200+ miles with the ultralight pack that proves you don't have to sacrifice comfort for weight savings.
The Osprey Exos 58 has been a Reddit darling for years, and the latest version addresses previous complaints while keeping what made it great. It's become the default recommendation for hikers looking to go lighter without committing to frameless ultralight packs. The combination of sub-3-pound weight, Osprey's legendary comfort, and a reasonable price point makes it hard to beat.
The Osprey Exos 58 is the pack I recommend most often, and after 200+ miles, I stand by that. It's light enough to satisfy weight-conscious hikers (2 lb 10 oz in medium), comfortable enough to carry 25+ pound loads without destroying your back, and durable enough to handle real trail abuse.
The suspended mesh back panel is the star of the show—it creates airflow that keeps your back noticeably cooler than panel-loading packs. The hipbelt and shoulder straps are surprisingly comfortable for a pack this light. And unlike many ultralight options, you don't feel like you're wearing a garbage bag.
Osprey's AirSpeed suspension system is the reason this pack exists. The tensioned mesh back panel sits about 3 inches off your back, creating a chimney effect that vents heat and moisture. On our August testing in Virginia heat, this made a noticeable difference—my back was damp but not soaked like with previous packs.
The hipbelt is well-padded but not overly thick. It transfers weight effectively and stays put without constant adjustment. After 15+ mile days, I experienced zero hot spots or chafing.
Shoulder straps are similarly excellent—they're contoured well and breathable. Load lifters work smoothly and actually do their job of pulling weight off your shoulders.
Osprey's fit guarantee is legendary, and the Exos comes in multiple sizes. Getting the right size matters—take the time to get properly fitted.
The Exos is intentionally streamlined, which means fewer pockets than a traditional pack. Here's what you get:
What you don't get: sleeping bag compartment, internal hydration sleeve (it's external), or tons of attachment points. This is intentional—the pack is designed for hikers who've pared down their systems.
After 200+ miles including some rough scrambling sections, our test pack shows expected wear but no failures. The 100D nylon bottom is holding up well. The mesh back panel has some minor abrasion marks but no tears. Zippers all function smoothly.
The fabric is lighter than traditional packs (100D main body, 210D bottom), so it's not as bombproof as a Gregory or Osprey's own Atmos. But for reasonable trail use, it's plenty durable. We wouldn't use it for bushwhacking or throwing into airline cargo holds without protection.
At 2 lb 10 oz for a medium, the Exos 58 sits in the sweet spot between ultralight and traditional. For comparison:
You can shave 4-6 oz by removing the lid and using a stuff sack, but we found the lid useful enough to keep.
The Osprey Exos 58 is the pack we recommend most often for a reason. It proves you can go light without suffering—the comfort and ventilation are exceptional, the build quality is solid, and Osprey's warranty means you're covered for life. If your typical load is under 30 pounds, this should be on your shortlist.
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