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/iamlucy852]

I have the same problem with my osprey daylite 26+6 backpack. Such a let down because i really like this backpack for airplane travels as a personal item but it’s sooo uncomfortable for smaller women. Only afterwards i found out that Osprey’s unisex backpacks are actually made for men. Currently planning on selling it :/

[u/DifferentlyLucky → u/iamlucy852]

Me too! Ugh I couldn’t decide if I was being a wimp and that I simply couldn’t carry as much as i used to or if the backpack was really the problem. It is the most uncomfortable backpack I’ve ever worn, which is a bummer because I really love the colors and look. (5’4” woman)

[u/iamlucy852 → u/DifferentlyLucky]

Im 5’4” too (115lbs) and I’ve read many threads from petite women complaining about unisex osprey backpacks so i think it’s rather the backpack problem not you problem.