Osprey Packs Sprint Series Youth Packs: Ace 48 & Jib 35
Retail Price: ~$149.00
Findings: My kids started backpacking before they could even roll over. This meant that for years and years I dreamed of the day when my kids A. could hike themselves, and B. carry their own gear. Happily that time is here–at least for half of my kids. We have tried 2 other packs with the kids, but so far, the Osprey packs are winning out for flexibility, durability and capacity. On a recent 6 day backpacking trip, we tried out the Ace 48 and Jib 35 packs. Â Osprey definitely put a lot of though into these packs. Both held 21 pounds of gear/food quite well. The Jib 35 was a bit of a tight fit for all of our gear, but it worked out fine. If my daughter’s sleeping bag had been any bigger at all, it would not have worked. In/on their packs, they carried their sleeping bags, sleeping pads, water bottles, 1 dozen bagels each, small stuff sack of clothes, personal hygiene items, rain gear, water shoes, cooking pots, stove, day snacks, and some other food items. All told, this weighed 21 pounds. Size wise, both packs fit my kids well–both weigh about 73 pounds.
Osprey Ace 48 pack on the Resurrection Pass Trail, Alaska.
I really like the suspension system and how easy it was to adjust. Although this pack is on the expensive side, I anticipate getting many years of use out of it. Features we really like include the built in rain fly, easy to adjust suspension system, pocket for the MP3 player on the shoulder strap. The buckles are durable and all the straps are easy to adjust. If you are planning on a multi day trip, I’d recommend getting the Ace 48 to make sure you have enough room for everything. For a 1 nighter, your child will be fine with the Jib 35.
Overall, we give Osprey 2 thumbs up!
