Osprey Levity 45 Review – A Trekker’s Best Companion?

Osprey Levity is yet another great backpack for all adventurers. But, what exactly is it that makes it stand out from other similar backpacks?

Well, for one thing, it is incredibly lightweight – particularly if you take its size into consideration. This is what makes it the perfect backpack for all kinds of outdoor adventures – hiking, camping, trekking, and many others.

So, if you are in need of a high-quality backpack that is incredibly light but also incredibly sturdy, then look no further. This is probably the best thing you can get at the moment. To find out exactly why join me in this detailed Osprey Levity review!

Basic Specifications Of The Levity

The Levity is available in 2 versions, the 45 and 60. These numbers reflect the respective capacities of the backpack, so you can already get an idea of just how much stuff you can fit inside them.

But, there is another twist. Each of these versions comes in 3 different sizes, so you can really find the one that fits you perfectly.

Just like the Osprey Hikelite, this is an incredibly lightweight backpack. But, I find the Levity to be much more impressive just because it’s waaay bigger than the Hikelite. However, unlike most other Osprey backpacks, this one is available only in one color – Parallax Silver.

I personally like to have options when it comes to the design and color of my gear. Because of that, I’m kind of disappointed that there is zero variety with the Levity. And, its color is really light, which means that it will be more difficult to keep it squeaky clean.

Unlike the Hikelite, both versions of the Levity are identical, in terms of all of their cool features. And now, let’s check out all of the cool features that make Levity better than its competitors!

Minimalistic Design And Materials

Osprey decided to remove all features they considered to be unnecessary, in order to produce a backpack that is as light as possible. So, if you like laptop sleeves and a thousand different pockets, the Levity might not be the best choice for you.

But, if you are looking for a backpacks that won’t literally be a burden on your shoulders, than this is the best one you’ll find.

The light weight is coupled with an incredibly durable material. So, if you think that heavy backpacks are the sturdiest, the Levity is here to change your mind.

In fact, its exterior is incredibly strong and abrasion resistant. And, the parts of the backpacks that aren’t exposed are made of siliconised nylon, which is even lighter but also just as durable as the exterior fabric.

The material of the Le​vity is also water resistant, which is very important. You will be fine if you get caught in the rain or snow, and your gear will stay perfectly dry. Also, that kind of makes up for the fact that you don’t get a rain cover with this backpack.

Ultralight AirSpeed Mesh Backpanel

I already mentioned in the Hikelite review that, with this new line of backpacks, Osprey really stepped up their ventilation game.

And, while that might not be too important when it comes to everyday backpacks, it is incredibly important with these outdoorsy backpacks. Trekking, hiking, mountaineering, and all similar activities are very tiring on their own -especially for beginners.

And when it’s warm outside, it’s no surprise that you’ll get sweaty after just an hour or so. Even faster if it’s the middle of July.  With a regular, non-ventilated backpack, the back of your t-shirt will be soaking wet. But, not with the Levity.

This backpack has a fully ventilated backpanel that promises to keep you cool and dry throughout your adventures. This is precisely why the Levity is a great choice for the upcoming months!

Internal Hydration Sleeve

The Levity is equipped with an internal hydration sleeve, and both variants are fully compatible with all of Osprey’s hydraulics reservoirs.

So if you like to keep hydrated on the go, this backpack won’t let you down. However, the reservoirs aren’t included in the purchase, and you will have to buy them separately.

But, nobody said you have to get an Osprey reservoir; there are plenty of cheaper options out there. Just make sure that their dimensions are compatible with the Levity’s sleeve.

Main Compartment With Drawcord Closure & Zippered Top Pocket

The top part of the backpack is slightly unusual, at least when you compare it to other Osprey backpacks. The main compartment does not have traditional zipper closure.

Rather, you can close it with the drawcord, and then you flip the upper compartment over it. Once you do that, you can further secure this compartment with the compression straps that extend through the entire length of the backpack. They will make sure that your gear stays in place, as it should.

In addition to that, the top part that you flip over the main compartment is actually a zippered pocket. This is a really great inclusion because you can use it to keep anything you will use more often on your adventures – phone, wallet, hunting knife, a snack bar etc.

Now, since this is a very tall backpack, it makes sense that the side pockets are also really big. Or at least bigger than what you normally see on smaller hiking backpacks.

On the one hand, this means that you can fit more stuff in them, as well as a larger water bottle. On the other hand, it might also mean that items can fall out of these pockets more easily.

And that is exactly why the Levity includes InsideOut compression cords on its side pockets. You just tighten it over the water bottle (or whatever you put in the pockets), and it will ensure that nothing slips out.

Sternum Strap And Hipbelt With Harness

This is a very important feature, particularly when talking about big backpacks. The hipbelt and harness help distribute the weight of your load evenly across your torso, so you don’t get tired too fast. Additionally, it also helps ease the pressure on your shoulders and upper back.

Now, the most relatable experience I can think of is carrying a school backpack full of books. These did not have anything other than the two shoulder straps, and I remember often suffering from pain in my shoulders. The straps would just cut into them, and all the weight of the backpack was on the upper part of my torso. And those backpacks were much smaller and lighter than this one.

That is precisely why the hipbelt is important. It is also padded (just like the harness) and it will keep you comfortable throughout your adventures.

And, there is also a sternum strap with an emergency whistle on the Levity. Its job is to keep the shoulder straps in place and ensure that they don’t accidently slip off. And, the whistle is there so you can seek help if you need to.

Is It Smart To Invest In The Osprey Levity Backpack?

Well, as always, that largely depends on how much use you think you will get out of it. If you spend most of your time outdoors and often go hiking or camping or whatever, then yes. Investing in this backpack is definitely worth it.

The Levity is a really big backpack, and you could comfortably bring it along on a weeklong backpacking trip. Well, provided that you travel light. But, it can definitely fit all your necessities for some shorter trips. And, what makes it better than other, similar backpacks is its lightweight coupled with the sturdy build. In many ways, it replaces the older Osprey Atmos or Aether.

Otherwise, if you don’t really need a big sturdy backpack, then there are better options for you. I say this because this backpack was meant for a true outdoors person, someone who can really appreciate all the design features Osprey included to make your adventures go as smoothly as possible. And, its price tag reflects that.

So, if you are looking for something more casual, check out the Hikelite or the Daylite. Or, check out these cool anti-theft backpacks – they are perfect for day-to-day use.

Anyhow, if you want to get the Levity, head over to Amazon and see if you like the price!

Opsrey Levity vs Lumina

Yes, the Osprey Levity and Lumina are very very similar. But, the biggest difference is that the Lumina is Osprey’s women-specific sizing and the design version of the Levity.

That means, that if you are a woman and find wearing backpacks designed for men to be unconformable, this is the option for you.

And, if you look closely, you will notice that the blue accents are slightly different colors. A guess that is a nod to the fact that the Lumina is meant to be more feminine?

Both come in a 45L and a 60L size, so if you are only going on shorter weekend-style hikes, then go for the 45.