Now part of the Osprey Australia Ambassador team
12 February 2025
I’m so stoked to share that I’m now part of the incredible Osprey Australia ambassador team!
For those of you who’ve been following along on my hiking journeys, you know that I take great pride in field-testing gear and giving you honest, hands-on feedback. I don’t just review products — I test them in the real world, putting them through their paces on everything from rugged hikes in the Australian wilderness to overseas treks. My mission has always been to help you make informed decisions based on real experiences.
Over the years, I’ve had the chance to test a wide range of backpacks from various manufacturers, and each has its own strengths. I’ve come across some great packs with innovative features and solid build quality. However, what sets Osprey apart for me is their consistent performance on the trail. If you’re interested in any of my pack reviews, check out my blog for detailed insights.
What makes this partnership with Osprey so exciting is that I’ve been using their gear for years, and it’s earned a solid place in my kit. The Aether AG™ 70 has been my go-to for long-distance hikes, offering fantastic comfort and support. The Exos 48L has become my choice for shorter, overnight, and multi-day treks thanks to its lightweight design and durability. And I can’t forget my 11L DAYLITE day pack — I’ve had this one for many years and it’s been a reliable companion on countless day hikes. Light, compact, and perfect for quick excursions, it’s always been my top pick. Osprey packs have served me well on all kinds of adventures, and I’m excited to continue using them as part of this partnership.
What made this partnership with Osprey so exciting for me is that their values align firmly with my own — values I’ve held for years as an outdoor enthusiast and advocate for sustainable practices. Osprey shares a deep commitment to respecting our natural environments, promoting Leave No Trace principles, and giving back to the communities that have shaped our love for the outdoors.
For me, it’s not just about gear; it’s about a shared responsibility to protect and preserve the wilderness we cherish. As I’ve always said, “As an outdoor enthusiast, I believe it’s my duty to take an active stance on issues affecting our natural world.” That’s why working with a brand like Osprey, who upholds these values, feels like a natural fit.
But here’s the thing — while I’m now officially an Osprey Ambassador, nothing about how I approach gear reviews will change. Osprey understands the importance of authenticity and has made it clear that my voice is what matters most. They want me to continue sharing my real-world experiences, and that’s exactly what I’ll do. Whether the gear is provided by Osprey, other manufacturers, or purchased independently, you can always count on my reviews to be honest, transparent, and unbiased.
If something doesn’t work or doesn’t perform as expected, I’ll tell you. That’s been my promise to you from the beginning, and it won’t change. I’ve built Trail Hiking Australia on a foundation of transparency and trust, and that’s something I’m not compromising on.
So, what does this partnership mean for you? Well, it means you can expect more of the same — genuine, in-depth gear reviews based on real-world testing. And as I continue to test new Osprey products, I’ll share my honest thoughts on how they perform in the field. It’s not about promoting products for the sake of it; it’s about sharing what works, what doesn’t, and why.
I’m genuinely excited about this new chapter with Osprey, and I can’t wait to take their gear on even more adventures — big and small — and continue sharing my experiences with you. Your support means everything, and I’m looking forward to more honest, real-world reviews, now with a bit of extra Osprey gear to test!
Thanks for being part of this journey with me. Stay tuned for my upcoming review of the Osprey Exos 48. And as always, feel free to reach out if you have any questions about the gear I’m using. Here’s to many more hikes ahead!
Cheers,
Darren Edwards
Founder, Trail Hiking Australia
