Osprey Ace 38 - Blue Spikemoss Deep

The Osprey Ace 38 is designed for 'growing bodies,' typically accommodating children and pre-teens who are ready for overnight trips and need to carry a significant amount of gear. Its adjustable torso ensures a good fit for a wide range of heights within this age group.

Load the pack first. Then, locate the adjustment mechanism on the backpanel. Loosen the straps and slide the harness up or down until the hipbelt sits comfortably over your child's hip bones and the top of the shoulder straps are just below their shoulders.

While capable of being used for day hikes, its 38-liter capacity is primarily designed for overnight or multi-day trips, making it larger than typically needed for a short day hike or school. For school, it might be too bulky unless carrying a lot of specific items.

The AirSpeed suspension system uses a tensioned mesh backpanel that allows air to flow freely between your child's back and the pack. This ventilation helps reduce heat buildup and sweat, keeping them more comfortable on the trail.

Spot clean the pack with a damp cloth and mild soap. Rinse thoroughly and air dry completely in a well-ventilated area away from direct sunlight. Do not machine wash or tumble dry.

Place heavier items close to your child's back and centered in the pack. Distribute weight evenly between the left and right sides. Utilize all pockets for organization, putting frequently accessed items in external pockets like the hipbelt or front shove-it.

Ensure the torso length is correctly adjusted and the hipbelt is securely fastened over the hip bones to bear the majority of the weight. Distribute items evenly inside the pack, placing heavier items closer to the child's back.

Check that the sternum strap is buckled and adjusted to a comfortable height, and tighten it gently. Re-adjust shoulder straps and ensure the hipbelt is snug.

Ensure bottles are fully seated in the pockets. If the pockets are not full, they may lose tension. Consider using bottles with a slightly wider base or adding a small, soft item alongside the bottle to fill out the pocket.

Clean any dirt or debris from the zipper teeth. Apply a small amount of zipper lubricant or a graphite pencil to the teeth to improve movement.