I know I am a gear freak but I also know that many times my well being and safety depend on the clothing and equipment I am using. To this end working with someone like my friend will result in getting the best piece of equipment. It would be a shame to lose this type of service. On top of launching innovative products and designs, Osprey has also developed several proprietary technologies.

However, all of these cool features come with a weight penalty. The Endo is even heavier than the Osprey Syncro. I am eager to hear from you. And I appreciate the enthusiastic and professional way you scamper into your work… I hope those suggestions are helpful. I would be very curious to hear what you decide on. Thanks again for the question.

Small white sleeve is for your shades, sliding sternum strap is de rigeur these days - Photo: Lukasz Warzecha (lwimages.co.uk) Even though it’s a lightweight model, the Optic comes with fully padded shoulder straps and waist belt. The suspension system you have here is simply great, this is what Gregory calls CrossFlo ventilated suspension. This is a suspended mesh, or trampoline-type system, the best possible for ventilation. Adjustable torso provides 3.5" of adjustment, allowing for a custom fit without compromising support. Construction: 3 of 5 — The craftsmanship of the Zulu 30 is solid and what you’d expect from Gregory, but the materials used are nothing special. It’s all medium-density nylon, which strikes a balance of durability and weight.

Particularly great in the suspension which you have here is also the lumbar area, with an excellent padding and a ventilation channel, just see the picture above. Sometimes I’m in my hiking gear, and sometimes I have to spiff up. Sometimes I sleep on the ground around a campfire, and sometimes I have a hotel and a shower and I can wash my sox. The tension is achieved by an X-frame which gives the structure and stability to this system. It is visible in the picture.

Compression: Excellent compression straps allow it to compress down dramatically without hindering other features. I like to evaluate how environmentally friendly the brand is when I research and review outdoor gear. I’d say that Osprey is one of the more sustainable and eco-conscious brands. Hydration sleeve with SpeedClip hydration hanger compatible with Gregory’s 3D Hydro reservoirs (reservoir not included).