This Osprey Stratos 34 vs Kestrel 32 review was written in response to consumer demand. As these two backpacks are very similar, it can be very difficult to choose between the two. In this synopsis, we have extracted the major differences between the two so that you can make a purchasing decision.
Both of these backpacks are made for day hikes or just day travel in the city. But if you look closely, there are a few differences that can affect what you use these for your own travels.
Osprey Stratos 34 vs Kestrel 32
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Osprey Stratos 34 vs Kestrel 32: Features Comparison
External hydration sleeve
The Kestrel 32 has an external hydration sleeve at the top part of the back panel. Osprey has the number of hydration packs that you can choose from that will fit into this backpack. This will allow you to keep hydrated as you move. The Osprey Stratos 34 does not have this hydration sleeve, but it does have side pockets that you can use to store a hydration bottle.
Front mesh pocket
The Kestrel 32 has a large front mesh pocket that can stretch to accommodate for large items. This means that you can store heavy winter coats and large blankets without needing to use the main compartment. This is a major bonus if you are going to be carrying these items with you and need a place to store them.
The Stratos 34 does not have a front mesh pocket like this one. Therefore, if you need to carry these heavy items and don’t want to use up the main compartment, the Kestrel 32 is a good option.
Custom torso fit
Although both backpacks are highly adjustable to your size, the Kestrel 32 has a custom torso fit. This means that you can adjust for the length of your torso. This is rarely found in packs of this size, so this is a great option.
Main compartment access
With both backpacks, you can access the main compartment’s content very easily. You just need to zipper open its front flap to expose all of the gear. This is something commonly found in most Osprey backpacks, as it is important to be able to access your gear without having to rummage through it.
Comfort
Both backpacks have the same type of back panel frame. It adjusts to the size of your back and molds so that you get a very comfortable feel when you are wearing it. However, the Kestrel 32 offers the additional frame design that transfers the weight of your gear from the harness to the hip belt. This makes it so that the weight is distributed more evenly and not so much on pressure points.
Hip belt adjustability
Both backpacks have a hip belt with zippered pockets. However, customers have said that the Kestrel 32 hip belt strap is not quite long enough in certain circumstances. For example, if you are wearing a heavy coat, the hip belt can be very tight.
But the Stratos 34’s hip belt is designed with the ‘ErgoPull’ hip belt closure. This means that you can adjust the hip belt to the size of your waist a lot easier. You do not need to worry about the straps or the size of the belt.
Sleeping bag compartment
The Stratos 34 has a sleeping bag compartment, whereas the Kestrel 32 does not. It is a zippered compartment that does not allow any rain through. This is better than just strapping a rolled up sleeping bag to the bottom of the backpack. If you are going to be staying overnight in places that need a sleeping bag, perhaps the Stratos 34 would be a better option.
Integrated rain cover
Both the Stratos 34 and the Kestrel 32 have an integrated rain cover to protect against inclement weather. Pull it out from under the backpack inside of the external pocket that holds it, and place it back in when finished.
Compression system
Both backpacks have the same compression system. You can use these compression straps to stabilize your gear as you roaming about. If you are filling your backpack only halfway, this makes your gear feel a lot lighter.
Osprey Stratos 34 vs Kestrel 32: Price Differences
If you’d like some up to date prices on these backpacks, please see below:
Osprey Stratos 34 vs Kestrel 32: The Verdict
Overall, Kestrel 32 seems to have more features than the Stratos 34. However, the Stratos 34 has a sleeping bag compartment and the better adjustable hip belt. If your waist is of a larger size, the Stratos 34 may be the better option.
If you will be sleeping overnights, the Stratos 34 can offer more with his sleeping bag compartment. But otherwise, the Kestrel 32 has a slight edge due you to its custom torso fit, front mesh pocket, and external hydration sleeve.
