Best Downburst 26 Rucksack Day Packs

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The Osprey Downburst 26 Rucksack, with an IPX5 waterproof rating and RF-welded construction, provides ultimate gear protection in wet conditions. The two compartments offer organisation but may limit bulky gear storage. Despite its weight, enhanced protection and comfort features make it versatile for hiking and commuting.

Osprey says: 

Soak up every moment you have outdoors, and not a drop more, with the Downburst Men’s 26. This daypack pairs our highly breathable AirSpeed™ suspension with an IPX5 waterproof main compartment and quick-dry external materials—delivering the capable fit and stability Osprey is known for while leaving nowhere for water to hide. Made with bluesign® approved 100% recycled nylon main body fabric.

FULL WATERPROOF CONSTRUCTION – The entire pack’s interior is thoroughly protected—from a light drizzle to heavy showers—with an IPX5 waterproof (non-submersible) rating thanks to its fully RF-welded, TPU-laminated construction.

NO-COMPROMISE GEAR CARRY – For quick-access essentials and drying raincoats, non-waterproof pocketing on the pack’s exterior, including bottle pockets, a large backpanel stash pocket and an external hydration sleeve, are made of breathable, water-shedding materials that’ll dry quick.

CATEGORY-LEADING FIT & COMFORT – Adjustable AirSpeed suspension provides category-leading fit, comfort and ventilation, designed to dry out quick whether you’re hiking in heat and humidity, or through a downpour.

AIRSPEED SUSPENSION – Injection-molded ladder adjustment system provides 4″ of torso adjustability. O/S per gender design delivers great fit and allows for quick, easy adjustment. 4 mm powder coated LightWire frame enhances fit range.

HARNESS – Ventilated die-cut EVA combines with stretch binding and quick-drying, highly breathable polyester mesh ensure outstanding comfort in all weather conditions. Adjustable sternum strap with rescue whistle.

AIRSPEED BACKPANEL -3D-tensioned TPU mesh is stable and non-absorbent, delivering outstanding ventilation and consistent fit in all weather conditions. Yoke design ensures consistent fit at any setting.

HIPBELT – Ventilated die-cut EVA combines with stretch binding and quick-drying, highly breathable polyester mesh ensure outstanding comfort in all weather conditions. Large zippered pockets provide secure access to small essentials on the trail. ErgoPull closure provides leverage to ensure snug fit and optimal load transfer

Our Verdict

The Downburst 26 Rucksack is a dependable option for demanding outdoor enthusiasts in unpredictable weather conditions. Its IPX5 waterproof rating ensures ultimate protection for your gear, keeping it dry during heavy showers. The RF-welded, TPU-laminated construction and quick-dry external materials effectively repel water, making it ideal for hiking in high-moisture areas or communing. 

However, it is worth noting that the Downburst features two main compartments: a fully waterproof roll-top compartment and a water-resistant zipped compartment closer to your back. While this compartmentalisation allows for better organisation and protection of sensitive items, it may limit the bag’s capacity for carrying bulkier gear.

The bag also includes a large front pocket made of DWR-treated nylon, which lacks stretch due to its waterproof design. This pocket helps store frequently needed items like rain gear or a bike helmet.

The AirSpeed™ suspension system provides exceptional ventilation and comfort, even in humid or rainy conditions. The customisable torso length ensures a personalised fit, while the die-cut EVA harness and hip belt enhance overall comfort, making extended hikes more enjoyable.

Despite its relatively heavy weight of 1474g, the Downburst 26 compensates for its additional grams with its enhanced protection and stability, making it a versatile choice for hiking and commuting. It features dual-access side bottle pockets and an external hydration sleeve for convenient hydration management.

– Reviewed by Ultralight Outdoor Gear

Features

• IPX5-rated waterproof main compartment with RF-welded construction
• Internal zippered mesh pocket with key clip keep keys/phones/wallets dry and protected
• PU-laminated YKK RC external zippers provide extra weatherproofing
• External hydration reservoir sleeve with centre pass-through port
• Dual upper and lower side compression straps
• Rugged, gusseted front compression pocket manages overloads, keeps layers and shells accessible
• Dual-access side bottle pockets keep bottles secure and reachable
• Dual zippered hipbelt pockets keep smaller items handy and accessible on the trail
• Ice axe/trekking pole loop with bungee tie-off
• Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole carry
• Sternum strap with whistle
• Welded PU laminated YKK zipper neatly secures main compartment
• Top can be rolled twice before buckling for maximum water resistance
• Downfacing zip flap ensures weather resistance even if flap is left unsecured

Specifications

• Weight: 1505g
• Dimensions: 61H X 35W X 32D CM
• Volume: 1587 IN 3 / 26 L

Material & Construction

• Main: bluesign® approved, 100% recycled 210D nylon w/ high-tenacity double ripstop, coated with TPU laminate

• Accent: bluesign® approved, 100% recycled 70D nylon, DWR treatments made without PFAS

• Bottom: bluesign® approved, 100% recycled 420D nylon, DWR treatment made without PFAS

Help & advice:

• The Ultimate Guide to Choosing an Ultralight Rucksack
• Time-Saver Guide to Choosing a Rucksack
• Recycled Content in Outdoor Gear
• The Bluesign System
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