Nat Geo Adventure Announces Spring/Summer Gear of the Year for 2011

Our friends over at National Geographic Adventure have posted their picks for Gear of the Year for Spring/Summer 2011. As the weather heats up, we all need different gear for our outdoor activities, and the items on the list reflect a different approach for the new seasons. As you would expect from a list like this, there is a little of everything, including backpacks, tents, clothing, and more. One of the items making the list is the Osprey Hornet 46 backpack, which receives high honors for being lightweight and flexible, something that I noted when I reviewed the Hornet 32 awhile back. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of the convenience and comfort that comes with the Osprey packs, and this one is definitely no exception.
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Uncategorized
backpack, Hornet, Hornet 46

Osprey’s commuter packs look to be more than durable enough for daily toils.
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Cycling News
backpack, courier bag, Flapjack, Flapjill, Raptor, Talon

The Metron from Osprey is a street-styled backpack with top-loading flap design. Spiffy features include a padded laptop sleeve, integrated rain cover, phone case on one shoulder strap and a key/wallet pouch on the other. Comes in two sizes, for $140/160.
www.ospreypacks.com
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DirtRag.com, Dirtragmag
backpack, Metron, mountain biking

Next Year’s Skis and Gear: Outdoor Retailer 2011
We’ve been trolling the floor at this year’s Outdoor Retailer trade show, checking out next winter’s gear. So far, the story has been about the sidecountry, and ski, boots, packs, and jackets that are designed to be used in the backcountry just as well as the resort. We also saw beefy but lightweight bindings, multiple airbag packs, a bunch of waterproof, breathable fabrics. Here’s what you’ll be coveting next fall.
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SkiNet.com
backpack, karve, Skiing
Gear Review: Osprey Variant 52 Backpack
The most I’ve ever hoped from a backpack is to not ache at the end of each day hauling to the next campsite. I get a lot more ups out of the journey, but the hauling part is never what I live for. And if you live for hauling then you’re way more man or woman than I am. Respect.

This ode, though, is for a backpack that’s actually comfortable — and comfortable whether light or jammed beyond the norm. I overloaded the Variant 52 more than once (recommended weight is a little over 50 pounds and I went on the heavier side) and it remained stable whether I was on foot or snowshoes, skinning like a slug uphill on skis or bombing down.
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Adventure-Journal.com
backpack, variant, Variant 52
Osprey Aether Backpack Review
Backpacks over the years have changed quite drastically. I remember my first pack was made by MEI and the hip belt was about 5 inches thick. I used it for a couple years then moved up to a Dana Designs. After two Rainier trips, numerous week long jaunts, the Dana was ceremoniously retired. My backpack buying journey has stopped with the Osprey Aether. Nothing beats the comfort and technology of this pack.

Osprey Aether
The lifetime guarantee sets Osprey a part from the other guys. Gear gets trashed, they get it. Their price may be a little high but the construction and comfort make it worth it. Osprey also focused on cutting weight on this pack which you can tell when you first try it on. There is nothing extra but everything you need.
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Gear.com
Aether, backpack

Osprey Packs — There’s lot of competition in the casual wear and hydration pack market, but the 36-year-old independent Colorado company stands out. Its offerings are diverse, functional to fashion-oriented, high quality and with color options unmatched.
Osprey’s new spring 2011 line is the pack for everyday use or for the avid commuter called the Momentum. It has 14 features, including a raincover, reflective print front panel and well-designed cluster of pockets, organizers and zippered compartments.
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Versus.com
backpack, Bike Commuter Packs, Flap Jack, Flap Jill Pack, Momentum, Viper

Osprey’s Flare offers the advantages of a bag designed for the great outdoors, while still addressing the needs of the urban warrior. If you find yourself frequently straddling these two worlds, this bag might make the journey between them more enjoyable.
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Macworld.com
backpack, Laptop Packs, Osprey Flare, Outdoor Packs