Introduction
The Osprey Ace 50 is a fully featured backpacking pack designed for young adventurers. It offers extensive adjustability to grow with your child, ensuring a comfortable and supportive fit for years of outdoor exploration. This manual provides detailed instructions on fitting, using, and maintaining your Ace 50 backpack.
Key Features
- 5" of torso length adjustability and an extendable Fit-on-the-Fly hipbelt with 3" of adjustment
- Sleeping pad straps and lower zippered sleeping bag access
- Zippered hipbelt pockets for easy access to small items on the trail
- Top load access to main compartment with full-length vertical side zipper access to main compartment (75L model only)
- Integrated removable raincover and internal reservoir sleeve (Fits up to a 3L reservoir, sold separately)
- Recommended Age Range: (8-14 Y/O)
The Osprey Ace 50L Backpack in Blue Hills, showcasing its overall design and side profile.
Rear view of the backpack, highlighting the tensioned AirSpeed back panel for ventilation and comfort.
Close-up of the integrated raincover pocket, ensuring protection from wet weather.
Detail of the adjustable sternum strap with a whistle buckle for emergencies.
Close-up of the zippered hipbelt pocket, ideal for small essentials like snacks or a phone.
View of the lower zippered sleeping bag compartment for easy access to gear.
Adjustable sleeping pad straps at the bottom of the pack for external gear attachment.
Daisy chain loops on the front panel for attaching additional gear or accessories.
Setup and Fitting
Proper fit is crucial for comfort and load distribution. The Osprey Ace backpack features an adjustable system to accommodate growing children.
1. Measure Torso Length
To find the correct pack size, measure your child's torso length. Locate the top of the hip bones (iliac crest) by tracing a horizontal line from the belly button. Then, find the C7 vertebra, the most prominent bone at the base of the neck when looking down. Measure the distance between these two points. This measurement will guide you in selecting the appropriate Ace model (38L, 50L, or 75L) and adjusting the pack's torso length.
2. Adjust Hipbelt
Loosen all straps on the pack. Place the pack on your child's back, ensuring the hipbelt wings are centered over their hip bones. Buckle the hipbelt and pull the webbing straps across the body evenly until snug. The hipbelt should carry most of the pack's weight.
3. Adjust Shoulder Straps
Pull the webbing at the end of the shoulder straps down and back evenly. The shoulder straps should wrap nicely around the shoulders without large gaps or excessive pressure. The bottom of the shoulder strap padding should end just under the armpit.
4. Adjust Load Lifters
The load lifter straps are located above the shoulder straps, connecting to the top of the pack. Tighten these straps to bring the pack closer to the body, stabilizing the load. They should be angled at approximately 45 degrees. If they are too flat or too steep, the torso length may need further adjustment.
5. Adjust Sternum Strap
Buckle the sternum strap across the chest. It should be positioned comfortably, about an inch below the collarbone. Tighten it just enough to pull the shoulder straps inward, preventing them from slipping off the shoulders, but not so tight that it restricts breathing.
Video Guide: How to Fit a Backpacking Pack
This video demonstrates how to properly measure your torso and fit an Osprey backpacking pack for optimal comfort and weight distribution.
Operating Your Backpack
The Osprey Ace backpack is designed for intuitive use and efficient organization of gear.
Main Compartment Access
- Top Load: The main compartment is primarily accessed from the top, secured by a drawstring closure and a top lid.
- Lower Zippered Sleeping Bag Compartment: A separate zippered compartment at the bottom allows for easy access to a sleeping bag or other bulky items without disturbing the main contents. It includes an internal divider.
- Full-Length Vertical Side Zipper (Ace 75L only): The Ace 75L model features a convenient side zipper for quick access to items deep within the main compartment.
Pockets and Storage
- Dual Lower Side Compression Straps: Use these straps to compress the load and secure items in the side pockets.
- Dual Access Fabric Mesh Side Pockets: Ideal for water bottles or quick-access items.
- Large Front Fabric Mesh Shove-It Pocket: A spacious external pocket for stashing a jacket, helmet, or other gear.
- Internal Reservoir Sleeve: Located inside the main compartment, this sleeve can hold a hydration reservoir (up to 3L, sold separately) for easy hydration on the go.
- Daisy Chain Loops: Multiple loops on the front of the pack allow for external attachment of additional gear using carabiners or straps.
- Adjustable Ice Tool/Fishing Rod Loop (Ace 50L & 75L): Securely attach an ice axe or fishing rod to the exterior of the pack.
Video Guide: Osprey Ace Product Tour
This video provides a detailed tour of the Osprey Ace backpack, highlighting its various features and compartments.
Care and Maintenance
Proper care will extend the life of your Osprey Ace backpack.
- Cleaning: Hand wash with mild soap and cool water. Do not use harsh detergents or bleach. Air dry thoroughly away from direct sunlight or heat. Do not machine wash or tumble dry.
- Raincover: The integrated raincover should be cleaned and dried separately if it gets wet or dirty. Ensure it is completely dry before storing to prevent mildew.
- Storage: Store your backpack in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight when not in use. Ensure it is clean and completely dry before long-term storage.
- Leave No Trace: The Osprey Ace packs are made with durable, recycled materials and encourage responsible outdoor practices. Follow Leave No Trace principles to minimize your impact on the environment.
Troubleshooting
If you encounter issues with your Osprey Ace backpack, consider the following:
- Discomfort/Pain: Re-check the pack fit following the instructions in the 'Setup and Fitting' section. Ensure the hipbelt is carrying most of the weight and shoulder straps are not too tight or loose. Adjust load lifters and sternum strap.
- Unstable Load: Ensure all compression straps are tightened to secure the contents of the pack. Distribute weight evenly, placing heavier items closer to the back and center.
- Zippers Sticking: Clean zippers with a soft brush to remove dirt. Apply a silicone-based zipper lubricant if needed.
- Water Leakage: Ensure the integrated raincover is properly deployed and covers the entire pack. Check for any tears or damage to the pack fabric or raincover.
For persistent issues or significant damage, please refer to the warranty and support information.
Product Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Dimensions | 28 x 13 x 12 inches |
| Item Weight | 3.7 pounds (1.68 Kilograms) |
| Department | unisex-adult |
| Manufacturer | Osprey Packs |
| ASIN | B07Z9Z1D28 |
| Country of Origin | Vietnam |
| Item model number | 10002077 |
| Age Range Description | Recommended Age Range: (8-14 Y/O) |
| Number Of Items | 1 |
| Units | 1.00 Count |
| Capacity Total | 45 Liters |
Warranty and Support
Osprey stands behind the quality of its products with the All Mighty Guarantee.
Osprey will repair any damage or defect for any reason, free of charge, whether it was purchased in 1974 or yesterday. If they are unable to perform a functional repair on your pack, they will happily replace it.
For more information on the warranty or to submit a claim, please visit the official Osprey website:
For additional support or inquiries, please contact Osprey customer service through their website.
