I've used an Osprey Exos 46 rucksack (size Medium) for my last few crossings and I like it. It's comfortable and I like most of the features.

I would like to buy a new bigger rucksack that I can use for winter camping. The Exos 46 is not big enough to take my warmer sleeping bag, bigger tent and extra clothes. Last winter I resorted to using my Karrimor Jaguar 65 for my cold-weather trip. I am considering getting the Exos 58 but I have a couple of queries:-

- I presume the shoulder straps are the same on the 46 and 58, so are they still comfortable when carrying heavier weight? Say, upto 16kg?

- A new model of Exos came out in 2014. Are there any reasons why I should choose the old model over the new model?

- Are there any similar rucksacks from other manufacturers that I ought to consider?

I know this is not really a Challenge query but I know several people have used the Exos 58 on their crossings so any answers may be relevant to fellow Challengers.

Thanks

The Lightwave Ultrahike is an excellent winter rucksack (60L) with the added bonus of being nearly waterproof (the back seams can't be sealed). Chris Townsend used one on his Watershed walk. I've found it to be very comfortable. Of course back length and fit are important so trying one would be a good idea. Unfortunately, not many places stock Lightwave. Ultralite Outdoors Gear sell them.

Hi Judith. I use the Osprey Variant 52 - it is a very generous 52 ltrs and has a detachable lid so it can be reduced to a smaller size. It's about 1.5 kgs full rig and 900 grams stripped down. It has features for using in winter (crampon/shovel storage) and it is super comfy. They seem to be going for around £120

I use an Exos 58 and I love it! Comfy to carry, roomy to rummage, but I've never (knowingly) carried more than around 12.5 kg. It certainly has the room and if neatly packed needn't appear bulky, I have no reason to think that if well packed it couldn't take more weight. Not much help I'm afraid!

Hi Judith
I have to say that Robin's advice is worth further investigation.
I will be using a Lightwave Fastpack 50 on The Challenge and have friends that use the Ultrahike 60. They are both water resistant but you still need to protect items such as sleeping bags, just in case. Following a very wet day in Glen Tilt my friend found he had a very soggy night ahead.
The Adventure Centre in Warrington stock Lightwave products: www.cheaptents.com

Thanks for the suggestions and comments so far. The Ultrahike 60 does look good, although it's a shame it doesn't have a large external pocket like the Osprey Exos has.

Kevin - Thanks for the tip about the supplier in Warrington. I reckon the shorter back-length will suit me but I'd rather try it to be certain.

I will always put my sleeping bag in a waterproof bag. A soggy night in the Lairig Ghru convinced me of the need to do that. This was before my Challenge days and I'd set off in bright sunshine in August so had put my sleeping bag in just its compression bag. The heavens opened and the wind struck up. By the time I camped, I realised I was carrying an Ajungilak Kompakt 180 sponge! Never again!

Hi again
The Lads at the Adventure Centre were fantastic when I went to purchase my pack. I took my old Deuteur into the shop fully packed and then transferred everything into the Lightwave. I then spent about an hour wandering around the shop with the loaded pack on my back. There was absolutely no pressure or hassle 10/10 for the service!!

If you want an external pocket you can use an Exped Flash Pocket https://blogpackinglight.wordpress.com/2015/08/21/exped-flash-pack-pocket/

Bob sells them http://www.backpackinglight.co.uk/pack-accessories/UA221.html. Good value.

I always use a rucksack liner plus dry bags for critical gear even in the Ultrahike.

Hi,

I have an Opsrey Aura 50 for sale that my sister used for one Swiss hut-to-hut trek. Although only slightly larger in capacity than your current model, Osprey usually underestimate their rucksack capacities. If interested it is on sale on amazon at £82.50. Just search under items sold by thehikingdoctor.

Happy hunting!

The Montane Grand Tour 70 is slightly heavier, stripped down, but it has two, what I call integrated, pockets plus four pouches round the belt, which gives it a slim-line feel - ie no pockets protruding. If the contents of the pack feel loose, the various straps tighten up the load to make it firm on your back. You can bung all your kit in and not worry about lack of space.
The Moroccan blue model is very appealing.

I bought the 'new' Osprey Exos58 earlier this year, it was to replace the older one I still have. It's a long story, briefly Osprey weren't able to tell me where I could try one for size so I bought the Large size - MUCH too big.

The newer model fits me nicely (medium size) and is comfortable. Sadly it's nowhere near as user friendly / ergonomically well thought out than the old version.

If you fancy a beer I can drive over or we can meet up and you can look at both, side by side.

I would love to be able to buy an older model Exos58 of the right size but it ain't going to happen.

Hi John, I have the old exos 58 in medium, if you're interested in a swap deal of some variety ?
Rod.