ashenOsprey is a brand that does not go unnoticed when it comes to high quality, reliable backpacks. The Osprey Daylite is a minimalist daypack that can be used for any outdoor activity from short hikes to traveling. However, most adventure sport enthusiasts question is the Osprey Daylite for Skiing as well? This post is dedicated to answering that question in detail and as fairly as possible. Osprey hasn’t listed this daypack as one of their many backpacks built for skiing. However, does that mean that the Daylite can’t be used in the snow? Let’s find out.
Osprey Daylite Specs
- Volume of 13L/ Weight: 1 lb
- 210D Nylon Oxford as the main fabric
- Mesh-covered die-cut foam backpanel
- External hydration reservoir pocket
- Side mesh pockets
- Attachable to many Osprey backpacks
- Multi-function interior sleeve
Osprey Daylite: A Brief Review
Starting off with the materials used, GRS-certified recycled nylon makes this waterproof because of the tight weave and durable. Handling rough surroundings won’t be an issue with the Daylite. Moving onto the build quality, padding in the backpanel and harness makes the touch soft and comfortable. Breathability is also taken care of given the mesh that covers the parts that come into contact with your torso. Therefore you can use this bag in the summer without a slight hesitation.
You can also access the hydration pouch at the top of the pack without opening the pack itself. The removable webbing belt does not have any padding and most experts agree that it is fine since we aren’t planning on using it as a backpack for trekking such as the Osprey farpoint 40. Still, it comes in handy if you want to even out the load between your shoulders, back and hips.
The main objective of adding a hipbelt is for stability, especially when climbing, cycling. The main compartment is spacious and fits a lot inside plus it is protective considering the compression straps that go over the zipper. The two meshed side pockets are usually for storing water bottles and the external hydration sleeve protects your stuff inside in case the reservoir malfunctions.
Is The Osprey Daylite Good for Skiing?
First and foremost let’s identify what separates a regular backpack from a ski one.
- Contains ski carry straps
- Pockets for probe/ shovel
- Pockets for goggle
- Hydration compatible
- Vertical and diagonal ski carry
- Good internal organization
Next let’s take a look at the Osprey recommended daypacks for skiing such as the Kamber 16.
- Avalanche safety kit storage with shovel handle and probe sleeves
- Vertical front panel and dedicated straps for horizontal snowboard carry
- Compatibility with Hydraulics and Hydraulics LT Reservoir
- Easy-access accessories/goggles stash pocket
- Snowshed backpanel and glove-friendly buckles
- Zippered insulated hydration hose sleeve
Comparison and Conclusion
You’ve probably noticed that we did not pay much attention to the material or the weight of the backpack. Instead our focus was solely on the addons that a ski friendly backpack should possess. As you can see from the checklist above, it at least should have dedicated straps to carry skis or a snowboard. The snow-shedding back panel is great to minimize accumulation. Not to mention the avalanche safety kit storage as well. So what does both the bags have in common?
Aside from the internal organization and versatility, I’d say it is the hydration pocket, adjustable sternum strap and the webbing hipbelt. However, the Osprey Daylite clearly does not have what it takes to be used as a ski backpack. As a hiking daypack, it has earned the praise of almost all of its users, but not many decided to choose this as their ski pack. Therefore, conclusively we can decide that the Osprey Daylite is best used for short hikes and biking rather than skiing.
