Size and Appearance

Osprey Kestrel 38 Backpack

The Osprey Kestrel 38 and the Osprey Stratos 36 are both well made products. Each product accommodates many items and bulges inward instead of outward making it compact and a slimmer shape for ease and quicker mobility when on an outing. The Kestrel is made mainly for backpacking and day hiking and the Stratos is for light backpacking and day hiking. The slightly lower load range capabilities for Stratos is most likely what classifies it as “light backpacking”, although the weight only fluctuates about 5 pounds. Kestrel’s range is 25-40 pounds and Stratos is 15-35 pounds.

The length, width, and height of these products only differs by an inch or two for each platform, making them just about equal in size dimensions. Both products offer small and medium/large sizes and are made from Nylon fabric. Some customers were disappointed in the color choices for Kestrel, only coming in three separate colors: Dragon Red, Hunter Green, and Ash Gray.

Stratos, on the other hand, offers one more color choice and these colors appear to be more bright and vibrant selections: Black, Eclipse Blue, Beet Red, and Gator Green. Both packs are lightweight, compact, and resume an upright position independently. Here is some examples of what customers have said to be able to pack in these one packs and you can be the judge.

Kestrel

Top lid – maps, compass, keys, papers, matches/lighter, and any other essential and/or often used items.

Main/mid compartment – sweater; hoodie, food, water, rolled up blanket, Emergency kit, shoes etc.

Side compartment – gloves, water bottle, hot hands, beanie hats, etc.

Bottom – fleece, sleeping bag.

Note: Less room is available for the middle compartment once all the other pockets are filled but everything compacts nicely for an easy fit.

Stratos

Top Lid – maps, compass, keys, matches, important items, etc. This lip has a divider and mesh net as well to help keep items dry and organized.

Main/mid compartment – food, clothing, Emergency Kit, backpack stove, blanket, etc. There are two zipper locations in this section. One top full panel zipper at the top of pack and one small zipper near the bottom for easy access in finding loose items that fall to the bottom of the bag.

Side compartment –  water bottle, hats, gloves, etc.

Bottom – sleeping bag, fleece, etc.

Fit, Comfort, and Mobility

Each of these backpacks are said to be extremely comfortable and easy to maneuver. Customers stated that the Stratos was close fitting, with reduced off balance difficulties, and even said to alleviate shoulder, back, and neck pain associated with carrying other packs. Customers shared the favorable close to back mobility of Kestrel saying that it stays “in-sync” with your body. These products also contain a mesh back down the entire backside of the pack for extra comfort and to reduce the amount of sweating while carrying them.

Click here to get more details on the Osprey Kestrel 38

Click here to get more details on the Osprey Stratos 36

Accessories and Features

 These two packs have very similar features. They both are equipped with sleeping bag compartments with dividers to store a one person sleeping bag. They also contain a rain cover and compartment to store it in (can also be an added bonus to use as another pocket for storage), removable and adjustable straps for sleeping pads, side zippered compartments to quickly access the main area of the pack, and an adjustable harness with dual zippered pockets for added storage and convenience. Some customers were uneasy about Kestrel’s harness however, stating that it was too big and loose. This will depend on a person’s actual weight and size.

They both provide a wide range of storage for all the basic hiking necessities including tool/pole loops, mesh side water carrying pockets, adjustable straps for compression and volume, and top lip dual zipper pockets for important necessities. The differences in features are only separated by a few. Kestrel features an additional External Hydration Sleeve in the back of the pack to protect from spilling and having to refill drinks. It is located right behind where the head would be so it is easy to reach and stays protected, unlike side pockets that may slide out while hiking.

This backpack also has front panel daisy chained to accommodate buggies and hooks to hang various items. The large stretch mesh pocket covered over the front of the backpack allow extra storing space. The Stratos offers a top loading bungee for main compartment storage and has an extra mesh pocket within the top lid dual zipper pocket. This pocket is also divided to help keep important items organized and easily accessible.

Pros/Cons

Osprey Stratos 36

Both of these products are fabulously made and come from the same manufacturer making their similarities more apparent than their differences. They are both around the same price range, and can be purchased online, manufacturer, or retail outlets that satisfy sports, hiking, outdoor, and related items.

They both provide adequate room for storage and are fitted well to remain comfortable while hiking or backpacking. Several customers stated that these packs can be used for overnight packs as well but the Stratos was with some hesitation. A few customers said that while it was possible they would be comfortable with a different pack in concern of the weight and carrying a heavier load around. Others were satisfied with amount of items and weight for overnight stays. This is really an individual concern and should be decided based on what you can handle and how many items are needed for your adventure.

Some customers who reviewed the Kestrel were disappointed in not being able to remove some compartments such as, the lid to make for a lighter load. This pack just barely marks under the overhead requirement for airline travel and customers were pleased to be able to fit all their items as a carry on for short trips.

Click here to see reviews and ratings for the Osprey Kestrel 38

Click here to see reviews and ratings for the Osprey Stratos 36