Introduction

Welcome to our brutally honest review of the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack! If you’re in the market for a versatile, feature-packed backpack for your outdoor adventures, then the Sirrus 36 might just be the perfect fit for you. In this review, we’ll dive deep into the design, construction, comfort, storage, durability, and performance of this backpack to give you a comprehensive understanding of its capabilities and limitations.

As avid outdoor enthusiasts ourselves, we understand the importance of having a reliable and comfortable backpack that can withstand the demands of various activities, whether it’s hiking, camping, or traveling. The Osprey Sirrus 36 is designed to cater to those needs, offering an ideal balance between capacity, weight, and functionality.

Featuring Osprey’s renowned attention to detail and innovative design, the Sirrus 36 is packed with features that will make your outdoor adventures more enjoyable. From its ergonomic suspension system to its ample storage options, this backpack has been engineered to meet the needs of both casual hikers and seasoned backpackers.

But enough with the chit-chat, let’s dive into the nitty-gritty details of the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack. In the following sections, we’ll discuss its design and construction, comfort and fit, storage and organization options, durability and performance, as well as the pros and cons you should consider before making your purchase decision.

 

Design and Construction

The design and construction of the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack are top-notch, as expected from a brand known for its quality craftsmanship. The backpack features a sleek and streamlined design that not only looks great but also improves its functionality in the wild. The pack is available in both men’s and women’s specific designs, ensuring a comfortable fit for all body types.

One of the standout features of the Sirrus 36 is its lightweight yet durable construction. The backpack is made from high-quality materials that are built to withstand the rigors of outdoor adventures. The main body of the pack is made from rugged nylon fabric, which is not only resistant to tears and abrasions but also water-repellent, keeping your gear dry in light rain or snow.

The backpack incorporates Osprey’s renowned AirSpeed suspension system, which provides exceptional comfort and support. The adjustable torso length and hip belt allow for a customized fit, ensuring that the weight of the pack is evenly distributed across your body. This minimizes fatigue and discomfort, making it ideal for long hikes or multi-day trips.

In terms of accessibility, the Sirrus 36 features a large zippered front panel that provides easy access to the main compartment. This allows you to quickly retrieve items without having to rummage through the entire pack. Additionally, the backpack has a separate sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider, as well as multiple pockets and mesh side pockets for storing smaller items such as water bottles and snacks.

The backpack also incorporates Osprey’s unique Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system. This convenient feature allows you to quickly and securely stow your trekking poles when you don’t need them, freeing up your hands for other tasks. Moreover, the Sirrus 36 comes with an integrated rain cover, providing added protection for your gear during sudden downpours.

Overall, the design and construction of the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack are excellent. Its durable materials, ergonomic suspension system, and thoughtful design features make it a reliable and comfortable choice for your outdoor adventures.

 

Comfort and Fit

The Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack is engineered with comfort in mind, providing a supportive and ergonomic fit that will keep you comfortable on long hikes or multi-day trips. The adjustable torso length and hip belt allow for a customized fit, ensuring that the weight of the pack is evenly distributed across your body.

The AirSpeed suspension system, a signature feature of Osprey backpacks, plays a significant role in enhancing comfort. The system utilizes a tensioned mesh back panel that creates a ventilation gap between your back and the pack, allowing for increased airflow and reducing the buildup of sweat. This feature is especially valuable during hot and humid weather or strenuous activities.

The shoulder straps of the Sirrus 36 are contoured and padded, providing excellent cushioning and reducing pressure points. They are adjustable to accommodate different torso lengths, ensuring that the pack fits snugly against your back. The hip belt is also padded and adjustable, with a wrap-around design that helps to transfer the weight effectively to your hips, relieving strain on your shoulders.

In terms of adjustability, the Sirrus 36 offers a range of options to find your ideal fit. The torso length can be adjusted using a simple hook-and-loop system, allowing you to fine-tune the position of the backpack for optimal comfort and weight distribution. The hip belt can be tightened or loosened using dual buckles, providing a secure and personalized fit.

While the Sirrus 36 is comfortable to wear, it’s crucial to note that finding the right size is essential. Osprey offers a size guide on their website, which takes into account your torso length and hip measurements to determine the most suitable size for you. Taking the time to measure yourself accurately will ensure that you get the best possible fit and maximize comfort.

Additionally, the backpack features adjustable sternum straps that help to stabilize the pack and prevent it from shifting or bouncing as you move. The sternum straps can be moved up or down along the shoulder straps, allowing you to find the optimal position for your body.

In summary, the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack prioritizes comfort and fit, thanks to its adjustable torso length, padded straps, and effective weight distribution system. These features work together to ensure a comfortable and secure fit, allowing you to enjoy your outdoor adventures without the distraction of discomfort or pain.

 

Storage and Organization

The Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack offers ample storage and organization options to keep your gear organized and easily accessible during your outdoor adventures. With a 36-liter capacity, this backpack provides enough room to pack essentials for day hikes or overnight trips.

The main compartment of the Sirrus 36 is accessed through a large zippered front panel, allowing for easy loading and unloading of your gear. The spacious interior can accommodate extra clothing layers, food, and other necessities. Additionally, the backpack features a separate sleeping bag compartment with a removable divider, providing dedicated storage for your sleeping bag or other bulky items.

Organization is made easy with multiple pockets strategically placed throughout the backpack. On the exterior, you’ll find a zippered lid pocket, perfect for quick access to small essentials like keys, wallet, or a map. The backpack also features dual mesh side pockets, which can hold water bottles or snacks for easy reach while on the move.

Inside the main compartment, there is an internal hydration sleeve with a dedicated port for the hydration tube. This allows for the convenient integration of a hydration bladder (sold separately), keeping you hydrated without having to rummage through the pack for water bottles.

The Sirrus 36 also incorporates Osprey’s innovative Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system. This feature allows you to quickly and securely stow your trekking poles when not in use, freeing up your hands without the need to remove the backpack.

Furthermore, the backpack has compression straps on the sides and the bottom, which help to stabilize the load and reduce excess bulk. These straps can also be used to secure additional gear or attach sleeping pads or other bulky items to the exterior of the pack.

Lastly, the Sirrus 36 comes with an integrated rain cover. The rain cover is stored in a dedicated pocket at the bottom of the pack and can be easily pulled out and deployed to protect your gear from sudden downpours. This added feature ensures that your belongings stay dry and protected in wet weather conditions.

Overall, the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack offers a great balance between storage capacity and organization options. The various compartments, pockets, and attachment points make it easy to keep your gear organized and easily accessible, allowing you to focus on enjoying your outdoor adventures.

 

Durability and Performance

When it comes to durability, the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack excels. Constructed with high-quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship, this backpack is designed to withstand the demands of outdoor adventures.

The main body of the Sirrus 36 is made from rugged nylon fabric, which offers excellent resistance to tears and abrasions. This durability ensures that the backpack can withstand the rough terrain, branches, and rocks that you may encounter on your hikes or camping trips.

In addition to the durable exterior, the backpack features sturdy YKK zippers that glide smoothly and are built to last. These robust zippers prevent snagging and provide secure closure, keeping your gear protected and secure inside the pack.

Another aspect that contributes to the durability of the Sirrus 36 is its reinforced stitching. Osprey pays attention to detail when it comes to sewing, ensuring that all seams are reinforced to handle heavy loads and constant use over time. This reinforcement enhances the backpack’s overall strength and longevity.

In terms of performance, the Sirrus 36 delivers exceptional functionality. The adjustable AirSpeed suspension system provides excellent load support and stability, distributing weight evenly across your body to prevent discomfort and strain. The breathable back panel also helps to keep you cool and dry during physical activities.

The backpack’s compression straps allow you to cinch down the load, minimizing bulk and improving balance. This feature is particularly useful when you’re carrying a partially filled pack or need to stabilize the load during fast-paced movements.

Moreover, the Sirrus 36 is designed for versatility. It performs well in various outdoor environments, whether you’re on a day hike, multiday backpacking trip, or traveling. The comfortable fit, ample storage options, and thoughtful design features make it suitable for different activities and situations.

When it comes to water resistance, the Sirrus 36 holds up reasonably well in light rain or snow thanks to its water-repellent nylon fabric. However, it’s important to note that the backpack is not fully waterproof. To ensure the complete protection of your gear in heavy rain or wet conditions, it is recommended to use the integrated rain cover that comes with the pack.

Overall, the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack demonstrates excellent durability and performance. Its robust construction, reinforced stitching, and thoughtful design contribute to its longevity, while the adjustable suspension system and versatile functionality enhance its performance in various outdoor settings.

 

Pros and Cons

Pros:

• The Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack features a sleek and streamlined design.
• The backpack is made from high-quality materials that are durable and water-repellent.
• The AirSpeed suspension system provides excellent support and ventilation for maximum comfort.
• The adjustable torso length and hip belt ensure a customized fit for different body types.
• The backpack offers ample storage options, including a separate sleeping bag compartment and multiple pockets.
• The Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment system allows for quick and convenient storage of trekking poles.
• The integrated rain cover provides added protection for your gear in wet weather.
• The backpack is versatile and suitable for various outdoor activities.
• Osprey offers a lifetime warranty, demonstrating confidence in the backpack’s quality and durability.

Cons:

• The Sirrus 36 backpack may be on the pricier side compared to other backpacks in its category.
• The backpack’s water resistance is limited, and heavy rain may require the use of the integrated rain cover.
• The hip belt pockets are relatively small, limiting their capacity for storing smaller items.
• The backpack doesn’t have a dedicated hydration bladder included; it needs to be purchased separately.
• The adjustment process for the torso length and hip belt may require some trial and error to find the perfect fit.

While the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack offers numerous advantages, it’s important to consider the cons to make an informed purchase decision. Ultimately, your specific needs, preferences, and budget will guide your choice.

 

Conclusion

The Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack is a solid choice for outdoor enthusiasts looking for a versatile and reliable pack that will meet their needs on various adventures. Its sleek design, durable construction, and comfortable fit make it a standout option in its class.

The backpack’s lightweight yet sturdy build, along with its innovative AirSpeed suspension system, ensures excellent support and ventilation, keeping you comfortable even during long hikes or overnight trips. The adjustable torso length and hip belt allow for a customized fit, enhancing comfort and weight distribution.

With its ample storage options and thoughtful organization features, the Sirrus 36 provides convenient access to your gear when you need it. The Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment and integrated rain cover add to its practicality and versatility in various outdoor environments.

While the backpack has some drawbacks, such as a higher price point and limited water resistance, these cons are outweighed by its overall performance and durability. Additionally, Osprey’s lifetime warranty offers reassurance and demonstrates the brand’s commitment to quality.

In conclusion, the Osprey Sirrus 36 backpack is a reliable companion for your outdoor adventures. Its design, construction, comfort, and functionality combine to create an exceptional backpack that can withstand the demands of the wilderness. Whether you’re embarking on a day hike, exploring new trails, or going on a multi-day backpacking trip, the Sirrus 36 is up to the task. So, grab your pack, venture into the great outdoors, and enjoy the freedom and convenience that the Osprey Sirrus 36 provides.