Osprey Rook 65 is the most affordable, durable, 65-liter multi-day pack from a quality brand like Osprey. Rook 65 has all the essential features that we need in a backpack. These features include water bottle pockets, padded adjustable straps with chest straps, a non-removable top lid pocket, and bottom section access. Osprey Rook 65 has a rapid ventilation system. You can also adjust this bag according to your needs.
View at Amazon: Osprey Rook 65L Backpacking Backpack
According to our experience, unlike other expensive models around 65-litre, this backpack performs well in most of the situations. This backpack is suitable for beginner to intermediate hiking experienced hikers for a few days of backpack trips.
Related: Best Osprey Daypack
However, due to its rigid padding and some stiff components, it’s not the most comfortable backpacking pack. Therefore it’s not suitable if you plan to hike for weeks to months. At a low price and brand like Osprey, this pack is value for the money if you are starting your backpacking trips or tight on the budget. Read this article to learn more about this Osprey Rook 65 Backpack.
Rook 65: Performance Comparison and Testing Results
Carrying Comfort
Osprey Rook 65 is a budget-friendly bag. It has many points at the top and chest area to adjust the straps on both sides, but it lacks the comfort level of top models for heavy loads. The reason is that these straps are designed to provide comfort but are not well padded from the inner side after a few miles.
This bag is designed to carry 30-40 pounds. During my 3 to 4 days of backpacking trips, I never had any problem carrying gear that was needed along with food. This bag helps to reduce the chances of shoulder and back strain.
I also noticed that on bumpy and rough trails, this pack bounces on the back if you don’t tie the front, as I usually leave them open. Carrying comfort also improves significantly if you know how to pack and layer things properly in the pack.
Osprey Rook 65 has an airspeed back panel system. It includes one mesh form layer and frame that creates a gap between your back and backpack, allowing air to flow. This helps to prevent your back from sweating while walking.
Overall, it is a high-quality bag with balanced comfort and support. This bag makes your journey smooth if you carry the weight according to the bag limit.
Storage and Organization
Osprey Rook 65 does not have all the organizing features and functions when compared to competitors like Osprey’s own Atmos and Aura AG. But it has tough fabric.
This minimalist pack has two mesh water bottle pockets with side access, a sturdy zipper for the sleeping bag compartment, a flap to separate the bottom and top, side compression straps for hiking or camping poles, and an extra set of straps for a polyethene sleeping pad.
It also has a flap to keep wet bags and tents separate from other gear. It is made for easy access in the middle of a trek.
The missing feature is a front shove-it pocket. It is an essential feature for instant packing or accessing stuff during the adventure. We also put trash in our bags during trips, and if we do not have extra pockets, we put trash in bags. Most modern backpacks have front storage, so this design is unappealing.
You can use Osprey’s Daylight backpack with Rook. It costs around $60 and adds an extra 13 Liters to the front of your bag. Though this innovative method solves the issue of front storage, it is expensive, and weight (1 lb. to 1.4 oz) is not useful.
Weight
The Osprey Rook 65 weighs only 3.52 pounds, so it is lightweight and best for backpacking. This bag is more robust and lightweight than others at a similar price.
The Kelty Coyote 65 pack costs similar to the Osprey Rook 65 but weighs 4 pounds 10 ounces more and is less durable. Every traveller needs a lightweight bag as heavier backpacks make you feel uncomfortable and exhausted.
A heavy bag is not the best option for a long trip. There are several more options with lighter or comparable weights, such as REI’s Flash 55, Gregory Zulu 65, and Paragon 65, but they are more expensive. So we highly recommend this due to its weight.
Ventilation
Osprey Rook 65 is well known for its ventilation because it has an airspeed back panel system. The Rook 65 backpack really felt comfortable when I was fully wet due to sweat while trekking.
Airflow helped dry my shirt quickly, and the pack never rubbed against the wet shirt due to the clear space between the pack and my body. It meshes the airspeed back panel, allows the air to flow freely, and prevents sweat from building while hiking between your back and backpack, making it a perfect choice for hot weather.
Compared to typical back panels, the airspeed technology improves ventilation while maintaining load stability. Despite that, we still like the Osprey Anti-Gravity system featured on the much more expensive Atmos, as it covers around the inner part of the hip belt.
The airspeed is a simplified version, and the variation in performance is evident even in mild, 50-degree weather. However, ventilation worked well at this price range.
Adjustability and Sizing
This bag comes only in one size with 4 levels of torso adjustability. So, it is perfect for all types of body sizes and shapes. You can adjust it by holding the vertical handlebars on the back side of the bag, pulling them up or down, and placing them into the proper canvas hole. This bag ensures the appropriate distribution of weight and reduces the chances of shoulder and back strain.
Most backpackers only change the sizing once. The hip belt sternum in this bag provides additional support to your body during hiking. I prefer hiking without tying the front belt, but during bumpy hiking or while you hike uphill or downhill, the pack moves a bit on your body. So I usually tie the front belt as needed on the trail. It’s pretty easy to adjust the straps.
I always recommend loading your backpack and practising at home. Try different adjustment options as per your comfort. This will help you make the quick adjustment on the trail without getting overwhelmed. The Osprey system works properly and is an effective way to improve the one-size-fits-all design.
Durability and Value
The body of Osprey Rook 65 is made of 600-denier polyester, and the bottom is made of 1000-denier. Due to its thick material, this bag is the most durable option among all the 4-pound budget backpacks.
This bag does not require extra care and protection during hiking or trekking because of its non-scratchable material. It has the best value with an airspeed back panel, adjustable torso system, and sturdy zipper for the sleeping bag compartment; all these features are commonly found in high-quality bags.
This bag is a cost-effective investment and promises both durability and functionality, which makes it a perfect choice for hikers.
Pros and Cons
| Pros | Cons |
| Have competitive Prices and weight among top brands. | Inadequate comfort level for long trips |
| Made of durable 600D polyester | It lacks features of top models like a front shove pocket, which makes it hard to organize stuff. |
| The adjustable torso length ensures a great fit for all body sizes. | Available in only one size |
| Superb Ventilation with Airspeed back panel | Water bottle pockets are shaped awkwardly |
Comparison with Competitors
Osprey Rook 65 is well known for its exceptional quality and weight among top brands. There are only a few competitors with lower costs than Osprey Rook 65, and Kelty Coyote 65 is the one which is $5 cheaper than Osprey which is $160.
Like Osprey, the Kelty Coyote 65 has adjustable shoulders and a waist, but its weight is 4 pounds 10 ounces and is made of 420D polyester fabric. Coyote 65 has additional features like front panel access and a shoving pocket. It is the best option for those looking for convenience.
Osprey Atmos AG 65 is the best option for experienced hikers. Its price is $270, and it offers on-trail comfort, quick tailoring, and back ventilation. It is one pound heavier than Rook 65, but it is better than that in terms of comfort, features, and ventilation. If you are not looking for an economical option but a better performer, you should buy Osprey Atmos AG 65.
Should You Buy an Osprey Rook 65 Backpack?
The Osprey Rook 65 Backpack is the best option for beginners and those who are planning multi-day hikes with a balanced load. It is the most affordable, durable and comfortable option for hikers. This backpack has an adjustable torso system, which makes it perfect for various body sizes.
Rook 65 also provides ventilation as it has an airspeed back panel. Although it lacks the advanced features of some Top-notch models, its durability and user-friendly design make it the best choice for outdoor adventures. If, you are looking for value over advanced features, then the Osprey Rook 65 Backpack is the best investment.
FAQ’s
How much weight can the Osprey Rook 65 carry?
The Osprey Rook 65 can carry a 30 to 40-pound weight. You can use it for multi-day hiking and trekking journeys if you are carrying enough weight. You can stack more weight in this backpack, but it will make you uncomfortable during hiking trips and cause back and shoulder strain.
What material is the Osprey Rook 65?
The Osprey Rook 65 is made up of 600D polyester fabric. This material is long-lasting and best for rough outdoor use. 600D polyester, is a non-scratchable fabric perfect for wear and tear during hiking or trekking and does not need extra care or protection. It is the most reliable option for long-term adventure.
Are Osprey backpacks any good?
Yes, Osprey backpacks are highly recommended due to their durability, comfort and modern designs. These bags are popular choices due to their airspeed back panel, adjustability and high-quality materials. This backpack is highly recommended by Hikers, backpackers, and outdoor adventure enthusiasts. These are the most affordable and trustworthy choices for your outdoor adventure.
Does Osprey Rook come with a rain cover?
Yes, Osprey Rook 65 has a built-in rain cover. It offers protection from rain and moisture. It helps to protect your gear and keep them dry during your outdoor adventure.
