A Daypack That Punches Above Its Weight
The Osprey Stratos 26 (men’s) and Sirrus 26 (women’s) are premium daypacks designed for hikers who want comfort, ventilation, and all-day support. With a fully adjustable harness, Osprey’s signature AirSpeed™ back panel, and a feature set that rivals larger packs, the Stratos/Sirrus 26 has become a go-to choice for serious walkers and weekend adventurers alike.
In fact, it won Gear of the Year 2024 from Live for the Outdoors—and for good reason. We tested the Stratos/Sirrus 26 across UK hillwalks, ridge scrambles, and long day hikes to see how it performs in real-world conditions.
Key Specifications
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Capacity | 26 litres |
| Weight | ~1.4 kg (M/L) |
| Back System | AirSpeed™ suspended mesh |
| Fit System | Adjustable torso length (5-point) |
| Access | Top lid + lower zipped compartment |
| Hydration | Internal sleeve + hose ports |
| Rain Cover | Included (stowed in base pocket) |
| Materials | 100% recycled nylon |
| Price | £160 RRP (often available for less) |
Fit and Comfort
One of the standout features of the Stratos/Sirrus 26 is its gender-specific fit. Osprey was one of the first brands to design packs specifically for male and female anatomies, and it shows.
Stratos (Men’s)
- Longer torso length
- Straighter shoulder straps
- Wider hipbelt
Sirrus (Women’s)
- Shorter torso
- Contoured shoulder straps
- Shaped hipbelt for curved hips
Both models feature a 5-point adjustable back system, allowing you to dial in the perfect fit. The AirSpeed™ trampoline mesh back panel keeps the pack off your back, improving airflow and reducing sweat buildup—especially noticeable on warm, humid days.
The hipbelt and shoulder straps are plush and supportive, distributing weight evenly and preventing pressure points. Even with a full load (10–12kg), the pack remains stable and comfortable over long distances.
Storage and Organisation
Despite its compact size, the Stratos/Sirrus 26 is impressively well-organised.
Main Storage Features:
- Top-loading main compartment with floating lid
- Zipped lower compartment with internal divider (great for wet gear or a sleeping bag)
- Front shove-it pocket made from abrasion-resistant fabric
- Two zipped hipbelt pockets for snacks, compass, or phone
- Two stretch mesh side pockets for bottles or poles
- Internal hydration sleeve with hose ports on both sides
The floating lid can be raised or compressed depending on your load, and the lower compartment is ideal for separating wet gear or stashing a compact sleeping bag for overnight bivvies.
Ventilation and Back System
The AirSpeed™ back panel is one of the best in the business. It uses a tensioned mesh panel that creates a gap between your back and the pack, allowing air to circulate freely.
Compared to foam back panels, this system:
- Reduces sweat buildup
- Improves comfort on hot days
- Keeps the pack stable without hugging your spine
It’s especially effective on steep ascents, where airflow can make a noticeable difference in comfort.
Build Quality and Materials
The Stratos/Sirrus 26 is made from 100% recycled nylon, with a durable honeycomb weave that resists abrasion. The zippers are smooth and glove-friendly, and the buckles are robust without being bulky.
The included rain cover is stowed in a dedicated base pocket and fits snugly over the pack. While the pack isn’t fully waterproof, it handled several hours of rain without leaking—especially when the rain cover was deployed.
After months of use, the pack shows minimal signs of wear. The mesh back panel and hipbelt remain taut and supportive, and the fabric resists scuffs and dirt well.
On the Trail: Real-World Performance
We tested the Stratos/Sirrus 26 on:
- Ridge walks in Snowdonia
- Day hikes in the Lake District
- Woodland trails and canal towpaths
What We Loved:
- Superb ventilation on hot days
- Stable carry, even with 10kg+ loads
- Quick-access pockets for snacks and layers
- Rain cover and hydration sleeve included
- Gender-specific fit that actually works
What Could Be Better:
- Side pockets are deep, making it hard to reach bottles while wearing the pack
- Not the lightest in its class (~1.4kg)
- Top lid access only—no front zip to main compartment
Despite these minor drawbacks, the pack consistently impressed with its comfort, stability, and thoughtful design.
Comparison: Stratos/Sirrus 26 vs Talon/Tempest 26
| Feature | Stratos/Sirrus 26 | Talon/Tempest 26 |
|---|---|---|
| Weight | ~1.4 kg | ~900g |
| Back Panel | AirSpeed mesh | AirScape foam |
| Access | Top lid + lower zip | Top zip only |
| Rain Cover | Included | Not included |
| Best For | Comfort + ventilation | Lightweight + fastpacking |
The Talon/Tempest is lighter and more minimalist, but the Stratos/Sirrus wins on comfort, ventilation, and load stability—especially for longer or more rugged hikes.
Sustainability and Warranty
Osprey has made significant strides in sustainability. The Stratos/Sirrus 26 is made from bluesign®-approved, recycled materials, and the company offers a lifetime repair guarantee through its All Mighty Guarantee program.
This means your pack can be repaired (often for free) if it’s damaged through normal use—extending its lifespan and reducing waste.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Excellent fit for men and women
- AirSpeed™ back panel offers top-tier ventilation
- Durable, recycled materials
- Thoughtful organisation and hydration compatibility
- Rain cover included
- Lifetime repair guarantee
Cons:
- Heavier than minimalist daypacks
- Side pockets are hard to access while wearing
- No front zip access to main compartment
Final Verdict: Is the Osprey Stratos/Sirrus 26 Worth It?
The Osprey Stratos/Sirrus 26 is one of the best all-round daypacks available in 2025. It combines comfort, ventilation, and smart design in a durable, sustainably made package.
While it’s not the lightest option, it’s arguably the most comfortable—especially for longer hikes or warmer weather. If you’re looking for a reliable, feature-rich daypack that can handle everything from hillwalking to light overnight trips, the Stratos/Sirrus 26 is a top-tier choice.
Rating: 9.3/10 Best for: Hillwalkers, day hikers, and all-day adventures Avoid if: You’re ultralight-focused or need front access to the main compartment
