For 2016, Colorado packmeisters Osprey continue to evolve their well-regarded line of hydration packs with redesigns of the Raptor/Raven and Viper/Verve series.
Going even faster and lighter than their predecessors, the women’s Verve and men’s Viper series add 3L pack options while the ladies’ Verve 13 is trimmed from the line. Given their short ride remit, the packs get a smaller 2.5L reservoir, which has the added benefit of reducing the bags’ footprint. Osprey’s tidy full-zip In-strap cable routing has also been added- but it’s right-only, so left-hosers will want to grab a ’15 before they’re gone.
More in the ‘ready for anything’ vein, the updated Raptor and Raven models should be an organisers’ delight, coming as they do with dedicated tool rolls and extensive internal pocketry. Osprey’s Lid Lock helmet holder has been updated for the first time, with a revised shape and dual-compound construction that will make for more secure portage.
From the looks of things, Osprey has taken on rider feedback to continue their packs’ evolution in a way that won’t upset existing customers. As always, the entire line is guaranteed for life- any longer might be excessive.