An occasional guest reviewer, runner and mum Crystal G, gives us her opinion of the female-specific Osprey Sylva 12 multi-sport backpack.
She writes: I have been using the Osprey Sylva 12 backpack for a full year and I have found that it can hold up well in a variety of different environments. I regularly use it to carry the necessary items for a walk around my city. I took it cycling on the Camino De Santiago in Northwest Spain. It was perfect on a boat trip on the ocean to watch dolphins. It’s what I grab for carrying snacks, water and nappies as we enjoy family hikes in the mountains.
Features include:
- Internal organiser for bike-specific tools and spares
- Stretch mesh side pockets and front stretch compression pocket
- Sternum strap buckle with magnet
- Side compression straps
- Reflective graphics and LED light attachment point
- Lightweight peripheral frame
- Hydration: Compatible with Hydraulics™ and Hydraulics™ LT
- Reservoir
- AirSpeed™ trampoline suspended mesh back system to increase airflow
- Integrated & detachable rain cover
- Internal hydration sleeve
- LidLock™ bike helmet attachment
- Designed for women
- Weight: 0.7 kg
- Dimensions (CM): 46L / 27W / 23D
- Price £90.
- Buy: Osprey Sylva 12.
Alternative suggestions:
Men’s version is the Osprey Syncro 12.
Review: What’s good about the Osprey Sylva 12 backpack?
The Sylva 12 is full of great features. The variety of pockets is very helpful and keeps me from having to dig around, taking everything out to find that one granola bar that I want.
The range of mesh pockets inside are great for organising essentials, tools, or even daily necessities like a coin purse, hand sanitiser, keys, etc.
The chest straps are magnetic and easy to use. The shoulders straps are very comfortable and can hold up under a lot of weight. I find that I can carry the same amount of weight in my Sylva 12 as in another backpack I have and it feels much lighter.
The suspended mesh backsystem makes it very comfortable. The increased airflow on my back is perfect and keeps the sweating to a minimum. It also protects against tools, books, or other sharp objects
poking into my back from the main compartments.
I feel like I can carry this pack with a full load and for long distances. Even then it doesn’t strain my neck and shoulder like other packs that I have used.
Review: What’s not so good about the Osprey Sylva 12 rucksack?
I have just a couple of minor complaints about the pack. As I use it often for family outings with my husband and three young children, I wish it has an easy access pocket to my phone for those times that I want to snap a quick picture.
Also, I find that the side pockets are slightly difficult to use. I can carry my children’s Camelbak water bottles (see review) or my own water bottle, but it is a bit of a struggle to actually get them in there. Once in, they are fine. This is a non issue if you are using this as a hydration pack with a bladder.
Conclusion: I would highly recommend this pack to women with a wide variety of interests. Whether you are someone who likes to go on long (or short) hikes with family and friends, a cyclist taking day trips, or someone who just wants a durable backpack for traveling and exploring a new city, this is a great and versatile pack. This is the pack I reach for as I go out on a day adventure with the family. The Sylva 12 is a great addition to those who love adventure and who also love comfort.
- Disclosure: I receive a small commission for any sales through my website.