Daily routines often necessitate the transportation of various essential items. Consequently, the choice of backpack becomes paramount. In this review, we evaluate the Osprey Archeon 24, a versatile pack designed for both urban commutes and outdoor excursions. Our testing encompassed a range of environments, each presenting unique demands. The central question is whether the Osprey Archeon 24 lives up to its promise as a versatile solution for diverse needs.
The Osprey Brand – A Brief Background
Osprey, an American company with over 40 years of experience, specializes in a wide array of bags. Their product line includes various backpacks, cabin luggage, hiking and duffel bags, and backpacking solutions. Osprey backpacks are characterized by their rich feature set and adaptability, catering to individual body types and specific requirements. The combination of durability and lightweight design makes Osprey products a compelling option for diverse applications. The brand is widely recognized as a pioneer in the development of well-fitting and highly functional backpacks.
How we tested the Archeon 24
Our evaluation of the Archeon 24 involved bicycle commuting, forest hikes, public transportation usage, and general everyday use, including a day trip to the beach. These scenarios presented varying packing requirements, highlighting both the strengths and limitations of the Archeon 24.
Archeon 24 – Overall
The Archeon 24 is a unisex backpack with a 24-liter capacity and a weight of 1.2 kg (empty). Constructed from durable 1880D Recycled Nylon Canvas, the main compartment utilizes a robust YKK10 zipper, while the smaller top compartment features a YKK8 zipper. This attention to detail suggests long-term durability and resilience.
The interior features a larger inner pocket and two smaller pockets for organizing smaller items. A padded internal compartment accommodates laptops up to 16 inches and is also compatible with Osprey’s Hydraulics reservoir system. A key clip, positioned above the laptop compartment, can also be used to secure a water bladder.
Osprey’s AirScape system allows for back panel adjustability to accommodate different torso lengths. The AirScape system prioritizes stability by maintaining close contact with the back, which may compromise ventilation. Two external stretch pockets are provided for water bottles. A built-in whistle is integrated into the chest strap, and a waist belt is included for added stability.
On the bike
The Archeon 24 performs well for bicycle commuting. It readily accommodates a change of clothes, lunch, a laptop, and other essential items. The pack remains stable and sits high on the back, facilitating freedom of movement during cycling. The close fit enhances stability, allowing the wearer to focus on cycling. However, we noted two potential improvements: a small pocket on the harness and a solution for managing excess strap length.
The exterior of the backpack lacks a water-repellent coating and is susceptible to wetting in the rain. While the internal water protection provides adequate defense against light showers, prolonged exposure to heavy rain may result in moisture penetration around the zippers and seams. It should be noted that significant rainfall did not occur during the test period.
The top compartment offers convenient and readily accessible storage for wallets, phones, and keys. The hydration system port can also accommodate wired headphones if desired.
In the forest
While the Archeon 24 boasts a design that conforms well to the back, it exhibits a tendency to fall forward when placed on the ground, requiring it to be laid down or leaned against a stable object. This characteristic can become inconvenient. Users may need to avoid placing the back panel on wet surfaces to prevent moisture transfer.
The reduced ventilation and close contact area can lead to heat and moisture buildup on the back. While this may provide insulation in cooler conditions, it can become uncomfortable during warmer weather. For higher-intensity activities, Osprey’s AirSpeed system may be a more suitable alternative.
In public transport
The Archeon 24 presents a stylish and understated aesthetic suitable for urban environments. However, its size can feel somewhat bulky, particularly when used on public transport. The aforementioned issue of the pack’s inability to stand upright becomes more pronounced in this context.
When carrying smaller items such as cables and headphones, the internal organization could be improved. The limited number of compartments and pockets (one large and one small) may not suffice for users who prefer a more structured packing system. The Archeon 24’s main compartment can feel like a large void, making it challenging to locate specific items quickly.
On the beach
The Archeon 24’s robust construction and degree of moisture protection make it a suitable choice for beach outings. It provides a secure environment for clothing, electronics, and food. The generous capacity allows for ample packing. While the pack’s inability to stand remains a minor inconvenience, its accessibility is maintained when placed nearby. Furthermore, the compatibility with the Hydraulics system allows users to carry ample water without taking up space in the main compartment.
Companion or Wardrobe Buddy?
The Osprey Archeon 24 is marketed as a hybrid pack, primarily due to its exterior design. It excels in active scenarios, demonstrating resilience in various weather conditions. It is particularly well-suited for cycling commutes due to its secure fit and carrying capacity. Its stable design also makes it a good choice for brisk walks or trail running.
However, the internal organization may not be sufficient for users who require a highly organized mobile office. While it offers ample space, the Archeon 24 may not be the best choice for those who need to systematically pack cables, a computer mouse, USB adapters, and other peripherals. In these cases, a dedicated computer backpack may be more appropriate.
In summary, the Archeon 24 is a durable, well-fitting, and stable pack suitable for users who prioritize ruggedness and reliability in active pursuits. However, its limitations in organizational features and its tendency to fall over make it less ideal for certain situations, such as use on public transport.
Osprey provided test samples for this review. The provision of these samples does not influence our editorial independence.
