We liked pretty much everything about this pack, which offers one of the smoothest rides a pack has ever given me – and I loaded it up some. Its internal frame has two load bearing features: the single sheet primary back sheet inside hides two lightweight stays delivering weight to the rear of the hip brace while two side mounted curved aluminium rods provide dual suspension and load bearing from the top end of the pack down to the hipbelt sides.

Made of closed cell foam, the hipbelt is custom heat moulded instore to fit hip shape exactly, meaning better transfer of weight and fewer rub spots on the old love handles.  An ‘Airscape’ backing channels moisture out the sides through two ridged foam pads separated by a central air chimney – it helped disperse my ocean of sweat although I still finished the day with a damp(ish) back.

A big plus for the Argon/Xenon is the range of fits: dozens of combinations of back size, hip belts size and shoulder strap sizes across both men’s and women’s models.

Other pluses include top pack cover that detaches as a hip pack (with ridged foam padding) and a hydration pack inside which can used independently, the combination great for day stroll forays. Large, hook zipper handles make for simple and quick access, as does the nearly 3/4 length (hidden) zip down one side of the main body.  The compression strap system is also more efficient than most in battening down loads.

The internal separator is a tad cumbersome to rig up and the lack of an integrated raincover is a downer (but you can buy one separately).

RRP: $499.95
Weight: 2.52kg
Back sizes: XS, S, M (Women's) and M, L, XL (Men's)
Women's: Yes (Xenon)
Web: www.ospreypacks.com

Review: Chris Ord