Osprey Levity 45 Litre Rucksack

The Osprey Levity packs are fully framed pack with a vented back panel and traditional 'lid with pocket' arrangement, yet come in well below the kg mark in terms of overall weight. Ample pockets and other features will also appeal to backpackers.

Osprey says:

By combining supremely advanced fabrics and leading design techniques, Levity represents the pinnacle of performance in ultra-lightweight packs. Comfortable, supportive, ventilated and durable, these packs are built for the adventures where every gram counts.

Levity 45 is designed with purely the essential features, in order to minimise weight and maximise performance. A large main pocket with top drawcord access is covered by a fixed lid, which features a spacious zippered pocket. A front pocket provides space to store and easily access spare clothing, while two side pockets will comfortably accommodate water bottles. Loops on the top, front and base can be used for lashing excess items to if needed.

Levity features a fully ventilated Ultralight AirSpeed™ suspended mesh backpanel, keeping you cool and comfortable on the trail. The ExoForm™ hipbelt and harness provide excellent padding and highly effective load-transfer into the body’s strongest muscles.

Advanced NanoFly™ material are used on the exterior of the pack in order to provide impressive durability and abrasion resistance. Non-exposed surfaces are built from 30D Siliconised Nylon, which provides an excellent weight-strength ratio. Levity 45 is compatible with all Hydraulics reservoirs and size Medium Ultralight Raincovers.

If you’re looking for ultra-lightweight performance without the usual compromise, look no further than Osprey’s Levity.

Osprey's Levity packs have a remarkable set of features for backpacking rucksacks this light, especially when you consider just how much the 60 litre version weighs. Major features that are lost on other lightweight packs such as a proper lid with pocket and a vented back system are both part of the Levity feature set - arguably a 'proper' lid makes the pack more suited to UK conditions as there's less chance of water getting into the pack - however we just like the large top pocket which is useful in keeping you organised.

Other key features for a backpacking rucksack are the large external stretch mesh pockets which allow you to be flexible about how you carry gear which could be wet or needed on the move. The side pockets have an easy access opening so that you can get at your gear while wearing it - and it does work, although you need to be careful you don't pull out more than you intended.

I miss the fact that there are no pockets on the hipbelt however the side pockets make up for this to some extent and you can attach pocket options to various points. The Levity's do have an internal frame which helps transfer the load to the meagre hip fins.

The Levity packs will be just what you're looking for if you really like a vented back and need the traditional style top lid and pocket arrangement.

- Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

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