Osprey Eja 58 Women’s Backpack: Lightweight Comfort for Multi-Day Backpacking
I’ve been using the Osprey Eja 58 as my go-to backpacking pack for over 5 years, and it’s honestly one of my favorite pieces of gear. It’s lighter than most packs I’ve carried, yet the weight sits perfectly on my hips so I don’t feel like I’m lugging a ton. I’ve taken it on many trips to Joshua Tree, including my thru-hike on the California Riding & Hiking Trail, a backpacking trip to Havasupai, and countless other adventures, and it’s never let me down.
Why I Love the Eja 58
What I love most is the airflow in the back; the AirSpeed™ suspension keeps me cool even on long, hot days. The removable brain is a game-changer for ultralight packing, and the outside pockets are big enough to fit my Tiger Wall UL2 tent, while the main compartment easily holds a full-size bear can. Honestly, after 5 years, this pack still feels like new, and I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend it.
Designed for Women: The Eja vs. the Exos
The Eja is the women’s version of Osprey’s ultralight line, while the Exos is the men’s version. The Eja 58 is perfect when every ounce counts, but you still need a supportive, reliable backpack for multi-day trips. It’s made from 100% recycled materials, and the fit, ventilation, and comfort make it easy to carry heavy loads without feeling weighed down.
Key Features & Personal Tips
- Top pocket web loop attachment points
- Removable floating lid with top and under-lid zippered pockets
- Integrated FlapJacket cover for lidless use
- Internal hydration sleeve with center back hose port (the sleeve is also great to store tortillas!)
- Front stretch mesh pocket for stashing gear
- Dual-access stretch mesh side pockets
- Dual strippable side compression straps
- Web lash points for attaching overloads or carabiners (great for carrying electrolyte bottles or extra gear)
- Removable sleeping pad straps
- Dual ice axe loops with bungee tie-off (also perfect for attaching a tripod if you’re not using trekking poles)
- Dual zippered hipbelt pockets for easy on-the-go access to essentials
- Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment
- Sternum strap with integrated safety whistle
Hipbelt Pockets, Suspension & Smart Storage
The two hipbelt pockets make it easy to grab snacks or your phone while on the move. The AirSpeed™ suspension adjusts to your torso for a perfect fit, and the ultralight LightWire frame keeps the pack comfortable even fully loaded. The EXOFORM™ harness and hipbelt provide excellent cushioning, so long days on the trail don’t feel brutal.
One of my favorite little hacks: the Stow-on-the-Go trekking pole attachment works perfectly for tripods when I’m not using poles, and there are tons of loops to clip carabiners on for extra storage, like carrying electrolyte bottles in addition to the internal hydration pocket. It makes organizing gear so much easier on multi-day trips.
Durability & Fabric
- Main: bluesign® APPROVED recycled 100D high tenacity nylon ripstop, PFC/PFAS-free DWR
- Lining: bluesign® APPROVED recycled 400D high tenacity nylon, PFC/PFAS-free DWR
- Bottom: bluesign® APPROVED recycled 100D high tenacity nylon ripstop, PFC/PFAS-free DWR
Specs
| Model | Volume | Dimensions (H x W x D) | Weight |
|---|---|---|---|
| WXS/S | 3356 in³ / 55 L | 12.99 x 14.57 x 27.95 in | 2.717 lbs |
| WM/L | 3539 in³ / 58 L | 12.99 x 14.57 x 29.92 in | 2.822 lbs |
Final Thoughts
If you’re a woman looking for a backpacking pack that’s lightweight, supportive, and loaded with smart features, the Osprey Eja 58 is it. From weekend trips to multi-day backpacking adventures, this pack has been my trusted companion for years, and I know it will be for you too.
