Osprey
Exos 48
Best ultralight pack for long-distance hikers prioritizing ventilation and weight savings.
The Osprey Exos 48 is an ultralight backpack designed for multiday adventures and thru-hiking, expertly balancing weight savings with essential comfort. Its advanced AirSpeed® suspension system ensures maximum airflow, keeping you cool on demanding treks. Crafted from durable, 100% recycled materials, this pack aligns with your adventurous spirit and commitment to sustainability. The versatile design features a removable floating lid that transforms into a streamlined FlapJacket cover, adapting to your packing needs for minimalist loads.
$265.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.6
/ 5
Category Rank
1886
/ 13466
#1886 in Backpacks
Price vs Category Average
+149%
Above average
Capacity
4851
/ L (S/M) or L (L/XL)
Who it's for
- Thru-hikers prioritizing speed and reduced physical fatigue
- Warm-weather backpackers needing maximum back ventilation
- Ultralight enthusiasts carrying moderate, well-planned gear loads
Who should skip it
- Bushwhackers navigating dense, abrasive, or rugged terrain
- Backpackers carrying heavy, traditional, or bulky gear
- Hikers requiring secure, spacious storage for electronics or snacks
Performance breakdown
Ventilation Efficiency
AirSpeed suspension creates a significant gap for maximum airflow on climbs.
Weight-to-Capacity Ratio
Ultralight construction provides ample volume without adding unnecessary bulk.
Load Carrying Comfort
ExoForm harness excels with lighter loads but struggles near maximum capacity.
Versatility
Removable lid and FlapJacket cover adapt perfectly to changing gear needs.
Durability
Recycled nylon ripstop balances weight savings with reasonable trail toughness.
Accessibility
Top-load design is secure but requires unpacking to reach deep items.
Key Specs
Capacity
48 L (S/M) or 51 L (L/XL)
Weight (L/XL)
2.853 LBS.
Load Range
25 - 30 lbs.
Suspension
ULTRALIGHT AirSpeed® with 4 mm LightWire frame
Torso Adjustability
4 inches via ladder system
Fabric
bluesign® approved recycled 100D nylon ripstop
Harness
EXOFORM Harness with adjustable sternum strap
Hipbelt
EXOFORM Hipbelt with ErgoPull closure
Features
- Industry-leading comfort and ventilation
- Removable lid converts to FlapJacket cover
- Dual zippered hipbelt pockets for essentials
- Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
- Internal hydration sleeve with hose port
- Dual ice axe loops for specialized gear
- ExoForm harness and hipbelt for cushioning
- Stretch mesh side pockets for water bottles
What customers say
The Exos 48 is celebrated for its exceptional comfort and remarkably light weight, making extended journeys feel effortless. Its innovative ventilated back panel effectively prevents sweat buildup, a feature frequently praised by users. The pack's intelligent design and superior carrying experience position it as a top pick for both dedicated thru hikers and weekend adventurers. While some users have noted potential long term durability concerns with the exterior mesh pockets, the overall sentiment highlights outstanding performance and comfort for its capacity and weight class, offering excellent value.
Know before you buy
The Exos 48 is designed to carry a load range of 25 to 30 pounds. Because it is an ultralight pack, it performs best when you keep your total gear weight within this range to maintain comfort and stability.
Yes, the pack features a ladder system that allows for 4 inches of torso adjustability. This ensures you can dial in the fit to match your specific back length for better weight distribution.
The floating lid can be completely detached to save weight or accommodate smaller loads. Once removed, a built-in FlapJacket cover deploys to protect the main compartment opening and keep your gear secure.
Yes, the Exos 48 includes an internal hydration sleeve along with a dedicated hose port, allowing you to easily route your reservoir tube for convenient access while hiking.
The AirSpeed suspension uses a tensioned mesh back panel that creates a gap between your back and the pack body. This design allows for significant airflow, which is highly effective at reducing sweat buildup during warm-weather treks.
Yes, the pack is equipped with dual ice axe loops for specialized gear and Osprey’s signature Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment, which lets you stash your poles without taking the pack off.
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