Packs From Over There Over Here...

The folk who import top US brand Mountain Hardwear into the UK are also going to be bringing in packs from the Osprey range from early next year.

Osprey is a stand alone - it makes nothing but rucksacks - Colorado-based pack manufacturer which prides itself on innovative design and high quality. For this year they've revamped their entire range with a bunch of interesting new features.

Their day packs, for example, use what they call StraightJacket Compression, a system which utilises two dense foam-filled wings as the sides of the pack, which can be folded in and clipped to pull the load uniformly closer to your back. Neat.

They also have mega-adjustable and detachable harness systems and a hip-belt which Mountain Hardwear says is the 'most advanced anywhere'. It uses two different densities of foam with a 3D moulding and Spandura lining.

We actually have an Osprey Eclipse 32, one of their multi-function day packs with ice-axe loops, StraightJacket and detachable harness and hip-belt. We know about the latter feature, because the harness and hip-belt are making their own way to sunny Glossop, so, as yet, we've not been able to use the pack.

What we can tell you is that it has a distinctive curve to it, the build quality feels impeccable, detailing is great and we reckon this is going to become a rucksac object of desire, before too long. Once the straps and belt turn up, we'll fill you in on how it carries as well. Incidentally, the pack is made in three back sizes - small, medium and large.

One last thing, they aren't going to be cheap. The Eclipse 32, capacity 32 litres (mediu), weight 3lb, is likely to be priced at around £90.