When it comes to day hikes, fastpacking trips, and lightweight overnight adventures, few backpacks have achieved the cult following of the Osprey Talon 33. Known for its exceptional comfort, clever storage options, and durable build, this pack has become a go-to choice for hikers, bikepackers, and even minimalist travellers.
In this in-depth review, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Osprey Talon 33 — from its design and comfort to its features, performance, and real-world use cases — so you can decide if it’s the right pack for you.
Quick Overview
- Capacity: 33 litres
- Weight: ~0.94 kg (Medium/Large)
- Intended Use: Day hikes, ultralight overnights, multi-sport adventures
- Price Range: Mid-range for a premium hiking pack
- Best For: Hikers who value comfort, versatility, and a streamlined fit
Design and Build Quality
The Osprey Talon 33 strikes a perfect balance between minimalism and functionality. At first glance, it looks sleek and streamlined — no unnecessary bulk, no dangling straps — but up close, you’ll notice that it’s packed with clever design features.
Materials
Made from 100D x 210D Bluesign® Recycled Robic Nylon, this pack is both durable and eco-friendly. The fabric feels tough enough to handle brush, rocks, and the occasional scrape without adding unnecessary weight. The DWR (durable water-repellent) coating provides some resistance to light rain, although a rain cover is recommended for prolonged wet conditions.
Frame and Structure
The Talon 33 uses Osprey’s AirScape™ back panel — a moulded foam panel with ridges and a mesh overlay. This design creates channels for airflow, helping to keep your back cool during intense climbs or hot summer hikes. A lightweight aluminium frame sheet adds structure, helping to transfer weight effectively to your hips.
Fit and Comfort
Comfort is where Osprey has truly nailed the design. The Talon 33 is available in Men’s/Unisex (Talon) and Women’s (Tempest) versions, ensuring a better fit for different body shapes.
Harness and Hip Belt
- Shoulder Straps: Soft, lightly padded, and highly breathable thanks to a mesh overlay.
- Hip Belt: Padded and flexible, wrapping snugly around your waist to keep the load stable.
- Adjustability: The torso length can be adjusted via a simple Velcro panel inside the back panel. This makes it much easier to dial in a perfect fit compared to fixed-size packs.
The hip belt pockets are a bonus — they’re large enough for snacks, a GPS device, or your phone, and they remain accessible on the move.
Storage and Organisation
With 33 litres of capacity, the Talon is roomy enough for long day hikes and minimalist overnight trips, but not so big that it becomes cumbersome.
Here’s a breakdown of the storage layout:
Main Compartment
The large top-loading compartment is accessed via a drawstring closure under a floating lid. It’s simple, efficient, and easy to pack. The floating lid is adjustable, meaning you can expand the main compartment slightly for bulkier loads.
Lid Pockets
The top lid contains two zippered pockets:
- A larger one for items like maps, gloves, or headlamps.
- A smaller, easy-access one for essentials such as sunglasses or a snack bar.
Front Stretch Pocket
A generously sized mesh pocket on the front is perfect for stashing a rain jacket, wet gear, or anything you want quick access to without opening the main pack.
Side Pockets
Dual stretch mesh side pockets hold water bottles or tent poles. They’re angled for easy on-the-go access, so you don’t have to stop walking to hydrate.
Hip Belt Pockets
Two zippered hip belt pockets are ideal for small essentials — energy gels, a multi-tool, or even your smartphone.
Hydration Compatibility
The Talon 33 has an external hydration bladder sleeve between the back panel and the main compartment. This design keeps your water weight close to your back, improving stability.
Performance on the Trail
We’ve tested the Osprey Talon 33 across a variety of terrains — from rocky ridge lines to forest trails — and here’s how it performed in key areas:
Weight Distribution
The aluminium frame and well-designed hip belt work together to keep most of the load on your hips rather than your shoulders. Even on steep climbs, the pack feels stable and balanced.
Breathability
The AirScape back panel lives up to its promise — airflow channels reduce that dreaded sweaty-back feeling, especially when combined with breathable shoulder straps.
Load Capacity
While it’s rated for 33 litres, you can comfortably push it a bit further if needed. That said, it’s not meant for carrying heavy loads above ~10-12 kg. Overpacking will compromise comfort.
Multi-Sport Versatility
The Talon isn’t just for hiking. It’s also a great choice for:
- Bikepacking: Compact profile, secure fit, and helmet attachment point.
- Trail Running / Fastpacking: Lightweight with minimal bounce when adjusted correctly.
- Climbing: Gear loops and secure compression straps for attaching equipment.
Special Features Worth Mentioning
- Stow-on-the-Go™ Trekking Pole Attachment — lets you quickly stow trekking poles without removing the pack.
- Ice Axe Loops — for mountaineering or winter hiking.
- LidLock™ Helmet Attachment — useful for cyclists or climbers.
- Adjustable Torso Length — allows you to fine-tune the fit for maximum comfort.
Durability
After extended use, the Talon 33 shows minimal signs of wear. The reinforced bottom and robust stitching hold up well under demanding conditions. The stretch mesh pockets can snag if dragged against sharp rock, but this is common with lightweight mesh.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Lightweight yet durable
- Excellent fit and adjustability
- Well-ventilated back panel
- Versatile for multiple activities
- Plenty of pockets for organisation
Cons
- Not fully waterproof (rain cover recommended)
- Mesh side pockets can snag
- Limited for heavy loads
Who Should Buy the Osprey Talon 33?
The Osprey Talon 33 is ideal for:
- Hikers wanting a lightweight but supportive day pack
- Minimalist overnight adventurers
- Multi-sport enthusiasts (hiking, biking, climbing)
- Travellers seeking a comfortable carry-on option
If you’re carrying more than 12 kg regularly, you might want a larger pack with a more robust suspension system. But for most outdoor adventures, the Talon 33 hits the sweet spot between size, comfort, and weight.
Value for Money
At its price point, the Talon 33 is a solid investment. You’re paying for Osprey’s renowned build quality, comfort, and thoughtful design. The pack will easily last years with proper care, making it great value for frequent adventurers.
Final Verdict – Is the Osprey Talon 33 Worth It?
In short: Yes.
The Osprey Talon 33 is one of the best lightweight hiking packs on the market today. It’s comfortable, versatile, and durable enough to handle a wide range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re hiking in the Lake District, fastpacking in the Alps, or cycling through backcountry roads, the Talon 33 will carry your essentials without weighing you down.
If you’re looking for a do-it-all pack for day hikes and light overnights, the Osprey Talon 33 is hard to beat.
