The figures refer to the current Talon/Tempest generations. Osprey regularly updates its models – check the product page for exact dimensions.
The Osprey Talon (men's) and the Osprey Tempest (women's) are the all-round daypacks from the Osprey range – lightweight, ergonomic and versatile. Whether it's a classic hike, a biking tour or a city trip: this series is designed for active users who value wearing comfort and low weight. With 6 sizes from 11 to 44 litres, you'll find the right model for every purpose.
Talon and Tempest – the two versions
Talon
- For heights 170–195 cm
- Back length S/M and L/XL available
- Straight-cut hip belt
- Wider shoulder straps
- Colours: blue, green, black, orange
Tempest
- For heights 155–180 cm
- Back length WXS/S and WM/L available
- Women-specific curved hip belt
- S-shaped, narrower-cut shoulder straps
- Colours: violet, pink, turquoise, grey
The 6 sizes at a glance
Trail running
Short bike ride
Day trip
short
Day trip
standard
Long tour
Bike
Hut-to-hut tour
Via ferrata
Traverse
Two days
Tip: For a classic day hike, the Talon / Tempest 22 is the bestseller. It holds enough food, a spare jacket, a water bottle and a hydration bladder (3 L). If you need less: go for the 18. If you're planning high-mountain hut tours: the 33 or 44.
Talon / Tempest 11 – ultralight for trail running and biking
The small Talon 11 and Tempest 9 (the women's model is 9 L) are the mini versions for:
- Trail running: enough room for a hydration bladder, windbreaker, snacks
- Mountain biking: tools, spare tube, rain jacket
- Vertical ascents: for summit chasers with minimal gear
- Fast trails: 2–4 hours, light luggage
Talon / Tempest 18 & 22 – the all-round day hikers
The 22-litre version is the bestseller of the series. It fits:
- Food: packed lunch, cereal bars, a banana
- Water: a 2–3 L hydration bladder or 2 bottles
- Spare clothing: fleece, rain jacket
- First-aid kit and a small pack of essentials
- Camera or small binoculars
- Headlamp for an early start
The 18 is the smaller version for short tours and lighter loads. If you like to pack ultralight, 18 L is enough.
Talon / Tempest 26 & 33 – for ambitious days and hut tours
The 26-litre backpack is ideal for:
- Long day tours over 8 hours with more spare clothing
- Entry-level mountaineering without a tent
- Via ferratas with helmet, via ferrata set, belay rope
The 33 even manages a hut tour – for one night in an alpine club hut. With sleeping bag compatibility (hut sleeping bag liner), it fits spare clothing and food for 2 days.
Talon / Tempest 44 – the traverse
The largest version of the series is suitable for:
- Two-day hut tours in the Alps
- Summit traverses with via ferrata gear
- Lightweight camping (bivy sack + mat + stove)
For genuine trekking with a tent and multi-day food supplies, the Osprey Kestrel / Kyte (48–68 L) is the better choice.
The most important features
AirScape back panel
Ventilated, perforated back panel for maximum airflow. Less sweating in warm temperatures.
Hydration-compatible
Dedicated compartment for a hydration bladder (2–3 L) with hose port. Drink on the move without stopping.
Helmet attachment
LidLock system for attaching a helmet – handy when switching from riding to a break.
Trekking pole attachment
Attachment points for trekking poles or an ice axe – at the bottom of the pack.
Hip belt front pockets
Small zippered pockets on the hip belt for snacks, smartphone, camera – quick access.
Integrated rain cover
Integrated from the 22 model upwards – ready to use quickly in a rain shower.
Talon/Tempest vs. Kestrel/Kyte – the difference
If you're deciding between the Talon/Tempest and the Kestrel/Kyte:
- Talon / Tempest: lighter, more minimalist, better for active use (biking, running, fast-paced hiking)
- Kestrel / Kyte: more robust, more features (top-loader + front zip), better for multi-day tours with more gear
Rule of thumb: Up to 26 L = Talon/Tempest (light, sporty). From 32 L = Kestrel/Kyte (robust, more features).
Frequently asked questions about Talon and Tempest
What is the difference between the Talon and the Tempest?
The Talon is the men's model (straight hip belt, wider shoulder straps), the Tempest is the women's model (women-specific curved hip belt, narrower shoulder straps). Features and equipment are identical.
Which size suits which tour?
11 L: trail running, short biking tour. 18–22 L: classic day hike. 26 L: long day tour or bike tour. 33 L: hut tour with 1 overnight stay. 44 L: hut tour with 2 overnight stays or lightweight camping.
Is the Talon 22 suitable as carry-on luggage?
It's designed to carry-on dimensions and usually fits under the seat in front without any problem. For strict airlines such as Ryanair it's more borderline – if in doubt, check the exact dimensions beforehand.
What is the LidLock system?
LidLock is Osprey's helmet attachment system. Using an elastic clip and strap, you can securely attach a bike or climbing helmet to the backpack. Particularly handy when switching between riding and taking a break.
What's the difference between the Talon and the Kestrel?
The Talon is lighter and more minimalist – ideal for active use (biking, running). The Kestrel is more robust and has more features (front zip, rain cover from the 38 model upwards, adjustable back length). Both are suitable for day hikes.
Which Talon/Tempest size is the bestseller?
The Talon 22 and Tempest 20 are the bestsellers of the series. They offer enough volume for a typical day tour, yet are light and compact enough for running or biking.
Does the Talon have a rain cover?
From the Talon 22 / Tempest 20 upwards, an integrated rain cover is included in the bottom compartment. Smaller models (11, 18) don't have one – here, a rain cover must be purchased separately.
Conclusion: Talon and Tempest – lightweight and ergonomic
The Osprey Talon and Tempest are the ideal all-round daypacks for active users. The key recommendations:
- Trail running / mountain biking: Talon 11 / Tempest 9
- Day hike (bestseller): Talon 22 / Tempest 20
- Long tour, day-long bike tour: Talon 26 / Tempest 24
- Hut tour, via ferrata: Talon 33 / Tempest 30
- Two-day tour: Talon 44 / Tempest 40
You'll find the full series in the Osprey backpacks category. More helpful articles: Kestrel & Kyte for trekking, Farpoint & Fairview for travel, Types of backpacks at a glance.
