Designed for long days in the saddle, the Osprey Raven 10 is a women’s-specific mountain bike hydration pack built to balance capacity, stability and comfort on demanding trails.
While I explore the Raven 10 in this review, the men’s version – the Raptor 10 – features identical features in a slightly different fit.
Read more about hydration packs in AMB’s hydration pack group test!
With a generous 10L pack volume and an included 2.5L reservoir, it’s aimed squarely at riders who want enough space for tools, spares, layers and nutrition while retaining a smaller silhouette.
Osprey’s bike-focused design is evident throughout, from the stable winged shoulder harness to the accessible hipbelt pockets, making the Raven 10 a practical option for everything from all-day trail missions to bike park laps.
The Raven 10 uses Osprey’s AirScape backpanel, combining a ventilated foam structure with a close-to-body fit to improve airflow while maintaining stability. Hydration is handled by the included Osprey Hydraulics LT 2.5L reservoir, accessed via a dedicated zippered sleeve for easy filling.
Storage is well thought out, with a separate compartment housing a removable tool roll, stretch mesh hipbelt pockets for snacks or a phone, a sunglasses-and-goggles pocket, and a front stretch mesh pocket for quick-access gear. There are also mesh pockets within the main body of the bag, as well as a zippered pocket with a key holder.
Read more about Osprey’s different back panel designs
The pack is finished with bike-specific touches such as LidLock helmet carry, compression straps (that double as a helmet holder for a full face lid), a blinker light attachment and reflective graphics, while its bluesign-approved, PFAS-free recycled nylon fabrics underline Osprey’s focus on sustainable design.
On the Trail
While 10L isn’t a lot for a backpack, it’s a fair amount for a minimalist rider. Usually my packs are hydration and tools only, or slightly larger to facilitate overnight ‘credit card’ bikepacking. Despite this, I found myself reaching for the Raven 10 for rides with the family and all day adventures – and despite its small volume it’s deceptively capable. I would entertain an overnight adventure with the Raven 10 as well.
The shoulder straps were well padded but maintained ventilation, and the Airscape back certainly helped on those 90% humidity days.
Key features I enjoyed were the mesh hip pockets and the tool roll. Having a dedicated place for spares that located the weight low on the hips worked well and allowed me to retain good bike feel and balance despite wearing a pack. The hip pockets – stuffed full of Haribo – saved my butt a few times when the intensity was too high and I was scrambling for a quick snack.
The only reservation I have is with the external stretchy mesh pocket – while I had no issues with this, I have had previous packs that have stretched and lost shape over time. This comes with a caveat – I am talking about packs that have done 10+ years of intermittent use and are otherwise still completely structurally fine and work well, just minus the mesh pockets.
Our Take
Overall, you cannot rival the bike-related features Osprey have loaded into the Raven and Raptor 10. As an ‘all-round’ pack (not just for racing nor huge multi day adventures) the Raven absolutely excels.
At $279 it’s not a cheap option – but that’s to be expected with the premium features packed into the Raven 10. Plus, if it’s anything like some Osprey packs I have had for 10+ years, they do pass the test of time.
For those looking for more volume, Osprey also makes the Raptor and Raven in a 14L, but for me the Raven 10L is the sweet spot for most riders.
Key details of the Osprey Raven 10
- Weight: 0.95kg (actual)
- Colours available: Deep Fig/Hotspot Pink and Black
- RRP: $279
- Learn more: https://ospreyaustralia.com.au
Pros:
– Adjustability
– Waist pockets
– Many mountain bike specific features
Cons:
– All round pack for day adventures – but size not suited to race missions or overnighters
