Kestrel 48 also took place in my top Osprey hiking backpacks post. Besides its performance, I also like its Picholine Green color which is available with its most recent 2019 version. Loved by many including me.
As some of you already know, I've been publishing posts around Osprey backpacks for the last 2.5 years now (find full post list at the bottom).
Osprey Kestrel 48 is a lightweight, rain cover integrated men's backpack with two size options.
Distinctive side zipper that opens to main compartment makes accessing the items in the middle very easy.
Harness is fully adjustable to correspond different heights with decent padding and stiffness.
I'll get to its bolts and nuts, but let me give you a brief summary first.
In short, Kestrel 48 would be a great match for weekend hiking & camping trips, although I'd also consider getting Stratos 50 [read my review].
I explained my thoughts about Stratos 50 vs Kestrel 48 as well, but Kestrel 48 is also always a solid choice, and they're much more alike than they're different.
- #A sidenote here: REI's backpack capacity chart is GOLD. Highly recommend you to check it out before you read any further.
Attention! Kestrel 48 is updated in 2019!
So now, we have 3 Kestrel 48 packs in the market:
And the differences between Kestrel 48's 2016 and 2019 models?
I contacted Osprey Customer Service myself to get the answer, and here's what they told me:
- Front pouch now uses nylon at the front instead of mesh, so it's more adjustable and easily stretched
- Mesh water bottle holders at each side now allow horizontal installment too - this is a great update, since it was the main downside of the previous version as you weren't able to use these pockets while wearing the pack
- Comfort is increased by using more padding inside shoulder straps and hip belt. This is a major update for everyone - but especially for folks with bonier hips
- Updated model offers more ventilation since the channels across back panel are updated
- Larger hip belt pockets! Now you can stuff even the largest of smartphones inside
- Superior external gear attachment capability since the lash tabs at the top now are expanded further so it can bear more stuff
- More sturdy buckles
- Design and colors are changed, and the famous Jungle green isn't available anymore! Instead, now they offer them in Picholine Green (which I think looks very pretty) in addition to other 3 colors.
- Weight and dimensions. 2019 model is around 0.1 lbs lighter (not really noticeable). Also, Kestrel is now taller with less depth and width (as you can see in the picture at the top when comparing the different models). Pack volume is the same though.
Now question here is, does it really worth going for the updated 2019 model?
Short answer: Yes, to me it does.
Now the slightly longer answer is that to me, these 3 updates do make a noticeable difference: (1) more padding in hip belt pockets AND shoulder straps - and hence more comfort, (2) more ventilation (I HATE sweating) and (3) side mesh water bottle holders are accessible on the go from sides.
I don't care a lot about the lash tabs, buckles and front pocket - they already worked fine in the 2016 version to me.
In short, to me, it does worth going for the 2019 model, so that's the one I'd recommend!
- Breathable AirScape ridged foam backpanel with...
- External reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L...
- Integrated removable raincover
- Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating...
- Side panel zip provides quick access to main...
 | |
Overall Score | |
Pros | Very comfortable as it fits perfectly because of adjustable harness, generous padding, thick straps and hip belt and two size options, Lightweight, Internal compression strap, Zippered side pocket, Side access to main compartment, Integrated raincover |
Cons | Inadequate for 4+ days of outdoor activities |
Best for | Those who have no problems checking their pack in while travelling and planning to use the pack during a fair amount of multiday outdoor activities |
Osprey Kestrel 48 | |
Comfort Versatility Organization Weight | |
Compartments | Main compartment and sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider |
Access | Top, side |
Pockets | 5 zippered 3 unenclosed pockets |
Compression Straps | 4 at sides (that can be leveraged for front compression as well), 1 internal and top entrance |
PRODUCT SPECS | |
Osprey Kestrel 48 | |
S/M Size | Dimensions: 27.6H X 13.4W X 12.6D IN Weight: 3.44 lbs Volume: 46L |
M/L Size | Dimensions: 29.5H X 13.4W X 12.6D IN Weight: 3.59 lbs Volume: 48L |
#Note: As you see, dimensions and volume don't add up. See our post Dimensional Inconsistencies of Osprey Backpacks to learn more. | |
User manual | |
Women's counterpart | See women's counterpart Osprey Kyte 46 |
Harness
Suspension
As always, I prefer to begin with the suspension and overall feel of the pack.
AirScape back panel is upgraded with new model.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
AirScape is the one of the latest suspension technologies of Osprey[1]. It keeps the pack and hence the load closer to your body which eventually provides more comfort. Mesh covered back panel (AirScape) with convenient padding and thickness ensures cushioning. White gaps are meant provide ventilation.
The structure of the pack is made of the cost, weight and flexibility optimized material; aluminum.
Shoulder Straps
Air mesh shoulder straps are edgeless and very well padded. Infinite adjustability without extra length with a velcro panel provides the best snug for your torso.
Ultimately perfect fit and comfort is achieved which isn't very common with medium-large packs like this.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
Thick and padded straps of Kestrel 48 don't cut into your shoulders.
Load lifters missing the right angle are corrected with the previous 2016 Osprey Kestrel 48 model and now attach higher in the straps meeting the ideal 45-60 degree angle [2]. It's also the same in the 2019 model.
Additionally, sternum straps contain a rescue whistle where they meet.
Hip Belt
Pockets: There are 2 hip belt pockets on each side
Air mesh and decent padding in shoulder straps and back panel of the pack reach all the way down to the hip belt as well.
Hip belt of 2016 model is 3" shorter than previous model. M/L Size of 2016 model fits waists >29", while previous model fits waists >32". 2019 model is identical to 2016 model.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
Even though the hip belt of Kestrel 48 is upgraded to be more adjustable and is fairly stiff, it just still isn't equally as stiff and doesn't provide an exceptional-cutting-edge-innovator adjustability like Atmos AG or Aether AG Series (or women's Ariel/Aura AG Series).
The benefit of less stiffness is that it feels more comfortable and wraps your waist completely when walking shorter distances with lighter loads.
The sacrifice made with less stiffness is that you'll probably start to feel the discomfort with relatively higher loads or walking anything longer than 15-20 miles.
This is one of the reasons why I don't regard this pack as a perfect, ideal extended (5+ days) trip pack.
In 2016 model, pockets are much larger than regular size smartphones, but it's still very tough to fit very large smartphones. But this is updated with 2019 model and now they can fit any smartphone! This was one of my main gripes with the 2016 model, so it's great to see that Osprey thought about it and fixed this.
Storage
Compartments
Main compartment
Pockets: No internal pocket
Kestrel 48 is a top loading pack with a decent large entrance.
As you see there is a red compression strap at the entrance to stabilize and press the main compartment content downwards.
One of my favorite things about this pack is that it provides a full length side access to the main and sleeping bag compartments at the right hand side of the pack.
Side access of 2019 model.
It's a true life saver when you need a confined item in the center and unpacking all the main compartment isn't the best solution - which happens all the time during every activity.
Sleeping bag compartment
Pockets: No internal pocket
Wide mouth access sleeping bag compartment is very large and separated from main compartment with a removable divider.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
Sleeping bag compartment of 2019 model.
It's larger than regular size sleeping bag compartments so it's possible to stuff it with more lightweight, puffy camp items like towel, pillow, sleeping pad or nightwears since they help with effective weight distribution, frequency of item usage and shock absorption against instant crashes.
If you'd like extra space inside, you can easily strap your pad outside with useful sleeping pad straps.
Also, they're removable:
Top lid
Pockets: 1 external, 1 internal pocket
Top lid doesn't float. Meaning that you can't remove it or shift it upwards or downwards.
If you're an ultralighter or for some reason you'd benefit compressing the pack vertically, this can be a gripe for you.
Current 2019 model:
External pocket accessed from behind gives you lots of space. You can attach your keys to the pack with the help of key clip inside the internal mesh pocket.
On the underside of the external pocket there is a mesh internal compressed pocket which allows smaller room.
Front surface
Pockets: 1 mesh pouch
Mesh pouch on the front is useful for any item that you'd like to isolate from the inner, dryer items. It isn't zippered or attached with a velcro, so you're left with relying on the force of mesh compression to keep the items in their place.
With the 2019 model they updated the materials used in this pouch, and now nylon is also used besides mesh & the pouch is adjustable with compression straps! You can also use the straps to have the pouch apply more force.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
See the compression straps for preferred size.
An enclosed, safe pocket on the front is lacking and would be nice to have with this product in my opinion.
Side
Pockets: 1 vertical side pocket
At right side, there is a vertical zippered side entrance to the main compartment to gain access to entire pack content like mentioned previously. It's very useful during any activity.
At left side, there is an innovative quite large vertical side pocket.
Previous 2016 model:
End points of side zipper are shown with arrows. It spans all the way backwards to the backpanel.
Current 2019 model:
2019 model.
Mesh water bottle holders at each side are very large and deep as you can see in below picture.
Compression straps work perfectly.
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
Superior packs like Osprey Kestrel 48 never neglect side compression straps since they're essential especially for outdoor events. They balance the weight, prevent wobbling and shrink the pack into smaller sizes when not filled.
Compression straps don't intersect mesh water bottle pockets. What's more having them above aids secure tool attaching as shown in following chapters.
Front compression straps are lacking but they aren't must have since even 4 compression straps alone are enough to have the pack completely flat against your back.
More, you can use side compression straps at the front:
Previous 2016 model:
Current 2019 model:
You can use them for front gear attachment too!
Or side gear attachment!:
Current 2019 model.
In addition to all these, there are mesh water bottle holders as you see. My main gripe with the previous 2016 model is that they don't offer horizontal installment - but only vertical.
This makes it impossible to store your water bottle there on the go - but this is also fixed with the updated 2019 model! Now they're accessible from sides as well:
Current 2019 model. Great to see that the side pockets are updated!
Size, Volume, Weight and Dimensions
Osprey Kestrel 48 comes with 2 size options. The difference is in their height, therefore smaller size with shorter height offers 2 liters less volume at 46 Liters.
Other specifications are as follows (2019 model):
Volume | Weight | Dimensions | |
|---|---|---|---|
Kestrel 48 S/M | 46 Liters | 3.44 lbs | 27.6h x 13.4w x 12.6d |
Kestrel 48 M/L | 48 Liters | 3.59 lbs | 29.5h x 13.4w x 12.6d |
#Note: If you wonder why volume & dimensions don't have an exact match, see my post Dimensional Inconsistencies of Osprey Backpacks to learn more.
48 or 46 Liters of volume isn't ideal for most people hiking/camping for 3+ days.
You can evaluate your torso length at home with the help of Osprey’s very own Size & Fit article [3], and find the recommended size for your torso length according to chart below.
Find Kestrel at 6th row.
Click on image to enlarge.
Durability
At first sight a lightweight pack seems more fragile and hence less durable - but Osprey qualifies its durable and sturdy reputation once again with this pack.
You're not going to have any problems regarding durability of this product.
What's more, Osprey always offers All Mighty Guarantee[4].
Other
Raincover
Rain fly attached to its own pocket under the sleeping bag compartment comes with the pack and included in the sale.
Wet items can ruin your overall traveling or hiking experience a lot. It should be considered strongly especially when the pack isn't completely waterproof resistant like this pack.
I agree that the color is ugly but also necessary. It's supposed to operate as a distinctive color when the user gets lost.
It comes out of its own pocket as follows:
Most recent 2019 model.
Hydration
Hydration pouch is outside at the rear surface of the pack.
Most recent 2019 model.
It's better than having pouch inside the main compartment such as Teton's 3400 Scout since you aren't made to unpack completely, replenish and pack completely back again which we all know isn't happening most of the time.
Typically you'd just end up giving up on it - especially when the pack is full up to the brim. Pouch is right behind the straps and back suspension pad - right below the droplet symbol. It offers plenty of space that can fit up to around 2.5 - 3 liters of bladders.
Gear Attachments
Total 10 Gear Loops: 2 ice tool loops on the front, 2 trekking pole loops on the straps, 2 removable sleeping pad straps, 2 daisy chains and 2 compression straps that can be utilized for attaching extra gear.
Ice tool loops
You can equip ice tool loops with bungee tie offs and tool loops:
Most recent 2019 model.
Trekking pole attachments
Stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachments at one side of the pack provide pole stowing without taking off the pack:
Most recent 2019 model.
Sleeping pad straps
See Storage section above.
Compression straps
Compression straps mentioned earlier can be used to attach especially long gears in collaboration with water bottle mesh pockets:
Current 2019 model.
Daisy chains
Extra gear can be attached using daisy chains[5].
Conclusion
Design intent of Osprey Kestrel 48 is a versatile backpack that can be used for both moderate outdoor events and traveling. If this is you, you're looking at one of your best options.
If you're planning extended camping trips (5+ days) with lots of long distances of walking it probably won't fill the bill due to its medium-large size and deficient suspension with heavy loads.
Current 2019 model (recommended):
- Breathable AirScape ridged foam backpanel with...
- External reservoir sleeve accommodates up to a 3L...
- Integrated removable raincover
- Zippered sleeping bag compartment with floating...
- Side panel zip provides quick access to main...
Previous 2016 model:
- Osprey's stow-on-the-go trekking pole attachment...
- An integrated and removable rain cover protects...
- An external reservoir sleeve is located behind the...
- The zippered sleeping bag compartment provides...
- Side zippered access allows easy accessibility to...
References
- Suspension Technology, Osprey. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/sa/en/pack-design-technology/suspension
- The Magazine of Wilderness Travel, Backpacker. 1989, March. Pack Strap Anatomy, p.31. Retrieved from https://books.google.com.tr/books?id=7-IDAAAAMBAJ&printsec=frontcover&source=gbs_ge_summary_r&cad=0#v=onepage&q&f=false
- Osprey. Size & Fit. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/ca/en/fitting-learning/size-fit
- Osprey: All Might Guarantee. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/cl/en/customer-support/all-mighty-guarantee
- Hawbaker, A. (2015, July). TrailTime Tips: Daisy Chain Quick Ties. Retrieved from https://www.rei.com/learn/expert-advice/backpacks-adjusting-fit.html
- Some photos and information from Osprey US Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.osprey.com/us/en/product/kestrel-48-KESTREL48.html
- Some photos and information from Osprey Europe Men's Hiking Backpacks: Kestrel 48. Retrieved from https://www.ospreyeurope.com/shop/eu_en/kestrel-48-a
- Some photos and information from www.desertcart.ae. Retrieved from https://www.desertcart.ae/products/22316004-osprey-packs-kestrel-48-backpack-dragon-red-medium-large
- Some photos and information from www.howa.com. Retrieved from http://www.howa.com.hk/outdoor/gkestrel48-osprey-kestrel-48-urban-outdoor-backpack.html?___store=english&___from_store=tchinese
I just finished a four day Rim to Rim Grand Canyon trip with this pack and it performed magnificently. I wouldn’t try 8+ days on a trail without resupply with it, but for short multi-nighters, this is hands down the best pack I’ve ever used.
The 2019 update information was very useful, thank you!