Review: Osprey Talon Pro 30 daypack
A pack punching above its weight
Osprey’s Talon day packs have long been one of the leaders in their category, and this year sees the addition of the Talon Pro.
At just over a kilogram, the 30 (28 litres in the S/M) is a good size for day trips and still just about big enough for an ultralight overnighter. The usual faux-scientific nomenclature (integrated BioStretch harness with AirScape back panel, Nanofly fabric) translates to a very comfortable carry and a light, yet abrasion resistant shell.
In testing, a 7kg load didn’t trouble me at all. The back panel, incorporating external hydration sleeve, moulded well to my shape, and my drinking water stayed surprisingly cold for hours on a glorious sunny day.
The straps adjusted well and the fit was easy to fine-tune, but the pocket selection seems excessive: external lid, internal mesh, twin hip belt, twin stretch mesh side and stretch mesh front! Less useful are the two odd-shaped shoulder strap pockets, which aren’t even big enough for a phone. Maybe a sunscreen or lippy.
The Talon Pro has a bucket-style opening using a water-resistant zip (no pack cover is included).
I’ve so far only encountered light drizzle while using the pack so I can’t fairly report on the effectiveness of its weather-proofing, but in general I prefer a lid closure; while heavier, it’s easier to use and safer, rain-wise.
All-in-all this is a well-designed pack, as you’d expect from a carry-specific company with 40 years’ experience.
Osprey Talon Pro 30 (Ladies’ model – Tempest Pro 28). More info click here.
Review_Dan Slater
