Osprey Hydraulics Manta 30 pack

~ Leesa

Update: May 2010

I’ve been using the Manta on day hikes and more recently while paddling my kayak.  I am so impressed with the fit and function of this pack.  I have been consciously trying to drink more water, and the Manta has been a great help while active.  The ease of use is the biggest factor.  I can easily fill it before heading out.   I have used it numerous times, and have not noticed any ‘plastic’ or off taste.  The reservoir is made by Nalgene, and is BPA and PVC free. The the AquaGuard anti-microbial formula is designed to prevent bacteria and mold from developing.  This appears to be working because the reservoir has not developed any mold, and the water still tastes fine.  Keeping the water clean and tasting good is the easiest way to keep me drinking it.

Some of the other features of the pack have proven themselves to be very useful.  The storage area allows me to take extra layers and then store them when not needed.  The ‘Stow on the Go’ trekking pole attachment is easy to use as designed.  I have made more use of the integrated rain cover than I would have liked, but it works without fuss, and keeps the pack dry.  Normally I am not a fan of sternum straps, as most are not designed with a woman in mind.  I find the Manta’s to be very comfortable, and the ‘sipper’ section of the tubing attaches conveniently within easy reach.  The magnet used to make the connection is strong enough that a casual bump does not dislodge it, but a quick pull with one hand retrieves it for a quick drink.

Now that the weather is warming, I am looking forward to see how the back ventilation works out.  I am hoping that there is enough air flow, that my back will not be soaked from perspiration.  Check back in about a month for an update.

March 2010

Osprey Packs has once again come out with a newly designed pack, with a newly added purpose.   The Manta is part of their Hydraulics series, which includes the Raptor line also.  The Manta is designed as a day hiking pack, with an integrated hydration system.

Osprey describes the pack:

The Manta 30 offers ample volume and versatility for long, hydrated adventures.  A Large front zippered pocket with shove-it pocket and two zippered side pockets carry plenty of essentials.  An integrated raincover and Stow-on-the-Go ™ trekking pole carry help you be ready for whatever the elements and terrain throw at you.

Day HikingThe Manta 30 offer ample volume and versatility for long, hydrated adventures.  A Large front zippered pocket with shove-it pocket and two zippered side pockets carry plenty of essentials.  An integrated raincover and Stow-on-the-Go ™ trekking pole carry help you be ready for whatever the elements and terrain throw at you.

Features of pack as reviewed:

Fabric: 70 x 14D Nylon Shadow Check

Dimensions:19.3 x 9.5 x 11.4

Volume: 1800 cu. in./30 liter

Weight: 2 lb 10 oz.

180 degree On-Off Pivot Bite Valve

HyrdaForm Resevoir

Integrated Raincover

Magnetic Sternum Strap

NoScratch Top Pocket.

The Manta arrived right before I was going on a snowshoeing trek.  The temperatures were forecast to be in the mid 30s F.  I filled the Nalgene designed HydraForm Reservoir with water and put it in the fridge for the night.  It easily slid out of its compartment in the pack, and filling it was a snap.  The large cap twists off easily, and the rigid handle makes holding it simple.  The reservoir holds 3 L of water, enough for most of my day hikes.

In the morning, I made sure the cap was tight, and slid the reservoir back in the HydraLockcompartment.  It slid in without any extra manuevering.  The back part of the hydration resevoir is rigid, which makes it much easier to put back in – no more floppy water reservoirs!  I put some snacks and lunch in the front pocket, my phone/camera and sun glasses in the NoScratch top pocket, a rain jacket and pants in the big pocket, along with dry socks.  As soon as I put the pack on and adjusted the straps I noticed something – the pack is narrow.  I could swing my elbows back and forth, and not make contact with the pack.  I’ve noticed since I started using trekking poles, that my arms would extend behind me more as I walked than when I hike or snowshoe without poles.   The narrow cut of the pack keeps this from being an issue.  The pack though is a bit deceiving – it holds quite a bit, even with its narrow shape.

I have always been a fan of Osprey’s harnesses’ adjustability.  Like many women, I am narrow at the shoulders, with a long torso and wider at the hips.  I appreciate being to adjust the hipbelt, shoulder and sternum straps to fit me.  To get a really good fit, I filled up my pack and put it on.  I had my son adjust the straps and walked around a bit, giving them one final tweak before I felt it was ‘just right’.   The ‘AirSpeed’ suspension is made of LightWire alloy framing.  The mesh is stretched taut over a ridge of molded foam and has air chambers.  The frame is designed to hold the pack away from the users back, and provide ventilation and a comfortable carry.

Using the Manta while snowshoeing worked very well.   I put it on as I headed out, and after a few minutes, no longer felt like I was wearing anything on my back.  The weight is very evenly dispersed.  I liked how the pack stays centered on my back, no matter how I twist and turn.   The bite-valve is very easily accesses while moving, which definitely helps me to drink more water.  I’ve had hydration systems before that made me feel like I was using a lot of energy to get a drink of water.  Seemed  like I had to suck awfully hard to get even a small amount. With the Manta, I could get a good drink of water, with no more effort than drinking out of a straw.   That was one of the best features.  I don’t think I drink enough fluids when I am outside in cooler weather.  Hot weather it doesn’t seem to be an issue.

I’ve worn the Manta on two short day hikes so far, and will continue using it on weekend hikes.   On day hikes, I like the fact that I can carry enough water for a full day, without adding too much weight.   The pack is roomy enough to stuff my jacket in when I get too warm, along with other necessities.  I try not to take too much, but end up with snacks, lunch, socks, a jacket, rain gear if I think there is a chance of rain and then the smaller items – sunglasses, phone/camera/gps, chapstick, first aid kit, tissues, etc.   I love the pockets on this pack – great for keeping organized.

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