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Searching for a versatile backpack that can handle everything from day hikes to 14er summits? Look no further than the Osprey Talon Velocity 30 Pack. As an avid hiker and climber, I’ve put this pack through its paces on various routes and terrains, including multiple day hikes and two technical 14er ascents.
In this Talon Velocity 30 review, I’ll share my firsthand experience with this newly released Osprey pack, highlighting its standout features, potential drawbacks, and overall performance in the field.
Let’s start with an overview of the pack, including price, weight, capacity, and where you can buy it.
Table of Contents
Talon Velocity 30 Review: Backpack Overview
The Osprey Talon Velocity 30 is a versatile and lightweight backpack designed for outdoor enthusiasts. It’s part of their new Velocity series. According to Osprey, “the Velocity ups the ante on speed and efficiency for your pursuits, be it PR-setting, bagging peaks or linking quick laps on your splitboard or skis.” Here’s a quick overview:
• Design: Inspired by trail running vests, offering a close, comfortable fit
• Material: Durable nylon fabric with DWR coating for weather resistance
• Suspension: AirScape back panel for ventilation and comfort
• Features: Multiple pockets, hydration compatible, trekking pole attachment
If you’re looking for a lightweight pack that can handle more gear than the award-winning Talon 22 backpack, I highly recommend trying the Talon Velocity 30 Pack.
Talon Velocity 30: At a Glance
💰 Price: $190-$200
🏋🏼 Weight: 2.4 lbs (1.09 kg)
🎒 Capacity: 30-32 liters
⭐ Features: Vest straps; AirScape panel; Stow & go system; hydration reservoir pocket; lower loops.
🥾 Best For: Hiking, Peak bagging, Climbing, Mountaineering, Snowshoeing
🔗 Where To Buy: REI.com | Backcountry.com | Amazon.com
Favorite Talon Velocity 30 Features
I’ve used my Talon Velocity 30 for numerous hiking trips, including two 14er ascents: Mt Sneffels and Crestone Needle. Needless to say, this backpack is excellent.
My overall assessment for this Talon Velocity 30 review is that the backpack offers great ease of movement, wonderful pocket options with a variety of sizes, and a spacious main compartment. Here are six backpack features and design elements I liked the most:
1. Trail Runner Vest Suspension Straps
The innovative suspension system mimics trail running vests, distributing weight evenly across your chest and shoulders. This design reduces fatigue on long hikes and provides excellent stability during more dynamic movements.
I wasn’t sure how I would like this at first, but I’m now sold on them. The ability to easily adjust the two cross straps on your chest up or down was helpful for re-adjusting and balancing my pack weight on different terrain.
2. Stow-on-the-Go Trek Pole Holder
This clever feature allows you to quickly stow and access your trekking poles without removing your pack. It’s perfect for technical terrain where you need to frequently switch between using your hands and poles.
I used this on my climb of Mt Sneffels (class 3) and the Crestone Needle (class 4) and it did a good job. While I usually stash my trek poles, I have lost them before – so it’s great to be able to keep them with me at all times without getting in the way.
3. Multiple Mesh and Zipper Pockets
Multiple stretchy mesh pockets on the exterior of the pack provide easy access to essential items like water bottles, snacks, or extra layers. They’re also great for stashing wet gear separately from your main compartment.
The vest straps both have pockets for flexible water bottles, along with a zippered compartment that works perfectly for holding a smartphone or GPS device.
4. Flexible AirScape Foam Back Panel
The AirScape back panel uses flexible foam ridges covered with mesh to provide both comfort and ventilation. This design conforms to your back while allowing air to circulate, keeping you cool on strenuous hikes.
While I definitely still sweat on my hikes and climbs with the Talon Velocity 30 Pack, I never got drenched because it was constantly evaporating and keeping me cool. It’s rigid enough to provide support for your gear without losing its flexibility.
5. Lower Loops for Sleeping/Sitting Pads
These loops at the bottom of the pack are perfect for securing a sleeping pad or tent, expanding the pack’s capacity for overnight trips without compromising its sleek design for day hikes.
While I never used these for either of my two climbs, I would definitely use them to bring a sleeping pad for winter hikes to sit on the snow.
6. Excellent Flexibility and Freedom of Movement
The Talon Velocity 30’s design prioritizes freedom of movement. Its close-to-body fit and strategic compression straps ensure the pack moves with you, whether you’re scrambling up rocky slopes or jogging down smooth trails.
While scrambling and climbing on class 4 terrain, the pack felt totally secure – so I could focus on finding the next handhold instead of trying to shift and re-adjust my backpack. While it might be overkill for simple day hikes, I would highly recommend this backpack for any class 2 and above routes.
Talon Velocity 30 Review: What I Didn't Like
No backpack is perfect – and that includes even Osprey. Here are some of the areas where I thought the Talon Velocity 30 fell short. They were relatively minor issues, but worth mentioning to get the full picture.
1. Premium (High) Price
At around $200, the Talon Velocity 30 is on the pricier end of daypacks. While the quality justifies the cost for me, those with a smaller budget hikers might find it prohibitive.
If you’re an REI member, you’ll get 10% ($20) back on your backpack, plus an extra 5% if you get their REI Mastercard. You can also try to find used bags online.
2. Difficult to Reach Side Pockets
The side water bottle pockets, while stretchy and secure, can be challenging to access while wearing the pack. This might require some contortion or removing the pack to grab your water bottle while on the trail.
However, this was a minor issue and the overall pocket design is still exemplary in my opinion. I would just plan to use the included hydration reservoir pocket (reservoir and hose not included).
3. Limited Suspension Support
While perfect for day hikes and light loads, the Talon Velocity 30’s suspension system may not provide enough support for heavier loads or multi-day trips. It’s designed for agility rather than heavy-duty load-bearing.
If I packed the bag completely full to the brim for an overnight hike, I would feel a bit uncertain about the pack’s ability to support it all – and worried about how my back would feel the next day.
4. No Built-in Rain Cover
Unlike some other Osprey models, the Talon Velocity 30 doesn’t come with an integrated rain cover. While the pack offers some water resistance, you’ll need to purchase a separate rain cover for full protection in wet conditions.
If you end up buying the backpack, I recommend also purchasing the Ultralight Raincover from Osprey, which is the perfect size and weighs only 4.9 ounces, to ensure your gear stays dry.
Osprey Talon Velocity 30 Review Rating: A-
After extensive testing for my Talon Velocity 30 review, including multiple hikes and 14er climbs, I can confidently say that the pack is an exceptional choice for outdoor enthusiasts—especially peak baggers. Its innovative design, comfort, and freedom of movement makes it stand out in the crowded backpack market.
I highly recommend the Talon Velocity 30 for:
- Day hikers and peak baggers who prioritize comfort and organization
- Climbers and scramblers needing a pack that allows freedom of movement
- Outdoor enthusiasts looking for a versatile pack for various activities
While it may be overkill for casual day hikers or those on a tight budget, the Talon Velocity 30 is an excellent investment for serious outdoor adventurers who value performance and durability.
Buy the Talon Velocity 30 Pack
You can purchase the Osprey Talon Velocity 30 at a number of retailers, including REI Co-op, Backcountry, and Amazon. Check out the three links below to see current prices and find the best deal available right now.
Resources
Here are more articles, reviews, and resources related to the Talon/Tempast Velocity 30 Pack.
FAQs
Looking for more information than what I covered in my review of the Talon Velocity 30 Pack? Check out my answers to some of the most common questions about this backpack.
Q: How comfortable is the Osprey Talon Velocity 30 for long hikes?
A: The Talon Velocity 30 is designed with long-distance comfort in mind. Its padded harness and hipbelt help distribute weight evenly, reducing strain on your shoulders and lower back. The adjustable torso length and ergonomic design further enhance comfort, making it an excellent choice for long hikes.
Q: How does the Talon Velocity 30 perform in terms of ventilation?
A: The Talon Velocity 30 features Osprey’s AirScape back panel, which promotes excellent airflow to keep you cool during intense activity. The foam ridges are covered with mesh, allowing sweat to evaporate quickly, reducing heat buildup on your back even on warm days.
Q: Is the Osprey Talon Velocity 30 lightweight and good for fastpacking or trail running?
A: Yes! Weighing in at around 1.9 pounds (870 grams), the Talon Velocity 30 is lightweight enough for fastpacking and trail running. It’s compact, streamlined, and designed to stay close to your body, minimizing bouncing and shifting as you move over rugged terrain.
Q: How much gear can the Talon Velocity 30 hold?
A: With 30 liters of space, the Talon Velocity 30 is perfect for day hikes, fastpacking, or minimalist overnights. You can comfortably pack layers, food, a hydration reservoir, and other essentials. The exterior stretch pockets and side compression straps help maximize storage without excess bulk.
Q: Is the Talon Velocity 30 durable enough for rough terrain?
A: Absolutely. The Talon Velocity 30 is constructed from high-quality nylon, known for its durability and resistance to abrasions. Reinforced stitching and rugged materials ensure the pack holds up against scrapes from rocks, branches, and rough ground.
Q: How does the Talon Velocity 30 compare to similar backpacks?
A: The Talon Velocity 30 stands out for its balance of comfort, durability, and lightweight design. Compared to similar packs, its superior ventilation system and adjustability make it a top choice for those looking to cover long distances quickly. Its thoughtful storage options also set it apart from more basic models.
Q: Is the Talon Velocity 30 good for multi-sport use?
A: Yes, the Talon Velocity 30 is highly versatile and suited for multi-sport use. Whether you’re hiking, mountain biking, or trail running, the pack’s stable fit and lightweight design ensure it performs well across activities. Its flexibility makes it an ideal companion for various outdoor pursuits.
Q: How weather-resistant is the Talon Velocity 30?
A: While the Talon Velocity 30 isn’t fully waterproof, it offers decent weather resistance thanks to its durable water-repellent (DWR) coating. This helps it shed light rain and moisture. For heavy downpours, a pack cover (sold separately) is recommended to keep your gear dry.
Q: Is the Talon Velocity 30 Pack a good choice for Colorado 14ers?
A: Yes, the Talon Velocity 30 is a great choice for tackling Colorado 14ers. Its lightweight design, ample storage for essentials, and breathability make it ideal for the high altitude and steep terrain typical of these hikes. You’ll appreciate its ergonomic fit on those long, strenuous climbs.
Q: Is the Osprey Talon Velocity 30 worth the price?
A: Considering its blend of comfort, durability, and versatility, the Talon Velocity 30 offers great value for the price. It’s a long-term investment that can handle a wide range of outdoor activities, making it a reliable and worthwhile purchase for adventurers who want performance and durability in one package.
