Osprey Escapist 20L Rucksack review
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Osprey’s Escapist 20 is the ideal companion for longer biking days where you may need extra gear. With an array of different pockets, a helmet holder and a rain cover to protect against a sudden bout of rain, the Escapist is a great all-rounder whether it's an enduro event, a bikepacking exploit or a nip to the local store to grab your groceries. The only thing it’s lacking is a few more compartments dedicated to storing tools and the price is pretty hefty, too.
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Osprey Escapist Rucksack - Technical details
The Escapist 20 uses rugged, durable materials that can withstand rough and ready outdoor adventures. The rucksack utilises recycled Nylon in the body and is treated with a durable water repellent.
The hip belt and harness hug the body and are fully adjustable to provide a secure and comfortable fit. Adjustments are on the top of the shoulder straps and across the chest. The pockets on either side of the hipbelt have a zip opening and other internal compartments for larger items. Overall the rucksack features seven compartments. All zip pulls feature a big hoop for easy use with or without gloves. The large front pocket is a stretchy sleeve that can hold extra items you may want to grab quickly. In front of the mesh-covered foam back panel is a sleeve to hold a water reservoir for on-the-go hydration, and the Air Scape back panel provides close-to-body comfort with ventilation.
There is an attachment on the front at the bottom to carry a light and a mount on the front to carry your helmet.
The pocket at the base holds a rain cover and can be popped back away when the rain stops. So you never have to worry about leaving it behind, and your kit has a good chance of staying dry.
There are three colour options. The one I used is called Postal Blue and the others are Tan Concrete or Black. There are different sizes available, too, with an S/M and an M/L that I used (46-56cm), which measures the back length. Each size is adjustable by simply sliding the shoulder straps in the correct position with its velcro pad that attaches to the inside to keep it in place.
Osprey Escapist Rucksack - Performance
The Escapist took some adjusting when I first tried it on. Firstly, the M/L size I tested was a bit too big for me (I'm only 5’2”), and I would naturally always use an S/M for a rucksack if it has sizing options. But that said, this bag has so much adjustability that I could make it fit spot-on. Once I pulled on the upper shoulder straps, the bag sat closer to my upper back, and then I moved the velcro pad as low as possible so that the straps sat nicely against my shoulders, not leaving a gap anywhere. Once the bag was loaded, the fit was even better, and then I could adjust it a little more each time I needed to for the most comfortable fit. The rucksack stayed in position while riding and loaded with kit. I didn’t sway from side to side, nor did the straps become loose over time.
The back area was breathable as it allowed air to flow easily through and allowed heat that built up on my back to escape through the back panel. The Air Scape design on the back effectively kept my back less sweaty and more comfortable.
The fit is great, especially once in the riding position. The hip belt keeps on my hips and doesn't interfere while riding. The hip belt is adjustable and helps keep the rucksack comfortable, with the weight resting on my hip bones instead of around the waist.
Pockets are located on the hip belt and, with a plastic pull, they are easy to open even while riding and with gloves on. Ideal size for a phone or nutrition. I was surprised for a rucksack that is bike specific that there are only four zipped compartments and three mesh pouches for storage. A main pocket with a top zipped access which holds the most volume. This was great for a spare jacket, food, drink and even a compact stove to make a warm drink.
The other top pocket is smaller and perfect for tools as they are easy to reach and can be separated from other items for better organisation. The front features a large pouch that closes with a buckle to keep items inside secure and safe. Ideal for quickly stuffing a jacket in, and it is easier to reach inside and grab what is needed quickly.
Osprey Escapist Rucksack - Value and verdict
Looking at the rucksack overall, I think more tool-specific compartments would be useful for better organisation and possibly a smaller size would be more nimble and less chunky. But the adjustability is spot on and storage space is high, which, at the end of the day, is what you need in a rucksack. Great features with a place to attach your helmet and to carry hydration. Looking at the Deuter 1 20 has similarities, such as storage options and helmet holders coming at a lower price of £90.
Great all-rounder rucksack with various pockets and features for long days in the saddle; although I think the size is a bit too large for single-day cycling. It is more geared towards multi-day bike packing where more gear is needed such as sleeping equipment. It is also ideal for longer events such as the Megavalanche or a multi-day enduro event. A rain cover and a sleeve for a water reservoir are features most appreciated during a long ride for typical unpredictable weather.