This review of the Osprey Exos 48 vs 58 was written because of how similar these two backpacks really are. As a matter of fact, there are only a couple of minor differences, so it can be difficult to choose between them.
The Exos line by Osprey is made for lightweight and minimalistic backpacking. Both of these backpacks can be used for weekend hike and overnight stays. Keep in mind that due to the fact they are lightweight, they do not have a sleeping bag compartment.
Related: Osprey Exos 48 vs Talon 44: Made for 1-2 Days
Osprey Exos 48 vs 58
Osprey Exos 48 vs 58: What makes them similar
How the front panel is made
The front panel on the Exos series are ultra stretchy. You can fit a lot of content into the front mesh pocket. They are no different in this respect as they are made with the exact same material and design. You can fit some large items into this without needing to bother with taking up room in the main compartment.
ExoForm harness
Derived from its name, the ExoForm harness in the Exos backpacks are optimized for comfort. Keep in mind that the torso length of these backpanels are not adjustable. So make sure to choose the correct size for your body. The Exos backpacks come in small, medium, and large sizes. The AirSpeed suspension that makes up the harness allows for the weight transfer to your hip belt. This relieves your back from carrying all of the weight.
Removable top lid
The top lid on both these backpacks are completely removable. You can replace the top lid with the Exos flapjacket. Using this flapjacket, you can further to compress the contents of your backpack to provide a slimmer profile and make it more stable. You will also be protecting it from the weather as it acts as a sort of rain guard.
Extra gear attachment points
These backpacks have attachment points for your ice axe, as well as bungee tie-off points for various other implements. In fact, the compression straps at the top also act as a means to secure long items that you can talk into the side pocket.
A spot for your sleeping pad
It is nice that these backpacks have straps for a rolled up sleeping pad. Just remember that due to the lightweight profile of the Exos, there are no sleeping bag compartments. If you are wanting to carry a sleeping bag with you, make it a small sleeping bag and put it at the bottom of the main compartment.
What makes them different
The Exos 48 and 58 are different in terms of their dimensions, volume capacity, and weight. These are the only differences between these two backpacks. They are otherwise the same backpack with the same design.
Osprey Exos 48 Specifications
- Dimensions: 26 x 14 x 12 inches (s) and 28 x 14 x 12 inches (m) and 30 x 14 x 12 inches (l)
- Volume capacity: 45 liters (s) and 48 liters (m) and 51 liters (l)
- Weight: 2.23 pounds (s) and 2.31 pounds (m) and 2.4 pounds (l)
Osprey Exos 58 Specifications
- Dimensions: 28 x 14 x 14 inches (s) and 30 x 14 x 14 inches (m) and 32 x 14 x 14 inches (l)
- Volume capacity: 55 liters (s) and 58 liters (m) and 61 liters (l)
- Weight: 2.31 pounds (s) and 2.4 pounds (m) and 2.49 pounds (l)
As you can see, the Exos 58 is made to hold 10 liters more than the 48. It is 2 inches taller and 2 inches deeper. This also means that it takes up more space on your back. It may hang a lower than the 48, thus making it a little bit harder to walk with. But that so much depends on the size that you choose and your own torso length.
Osprey Exos 48 vs 58: Price Comparison
The Exos 58 costs around $30 more than the Exos 48 on Amazon.
The Verdict
Comparing these two backpacks, it is clear that they are identical in design except for the fact that one is larger than the other. They can both be used for the same purpose; to take along on weekend hikes. But you need to decide just how much gear you will want to carry. The Exos 48 carries a volume that is similar to that of a regular daypack. If we were to use the Exos on a weekend hike, we would choose the Exos 58 over the 48. This way, we can be sure to have enough room for all of our gear.