OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

I use this pack for long runs/hikes, 20-40mi, and I needed the high capacity of it to have sufficient fluids. Unfortunately after about 100mi the bite valve started leaking and then I bit through the bite valve cover and it sprays water everywhere on each stride. A replacement part does not seem to be available even from the manufacturer. In addition the sternum strap slips while running and I constantly have to tighten it.

Besides these things, it is a nice pack but I'd like to see these flaws corrected before even thinking of buying another.

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

Even though Osprey says this is tailored for mountain biking - I bought it for using as a pack to commute to work. I carry my work clothes, a notebook, some papers etc. in it.

I don't need the hydration so I simply took it out. I use that compartment to store my notebook. The other compartment holds my clothes. There is not much room in here which is great because I can hold everything tightly in place.

The good folks at EMS recommended a Salomon XA 25 WP or a Osprey Talon 22 to me. Both great packs but much too big. For a day's commute my stuff just got tossed in the Salomon, my clothes ended up looking like they were straight out of a dryer. I prefer the Raptor much more over either of the bags. It is stable on my back, and the bounce is minimal. I run 5 miles each way it works just fine for that.

I guess I paid extra for the hydration system which I didn't really need, and I guess I am carrying 5-6 ounces of extra weight for that firm lining they have for hydration. Small price for an excellent pack.

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

When I go mountain biking I use this. It holds a lot of water so you can stay biking longer. I love everything about this pack.

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

I have owned Camelback's, Military Hydration Packs, Ultimate's and others as well. The OSPREY Raptor 14 is by far, hands down the best one yet. It is mega-comfortable with great air circulation, as the back of the pack has this nifty mesh that elevates the pack off your back, leading to a much cooler and dryer torso. I work as an Estate Manager and most days are spent outside. This bad boy is on my back all day long and I hardly know it's there. It has multiple adjustment points, making it fit perfectly. Another great feature is the built-in handle on the water bladder reservoir. This makes filling much easier than the typical bladder design of other competitors. Multiple pockets and hang points are great for extra gear, food, an MP3 player, cell phone, clothing, etc. The magnetic clip for the hose and bite valve is a stroke of genius. It is so easy to unclip and re-attach. It is very well constructed and has withstood crawling under shrubs, through thickets, rose bushes and tightly spaced trees. Even when it gets hooked on something, it comes through unscathed. You'll pay more for this one, but it is WELL worth the extra coin.

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

Great pack, fits well, lots of room and storage pockets, streamlined and stays snug even running full tilt downhill. No sloshing water noise so far - Osprey has all the tricks figured out. I'm 5'11" about 165 female and had to exchange the M/L for a S/M to make it fit my torso better. THe hip pouches for gu/snacks are a little far behind my hips to reach while moving, but not a big deal. I wore it with a racer back tank and got some nasty raspberries on my shoulder blades as the mesh fabric is less than soft - I imagine it will wear down after use. Otherwise I'm very impressed and pleased!

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

Great pack so far, have been commuting to work with it just to hold some bike tools and a few other essentials. I took it to lollapalooza this year and was a great all day pack, held all my concert gear and of course water for the day. Comfortable, light, and fits everything you need for a day trip.

Comments about OSPREY Raptor 14 Hydration Pack:

I had been looking for a small pack with a good hydration system to use when biking, hiking and running, particularly when I need enough space to carry some food and/or a few layers. This pack has been excellent andf I think that the good folks at Osprey have worked their magic again to design a very functional pack at a good price point. I also have a larger Osprey Atmos pack and have been very pleased with it.