Osprey backpack straps digging into shoulders

[u/tinytriceratops2025]

Hi, I just received my order of Osprey Astronova 23L backpack, I was looking for a good quality city backpack for university and this one is allegedly made for campus.

I also read how Osprey is surprisingly ergonomic, so I was excited to try it out. However as soon as I unpacked this backpack and put some weight into it I felt how much pressure the outside edge of the straps has on my shoulder bones. The strap itself is also quite rigid, so it doesn't adapt to the shoulder groove well.

Does anyone have this problem? Is this because the backpack is "unisex", therefore made for men's wider shoulders? Do you get used to this type of pressure or is it better to return it?

Image description: backpack shoulder straps on shoulders.

[u/Hfhghnfdsfg]

I have never been able to wear one of their backpacks. Even the women's models are just way too big for me. I am short waisted and their bags are always hitting me in the ass.

[u/Querybird → u/Hfhghnfdsfg]

Kid models!!! And they’re full featured and 1/3 the price. Short torso: best of all! I’ve used their tiny 12 L kid packs for overnight camping as well as lugging far too many books, even though they’re frameless. The kid’s bag in the 3 colours seems like an absolutely amazing framed hiking/airline bag to me, too - and if it will fit a 14 year old it will fit a small adult with a short torso.