Osprey: American excellence in backpacks

Discover the Osprey brand

For fifty years, Osprey has been designing technical products that accompany hikers around the world. This success is based on a simple but demanding philosophy: to create the best possible backpacks and guarantee exceptional durability. Over time, Osprey has preserved its artisanal spirit and continues to set the standards of excellence in the backpack and outdoor equipment industry.

Did you know?

The name "Osprey" was chosen in reference to this bird of prey, renowned for its precision and adaptability.

Osprey: Fifty years of history and innovation

The Osprey adventure began in 1974 when Mike Pfotenhauer, then 16 years old, made his first backpack on his mother's sewing machine. After studying design, Mike officially founded the brand in 1976. During the 1980s, Osprey gradually built its reputation among Californian hikers thanks to the exceptional quality of its bags and its focus on comfort, with ergonomic carrying systems and attention to detail.

The 1990s marked a turning point with revolutionary technologies: the AirScape system (a sculpted foam back panel that improves ventilation and comfort) and the first bags with adjustable carrying systems that allow the bag to be adapted to different body types. The company moved to Cortez, Colorado, in the heart of the Rockies, an ideal location for essais. 

During the 2000s, Osprey diversified into travel bags, ultra-light trail running bags with integrated hydration, cycling (mountain biking, bikepacking), and baby carriers. The brand launched the "All Mighty Guarantee," a lifetime warranty covering manufacturing defects and repairs: a bold policy demonstrating confidence in the durability of its products.

A complete range of bags for all terrains

Osprey structures its offering around the main outdoor activities. For hiking and trekking, the brand's historical core, the bags are available in different capacities depending on the length of the outing: from 30 liters for a day trip to over 70 liters for long expeditions. Each range offers specific versions for men and women, with real differences in cut and ergonomics.

The brand also covers mountaineering with sleek, lightweight technical bags, trail running with ultra-lightweight vest bags incorporating hydration systems, travel with hybrid bags combining backpack and suitcase functionality, everyday urban use with understated designs, and cycling with specific MTB bags. This diversification allows Osprey to support outdoor enthusiasts in all their activities, from the mountains to the city.

Osprey's commitment to sustainability and positioning

The "Circular by Design" program structures the brand's environmental approach: 

• more than 80% of bags incorporate recycled materials,
• the phasingout of harmful chemical treatments,
• eco-design to facilitate product repair and recycling. 

The "All Mighty Guarantee" (lifetime warranty) is the brand's strongest commitment: free repair of any defect for life in centers in the US and Europe that handle thousands of bags annually, as well as a recycling program for end-of-life bags. 

On a social level, Osprey is committed to: 

• fair conditions ( Fair Labor Association membership);
• transparency in its supply chain; 
• support for conservation organizations and outdoor access programs.