Osprey Syncro 20

I have a great mountain bag that’s big, so I was after something that would work in the warmer months where all I need is the essentials of a raincoat, water and some food but would also give me the flexibility to push into cooler months with a bit more gear. I settled on the Osprey Syncro 20, but how does it fair considering it’s a bag designed for cyclists?   

About Osprey    

Osprey is a well-known hiking equipment company, they routinely finish amongst the top ranking for almost all categories that they enter and are a worldwide name. They make exceptionally well-made backpacks which feature their famous “all mighty guarantee” and are known for lasting a long time.    

That in itself has always attracted us to the brand, if your gear lasts then it’s instantly more ethical than something you need to replace frequently, however in 2020 the brand pivoted and set out to become “the most progressive, transparent and sustainable hard goods brand” By the start of 2022 over 60% of the materials used is now recycled and with a “Renewal workshop” push they have diverted over 21472 lbs of waste away from landfill. This is a fantastic start which we will continue to monitor over the coming years.    

https://www.ospreyeurope.com/gb_en/sustainability/    

Features    

• A vented back ensures you stay cool  

• Lightweight at 0.9kg  

• Organisation pocket  

• Detachable rain cover  

• Hydration sleeve  

• Scratch-free sunglasses pocket  

Performance      

Having used this for a few years, I can confidently say it keeps up Osprey's fantastic build quality. No rips or tears, in fact hardly a mark at all. It's light, and thanks to the ventilated back, air can flow across your back helping keep you cool (a must for a summer bag). I went for the 20L bag, which can carry everything I need on many walks. It's often filled with a 2.5L water bladder and a day's worth of food. A fleece and/or a raincoat as well as cameras, battery packs and a medical kit. I’ve even managed to get my Páramo Alta III in there.   

The weight is distributed well across my shoulders, and the only real comfort complaint I have is after a long day the hip sections can rub a little. It’s never been a problem for me, but it could be for some people. There is a lot of adjustment on the shoulders and hips, which are easy to change up through the day if you do find the same position getting a little uncomfortable.   

The hip belts are a great addition which a lot of smaller bags forget, and the external walking pole mount is also handy if you’re heading up a fell.   

There are a huge number of pockets, both internal and external. The front pocket contains mesh compartments that are great for splitting up equipment to allow for fast access and the separate hydration compartment keeps everything out the way. The fitted waterproof cover rounds out the features that stand out to me.  

Conclusion     

Although aimed at cyclists, I've found this bag to be amazing for summer walking. The vented back, a large number of pockets, including the zipped pockets for snacks and the fact it can hold a 2.5L hydration pack means I never really have to go without in summer. It’s light enough too and has the capacity for a raincoat as well as other important gear.   

I’ve used it for over 3 summers now, and it still looks as good as new. I would, however, suggest trying one on first if you get a chance, as the hip sections can rub on longer walks, so if you feel any discomfort there before you buy, it may turn out to be a bigger problem for you.   

All in all, it’s the perfect summer bag.   

Páramo Ostro Fleece and Windproof Review - Páramo Alize Fleece and Windproof Review

About Páramo    

Keeping the chilly wind at bay with the Páramo Ostro Windproof

Where to start with these Jackets? Well firstly, let’s talk a bit about the brand. Páramo is a well-known British outdoor company. They are top of the scoreboard in the ethical and fair-trade clothing world. Concentrating on sustainability, environmental, and worker’s rights issues, yet also being able to be effective in the great outdoors, in a way most other clothing can’t.   

Just a bit of digging into the company will unearth Páramo’s partnership with the Miquelina Foundation. Your clothing could be made in atrocious conditions in third world countries, often by people paid well below that countries legal minimum wage. It’s a large problem and it’s happening all the time. These coats are made in Colombia, a country where 1 in 10 people are displaced by internal armed conflict. Women without homes get forced into prostitution and drugs. The Miquelina Foundation has been helping these women get off the streets and gain a fair wage, counselling, housing, childcare and a proper education.  Starting in 1992, it once relied on donations and funding. It now produces 80% of Páramo’s gear and has gained an ISO 9001 accreditation. A highly prestigious international standard of quality and dedication!  

Páramo ensures their products are recyclable, repairable, and due to their construction, very long-lasting. We personally find this a great idea as this helps to reduce waste and prevent fast fashion, saving energy and vital resources…as well as our money! Also, unlike most other brands, they ensure their clothing is PFC free. So, if like us, you want to keep the earth green and lush so we can enjoy it in the future as well as the present, you’ll want to shop ethically. We could go on all day about how ethical Páramo is, but you can read more about it here -  

 https://www.ethicalconsumer.org/fashion-clothing/shopping-guide/waterproof-insulated-jackets 

A great video showing the Miquelina Foundation in action can be found here -  

  https://mpora.com/gear/miquelina-foundation-paramo-clothing-columbia/ 

The other most important factor you look for when buying outdoor gear, it’s performance. You want clothing that you can rely on when conditions get rough. Something comfortable enough to wear whilst clocking up the miles and something that can be used and abused, day after day.   

For the last 15 years, Páramo has supplied mountain rescue teams with their weather protection. This fact alone made us try our first items of Páramo and we are so glad we did.   

The Waterproof system - Duology  

Duology is Páramo’s take on making an Analogy jacket (see more in our Alta 3 review here) more flexible, and easy to use in varying conditions. Using Nikwax and unique fabric to create a jacket that is like no other. Whereby most manufacturer’s hardcore waterproof jackets concern themselves with letting no water though and letting vapor out they often hit a point of no return, where a build-up of vapor turns to liquid or the user starts to sweat. Systems such as Gore-tex jackets at this point will at this point stop keeping you dry, the liquid inside the jacket cannot escape through the gore-tex and you end up damp or wet. This isn’t to say Gore-tex jackets are not amazing, but with Duology, Páramo 's aim is something else. To keep you dry isn’t just about stopping water entering the jacket with a hydrophobic Nikwax layer but then for the coat to work as a system ensuring any moisture be it liquid or vapor is pushed away from the wearer. The system users a “Pump Liner” which actively pushed moisture away from the wearer and out of the jacket, keeping you dry even when active. The inner layer acting like animal hair to remove water from you means that even if water gets in, or a moisture build-up occurs, the jacket will shift this away from you. The ability to Nikwax it and get it back to its factory ability waterproof level time and time again without it wearing out means this should last for years.      

Individual or combo  

The lightwindprrof jacket works well as a standalone jacket in warmer conditions too

As you can see these jackets are fundamentally different from the normal Analogy jackets that Páramo produces, they are geared to having similar levels of sustained protection from the elements, however off up a much more flexible solution. Due to this, we have reviewed each item individually with an additional summary talking about the two as a paired system. Additionally, we have worn both the male version (Ostro) and the female version (Alize) of these jackets, and have very similar opinions on these, therefore this review covers both set’s of jackets.

Ostro Windproof.  

What is it?  

First up, the Ostro windproof. Aimed at the hiking and cycling market, this has all the features of emergency throw on to use when caught out in a blast of British weather.  

The Windproof is lightweight and fits very well

Being incredibly lightweight and having the ability to fold down into its own pocket, whilst keeping a high level of durability, it makes a perfectly packable product!  

Not only this, but it’s breathability is astounding, considering how much of a good windproof it is also. Not to mention the added benefit of water resistance and the option to layer up to make a full waterproof system. 

Features    

The windproof Nikwax weave that is used here does indeed create a very lightweight jacket, it fits well over the top of other jackets and fleeces but is also fitted well enough that used on top of a t-shirt is also perfect. Stuffing the jacket into its pocket to make it as small as pocketable as possible is also great and makes putting it away in a backpack very handy.   

• Helmet-friendly, securable "halo" hood with low profile peak and dual adjuster to move with you and not impair your vision.  

• Ventilation zips on the torso give good temperature control and also allow access to two internal pockets.  

• Stuffable into an inside internal pocket with loop for easy transportation.  

• Reflective flashes on sleeves, shoulders, and hood to improve visibility in low light conditions.  

• Scooped tail with hem drawcord for lower back protection.  

• Excellent sleeve and shoulder articulation for full movement range during activity.  

• Renewable water-repellency with PFC-free Nikwax® TX.Direct.  

• Designed to be combined with the Men’s Ostro Fleece for very versatile weather protection.  

Although not quite to the standard of the Páramo Alta (check that review here) it’s still a great hood. It fits well, is adjustable and has a peak to ensure most rain keeps out of your eyes. The pockets are slightly different than expected. Initially, they just feel like holes. This makes sense as they open the ability to use pockets of a fleece underneath, but can be used as vents when used on its own if you run warm. However, there are also 2 small pockets stitched to the inside of the material. These are not really of any use for storing items but are perfect for your hands on a cooler day.  

Performance     

The performance of this jacket as a windproof is great. It cuts through wind very well and doesn’t have the ‘flapping plastic’ feel you sometimes get with lightweight jackets. It’s soft to the touch and comfortable.  

The hood is quick to put up, and does a great job against showers

The material is also fantastically breathable. Even on warmer days, putting it on while at a peak or during a quick shower I found myself leaving it on and not overheating. Comparing this to other jackets, where I would quite quickly get warm and sweaty.  

The ability to open the “holes” (pockets) also allows you to keep cooler if needed. While on the subject of showers, the jacket is also water-resistant. I’ve used it a lot during the summer months as my main waterproof. When it rains, water runs off it nicely.  Because of how thin the jacket is, the sensation of feeling the raindrops hit you is something that takes a little getting used to. Especially if you are used to sturdier shells.  That’s not to say it’s completely waterproof and an extended bout of rain will let water in, even a light rain will eventually make it through the seams, given time. The hood, in particular, let's water in during a long downpour and that could lead to some uncomfortable miles. Just remember, it will become a full functioning waterproof system with the Ostro fleece. If it’s too warm for the fleece and I do get damp, it evaporates quickly once the rain has stopped and doesn’t stay around in the jacket. On its own, it is best used for occasional showers on warmer days. 

In summary 

The performance of the windproof can’t be overstated though, it’s very lightweight and super breathable which ensures that in the right use case it’s brilliant. The build quality is fantastic, and it seems to be very durable and repairable. If a heavier rainstorm hits, you can always put on the Ostro Fleece and suddenly you have a near Analogy level of waterproofing. Carry on below to read about the fleece. All of that said, it’s not cheap, the price you pay for that quality means that you really need to be interested in the options it gives you when combined with the fleece, as a standalone product it’s right up there with the best windproofs. 

Ostro Fleece.  

What is it?  

The Ostro fleece is aimed at walkers and hikers predominantly, however, cyclists or climbers could also find it useful if they want something a bit warmer. In my opinion, calling this a fleece massively undersells it. When most people think of fleeces, they think of the default standard, something like a Berghaus fleece that didn’t cost a lot, kept you warm and was, well just okay. This, on the other hand, is fantastic. It feels so luxurious, for a piece of outdoor equipment I initially didn’t want to even take it out on a walk! It’s a well thought out, warm fleece with a very strange hood indeed.   

The fit of the fleece is fantastic and it has a great premium feel to it.

I think comparing it to a more modern technical soft shell is the way to look at this. It’s small and light like these, it’s much more comfortable and very water-resistant.  

Features  

This slim fitted fleece is made from Páramo’s high loft insulating fabric. It’s very soft and comfy to wear. It's slightly stretchy and hugs your figure well, which ensures warmth when worn. The hood is very unusual. The first time wearing it, I felt a little silly. But you soon realize the off-centre zip means that you can wear a jacket over the top without having clashing zips around your face.   

• Simple, close-fitting "Ninja" hood that fits well under a helmet.  

• Off-centre zip avoids bulk when layering and aids comfort around the mouth area  

• Five pockets, all lined with mesh Pump Liner® to help move moisture:  

• 1 zipped, secure internal chest pocket-sized for compass or valuables.  

• 2 handwarmer pockets with a concealed zip.  

• 2 open internal drop pockets.  

• Curved back hem protects lower back.  

• Athletic fit.  

• Treated with PFC-free Nikwax® TX.Direct for renewable water-repellency.  

• Simple cuffs can be pushed up for cooling.  

• Designed to be combined with the Ostro Windproof Jacket to give waterproof performance.  

The fit of the jacket is snug, I’m medium in pretty much everything, and still am in this, but some people may need to go for a size up. You can only really layer a single base layer underneath, but that’s fine and the jacket fits nice. It has a couple of great pockets too, including a chest pocket that’s nicely hidden away.   

Performance     

The jacket never feels too hot, but always keeps you from getting cold.

There are two main purposes of the material used in the Ostro fleece. Firstly, it keeps you warm without ever really overheating you too much, and it does this well. I find that I’m always taking this with me during the cooler months and even when I start to get warm, I don’t have to keep taking it off like I would other fleeces.  Not over heating is probably due to its ability to ensure any moisture is pushed away from you, keeping you dry. Which leads us into its second purpose, the Ostro fleece is water-resistant. It is the strangest thing to see with a “fleece” as water literally just rolls off this thing. It also contains pump liners, just like an Analogy jacket which means any moisture (sweat, rain, etc) gets pushed out of the jacket. This works much better than expected, it’s odd to wear a fleece during some rain, but it did keep me dry. It's not going to suddenly replace a waterproof jacket, but for that sudden downpour, it’s got you covered.   

In summary    

As far as fleeces go, this reigns king. I would call this more of a technical soft shell and would compare its benefits with those. If you want something that feels amazing, keeps you warm without being too thick or heavy then this is one of the best. Add in the water repellency and you’ve got a fantastic jacket that will last for a good while.   

The biggest benefit, as detailed below is the ability to combine the two jackets, if this isn’t something you’re interested in, you might find the price is a little high compared to some competitors, and you’re right, but I really would recommend shortlisting this and checking it out in person.  

“The knowledge of carrying two items that offer up so much flexibility for different parts of a walk, and the changeability of weather, really makes you able to tackle what’s coming.”

As a combination:  

As you can see, both items individually offer up great technical features, and as individual pieces of equipment offer fantastic solutions. However, one of the main reasons to look at these is due to the ability to wear them together as an all-round solution. When layered with the fleece as an under layer, and the windproof as an outer layer, the two fabrics combine and mimic the same system used in the standard Analogy jackets and Páramo call this duology. This means, it’s hyper breathable, can keep you warm, but never too warm (on a summer day you won’t be wearing the fleece anyway as showers will dry off quickly in the windproof) and most importantly will keep you dry.   

Together the Fleece and Windproof become an excellent shell against the rain.

When the seams on the windproof do saturate and let some water in, the fleece will quickly move it away from you. In the harshest of weather, it will still wick anything away from your skin (if it does manage to pass through the fleece). It’s an odd sensation, expecting a little bit of rain to get in but knowing it will soon disappear, so you end the walk dry and not cold.   

The bonus of ‘duology’ is on a walk you can start with the fleece on and if the weather turns quickly, add a light breathable layer to give you a waterproof system. Alternatively, on a windy day, start with just the windproof, knowing you have the fleece available to turn it into a weather beating system. The fact you can chuck either in your bag knowing it’s not going to damage the waterproof properties is great. The windproof can pack away so small, makes it a fantastic all-around solution for 3 season walking. Add in the thicker “plus” fleece and it comes very close to making a 4-season combo that will survive all but the harshest of walks. The knowledge of carrying two items that offer up so much flexibility for different parts of a walk, and the changeability of weather, really makes you able to tackle what's coming.  

As a combo, they don’t quite live up to the standards of our Alta jackets, which are unequalled in bad weather. This combo does come close, and considering the flexibility of the two as individual items, I can’t help but find myself coming back to it time and time again. They are super breathable as individual items, and fantastic as a pair. While still being very comfy and still managing to keep the weather at bay. They are both light and very easy to pack away, and the sheer convenience that they give me means most hikes have both packed into my rucksack before anything else.  

You pay the price, but when you have both you have a standard-setting windproof, a top tier fleece, and then combined you have a waterproof jacket that will stand up to most outdoor adventures.   

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All reviews are our own thoughts, we are not paid to write any of our reviews. If we are sent gear by manufacturers is will be clearly marked, however will not impact our views of products.