Osprey Variant 37 -
The Osprey Variant 37 Pack is a backpack that knows that sometimes you want to climb and sometimes you want to hike. This bag is into compromising: it's not going to make you choose. Use the hipbelt for support on the trail, stow the hipbelt for keeping it out of the way on the climb. Specifically designed with climbers in mind, this bag features glove-friendly buckles and a three-point system that makes for safe and secure big wall hauling. This bag doesn't give up under any conditions: an extendible spindrift collar keeps the snow out and the weatherproof and water-resistant front pocket keeps moisture away from your gear. This pack carries gear with ease, with specified loops for downhill and cross-country skis, an ice axe holster, and a compression pocket for crampons. Does anyone really like those buttered popcorn jellybeans?
FEATURES of the Osprey Variant 37 Pack.
SPECIFICATIONS of the Osprey Variant 37 Pack.
Collar:
- Removable top pocket has a zippered pocket underneath and an extendable spindrift collar to keep snow out of the pack; collar can be rolled up
Support and Cushioning:
- Thermoformed contoured backpanel provides cushioning and is shaped to better encourage air flow
Hipbelt:
- Contoured EVA hipbelt is removable and stowable; to stow while climbing, tuck hipbelt out of the way by threading webbing and buckles through tool holster slot
- Interchangeable hipbelt available in 4 sizes
Insulation:
- Side compression straps cinch down loads for jostle-free carrying; dual ski carry loops
Frame:
- Removable HDPE frame sheet provides lightweight rigidity to help transfer the load to your hips
Weather and Wind:
- Glove-friendly buckles allow access to the Variant without getting cold fingers
- Thermoformed, contoured back panel provides carrying comfort and snow shedding capabilities
- Fixed Stretch comfort shoulder harness provides superb carry with rolled seams for added comfort; rescue whistle is incorporated into sternum-strap buckle
Zippers:
- A zippered underlid pocket keeps maps and other items safe and secure
- Water resistant zippered front pocket
Pockets:
- Wand/ice-pro pocket
- Crampon compression pocket tames your claws when they're not in use
- Pack includes protection pockets for easy storage and quick access to wands, probes and pickets
- Reinforced front crampon shield compression pocket provides secure storage and easy access
- Dual ski loops hug your planks while you earn your turns; dedicated probe pocket keeps Ol' Probey ready for action
Fit:
- Unique side compression straps are low-profile and let you adjust the pack's volume to fit different load sizes
Fabric:
- 315D Cordura nylon
- Matrix 420D nylon
Padding:
- Padded shoulder straps ergonomically shaped for chafe-free performance and pressure-reducing comfort
- Contoured hip-belt curves around and pads your hips to ensure your load rests where it should; reverse-wrap ErgoPull closure makes cinching down belt easy
Hydration:
- Internal sleeve and drink tube exit port accommodate a 3-liter reservoir (sold separately) for hydration on the go
Straps:
- Top quick-release and bottom side compression straps
- Under-lid rope compression strap holds your rope in place during mellow pitches or bootpacks
Suspension:
- Lightweight suspension consists a removable HDPE framesheet and a single aluminum stay
Features:
- Optimal for 25-35 pounds of gear
- Removable top lid lets you ditch extra weight for summit bids and fast-packing
- Reflective detailing helps keep you visible in low-light situations
- Dual, adjustable tool bungee Y-clips stow ice tool shafts quickly, with corresponding holsters securely attaching ice tool head, including leashless ice tools
- Variant tool holster allows secure attachment of all ice tools, even leashless tools
- Easily remove the hip belt through a pass-through lumbar
- Climbing loops on waistbelt provide more room for your rack
- Hip belt can be tucked out of the way while climbing to give you more flexibility
- 3-point haul system, consisting of grab handle and 2 reinforced loops located at the top of pack, facilitate big wall hauling
- A bomber three point system provides secure big wall hauling
- 2 lb. 2 oz. stripped weight in medium
- Dual ice-tool loops and keep your vertical gear on lockdown until it's needed
- Glove-friendly buckles improve ease of use
USOutdoor.com
The Osprey Variant 37 Backpack is a pack that separates the serious climber from the mere rank and file--in fact, this is one the company designed specifically for the mountain guide, professional alpinist and weekend cragger. Everything on this backpack is dedicated to vertical pursuit, beginning with its special suspension system featuring a removable HDPE frame sheet with a 6061 aluminum stay for ultimate comfort and support throughout your climb. There are dual loops for downhill or cross country skis, a holster for an ice tool, and a compression pocket specially designed for crampons. The Osprey Variant 37 includes a 3-point system for big wall hauling, a water resistant front pocket, an under lid zipper pocket for storing maps, a wand pocket for keeping wands and pickets within easy reach and an extendible spindrift collar that keeps out the snow. The overall weight is reasonable for what this pack does--just 3 pounds 6 ounces--and the beauty is that it can be stripped down even more by removing the hip belt, top pocket and frame sheet, transforming the Variant 37 Backpack into a simple summit bag in the blink of an eye.
Backcountry.com
Osprey developed the Variant 37 Backpack with features any winter climber will appreciate. With crampon and wand pockets, ice tool holsters, and a three-point haul system, this pack begs to climb frozen waterfalls and glacier-covered peaks. The Opsrey Variant has a removable frame sheet and hip-belt for easier climbing or when you want to reduce overall weight. A removable top pocket with spindrift collar lets you streamline still further for missions that gram-ditching zeal.
Rocky Mountain Trail
This technical backpack offers superb carrying comfort, a versatile volume, and a long list of features for a variety of vertical endeavors.
The Osprey Variant 37 is a streamlined and impressively strong technical backpack that was built specifically a variety of vertical endeavors. This new backpack uses a strong, yet flexible, aluminum stay and removable hipbelt for versatile function. Strip it down for your summit attempt, or wear it at full comfort for a day-long approach - however you use it, you'll appreciate the mountain-guide inspired design.
Designed For: Ski Mountaineering, Ice and Rock Climbing.
Osprey HydraFormâ„¢ Reservoir NOT Included
SummitHut.com
Designed using feedback from mountain guides, professional alpinists, and weekend craggers, this pack misses no detail. The Variant 37 from Osprey is built with 210D Cordura® brand fabric, ensuring durability and long life in the world's toughest landscapes.
REI
Ski mountaineering, ice climbing, and rock climbing, Osprey thought of it all when developing the new top loading Variant 37 pack for vertical endeavors.
Imported.
Eastern Mountain Sports (EMS)
Designed using feedback from mountain guides, professional alpinists and weekend craggers, the Osprey Variant 37 pack offer a streamlined feature set specific to the climbing pursuit.
Average Price History:
| Activity: | Climbing |
|---|---|
| Adjustable Torso Length: | No |
| Adjustable torso: | 2,258 cubic inches |
| Backpack Features: | Lumbar Pack Lid, Top Loader |
| Backpack Style: | Multi-Day Pack |
| Capacity: | (S) 2075cu.in, 34L, (M) 2258cu.in, 37L (L) 2441cu.in, 40L |
| Country of Origin: | Vietnam |
| Custom Fit Options: | Removable hipbelt |
| Detachable Pack: | no |
| Dimension: | (H x W x D) |
| Dimensions: | 34.5 x 13.5 x 12.5 in. |
| Features: | Crampon compression pocket, Water restistant zippered front pocket, |
| Fits torso: | 2,400 cubic inches |
| Fits waist/hips: | 3 lbs. 8 oz. |
| Frame material: | 1.59 kilograms |
| Frame type: | Climbing |
| Gear capacity (L): | Internal |
| Gear capacity (cu. in.): | Internal |
| Gear loops: | Dual ski loops, Ice Tool Attachment |
| Helmet Carrier: | no |
| Hydration Bladder Included: | Not Included |
| Hydration Compatible: | yes |
| Ice Axe Loops: | yes |
| Laptop Sleeve: | None |
| Material: | Matrix 420D nylon/210D cordura nylon |
| Number of exterior pockets: | >20 inches |
| Number of pockets: | main compartment + 7 pockets |
| Number of stays: | 1.67 kilograms |
| Optimal Load Range: | 25-40 lb |
| Organization Pocket: | no |
| Pack Fabric (Primary): | 420D nylon |
| Pack Size: | 2000-2999 cu in |
| Pack access: | 18 - 20.5 inches |
| Pack loading: | No |
| Primary Access: | Top Access |
| Raincover included: | 33 - 37 inches |
| Shovel Pocket: | no |
| Ski / Snowboard Carrier: | no |
| Sleeping bag compartment: | 30 - 34 inches |
| Stripped: | 2 lbs 5 oz / 1.05 kg |
| Suspended mesh back panel: | No |
| Suspension: | Removable HDPE framesheet with 6061 Aluminum Stay |
| Torso Fit Range: | [S]: 16-18.5" [M]: 18.5-20.5" [L]: 20-22.5" |
| Torso Length: | S <18.5 in.M 18-20.5 in.L >20 in. |
| Trekking Pole Loops: | no |
| Trip Length: | Overnight (1-2 nights) |
| Volume: | [S]: 2100 cu in (34 L) ; [M]: 2250 cu in (37 L) ; [L]: 2400 cu in (40 L) |
| Volume Range: | 30-45 liters |
| Weight: | [S]: 3lbs 5oz (1.42 kg) ; [M]: 3lbs 8oz (1.50 kg) ; [L]: 3lbs 11oz (1.59 kg) |
| Weight - metric: | 40 liters |
| Weight Capacity: | Up to 30 lb. |
Compare specifications to related products.
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Related Categories:
- Osprey Backpacks, Daypacks & Bags
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Osprey Variant 37 Reviews:
Positive Reviews:
Very good pack
I bought this pack for ice climbing and alpine climbing. Great design, with many alpine specific features. One feature I was really hoping would work was the crampon/shovel pocket. This is annoyingly hard to find on many packs. Osprey does it well on the Variant (the BD Deploy 3 shovel or crampons fit pretty nice). Also great are the buckles that can work with gloves/mitten on, I thought these would fall apart or come undone easily, but they've been awesome.
This pack gives a lot of bells and whistles and still remains light.
Only improvements I'd like to see are minimal:
1. The lid could be bigger inside. It's kind of a pain to get stuff into and out of it without dumping small items all over the snow. Osprey could make some more $ making interchangeable lids for this series of packs. I'd like one big enough to fit a helmet inside (like the BD Sphinx).
2. The ice axe attachment points are on the crampon pocket, so when there are crampons in the pocket, the tools poke out from the pack (yeah, nitpicky, I know). I strap the tools down tighter to the pack by use of velcro straps to the upper load compression straps.
3. The upper load compression straps could be just a bit longer to allow strapping foam pads to the side of the pack. I am able to strap on a Thermarest prolite full length pad, but a non-inflatable foam pad is just to big (unless you use a 1/2 length pad).
4. Nuclear Red. Easy to find you in a crowd, but I would have preferred a bit more subdued color (I think... the red is growing on me now though).
All in all very pleased. Definitely would recommend the pack to others.
This pack gives a lot of bells and whistles and still remains light.
Only improvements I'd like to see are minimal:
1. The lid could be bigger inside. It's kind of a pain to get stuff into and out of it without dumping small items all over the snow. Osprey could make some more $ making interchangeable lids for this series of packs. I'd like one big enough to fit a helmet inside (like the BD Sphinx).
2. The ice axe attachment points are on the crampon pocket, so when there are crampons in the pocket, the tools poke out from the pack (yeah, nitpicky, I know). I strap the tools down tighter to the pack by use of velcro straps to the upper load compression straps.
3. The upper load compression straps could be just a bit longer to allow strapping foam pads to the side of the pack. I am able to strap on a Thermarest prolite full length pad, but a non-inflatable foam pad is just to big (unless you use a 1/2 length pad).
4. Nuclear Red. Easy to find you in a crowd, but I would have preferred a bit more subdued color (I think... the red is growing on me now though).
All in all very pleased. Definitely would recommend the pack to others.
Great 4 Season Pack
I was looking for a winter pack that I could use in the summer if the occasion came up. I tried several packs including some other Osprey packs until I happen to see this one at a store. I placed 30 pounds (10 more than I carry) in the pack and carried it around the store. The pack felt great.
I have only used on a few snowshoe hikes this year but all on hikes after a while I could hardly tell I had the pack on. Some of these hikes including going up on some steep snow covered hills.
The pack has all kinds of straps and tied down slots which makes it great for tying down snowshoes, ice axes etc. The crampon slot is also a great place to carry the snow shovel. The top bag has two pockets and is big enought to carry those items you need quick access to.
Osprey has a winner!
I have only used on a few snowshoe hikes this year but all on hikes after a while I could hardly tell I had the pack on. Some of these hikes including going up on some steep snow covered hills.
The pack has all kinds of straps and tied down slots which makes it great for tying down snowshoes, ice axes etc. The crampon slot is also a great place to carry the snow shovel. The top bag has two pockets and is big enought to carry those items you need quick access to.
Osprey has a winner!
Love the color
Ive yet to take this out to snowy conditions. This review is based on my experience using it as a day pack. First of all, as expected from osprey the quality and craftsmanship is EXCELLENT. I have 3 osprey packs and none have disappointed me. Although I love the color, I wish they would release it with some more color selection. The red straps are a nice change from the typical grey straps on osprey. The back support is firm and melts into your back along with the hip belts (which lack pockets but I can see why with this being geared to climbers as well). Its MUCH larger than any 37L I know of. Its almost as large as my osprey kestrel 68. The straps are rather lengthy but I rather have it too long than too short.
Not a lot new to say, other reviewers covered it well, but this pack is perfect for me. Long alpine routes, touring, cragging, whatever I'm doing this is my go-to pack. Although it was holding up well after a year of hard use, I destroyed it in a fall in RMNP. The pack actually absorbed a lot of the force and probably saved me from serious injury. Osprey's warranty is amazing and they replaced it, no problem. Nothing but good things to say about the pack and Osprey's customer service.
Great Backcountry Ski Pack
Very comfortable and stable pack. The suspension is simple and easily handles 35 lbs. I use it for single day backcountry ski trips. The size is versatile - it can be used for day hikes and light weekend backpacking trips.
This pack carries skis well. A Voile snow shovel fits in the outside compression compartment; the ice tool loops can also be used to strap the shovel's D-handle. Well thought out design.
This pack carries skis well. A Voile snow shovel fits in the outside compression compartment; the ice tool loops can also be used to strap the shovel's D-handle. Well thought out design.
This pack climbs with you
Good materials and an excellent combination of features designed for the climber/alpinist. Best characteristic is the way it carries a load when climbing. This pack has an adjustable internal frame and load lifters that actually let you control the suspension, making it the best pack of its size that I've used on technical terrain. The arrangement of pockets and hydration sleeve ensure that it's also convenient to use.
Love this pack
Like most Osprey products, another win. I stumbled upon this pack at a local store looking for a 2000 pack. Taking it out a few times I love it. I like the crampon patch to lash to, secures poles or axes well. Lots of adjustments and fits my back really well. I run about 20lbs in it currently and its great for my early season.
Has more room than it looks, I use it from hiking to carrying all my kit on the crag. I wouldn't climb with this pack as its a little too large for me to have on my back whilst climbing. Its really comfortable for long hikes and the weight from all your kit does not hinder you with this pack. I love it.
I love this pack. i am 6'0" 180lbs and the medium fits me perfect, you can get a really good custom fit with this pack. i use it mostly for vertical adventurers. its perfect for a weekend trip to hold your clothes and gear with room left over. i would recommend this to anyone who needs a pack for the weekend adventures.
Great pack
I love this pack. I've taken it on a few day hikes already and it performed perfectly. I haven't tried to take it on any over night hikes and I don't know if I will because I don't see many options to attach tents or sleeping bags to it, but I'll keep looking for a way.
Negative Reviews:
Strap frayed after 6 months
Poor material, strap frayed after 6 months
Strap not repaired after 4months (and counting)
Do not trust this brand
Strap not repaired after 4months (and counting)
Do not trust this brand
Neutral Reviews:
Great design, but durability issues
I used this pack primarily for rock / ice climbing day trips. For this purpose, the design is absolutely brilliant. Unfortunately, I only got to use it twice. More on that in a bit.
The zippers and straps are very well thought out. Everything is nice and large so you can do pretty much anything you need to while wearing gloves. The ice tool bungees double as a stable helmet carry if you're creative (no more helmet flopping around on the approach!). The rope carry system is nice and stable. Nuclear red, while hideously ugly, means you aren't going to lose it (or can be more easily found in an avalanche). The feed through for the water hose is openable, meaning no more losing the head of your hydration system while taking the thing out. The second pocket under the brain is great for phone, wallet, keys, whatever. Suspension is nice and cushy.
In terms of storage, I can easily get a full climbing trad rack, harness, a couple pairs of shoes, 2 liter water bladder, lunch, and a rope on the top carry, and have room to spare in the main compartment.
Really, the design is pretty much as good as it gets for a top-loader for climbers.
One problem: the bottom material was falling apart on my after only 6 days of use. Not really sure why. I'm not exactly gently on my gear, but I was using it as a climbing day pack for 6 days at Red Rocks in Nevada. Didn't do anything too unusual. Got back home and noticed a 1/4 inch hole and several spots that were quickly becoming holes on the bottom.
Returned it to REI the next day for an exchange. We'll see how this one fares. . .
The zippers and straps are very well thought out. Everything is nice and large so you can do pretty much anything you need to while wearing gloves. The ice tool bungees double as a stable helmet carry if you're creative (no more helmet flopping around on the approach!). The rope carry system is nice and stable. Nuclear red, while hideously ugly, means you aren't going to lose it (or can be more easily found in an avalanche). The feed through for the water hose is openable, meaning no more losing the head of your hydration system while taking the thing out. The second pocket under the brain is great for phone, wallet, keys, whatever. Suspension is nice and cushy.
In terms of storage, I can easily get a full climbing trad rack, harness, a couple pairs of shoes, 2 liter water bladder, lunch, and a rope on the top carry, and have room to spare in the main compartment.
Really, the design is pretty much as good as it gets for a top-loader for climbers.
One problem: the bottom material was falling apart on my after only 6 days of use. Not really sure why. I'm not exactly gently on my gear, but I was using it as a climbing day pack for 6 days at Red Rocks in Nevada. Didn't do anything too unusual. Got back home and noticed a 1/4 inch hole and several spots that were quickly becoming holes on the bottom.
Returned it to REI the next day for an exchange. We'll see how this one fares. . .
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