranch could extend those by another couple of inches in the next generation, then they would accommodate a bulkier tent – especially when the bag is fully stuffed.

The same issue popped up with one of the top compression straps. Just a bit more slack would've been better.

Bridger 55 vs Bridger 65 backpacks

Aside from the extra volume, the Bridger 65 pack is designed to offer a bit more organization. For example, it has a double-zipper-flay front pocket for storage. The Bridger 55 has a mesh pocket instead. We both actually preferred the 55 design because it's so easy to access those goods. But with that said, the sealable pocket in the 65 is better for protecting your belongings from the elements.

Who is the Bridger 55 backpack for?

Both Eric and I feel right at home with our Mystery Ranch's Bridger backpacks. I'm still getting my trekking legs under me, and he's a well-weathered expert, so with the exception of ultralight backpackers, anyone should expect to have a good experience with this line. For me, the Bridger 55 carries the overall load so comfortably and evenly.

I didn't notice the strain on my shoulders until much later in the hike than usual. It's also worth noting that while this is a pricey bag, it's right in-line with premium women's backpacks from other brands.

I hope hearing the women's perspective helped round-out the on-going Mystery Ranch reviews. If you want to compare with other similar-size trekking bags, check out another backpack review, the Mariposa 60.

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