By now, we all know the origin story of two superheroes who united to create a modern team that the EDC world needs right now. Experts in design and R&D from GORUCK and Patagonia, Jack and Kevin launched their first pack, the CPL24 and EVERGOODS along with it, three years ago.
Since then the CPL24 has seen a revision, they launched the Mountain Panel Loader for off-road adventures, and a 40L Civic Transit Bag for you dedicated one-baggers out there. But they didn’t stop there. EVERGOODS recently launched their latest EDC bag, the CIVIC Half Zip 22L (CHZ22) and it’s a stunner.
I started my obsession with the CPL24 after Jack showed us an early prototype in a top secret meeting at Summer OR in Salt Lake City, close to four years ago. Since then I’ve watched the company go through a successful Kickstarter campaigns, deal with moving production off-shore, and make small tweaks to the bag. But I couldn’t bring myself to pull the trigger.
Since then, I’ve talked to two EDC company founders who swear by their bags and carry them daily. And the overall consensus in the carry community is that the CPL24 was a triumph.
But, you see, the CPL24 checked almost all the boxes for me but I had some niggles with the design. The laptop compartment was not suspended and took up a lot of volume, even when empty. And the quick-access zipper was on the “wrong” side, if you’re right-handed. Also, for many, the lack of water bottle pockets was a no-go from the start.
Personally, I need to carry a laptop everyday and also like to carry lots of small accessories (notepad, pens, battery pack, cables, charger). I also use my EDC pack primarily for work and the occasional trip and would prefer one bag serve both purposes. I like bags that are between 18L and 22L and I need them to carry comfortably on hauls. Finally, I have a smaller frame (5’8″) and like bags to carry compactly and “densely”, which means a pack that is self-contained, without too much dangling loose, and void of too much sway as I explore.
After carrying the CIVIC Half Zip 22L for nearly two months, I can tell you it checks all those boxes and more. It shares much of the same DNA as the CPL24 including the shell and lining material, zippers, and shoulder strap foam but then it starts straying from its older brother in a refreshing way. Instead of a full clamshell opening the CHZ22 is a half-zip so it’s more akin to a traditional EDC school or book bag. The truncated zipper opening means room for a water bottle pocket on each side.
The laptop compartment is suspended and both it and the water pockets self-adjust so they slide out of the way when not being used. There are two accessory pockets, one accessible from the outside of the bag, just behind the main compartment zipper. The other is inside the front of the bag, for items that may require more security or are accessed less often. Small details like accessory loops on the inside and outside of the bag really pull it all together.
Design
So how is it to actually use? In a few words: familiar and reliable. I switch my main pack 3-4 times a year so I get to really put many different styles through their paces. The CHZ22 is built very much like a traditional school backpack which I consider a big pro. There are no load lifters to fiddle with and there is only about ten inches of slack on the shoulder strap attachment. I prefer to wear my packs high and close to my back and not slouched and low so your mileage may vary depending on your stance. While I like the short length and the loops at the end for easy adjustment, I do wish there were some loops or clips to tuck away the excess webbing.
Comfort
Comfort-wise, the bag is great. I love how compact and dense it feels on my back and that’s generally the “feeling” I like when carrying a bag. I don’t want bags to necessarily feel heavy but I want the load to stay tight together so there aren’t major sways or shifts in weight. The shoulder straps are really beefy and the padding is really consistent and uniform which means there are no hot spots. I wish, for my body shape, the straps curved in a bit more so it would put less pressure on the edge of my armpits, but that’s just a small niggle.
“The CHZ22 is built very much like a traditional school backpack which I consider a big pro. There are no load lifters to fiddle with and there is only about ten inches of slack on the shoulder strap attachment.”
Materials
Let’s take a deeper dive into what makes this backpack such a joy to use. Starting with the materials, the CHZ22 features a 500D High Tenacity Nylon with a water-resistant coating. This is the same as you’ll find in the CPL24. It has a tightly finished weave with high abrasion resistance and a matte finish which I think looks great in an urban or office environment. After using the bag and putting it on the ground on a daily basis, I haven’t seen any dirt or debris on it. My office is also pet-friendly and we have a handful of office dogs but my area doesn’t have any. Regardless, I haven’t seen any issue with dirt or hair. During the review, I set it down in the dirt path a few times. The bottom got dusty just like any bag would but it brushed off pretty easily.
The interior lining is made of 420D HT nylon with PU coating in a contrast (gray) color to make it easier to find things. I think I would have preferred a brighter color like an orange interior but that might be too much for the entire inside. Maybe just for the top accessory pocket?
The shoulder straps are lined with nitrogen gas filled Zotefoams which results in uniform bubble distribution, even density and long-lasting compression recovery. The straps are also constructed like a sandwich, with the top material cut longer than the bottom before being joined together. This results in a natural curve of the strap, mimicking the curve of the chest.
Hardware
The bag uses two sizes of YKK RC zippers which were designed for luggage, where high resistance to abrasion is critical. They are also DWR treated for increased water resistance. In some areas of construction, patterns are cut at a 45-degree angle from the roll of the fabric. This increases abrasion resistance in areas that need it most such as the bottom of the bag and the top of the shoulder straps.
The rest of the hardware is pretty average. The pull tabs, buckles, and sternum strap all do their job but they are nothing to write home about. I actually wish the zipper pulls were paracord but the flat-cord that comes with it works just fine and is long enough to function well.
Features
Laptop Support
The laptop compartment is suspended and holds up to a 15″ laptop. I use it daily with my 2015 MacBook Pro 15″ which is obviously a little thicker and heavier than the newer generations. It handles the laptop perfectly. One interesting aspect of the design is the top accessory pocket hangs loose in the main cavity and creates a sort of flap over the laptop area. This means any time you take the laptop in or out, you need to deal with pulling the computer around the flap, or tucking it behind the flap. This doesn’t take more than a few seconds but it’s a strange interaction that doesn’t really occur with other bags. Of course, you could always decide to just let the flap sit behind your laptop. The compartment also supports a water bladder with exit over each shoulder.
Accessory Pockets
The two accessory pockets are great. There’s an easy-access one just behind the main compartment, at the top. It has a red key strap which I hardly use but can see coming in handy when I travel and need to store my house keys. I put my work badge, sunglasses, and little knick-knacks in there. It’s great to be able to quickly grab at the badge when I get to work. Due to the position of the pocket, I can even wear the pack on my front and still access the contents easily.
The other pocket is on the inside front of the pack. I like unzipping the main compartment half way on each side, allowing the front to fold open, creating a sort of shelf. From there, it’s easy to slide items in and out of the pocket, perpendicular to the bag.
Top Strap and Freestanding
The top carry strap, which I’ve always said is a must-have on any bag, is just great. It’s nice and wide, thick, and well padded. I use it every single day and am not worried about carrying the bag by it for long periods, if needed. The zippers, as described earlier, do a great job keeping water and dirt out but sometimes I think, combined with the front shape of the bag, can be difficult to use. Since the half-zip nature of the opening is curved, the front of the pack has a tendency to collapse on itself (especially if the bag isn’t stuffed full). This results in a strange path for the zipper; lots of curves in and out. In my experience, opening is usually a two-handed affair. This doesn’t bother me much and I got used to it pretty quick.
The bottom of the pack features a large flat area, so it’s designed to freestand. However, this is really dependent on what sort of load you have in the pack. If you don’t carry the right combination and weight and volume, the bag will tip over, usually forward due to the design and shape of the bottom area.
Water Bottle Pockets and Latch Points
The big addition to the bag, over the CPL24, is of course the water bottle pockets. A simple foldover design prevents snagging and exposing seams. It’s fitted to hold a 1L bottle and does a good job of getting out of the way when not in use.
“The bottom of the pack features a large flat area, so it’s designed to freestand. However, this is really dependent on what sort of load you have in the pack. If you don’t carry the right combination and weight and volume, the bag will tip over, usually forward due to the design and shape of the bottom area.”
Speaking of the flap, there are loops sewn in that act as latch points which are perfect for pens or PALS attachments. There are also two attachment points, one on each side of the top carry loop, for small items like carabiners (Heroclip, anyone?).
Verdict
So, what do we have here? Who is this bag for? To me, EVERGOODS was very purposeful in their naming scheme. It’s part of the CIVIC line of packs, which means it’s designed for in-city pursuits. It’s 22L which falls in line with a perfect EDC daypack range for me (20L +/- 2L). It supports a laptop, has accessory pockets to hold keys and pens, and water bottle pockets for your Nalgene. The back and straps are textured and padded for comfort and the pack sits high and close to your back for stable carry. It’s not without niggles but they are all very minor compared to how well the pack excels in materials, construction, comfort, and use. In my opinion, this is one of the releases of the year, and a case study into how to nail a daypack.
I would consider the CIVIC Half Zip 22L among the best EDC backpacks I’ve used and I think it will be some time before it gets rotated out. Bravo, EVERGOODS!
Note: My friend Jonathan modeling the bag is 6’2″ tall.
Camera bags have been around for ages, but so many of them are just plain ugly, with no style and are only meant for that one function; being a camera bag. Enter the WANDRD PRVKE: a stylish, pragmatic, do-everything pack. It will seamlessly accompany you on a photo shoot, on multi-day travel, as well as for everyday carry. Doing so with a graceful mix of cleverly designed access points, expandability, weather-resistance, and utility.
The PRVKE is something to behold. When taking it out of its protective bag, you can’t help but be impressed by its aesthetics, its materials, its sheer potential for packing loads of gear. With two flavors, 21L and 31L, there are plenty of opportunities to attempt one-bag travel either during a short getaway or trips abroad. WANDRD has done an excellent job of retaining a minimalist/urban aesthetic while packing in a healthy array of features.
I wandered with the PRVKE to work, on vacation, during volunteer service and traveling abroad. Here are my takeaways.
Who Is It For?
Photographers. Period. For everyone else though, the PRVKE is for those who are style-forward. For those who don’t mind calling attention to themselves, because this pack is not only big but attention-getting.
That being said, it’s for those who desire a versatile bag that can suit several gear configurations, including “one bag travel”, and camera and/or drone needs, especially in its 31L iteration. The number of pockets, both hidden and not, provide a wealth of options. All coupled with a huge main compartment that includes some organization with an optional camera cube, and a built-in partition that can be used or tucked away. It’s for the worker, the traveler and the explorer who needs to carry lots of gear; it’s indeed a comfortable and functional pack.
Who Should Pass?
If you want to keep a low profile and not call attention to yourself, pass on the PRVKE. I personally wouldn’t want to walk down some sketchy streets or go city exploring in a potentially dangerous place with this bag. Additionally, its aesthetics, although beautiful and modernistic, may not blend well in the more traditional workplace.
Also, if you’re a minimalist who only wants to carry the bare minimum, the PRVKE’s size can be a hindrance, and there is no detachable sling for those times when all you need are the basics. A separate sling or pack would be required.
The Good
There’s a lot to like about the PRVKE, it effortlessly blends stylish design with functionality; often described as utilitarian, minimalist, modernistic, urban, fashionable, rugged, sleek, and other adjectives that either agree with or contradict each other. However you want to label it, the PRVKE is a good-looking bag.
When doing volunteer work, I sometimes need to change clothes. For this use case, adding in some shoes, a towel, and clothes to my usual EDC was effortless. And since the PRVKE gives you multiple access points to the main compartment, the variable nature of my activities was not a problem: Need to get to my tech gear? Pull it directly from the side access. Need the Surface? Open the back panel only slightly and pull it out. Need a different pair of shoes? Open the back panel entirely and unzip the bottom section. Need a towel? Open the roll-top and grab it. Even when on an island-hopping trip, where each day required a new loadout, the PRVKE adapted to the varying needs of each circumstance. It’s adaptable, which I am all for, in how you access the enormous amount of stuff you can pack in it.
As a travel bag, the PRVKE is quite possibly the most comfortable bag I’ve ever used, even packed to the gills. It wasn’t “one bag travel”, but on a recent nine-day trip, I packed my entire Peak Design Tech Pouch (RavPower 20100 battery, Surface Adapter, Anker QuickCharge 3.0, two lightning cables, one USB cable, two sets of earbuds, Fitbit charger, flashlight, and Moment Lens case), Surface Pro 4, one large and one medium Knack compression cube filled with clothes, flip-flops, some documents, Kindle, Skittles, insulin, sunglasses, passports, Hydro Flask water bottle, and some pens. Sure it was heavy, but it was never burdensome, even when swinging it around to side-access the main compartment. This is in large part due to the robust, beefy, and comfortable shoulder straps. They have the right mix of padding, rigidity, and density that distributes weight effectively across the body. When you add the sternum strap and hip straps, it takes the PRVKE to another level. All this in tandem with a wonderfully designed back panel of molded foam with horizontal air channels, that even when walking the hot and humid streets of old San Juan, didn’t produce a sweaty back.
When used primarily for photography, the PRVKE is a champ. The camera cube, which can be secured inside the bag, or left loose for easy grab-and-go access, is a delight to use. The cube’s internals can be customized to your needs. One thing to note is that the 21L version will only fit a DSLR and a couple of lenses and batteries, while the 31L is much more versatile. If a DSLR, drones, or multiple lenses and chassis are in play, I’d suggest going for the 31L variant. Additionally, inside the side access flap is a zippered pocket for memory cards; this is incredibly useful and convenient, as I didn’t need to rummage through my gear. Lastly, it’s adaptable in that you can leave the bag behind and strap the camera cube to your side for times when all you need is a camera.
There are plenty of pockets apart from the main compartment to store varying items. One of my favorites is the “hidden” pocket that rests against my back when wearing the pack. Here is where I placed my passport or other sensitive documents like boarding passes. Additionally, it’s really one of the only pockets that provide any sort of organization to put pens, multi-tools, etc. I found the front pocket useful to store my Kindle or other documents. The top quick-access pocket is cleverly placed, and easy to get to. I literally discovered a pocket after weeks of use; a small side pocket with a key clip hidden behind a cinching strap. One can presumably store something small and valuable here, but I kept a bag of Skittles. Lastly, at the bottom of the pack, there is a pocket where the rainfly is stored; it’s a classy touch, but I found the rainfly to be superfluous since the bag is pretty weather resistant to begin with, and instead stored gear straps and some cables.
The tote style handles are a game changer. After having used the PRVKE for a few months, every other bag’s handles just seemed woefully inadequate. They’re comfortable to hold, even when the bag is fully packed (roll-top not included). On a few occasions, I found myself walking around carrying the pack just by these handles. They’re the perfect length; even when the handles fell to each side of the bag, they were easily scooped up. The addition of a small magnet on each handle is an ingenious touch when they work. I’d love to see stronger magnets used here though, to prevent the two handles from coming apart on their own.
Keeping in mind the PRVKE’s adaptable nature, the folks at WANDRD included a series of anchor points around the sides, and underneath. In tandem with the gear straps, these anchor points proved incredibly useful in strapping gear to the outside of the bag. This in itself is not unique to the PRVKE, but what the PRVKE does that’s quite brilliant is position the anchor points in a way to allow several configurations. They then upped the ante by including anchor points inside the laptop compartment that would enable a makeshift desk; crazy useful when on the go.
On that note, the laptop/tablet compartment is sturdy and well-made, with enough padding both inside and out to ensure that your valuable device is protected. Having it be its own separate compartment, apart from the primary storage area is a welcome design decision. I would be able to access my Surface by merely opening this back panel slightly, leaving the rest of the pack undisturbed. Also, as one of the only places to store documents safely, it was okay for more business-centric activities. Did TSA let me keep my devices inside their sleeves while going through security? Nope. Maybe one day – we can dream.
Now, the hardware is top-notch. After months of use and abuse, the bag still looks new. The buckles are intact, the webbing isn’t frayed, the nylon isn’t wrinkled or showing signs of wear, the large metal G-hook isn’t warped or bent. The PRVKE is a high-quality pack that is meant to last. This extends to the water-resistant YKK zippers – each one glides smoothly, with a satisfying sound. Special mention goes to the zip ties for the back panel; the large hoops make finding and pulling these zippers effortless.
Having a zippable and expandable water bottle pocket is killer, especially if you care about your silhouette and how you look while using the pack. When in use, the pocket is deep enough not to worry about the bottle falling out and large enough to accommodate both a basic Hydro Flask or Contigo. Reaching for and grabbing the bottle was never burdensome. One caveat though, when the PRVKE is packed out, you will have a hard time utilizing this pocket. I stuffed the bottle in but was concerned for the webbing attached to the tarpaulin each time. The pocket can also moonlight as a tripod holder in conjunction with a gear strap. Nice!
Not So Good
However much I like and admire my PRVKE, some niggling details should be noted:
There isn’t a whole lot of organization here in terms of where to put pens, multi-tools, and small items. Sure, you can put these things in the “hidden” pocket, but it’s cumbersome to access and can only hold the smallest of items that are not flat. There’s a felt-lined quick-access pocket, but if you’re putting glasses in there, you wouldn’t want to put anything else inside; also, it’s relatively small.
The side key-clip pocket is tiny. This leaves you with the large front pocket, where the outline of what’s inside is visible – once again, if you care about looks, this is a non-starter. I resorted to putting smaller items in my tech pouch, accessible from the side.
The front pocket is not a great place to put documents as they’ll get bent and wrinkled, leaving you to place documents in the laptop or tablet sleeve. Unfortunately, those slots may be occupied, forcing you to put them in between the sleeves and the main compartment. This is probably not an issue during travel but could be a hassle for EDC use.
Honestly, on several occasions, I appreciated the ability to expand my carrying capacity by utilizing the roll top. But, when expanded out to its limit or near its limit, I looked ridiculous. Like some kind of hipster Sherpa.
As mentioned, the PRVKE is a gorgeous bag whose style is going to call attention. A lot of attention. This isn’t necessarily a bad thing if you want and care about that. As for me, I tend to prefer a more low-key look when traveling, and the bag didn’t mesh well in more traditional workplaces. Even at 21L, the PRVKE looks big and attention-getting. Generally, my EDC is a Surface Pro 4, Surface Mouse, a bundle of IT cables, Skittles, and some insulin in a cooling pouch. The bag was mostly empty and here’s why; the Surface sits against the back of the pack in a separate laptop/tablet sleeve not taking up any room, while the rest of my essentials sit all the way at the bottom of the cavernous main compartment in a Peak Design Tech Pouch. The tarpaulin material is already formed, so the bag looks virtually the same whether it’s empty or packed. The nature of the PRVKE’s looks did produce some comments from clients: “Dude, are you going on a safari?” Whether or not this matters largely depends on your preference for attention.
For however attention-grabbing and beautiful the bag is on the outside, the inside materials leave a bit to be desired. The zippers look and feel cheaper than their outside counterparts, as does the nylon and mesh material that provides a barrier between the main compartment and the back panel. This is probably a cost-cutting measure, which I can appreciate, but it’s a jarring juxtaposition.
Speaking of the inside, unless you’re using the camera cube, there isn’t a whole lot of internal organization in primary storage. You can Velcro up the partition, but that creates one small pocket that is accessible through the roll top and a mesh-panel zipper, and one large compartment accessible via the side access or nylon-panel zipper. I am being super nit-picky here, but it’s worth noting and entirely dependent on your use case.
Verdict
If you’re into DSLR or drone photography, buy the bag; it’s worth every cent. As a travel and EDC bag though, I have a love-hate relationship with the PRVKE. It’s a gorgeous work of art in bag form that still catches my eye when I walk by it. But it’s because of how beautiful it is that I hesitate to take it with me on every single trip, and to every client’s office: I don’t want the attention. If you don’t care, then seriously, by all means, toss caution to the wind and acquire the PRVKE, it’s incredible.
That being said, some minor inconveniences can cause you to give pause – but no bag is perfect for every single person. Nevertheless, the PRVKE can take you onto the mountains, into the woods, through the deserts, exploring the cities, walking the streets, and going to work; maybe in the same day – a go anywhere bag. WANDRD has created a pack whose multiple access points, materials, construction, and features coalesce into an excellent product that is deserving of all the hype; one you can enjoy for years to come.
This article was written by Jovanni Bello. Renaissance man, adventurer and cell phone photographer.
Want to stay well prepped for day-to-day college tasks but watching the finances? Find out if the reasonably priced System G Carry+ 17″ Backpack is right for you, as well as what budget-friendly tools you can fit inside it…
Art. Function. Experimentation. Chicago-based carry brand 1733 isn’t the sort of brand you can pigeonhole into one sphere. Sewn in small batches, their gear focuses on quality in build and materials alike, with a refreshing willingness to embrace new fabric and color plays. Not to mention an awesome custom service too. We caught up with founder Phil Schade to find out more about the brand…
1733 was founded by yourself (an engineer), but your brother Tim (an artist) has been involved in a few different capacities over the years. Though he’s not involved in the day-to-day business currently, why did you decide to collaborate together and what inspired you to make bags and create a carry brand?
1733 started as an informal portfolio of projects I was
working on as I taught myself to sew. At the beginning I was making mostly home
goods—pillows, trivets, upholstery. The bags came a little later as I began to
build up my skills on the sewing machine and get a better understanding of the
materials I wanted to work with. Tim came out to Chicago in 2015 to help me
turn that portfolio into a shop and 1733 into a brand. It was super useful in
those early days to have someone to bounce ideas off of, flesh out a color
palette for our first range of bags, and redesign the website. Tim also is
responsible for the graphic design of 1733, his aesthetics inform all of our
physical and digital branding.
How did you get into sewing and making bags? Are you self-taught? Inspired by a mentor?
I started teaching myself how to sew as a way to get back to working with my hands. In college I enjoyed my labs and design projects the most. After graduating I started working in data analysis and database design and lost my physical connection to the things I was working on. Sewing interested me because I was thinking about sneakers and shoe design a lot and thought it would be a good way to build up skills to one day make my own shoes. After learning on—and breaking—a couple of home machines with too-heavy material, I took an upholstery class to learn to use industrial walking foot sewing machines. I also learned some basics of bag design in that class. After completing the course I had the confidence to buy an industrial machine and began taking 1733 more seriously as a bag making business.
How many people are in the 1733 team? Do you all have specific roles or do you get involved with various tasks in the day-to-day running of the brand and creating gear?
1733’s staff consists of me and two recently added part-time sewers. All design, business operations, cutting, and about 80% of the sewing is done by me. I rely on my part-time employees when we have to complete large orders and I can batch sewing operations together for them. I also have them help me with finishing and packing for shipping orders. Managing and making sure there are tasks for them to work on has been a new challenge for me, since for the first four years of 1733, I was doing everything on my own.
Tell us about a typical day at 1733 HQ.
I wouldn’t say there is a “typical” day at 1733, mostly because the types and sizes of projects we work on vary widely. I show up at our 400sq ft studio around 9. A lot of the time a day starts with cutting fabric. The material and quantities of the style being made determines which of my many cutting tools I will use. These tools range from scissors, manual rotary cutters, and utility blades for single ply to electric rotary cutters and cutting machines that can handle several inches of fabric at once. Sewing is done on five different sewing machines that handle different material weights and operations. In between production stages I spend time answering emails, designing and pattern making, meeting clients, and packing and shipping orders.
Do you find any materials or components particularly challenging to work with? Do you have any particular materials you love working with?
The first collection of bags I made were neoprene tote bags.
I was inexperienced and didn’t know that much about materials at the time—I
just thought neoprene looked and felt cool. The thick and stretchy nature of
neoprene makes it difficult to work with, and as I mentioned before, it ended
up gumming up and overtaxing my first home machine. I still use it today in
laptop sleeves and some padding applications but those qualities still make it
harder to work with (even though my skills and tools have improved). Leather is
another material that can be challenging, the variation in a hide can make it
slower to cut and harder to account for stretch when being used with
non-stretchy materials like woven nylons. It is also expensive and unforgiving
if you make a mistake, so I tend to work slower when making bags with leather
components. Shock cord is also a pain to work with if it needs to be sewn: the
cores are very dense and round, which makes sewing through it an exercise in
precision and patience.
I really like working with traditional woven nylons like the Cordura variants and packcloth. They are strong and stable, have beautiful colors and textures and a very minimal degree of stretch, which allows them to turn corners neatly. The cotton faced X-Pac fabric, known as X10, is another of my favorites. It combines the look and feel of a traditional cotton duck with the waterproof properties of Dimension Polyant’s laminate technology and the raised diamond grid makes it look really cool. I’ve been working with an 18oz cotton canvas recently as well that is quite heavy and thick but provides very rewarding results when sewn up.
You work with a really varied mix of materials. How do you source them? Do you have a local supplier or source fabrics from overseas? Do you pick up materials on your travels?
Location is not a consideration for me when sourcing
materials—I am looking for the highest quality at the best price. I use something
like 40 vendors for fabrics, trim, and hardware. Because of 1733’s size, I have
to shop around a lot to find the suppliers that have the MOQs I need at the
prices that make sense.
Chicago still has a small but vibrant textile manufacturing community so there are resources here that I like to use. In the Pilsen neighborhood, there is a 70,000sq ft warehouse called the Discount Textile Outlet that has racks upon racks of deadstock fabric that is purchased from closed mills or other fabric stores that are going out of business—most of my leather comes from here, as well as a fuzzy material I use on some fanny packs and pouches. I am also using a local supplier for cotton duck canvases. Finally, The Weaving Mill is a local artist-run industrial mill that makes their own fabric for blankets, bags, home goods, and clothes. I use off-cuts from their production to make bags that we sell together as a collaboration.
In my travels the best place I’ve found to buy special materials is a small leather supplier in Lewiston, Maine called Brettuns Village. It is a co-op owned by a handful of tanneries in New England and New York that sells their overstock of seconds quality leathers at very reasonable prices.
1733 offers a custom bag-making service. Have there ever been pieces you struggled with or failed to make? If so, how did you solve the problem or make things right with the customer?
Custom bag design is almost always a struggle. It is slow and expensive because the customer has an idea in mind (usually something with lots of special features), and I have to take that idea and turn it into something that I can actually sew together. Most customers don’t think too much about the sewing construction of a bag and how it can limit what you can do within the space of a seam or a bag. My preference at the moment is to make smallish feature changes or special color or material changes to my existing patterns as customer bags. Though occasionally there is a bag idea that speaks to me and I jump in head first to try to work it out for someone. I have found that working on a custom bag or feature for someone may force me to learn a new technique or think about sewing construction in a different way. Having this experience always benefits me down the line when I am working on new designs.
Do you have a particularly memorable custom piece that really stands out for you? For instance, a unique design or a piece that helped you hone your manufacturing techniques or learn new ones?
The custom bag that most stands out to me is a softshell padded violin bag I made. The customer wanted a tactical look so it was done up in black 1000D Cordura and had MOLLE webbing and a big loop panel for morale patches. The juxtaposition of the heavy military elements of the bag and the refined delicate nature of the instrument really appealed to my sense of humour.
What’s your favorite 1733 piece and why?
The Daily Tote is my favorite bag that we make. I love the X10 material and how well it integrates with the size, shape, and functionality of the design. It’s kind of a hybrid of a briefcase and purse which makes it feel very unisex and versatile to me. I’m excited to share some new special colorways that it will be coming out in later this fall and winter.
Where’s the most unexpected place one of your bags has cropped up in? Perhaps a customer took a 1733 bag on a wild adventure or you shipped a purchase to a far-flung destination you never expected to?
I don’t know if any place has been that unexpected, I ship
bags around the world and I know people take my bags on trips everywhere.
Honestly the most exciting thing to me is when I see a stranger on the bus with
one of my bags. I usually don’t say anything to them but it makes my day to get
a glimpse of a thing I’ve made out in the world, and to see that it’s being
used and enjoyed.
What differentiates 1733 from its competition?
One thing that separates us from other small cottage manufacturers is our location in an urban environment. Since I live in a big city, and have lived in big cities for most of my life, that kind of bag usage has really informed my designs. Commuting by bike or public transit, and having to travel outside of the city to experience nature means that our bags have to be styled in a certain way. Teal ripstop and trampoline suspensions don’t really get it done on a crowded L train. I also want my bags to be versatile. I’ve never really been a person who likes (or can afford) lots of super specialized gear, so having a daypack that you can commute and hike and travel with is important to me. There are plenty of other brands who are going after these same ideas, but when you get down to the smaller brands like mine there is a lot more focus on specialized activities like thru-hiking and bike packing. I also think what makes 1733 unique from those other cottage brands is my willingness to incorporate multi-paned shapes and curved pattern pieces in my designs. It leads to more complex cutting and sewing operations but I think it contributes to both the form and function that I am striving for. Finally, another thing that distinguishes the brand is my interest in experimenting with different materials outside of the Cordura, Dyneema, and X-Pac range. Specifically in our collaborations we get to work with unique materials and treatments that are not seen in many other bags.
How do you choose collaborators to work with? Are there particular creative traits you look for or shared values?
I like to work with collaborators who have skills and perspectives that are different from mine. The best collaborative projects involve working closely with an artist or designer who values materials and construction like I do and we work together to puzzle out how to make our ideas into a real thing—thinking through all the steps and elements required to produce a finished product. Specifically, I love collaborations that involve the creation and use of custom textiles: I get super excited about weaving, printing, and dyeing because the end results are always so unique and have so much of a physical connection to the people who made them. My projects with Dog Pasta and The Weaving Mill represent this type of work well.
A clear vision is also a refreshing trait in a collaborator. The NOAHZAGOR bags I made using incredible mid-century Japanese shibori fabrics, and the first run of bags I made for Meridian, where I used materials from the ultralight hiking world, both started as proposals with a strong idea for me to work from and add to. The fun (and challenging) part is figuring out how to take elements of each of our styles and practices to make something new.
What business advice would you share with others looking to start a carry brand? Are there things you wish you’d done differently or mistakes that taught you a lot?
I do not have any sage “business” advice that I think is
particularly helpful, or that can be easily generalized. Trying to manufacture
in-house, at scale, is very difficult, but I haven’t yet found another way to
do it while maintaining the control I feel I need to have a product that meets
my design and quality standards. I think the most important thing I can impart
to other people trying to make carry goods is to do something unique. Does the
world need another rounded-corner rectangle travel bag?
How do you stay inspired to keep creating new gear?
I just think about bags, materials, and sewing all the time. When I’m at the airport, or on the street, I’ll just be looking around to see what people are using, and I’m constantly reading about new and old gear. My girlfriend is an amazing wear tester, she abuses her bags by over-stuffing them and never cleaning them out. Seeing how she uses the bags I make for her, I always find something I can improve or a new design that would be more effective. Often, a concept pops into my head that I think might be worth trying. If it’s something simple I might set aside an afternoon to make a prototype to start testing. If it’s more complex I’ll keep thinking about it and sketching it and trying to figure out how it could be assembled. If it sticks in there long enough I know I should give it a go, and I try to find some time to start patterning and sewing. In my view, knowing how to sew and put things together is a very important skill for a designer. Being mostly self-taught has allowed me to iterate 1733 as a brand in a way that feels cohesive and progressive.
Have you got any current projects you’re excited to share with us? Or fun design projects on the horizon?
At the moment I’m most excited for the second round of bags that will be produced for the store Meridian in Hudson, NY. When I describe working with Sam to other people I like to say that he “gets it.” I don’t know how else to put it but he pushes me creatively, gives me extremely useful feedback, and trusts me to design and make what are going to be some very special pieces. We should be releasing the collection this November. A bit further down the line I want to keep iterating a new design of a bag called the Trek Pack, which will be a 25-35ish-liter travel and hiking backpack which takes some inspiration from the thru-hiking world.
Sylvain Paley has always been passionate about bags. However, even more than bags, he’s obsessed with all things packing. A race skier when younger, each weekend would involve packing all his gear to participate in races in different resorts. Later on he developed a love of travel optimization and flexibility. And as part brand strategist consultant and part documentary filmmaker for the French government, he’s used to traveling between many countries while keeping his carry as light as possible. Sylvain’s passion for bags even finds an outlet on his YouTube bag review channel Still Drunk From Yesterday. And with an enthusiast this keen on carry, we couldn’t wait to delve deeper into his personal collection…
What was the very first piece in your collection? And do you remember where and why you picked it up?
The very first piece isn’t pictured in the photos as I stopped using it a long time ago. But it was what made me a bag collector in the first place. It was a very flashy orange ski backpack made by Salomon, the type of bag only the people living in the ’90s could imagine. I won it at a ski race and the teenager I was at the time saw it as a sign: I should carry this backpack at every ski race if I want to win every time. So even five years later, when the fabric had worn out, the straps had broken and the zippers were completely out, I still insisted on repairing it, patching it and carrying it over and over.
Years later, as an adult with a paycheck, I bought my first proper backpack during a holiday trip in SF: The Commuter Briefcase by Topo Designs. It’s still my everyday bag today.
When did you begin to feel more than what might be called an “average obsession” for bags?
It’s not really the number of bags you own that makes you a bag fanatic. It’s the face you make when you enter a store with a wall covered by bags, it’s the weird questions you ask your friend who just bought one and it’s the time and science you put into the packing/organization process. But the first time I realised that I must have more than an “average obsession” is when random strangers on social media began to ask for buying advice. That’s why I opened a YouTube channel!
How many bags do you have in your quiver? Can you run us through an itemized list?
Okay, first, the bags I use when I’m on a film-making assignment:
Great question. I used to want to show off and set a pegboard to display all my collection on a wall but unfortunately, I don’t live in a castle or have a garage. In fact, as a bag collector, I developed a storage obsession as well. When you are into packing stuff, you like that all your things have a dedicated place in the house. Easy to get, easy to remember. I was Mariekondo’ing before knowing who Marie Kondo was. So all my bags are laid flat and stacked onto each other in a drawer under my bed. I still hang one or two in my bedroom: the ones I use on a daily basis. It’s like a coat, really.
What do you look for? What makes a bag a must-have?
Quality first. There’s no fast fashion in a bag. A good bag lasts a lifetime or two. It has to be made ethically as well. Bluesign certification, B-Corp and all that stuff always have my preferences. Then modularity and “hybridation”. The do-it-all bag doesn’t exist but a good bag should be used for different purposes. That’s why I like bags like the Commuter Briefcase (half backpack, half briefcase) and bags like the Dorsa 27 with a lot of straps and loops which make it easy to customize (skiing, camping, hiking, strolling in the city, etc.). Finally the look. I’m not into the military stuff but I like outdoor brands and hiking looks. That’s why Topo Designs is one of my favorite brands.
Tell us more about your filmmaking carry setup? Any tips and tricks for traveling and working?
It really depends on the assignment, but recently I had to film a documentary in different locations in France. I had to shoot interviews on the go, some landscape and aerial shots. In that situation, I put all my accessories into the cheap equivalent of a Pelican 1510: wireless lavalier mics, batteries, chargers, cage, external monitors, cables, lights etc. Then, the camera, lenses and shotgun mic in the Topo Designs Field Bag. And finally my clothes, drone, tripod and laptop in the WANDRD PRVKE. When in the field, I leave the hard case as a charging station in the hotel or in a special room, and I only use the Field Bag to carry all the stuff (mics, lenses etc.) while the camera is in my hands. So far it works well!
Was there anything from the past that you hesitated on that you would kill to have now?
Not really, no. Maybe some rare colorways (the Patagonia Lightweight Travel Tote in Yellow and Grey you see in the picture? This one is like a rare Pokemon) or vintage stuff. In fact, sometimes the biggest frustration when you live in Europe is the shipping fees of some American brands. I was really interested in some Alite Designs items but I never bought them because shipping is half the price of the actual product.
Can you tell us a favorite carry memory? Or a memory garnered whilst wearing a particular piece? You were wearing your ––––––– when this happened…
Well, I was hiking to Glacier Point in Yosemite with my girlfriend, wearing the brand new Topo Designs backpack I just bought in SF, when suddenly I popped out a ring from the front pocket. One year later she became my wife and she still supports my insane obsession.
If your house was burning down and you only had enough time to grab one bag, which one would it be and why?
This question should be illegal. I’d say the Commuter Briefcase since it’s my first.
What’s next on the wish list?
Funny thing: I’m trying to get rid of some of my collection because I want to try a more minimalist approach in the things I own. I’m planning to do a giveaway or a contest on my YouTube channel but I really struggle to decide which items I could get rid of. I like them all, I use them all. It’s really, really hard. So before planning the next buy, I’m gonna have to say goodbye to some of them.
Looking for a backpack but finding it hard to narrow down a good pick? So what exactly should you be looking for to help make the decision process easier? Well, who better than to ask than the expert designers dreaming up the best backpacks in the world. So we reached out to some of our favorite carry designers to share their top tips on how to choose a well-designed backpack…
As much as we might not like to admit it, a backpack is oftentimes just as much about fashion as it is about function. And this is coming from a designer who actively hates on fashion-forward products while spending absurd amounts of time stressing about tiny details related mostly to nuts and bolts usability, durability, manufacturability, value and performance. But a well-designed bag that doesn’t communicate anything about who made it or who’s wearing it…is like driving a Kia. Man, those new Kias are pretty sweet. And that warranty!? But am I buying a Kia? Shit no.
You get the point. There are so many great bags out there these days. Support designers who are passionate about the products they build and the communities they build them for. Invest in bag designs that speak to you and say something about your personality, interests and aspirations. That’s where the fashion (cringe) element comes into play. Of course you should never buy a bag with fashion as the primary driver, but don’t ignore it entirely. If you can’t emotionally connect with a bag then you probably won’t use it for long no matter how well it works. And yes, even the most hardcore tactical bag usually has this fashion element wrapped into the purchase decision. Probably more so, let’s be honest.
I think it’s always best to ask why you’ve stopped using the existing products you own? Do they break? Do they get dirty? Did that citrus lemon zing colorway end up being a passing fad? Or do they just stop rocking your emotional boat? The more you understand your own reasons for aborting products, the more you’ll be able to steer yourself towards products that become long-lasting companions for the road ahead.
The main thing I tell people when they are looking at a pack to carry a computer in is to pay attention to the shape and how the computer will fit in any bag they are looking at buying. The shape of a person’s back is curved like an ‘S’ and a computer is straight. If the bag you get to carry a laptop doesn’t accommodate for these two facts, you will have an uncomfortable pack that puts strain on your laptop.
Most bags keep the computer up high and that will keep the bag from properly curving over the shoulder blades. Your shoulder blades will also act as the fulcrum that your computer will bend over. Even if it’s titanium something has to give and what will often happen is the keyboard will just get shoved into the screen. Mystery Ranch fixes this by having a floating computer sleeve that lets a computer push into the bag on the bottom and top as it needs to flex around your back, but there are many ways to work around this issue that clever designers have figured out.
My single best piece of advice for choosing a well-designed backpack, borrowing from my dozen-plus years as an Industrial Designer focusing on softgoods design of bags, packs, and travel gear for some major brands in the industry… My best advice…
Yes, listen to OutKast.“I’mma show you how to wild out like Jack Tripper. Let me be bambino on your snipples. YKK on yo’ zipper, lick you like a lizard when I’m slizzerd”. That quick 4-word verse snuck in there from Mr. André 3000 can make all the difference between choosing a great bag and one that falls apart on you at the worst time possible. For example, when you’re 8 days into a 15-day adventure and the contents of your pack completely spill out over the floor of the Narita airport as you’re sprinting to make your flight to Manila which leaves in 10 minutes, leaving you no way to refill and close your bag, as the zipper completely self-destructed. Pretty horrific, eh? Well, that’s probably because that zipper was some no-name generic garbage nonsense.
There ARE many other high-quality and trustworthy zipper manufacturers out there (TiZip, RIRI, Talon, just to name a few). And I personally have and still confidently use all of these zipper brands on bags and packs I’ve designed… frequently even. But for a quick and easy way to choose a great bag… look for that industry standard, the YKK zipper. Or at least look for a zipper that is branded with a quality zipper manufacturer’s name on it. If the maker of the bag doesn’t call out the name of the zipper on their website or on the product hangtag, it’s because they’re embarrassed and don’t want you, the customer, to know. So remember… listen to OutKast. And look for that YKK on yo’ zipper.
James Jeffrey
Designer at Bellroy
Who are you trying to impress, where are you trying to optimize?
Bags, like clothes, signal. These signals show a great deal about how you travel through the world and your personal values. Walking into a meeting in a tailored suit carrying a ballistic nylon freebie bag with ‘Microsoft Windows 2007 Developer Conference’ embroidered onto the failing flap. Well, you sir have just devalued your suit.
I feel like shoes have a cultural acceptance of taking time to pair with your life that far eclipses bags (well for dudes, mainly). Where are you going to be going? Does the minimal functionality of Mismo’s organization matter over its ability to effortlessly walk into a high-powered meeting and immediately put you on the front foot? Most likely not.
So some bags might never be perfect, but they can certainly nail one purpose – every single time.
When looking into the design of an everyday bag, my interest is always first focused on the internal architecture.
Having clean separation for commuting, work, and play is key and something you don’t want mixed up throughout the day. For example, commuters want basic weather protection and easy accessibility for the random conditions you encounter, so TPU-coated materials and WR zippers on face-forward pocketing and quick-access pockets for your phone and keys are essential. When entering your work space you need to have easy access to a well-padded laptop sleeve along with essential pockets for all the work tools that can be quickly laid out in your space.
Lastly, after your work is done you might need a change of clothes for jumping on your bike or heading to the gym. To keep everything clean there must be a well-separated volume with stretch pockets and wet/dry separation for messy items. All together these purposeful compartments (and weather protection/commuter functionality) make for a well-designed pack that makes all aspects of your life less stressful.
Then, I move to the external aesthetic, which needs to be minimal.
Softgoods Design and Sustainability at Make it Better Co
Regardless of whether I am designing a lifestyle daypack or an alpine climbing pack, I want it to have a long, useful life. This is the most sustainable type of product to put out into the world and one of the hallmarks of a well-designed backpack. A well-designed, enduring product will consider many aspects of materials, design and construction and each brand will emphasize different areas. So what can you do when comparing backpacks at the front-end that will indicate it is well designed?
Seek out good quality. You can look at the individual ingredients of a backpack as signs (eg: branded components or material specs) but often a pack is more than the sum of its parts. My top pick would be to buy a backpack with a warranty the brand promotes. Ideally a lifetime warranty or at minimum 3 years. This way you know the brand is invested in quality materials, construction, and your end-user experience.
Try before you buy. As much as designers obsess over ergonomics and fit, the product brief rarely includes fitting 100% of the population. It is good practice to try the pack out with some weight or your current carry contents. Is it a comfortable fit for you? Can it be adjusted? If the pack is not comfortable to wear or does not carry and organize your load well, then reassess. After all, you are probably looking for a backpack because it can carry and distribute the load better than other types of bags.
When you think of Scandinavia, commonly known brands tend to crop up. The likes of Fjällräven and Sandqvist. Thule, Mismo or Rains. But dig a little deeper and you’ll discover a goldmine of first-rate brands making world-class gear. You see, the small cluster of countries set to the north of Europe is blessed by some of the world’s wildest terrain. A thriving outdoor scene that is only matched by an arguably even more thriving fashion and design scene. And that combination of fashion and design and the need for gear to laugh in the face of Nordic storms, makes for a melting pot of vibes – and exceptional brands you should definitely know about…
Getting outdoors is a chosen pastime enjoyed by many today. But skip back over a century and it was an unavoidable reality for Wiktor Haglöf. A carpenter by trade and the son of a forester, Wiktor grew up in an outdoor lifestyle – and not always an easy one. So he decided to create a company that would help others living and working in the outdoors, making life just that little bit easier for people who had to endure the elements and harsh environments by necessity. Wiktor started making tough and reliable backpacks by hand to help local workers transport tools. An endeavour that quickly expanded into large-scale production and branched out into other outdoor gear including clothing and footwear (even supplying gear to the military in WWII). Haglöfs was founded in 1914 and in 1955 Wiktor handed over the running of the now well established brand to his sons. In 1975 the brand was sold and transitioned from a family-owned business into a global name in technical gear for the outdoors. A name that continues to maintain its position at the forefront of Swedish outdoor gear. Haglöfs focuses on high-quality, functional, durable gear that caters to a range of outdoor pursuits and end users, from weekend warriors to expedition explorers and more. Responsible and sustainable manufacturing is also key in their design process, from the materials and manufacturing working conditions, to product care and repair.
Halite have been flying under the radar in the carry world. But that doesn’t mean they haven’t been busy. And we suspect this Norwegian brand is only going to grow in popularity as people embrace their ruggedly functional and adaptable gear. Founded by ex-military personnel with backgrounds in special operations who teamed up with highly experienced designers in the outdoor, expedition and climbing spheres, the brand is grounded in practical, reliable and hard-wearing gear. Formerly under the name Piteraq Hardware, the brand supplies military and expedition-ready gear that has been used in everything from maritime operations to demanding Himalayan climbing. And the real beauty? Its versatile, understated nature makes this gear equally well suited to civilian adventure travel and outdoor excursions too.
Norrøna has an extensive history dating back to 1929 when Jørgen Jørgensen founded the company with the goal to make top-notch outdoor products. The brand grew and developed over the years, welcoming a range of gear including backpacks, tents, clothing and sleeping bags. And they introduced influential industry benchmarks. In 1972 they launched the Ravneskar, the first tunnel tent with front and rear openings. In 1977 they became the first European company to use Gore-Tex, creating a prototype Gore-Tex jacket. Their gear has been tested and used in extreme environments including Mount Everest and the North and South Pole. nd today the brand embraces what they call a Loaded minimalism approach to design, making quality products as clean as possible while ensuring all critical elements are present. Dedicated to functionality, innovation and a love of the outdoors, Norrøna caters to a wide range of niches including hiking, skiing, mountaineering, mountain biking, surfing and hunting.
Few brands have shaped the carry world to the extent Bergans of Norway has. Why, you may ask? In 1908 brand founder Ole F. Bergan created and patented the Bergans Meis rucksack, the grandfather of modern-day backpacks. The design initially included a wooden frame and soft rucksack, later altered to incorporate a tubular steel frame. A design that would go on to influence countless other manufacturers and which was used by the likes of Roald Amundsen and Robert F. Scott. The brand’s gear has been used extensively in polar expeditions throughout its long history. A history full of development and innovation across multiple niches, from bags and clothing to tents, knives and skiing equipment. And which ultimately has led to Bergans becoming one of the industry’s leading outdoor technical gear brands. Influenced greatly by the Norwegian landscape and the challenging needs of outdoor adventurers, Bergans is also committed to sustainable, responsible business practices, from minimized packaging that can be safely recycled, to striving towards the use of sustainable raw materials and bluesign® approved fabrics across the majority of their products.
Founded in 2004, Norse Projects is a Copenhagen-based design studio and brand. With a foundation in high-end streetwear and footwear, the Danish brand embraces contemporary yet timeless design, innovation and functionality. The brand’s inspiration ranges from architecture to Scandinavian landscapes and weather. Their creations include packable jackets, amazing Gore-Tex shells, as well as collaborations with big industry names including adidas, New Balance and Porter. If you’re intro streetwear, this guys should be on your radar.
Tretorn’s history extends as far back as 1891 when the Swedish brand was founded by Johan Dunker. And it’s an incredibly varied history that has seen the brand create everything from galoshes and rubber boots to tennis balls and tennis shoes. As varied as their product offerings were, the brand was also forward-thinking when it came to their employees, becoming one of the first employers to offer free health care and on-site childcare. And while they may be the world’s second oldest sneaker manufacturer, this innovative brand has also embraced outerwear, bags designed to help protect gear from the elements, and an environmentally-conscious approach to manufacturing. Their Eco Essentials initiative has seen the launch of new developments such as their unique Tretorn OCEAN-SHELL® fabric made from recycled PET, The Rain Jacket From The Sea, and the completely biodegradable Bio Plant Jacket.
Since 1926 the Icelandic brand 66°North have been creating gear to protect against the harsh outdoors. Hans Kristjánsson founded the brand in order to create protective clothing for Icelandic fishermen and workers who had no choice but to work in unforgiving environmental conditions. The brand’s offerings have expanded over the years and now include a range of clothing and accessories offering a considered blend of comfort and protection from the elements. Tested by the likes of mountaineers and rescue team members, 66°North gear is designed to let you venture forth without being held back by unpredictable weather. But the brand’s more casual offerings also boast a fashion-friendly slant that has seen their appeal grow with savvy style-conscious consumers. Additionally, sustainability is an integral part of the brand’s design process and company ethos, from fair working conditions to responsibly sourced materials, product repairs and product recycling.
COS was founded in 2007 to create functional, stylish and timeless pieces that go beyond seasonal trends and changes. In essence, pieces designed for a lifetime of use, ultimately resulting in a more sustainable product. Hailing from Swedish multinational retail giant H&M, COS takes a minimalist approach to design, focusing on quality and understated aesthetics. Classic yet modern, their carry and clothing salutes practicality, long-lasting quality and style that steps outside of seasonal constraints.
Swedish brand ARKET, also within the H&M family of brands, describes itself as a modern-day market for well made, durable essentials designed to be used for years to come. Sustainability is a key element of the brand, with a focus on responsible fabrics and materials, customer product care, as well as textile and packaging recycling. ARKET’s carry pieces offer a considered mix of functionality and street styling spanning everyday and travel carry needs alike.
Based in Copenhagen, Pas Normal Studios is a brand centered around contemporary technical clothing for cycling. All stemming from custom-made kit that the founders created for themselves. The brand combines fashion-forward aesthetics with practical, technical features, sustainable construction and long-lasting durability. Performance materials, race-ready fits, and modern styling come together to deliver cycling apparel with an elevated look and feel. But it’s not all about cycling. Intended as a creative platform, the brand also embraces collaborations such as their Porter collection, featuring six pieces for on-bike and off-bike use.
Scandinavian design and minimalism often go hand in hand. But Our Legacy takes a slightly different path. And while earlier pieces may have hinted at Scandinavian minimalism, today the brand’s offerings thread in eye-catching prints and get playful with proportions, material choices and dyeing techniques. There’s a subtle hint at subcultures interwoven with one another but ultimately Our Legacy is a brand that enjoys not being defined by one distinct design ethos. Founded in 2004, the Stockholm-based brand has developed over the years to offer a variety of clothing, footwear, bags and eyewear.
Wood Wood was founded in 2002, taking inspiration from ’90s subcultures including music, graffiti, skateboarding and art. Today they dish up an enticing selection of contemporary streetwear and fashion pieces, embracing both original creations and a host of collaborations including teaming up with Nike, adidas, Barbour and more. Inspirations range from high fashion to sports, blending style, functionality, attitude and playfulness. Wood Wood supports corporate social responsibility across their business practices, continually striving to incorporate sustainable and recycled materials, increasing supply chain transparency, and supporting fair working conditions. And fun fact: co-founder Karl-Oskar Olsen is also the co-founder of Pas Normal Studios.
When you can’t find what you’re looking for, sometimes you need to make it yourself. This founding philosophy led a group of skiing enthusiasts to create their own skiing apparel for themselves and their friends. Gear that was functional and stylish, made to perform yet understated, steering clear of the more flashy side of snowsports apparel. As it turns out, their approach to ski apparel resonated with a wider audience. Founded in 1986, Peak Performance grew from a small brand based in a small Swedish mountain village, to a globally recognised name. And the brand has expanded its offerings too, embracing a range of niches from skiing and running, to golf and urbanwear. Not to mention a choice of practical carry items for travel and EDC alike.
Klättermusen have been quietly getting on with the business of making durable, functional, and environmentally-conscious mountaineering gear for over four decades – all with an aesthetic vibe clearly theirs. Founded in 1975 by a group of climbers, Klättermusen began as a small DIY workshop but has grown into a supplier of high-quality outdoor gear for adventure lovers around the world. The brand uses a variety of sustainable and responsible fabrics and technologies across their gear, such as the use of nylon from recycled fishing nets in all their backpacks. In September 2017 they even became the first outdoor brand in history to create a 100% fluorocarbon-free collection. And at the heart of it all, a commitment to minimizing environmental impact and fostering long-lasting durability. Such an unsung hero, we love this brand!
For many travelers there are multiple decisions to make, from what clothes to pack to what gear to bring. Variables such as location, weather, length of voyage, and type of trip dictate what makes the most sense to accompany you. And that also means what you choose to carry everything in is just as important, bringing us to the age-old question: Backpack vs Rolling Luggage?
Anyone who’s had to wrestle roller luggage across cobblestones or had to pull a creased shirt from a backpack before a meeting knows the right choice can make a big difference.
Each has its advantages and disadvantages. I’ll attempt to break down the performance pros and cons of each to help you with your next trip.
Why travel with a backpack?
The humble travel backpack has come a long way. Nowadays, they’re better-looking, easier to pack, and more widely accepted in formal situations, so you’ll most likely lean towards a backpack for most scenarios. Here’s why:
You’ll be more mobile
The major advantage of a backpack is its mobility. Typically lighter in weight and smaller in size, you can place them under the seat of an airplane, on your lap on a train, or sling them over your shoulder as you hike up stairs. All the while using both hands to scroll over maps or eat sandwiches or high ten your buddies.
You’ll be more versatile
Whether you’re going to the office, traveling, or hitting the gym, the backpack is a universally accepted companion. Some packs are adaptive, such as today’s sponsor Nordepack, which can be transformed into a small duffel complete with side handle and the ability to hide the shoulder straps. If you’re planning to go from the Subway, through the turnstiles, and right into the office, you have the ability to transform the pack for a more streamlined and professional look (and possibly avoid the dreaded shoulder and back sweat).
You’ll tackle different terrain more easily
Let’s be honest, the ground you’re traveling across makes a huge difference in your overall experience. If the ground is rocky, grassy, or otherwise not smooth luggage can prove to be more of a hindrance. Stairs can also become a challenge and inconvenience as you would need to either drag the luggage up or down flights of stairs or carry the load by one of the handles, and if you’re close to maximum weight limits then you’re getting a workout that you may not want.
You won’t draw as much attention from airport staff
One thing I dread is having to gate check my belongings, often because I travel with expensive and fragile camera gear. I’ve never experienced having to check a backpack at the gate and believe, in my experience, that flight attendants aren’t as likely to look as hard at a backpack as they are for a rolling bag.
You’ll save money (most of the time)
A top-of-the-line backpack might cost you between $150 and $350, but a piece of top-notch rolling luggage can jump to $600 to $1000. There are, of course, good budget brands to look to for rolling luggage like American Tourister, for instance. But generally speaking, a good backpack is more affordable than a good piece of rolling luggage.
You’ll have more room to show some personal style
Backpacks come in multiple styles and can represent your personality and the activities you’re into. With the right pack you can signal if you’re into streetwear or photography or mountain biking. Whilst luggage… well, there’s only so much you can do with a box on wheels.
You’ll have your bag by your side, always
For some, there is an extra sense of security by having the pack attached to you at all times. Although, you should also know your surroundings as backpacks in some areas can become a target for theft. Some brands, such as Pacsafe, provide security measures to help avoid these issues while traveling. Hidden pockets can help stash important items, from cash to passports, in difficult-to-access locations for thieves.
You’ll have a daypack too (if your pack is compact enough)
Luggage pretty much ceases to be useful once you’ve arrived at your hotel or resort. Plus you look kinda crazy lugging one around as a daily bag, so your backpack can work double time here. Get to your location, dump off all the gear you don’t need, cinch it down (if your pack can do that), and then head off for a day of adventure.
Why travel with rolling luggage?
You’ll get better protection
Due to their typical lightweight construction backpacks tend to be less protective than their rolling counterparts. Rolling luggage can include internal skeletons or outer shells to absorb impact. So if you’re carrying expensive gear or fragile valuables, then a hard case will be the way to go.
You’ll be able to carry heavier loads with less pain
Despite the ergonomic design, innovations with lightweight materials, and thoughtful construction with padded shoulder straps, waist straps, and sternum straps – a loaded backpack can still kill your back. I have a bad back from years of participating in action sports and after a day of walking around with a loaded pack, and as I get older, I definitely feel the pain more. For me, I’d rather slump all that weight on wheels instead of my shoulders when making serious miles.
You’ll stay clean and crisp when it matters
I mentioned this earlier, but a loaded backpack + movement + heat = sweat. Backpacks can leave often embarrassing sweat on your shoulders and back. Also depending on the materials of the shoulder straps and back of the pack, they can often ruin a t-shirt too. But luggage? Well, let’s just say it falls at the other end of the spectrum. If I need to look clean and crisp and shake hands with important folks, I’m rolling every time.
You’ll be able to pack more
When it comes to capacity, most backpacks aren’t purely square and don’t offer as much as a rolling case. The ‘box on wheels’ design of luggage is the perfect shape to make the most of your carry-on restrictions. So when you need to jam in another snow globe or collectible teaspoon, you’ll have plenty of room to spare.
You’ll travel smoothly from airport to hotel
The main positive features of rolling luggage are the wheels and keeping things off your back. You can glide luggage on the flat polished floors of crowded airports, on busy streets, and navigate through hotels very comfortably. Where rolling luggage really shines is in an airport. The entire experience is made for a roller, from walking to your gate, to placing the carry-on in the overhead bin, and even waiting in line for security.
You’ll retrieve your suit or dress, unwrinkled
For those who travel with more formal clothing such as suits or dresses, your outfit probably has a better chance of arriving at your destination with fewer wrinkles in a piece of luggage’s clothing compartment. It’s compressed and protected from all angles and thus why they’re also called a ‘suit’ case.
For those who can’t make up their mind, there is one more option. The hybrid rolling backpack, which is a compromise between a backpack and rolling luggage. These typically have wheels and a telescoping handle along with straps to carry on your back. Or to complicate things further there are also travel duffels, but we’ll save that for another time.
Perhaps the best solution for some would be to pair both a small backpack and rolling luggage for trips. Many backpacks now come equipped with a luggage strap to comfortably remove the pack and attach it to the handle of the luggage. Also, if you want to go between a pack and luggage then I highly suggest the use of packing cubes as a supplement for travel. They have various uses and keep things organized and accessible, while making transitions quick and efficient.
Regardless of your choice, make sure to think ahead for your trip. There’s no right or wrong answer and this could be why many of us in the carry community own several bags, packs, and luggage as it really depends on the destination, type of travel, and personal preferences.
Some folks choose lightweight and breathable when they’re selecting their travel shoes, and we get it, but some of us love the versatility of leather. The way it molds and forms to your feet. The way it dresses up and down. And the way it matches your belt and watch band. Of course, there are a few things to consider when eyeing up a pair of leather shoes or boots.
Comfort
Comfort should be your first consideration when picking travel shoes. If you can’t clock up the miles day in and day out, or they hurt your feet after just a short period of time, you’re not going to wear them. No matter how good they look. Being able to move freely from place to place is key when traveling, and blisters or aching feet will really curtail your exploring and trip enjoyment. So keep an eye out for features such as supportive and moisture-wicking insoles, zero-drop designs and comfortable uppers that require minimal or no breaking in for maximized comfort. Pro tip: wear your shoes or boots before traveling to ensure they’re comfy and properly broken in.
Versatility
With limited packing space at your disposal, you’re likely only packing one or two pairs of shoes. So they need to be versatile enough to suit different settings. For instance, a design that doubles for outdoor and urban use or a pair that can be dressed up for work or more formal environments and dressed down for casual settings. And if they offer a little protection from the elements, even better.
Packability
Sometimes you simply have to work around footwear bulk but if maximizing packing space is a priority, then consider a pair that offers a degree of packability. Perhaps they roll up or have uppers that can be pressed flat for easier packing.
Now let’s take a closer look at some smart picks for travel-friendly leather shoes and boots…
Shoes tend to take up a lot of space in your travel bag. But the Lems Boulder Chukka, available in men’s and women’s options, offers the comfort and versatile style you want out of a travel shoe, with packability to boot. The LemsRubber outsole doesn’t just offer light weight and traction but also flexibility, allowing the shoe to roll up for space-saving packing. Add in its durable and comfy suede upper, removable moisture-wicking PU insole, wide toe box and zero-drop design and you get an adaptable and stylish shoe you’ll be happy to wear all day long.
Nisolo’s Travel Derby serves up summer-ready travel style in a shoe that weighs less than a pound per pair and stores compactly in your luggage. The comfortable suede uppers look equally good in formal and informal settings and can be compressed flat for packing. They’re complemented by a lightweight foam outsole and a leather insole that molds to your foot shape for tailored comfort. And for a women’s option, check out the Nisolo Sedona Travel Derby.
Keen on footwear that takes both urban streets and outdoor trails in its stride? Danner designed the Caprine as a hybrid boot for venturing from town to trail and back again. A combination of nubuck leather and an abrasion-resistant, woven textile create a balanced mix of comfort and durability, with a DWR coating for protection from the elements. Not to mention a more low-key, urban-ready styling than traditional hiking boots. A removable ortholite footbed provides cushioning and support, while the Vibram outsole takes inspiration from the hooves of mountain goats to provide reliable grip on the go. And for a women’s alternative, consider the Caprine EVO.
Want to step out in urban-savvy style while doing your part for the environment? Look to the Model NM from New Movements, available in men’s and women’s sizing. The shoe is made by hand in Portugal using a combination of recycled and natural materials. An Italian leather upper pairs with a moisture-wicking insole and a rubber outsole constructed from recycled car tires. And for each pair sold, New Movements will remove 200 plastic bottles from oceans.
Ruggedly handsome styling, all-day comfort and eco-conscious handmade construction all in one boot? The Astorflex Bootflex delivers with a durable boot for everyday and travel wear. Each Bootflex is handcrafted by the same family in northern Italy with a naturally-treated nubuck leather that’s supple yet made to last. The 100% natural rubber soles provide enticing comfort and a pleasing textural contrast to the leather. All in, resulting in a tough and eye-catching boot for years of trusty travel use.
Red Wing Shoes boast over a century of work boot manufacturing expertise. And Red Wing Heritage puts an enticing lifestyle twist on that expertise with the Weekender Chukka. The boot is made in the USA using traditional Red Wing construction techniques. The premium leather upper partners with a ComfortForce® footbed, Texon® board insole and Hill outsole. The shoe can be resoled and is a solid pick for travelers seeking a quality build with smart-casual styling that can adapt to a range of settings.
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Throughout the series of outdoor trade shows earlier this year the usual flood of new gear lists were published. One item that consistently got people talking was a new pack from Arc’teryx: the AR 20. An understated climbing pack that does a great job of hiding some very cool new technical features.
Top of that list of features is a new pack cloth woven with an exotic Liquid Crystal Polymer ripstop grid, dubbed N315R LCP. The AR 20 is the first pack to utilize LCP technology and the fiber has the team at Arc’teryx excited. And when the fabric developers at Arc’teryx are excited it’s worth paying attention. So far, details on LCP have been hard to come by. If you’ve been following the story you might have read that LCP is super lightweight, super tough and that it took the team years to develop.
As usual, we wanted to know more. Thankfully senior designer Gord Rose was able to make time between adventures to brief us on the new fiber and to share the story of what it took to develop it into a fabric.
It only takes a few minutes talking with Gord to realize that Arc’teryx has a laser-like understanding of their purpose. The brand is self-described obsessive about pursuing the ultimate in outdoor endeavours. And pushing the boundaries of human endurance has always been intertwined with pushing the boundaries of equipment. As packs grow lighter people can travel further, faster. Therefore the holy grail for pack cloth has always been a super light fabric that will hold up in extreme conditions. Whilst innovation in pack construction comes thick and fast, significant fabric evolution requires significant investment in time and resources that few can afford. That’s why it’s impressive when brands like Arc’teryx take on the mission to go further and find a better way. For Gord, that has meant spending at least the past 10 years trying to find how to do better than Nylon. “It’s really tough and stands up to abuse, the challenge is to stop catastrophic tears in it when you reduce the weight down to the 210 denier range”.
You might be thinking that there have been plenty of new fabrics to emerge in that time – such as X-Pac, Dyneema and Cuben Fiber. However, going through each of these with Gord illustrates how specific his requirements for the perfect cloth are. His process of elimination is summarised well by a quote from Anna Karenina that’s been used to describe natural evolution. “Happy families are all alike; every unhappy family is unhappy in its own way”. Essentially if a fabric has a deficiency in just one of an endless list of Gord’s requirements then it’s all over. The right fabric might not have anything special to offer – other than a lack of any deal-breaking traits.
Take for example ripstop, which was an early approach to reduce weight and maintain strength. Gord explains how a small issue with the finish quickly snowballed, “A typical approach in the ’90s was to double up the Nylon yarns to create a ripstop, that made the fabric bumpy and reduced the effective density of the weave. That made it harder to coat, which meant you needed more coating. It flexed more and created leaks. It was kind of a vicious circle”. An evolution of ripstop then emerged that used UHMWPE fibers of an equal denier to smooth out the bumpy issue. UHMWPE fibers like Dyneema or Spectra were common choices; however, these also had flaws for Gord. “Both these yarns have a low melt point and everything we were doing at Arc’teryx relied on heat. Hot gluing, laminating and all of our AC2 technology. It’s a common problem with climbing gear that you need to be careful about heat. These processes can all cause damage to the Spectra.”
Later, when a colleague of Gord’s joined Dimension-Polyant to work on their pack cloth offering, the next wave of super light materials began to hit the market. These were laminated sailcloth-style materials like X-Pac or Cuben Fiber. Here’s Gord’s take, “They all kind of missed what I was looking for. They gave really good dimensional stability and good overall tear strength, but they didn’t give very good toughness. They tend to crease on the corners which creates high wear points.”
It was during this era of development that Gord first encountered LCP fiber and saw the potential. The technology has actually been around since the 1970s; Kevlar is one early commercialized iteration of LCP. Through the small circle of people and companies who work at the leading edge of technical fabric innovation, Gord was introduced to the LCP fiber Vectran. It was being used in aerospace applications, and Gord was able to obtain yarn to test. The results were promising. LCPs are known to have great strength properties combined with better heat resistance than nylon. Plus it’s resistant to cold, weather and chemicals. But whilst it had potential there was still a deal breaker, this time it was logistics. “Vectran was not very common. There was only one supplier and it was really hard to get supply. Plus all of the people who could potentially weave it for us were affiliated with competitors. And it was staggeringly expensive.”
It was much later, well after moving on from the idea of using LCP fibers, that a breakthrough came. Gord was working on developing the balloon fabric for the Arc’teryx avalanche pack and had formed a relationship with an “extremely good” fabric weaver in Korea who was excellent at working with high tenacity yarns. At the end of the project, Gord says “they kinda just asked if we had anything else on our R&D wishlist. I brought up the LCP nylon blend but was also like – that’s unobtainable.” As it turned out, things had changed. The Korean mill not only had a really good supply chain for Liquid Crystal Polymer, they were also willing to go into partnership with Arc’teryx to commercialize it. Thus began two years or more of work, to turn Gord’s concept into the dream Arc’teryx fabric.
The reality was that LCP yarn is difficult to weave. The fibers are super fine and tend to get snagged in the machinery. The upside of which is a super soft hand feel. On top of that blending LCP with nylon opened up even more problems. The LCP has opposing characteristics to the nylon such as a much lower amount of stretch. But the team pushed on. “We worked with the mill for a couple of years just playing with different levels of twists in both the LCP and the Nylon yarns, and different rip patterns. Just trying to balance different deniers.” As a bonus, by going through the experimentation process Gord and the mill ended up creating a whole palette of LCP fabrics that they plan to utilize. So the N315R LCP used on the AR 20 is just the first of these we get to see. “We wanted this pack line to be just super, super tough. So instead of going with one of the really light weaves, we went with a 315D nylon 6.6 combined with a 400D LCP in a very tight grid.” According to Gord the result is “just ridiculously high resistance to wear and tear.” The fabric coats really well and the slightly raised surface acts as a buffer against abrasion. After field testing, the design team are thinking it has the potential to be used in applications that would normally need fabric twice the weight.
Mike Parsons’ book Invisible on Everest from 2003 was the first time I noticed the link between advances in equipment and advances in mountaineering. Hearing about the Arc’teryx LCP journey, it’s easy to see the uncanny similarities between the two endeavours. It’s not just that they share the same goal of climbing the highest. Both require a rock solid sense of purpose and perseverance when most people would doubt themselves. Right now it’s an exciting time for the guys, they’re at the top of the mountain and can see all sorts of possibilities. Gord’s already planning the next steps for LCP. “We want to build a new platform of fabrics that work across all the different categories, everything from lightweight running packs to crag packs. As well as AC2 and taped construction. The fundamentals of the fabric allow us to do all of those things.”
For Arc’teryx the next few years will be spent exploring all these new opportunities. If they’re successful we’ll probably see a few competitor LCP fabrics hit the market. Then there’s a possibility that if supply grows and cost drops, LCP might even become commonly available to the wider outdoor industry. For the rest of us, it’s exciting that Gord’s hard work could be the start of a new era of fabrics to play with. But I can’t help but think forward to the daunting reality of Arcteryx’s mission for evolution. And again it’s the same question that gets asked when mountaineers have just climbed Everest. What are they going to do after this?
One bag that can adapt to a multitude of uses and situations. EDC and travel. Work and gym. A driving design principle behind the Knack Pack, an expandable backpack which will work for most folks looking for a functional ‘every backpack.’
Let’s look at some of the details that make the Knack Pack so intriguing:
The Knack was my companion for over two months; every day to work, for volunteer service, on numerous trips, and for speaking engagements. It served as a backpack, and for one-bag travel. I also gave it to my wife to use on several occasions to get her thoughts.
Here are the takeaways:
Who Is It For?
The Knack Pack’s design and functionality serve a spectrum of people: The commuter, the professional, the traveler, the entrepreneur, the day hiker, the city explorer, the vacationer, the parent, the gym rat, etc. – male or female.
It’s for those who want a bag that doesn’t scream for attention, but rather subtly suggests they’re professionals who appreciate good design.
It’s for the minimalist who wants to one-bag travel but longs for adaptability.
Who Should Pass?
A technical pack this is not.
If you want gear loops, Hypalon straps, external compression or any of the major features you’d expect from a more rugged, or outdoorsy bag, look elsewhere. If what you’re seeking is more of a military-style bag akin to GORUCK, EVERGOODS, or Triple Aught Design, the Knack Pack is not for you. Lastly, if you plan to go on multi-day hikes, pass on the Knack.
Additionally, the Knack Pack isn’t high fashion; it’s not going to call a lot of attention to itself or be on the cutting edge of style. So if you care about having the latest bag design, or want people to notice you or win with style points, the Knack’s look may not impress you.
The Good
First and foremost, you can take this bag just about anywhere. The Knack’s aesthetics mold it to a myriad of scenarios. In the time I was reviewing it, I was in professional settings, construction sites, the beach, on a cruise, on hikes, at museums, walking around the city, and on vacation and getaways. It became automatic which bag I was reaching for as I prepared for whatever I was going to do. I felt entirely at ease taking the Knack with me wherever I went. A lot of this has to do with the sophisticated look of the fabric. Described as ‘suiting-inspired’, which I find to be silly marketing-speak, the custom-made and water-resistant polyester strikes a balance between elegance and pragmatic functionality – it’s durable, easy to clean, stain resistant and often looks like it belongs. Lastly, in regards to looks, the Knack is unisex. On a couple of trips my wife used the bag, and she thoroughly enjoyed it and commented on wanting one for herself.
Let’s talk about compartments and pockets. With seven(!) separate areas to store items, the Knack has loads of customization and organization. While in “EDC mode” the main compartment offers a ton of storage space, including a felt tablet pocket, and multiple zippered mesh dividers. This particular compartment has a pseudo-clamshell opening, where expandable fabric keeps the front panel from collapsing completely; it’s a thoughtful touch. The main compartment is so well designed I was often able to find what I needed in the dark, or by only needing to open the zip slightly and doing so solely by touch.
The additional compartments are equally well designed. The hidden zip-away water bottle pocket is inspired, accommodating a variety of bottle sizes. I enjoyed being able to stash my Hydro Flask inside and zip it up out of sight; not only did this keep the silhouette of the bag clean, but it kept my bottle away from the sun. Unless the pack was fully loaded, I had no issues fitting the bottle inside. The Knack includes a bottom pocket, a definite call-back to some of their eBags roots. This pocket is generally advertised as a spot to store cables and chargers, which it can, but I just used it for snacks. Still, that’s part of the appeal of this bag; it gives you the options, and however you use it, it’s functional, efficient, and easy to access. The quick-access pocket includes a partition where one side is nylon and the other is soft felt – with enough space to put a couple of pairs of glasses, some earbuds, keys, and maybe a phone.
Now, the elephant in the room is the two-zippered, triangular pocket that is prominently displayed on the front of the bag. This pocket is useful, and not as annoying as one would think. Here you’ll find two areas to store and quickly access more items, as well as elastic loops to hold pens or small cables. I’d often store my battery pack here and my phone, along with a couple of pens and any documents I didn’t mind folding up. And with the dual-zipper configuration, regardless of how I swung the bag around, I had quick access to my stuff. Lastly, the isolated laptop compartment fits snugly against the foam back panel, offering a level of protection on either side. On the large Knack Pack, a 17-inch laptop will slip right in. For me, though, using a Surface Pro, I had a ton of space left, which allowed me to store flat documents without a problem. A great thing about this configuration is that I could grab my Surface and never disturb anything else in my pack; my device was always a quick one-handed zip away.
Lastly, the inclusion of a luggage compartment is the big differentiator. In “EDC mode” the luggage compartment is compressed and out of the way, but when traveling, a simple unzipping expands it out, increasing the capacity by about 15L – you’re now in “travel mode.” On a cruise, I was able to fit a Large Knack Packing Cube, a Medium Knack Packing Cube, and an Eagle Creek packing cube along with my Sea to Summit toiletry kit, and Xero Prio shoes. The compartment includes a cinch strap that kept everything in place, another thoughtful touch. This area of the pack completely opens up, luggage-style, to give you full access to both sides, including a zippered mesh pocket. On a shorter trip, I didn’t even expand out the luggage portion and was still able to pack both Knack Packing Cubes and a toiletry kit. On both occasions, I was able to fit the Knack underneath my airplane seat, which was an absolute delight. When it’s expanded out though, it may be a bit too big, and you’ll be at the mercy of how ornery your flight attendant is.
Yes, the bag can hold a lot of stuff, but how does it feel? The shoulder straps distribute weight adequately. They’re a decent thickness and density, not incredible, but good. With heavier loads, I found myself reaching for the sternum strap to distribute the weight of the pack better. To be honest, I sometimes longed for the shoulder straps of the WANDRD PRVKE. That being said, I still found the straps to be enough, especially considering that the bag won’t always be in “travel mode” or loaded down. Both shoulder straps are stowable, which is slightly superfluous, but it’s possible if you need to do so for some reason.
In terms of comfort, the back panel is comfortable and sturdy. The material reminds me of memory foam, so it will sink into you a little. Thus, the bag always feels in place and stable when walking, hiking, or running to catch a plane. In hot and humid spots (I live in Miami), it took a long time with some exertion to get a sweaty back. The panel’s air channels and materials do a nice job of keeping you fresh, although other bags will perform better in this regard.
The last thing I’d like to mention is the bright inner lining of the Knack. This is a welcome trend in the carry world, especially in higher-end bags; instead of a dark cavernous bag where you can’t see the bottom, it reflects light adequately, giving you the ability to see all your items. Knack took this one step further; instead of just a solid color, they included a pattern with their logo in bright orange. Personally, I think it’s classy, albeit busy – I can see this chafing some people. In my experience, though, anyone around me who saw the bag commented on the design and said it reminded them of a luxury brand.
The Not So Good
There is a lot to like about this bag, yet there are some nagging issues that can be improved on.
For instance, aside from the top handle, there is nowhere else to affix anything to the outside of the bag. Some would see this as a plus because it does produce clean lines and a sleek silhouette, but because of my various activities, I often need to bring something extra that wouldn’t necessarily fit in the bag, or make it cumbersome to retrieve such as a hard hat, tripod, or rain jacket. I resorted to using a Heroclip hooked from the top handle. It’s an inelegant solution, but a solution nonetheless.
The Knack Pack is a professional-looking bag, but a bit of that professionalism goes out the window when I have two overly-long straps dangling below and swaying in the wind. I understand Knack is allowing for a diverse number of individuals to feel comfortable wearing their product, but the amount of extra slack on the straps is a little exaggerated. I’ve even toyed with the thought of cutting them to an appropriate length. It’s a small detail, but for a bag that is meant to take me anywhere, including the boardroom, the dangly straps are woefully out of place. As an example, I was in a crowded convention, and wanted to walk with the bag at my side, held up by the top handle. If I had done so, the straps would have dragged along the floor the entire time. It’s possible to clip them along with the shoulder strap into the bottom D-ring, but again, it’s an inelegant solution. I’ve tried tucking them into the back panel where the hip straps are stowed, but they inevitably fall out. I wish Knack would include an elastic loop to keep the straps together and out of the way, or just shorten the straps.
When the pack is loaded out, especially the main compartment, some of the auxiliary pockets and compartments become difficult to utilize. On the bright side, loading the luggage compartment doesn’t produce this issue. Thus, if the main compartment is packed out, fitting a water bottle becomes untenable, I’d caution putting food in the bottom pocket as it would get crushed, the triangular front pocket would fit only flat objects, and even storing a Surface Pro became cumbersome. This is inherent to most carry options out there, but it’s still worth noting since the Knack Pack has so many excellent and mention-worthy pockets and compartments.
When using the triangular front pocket, it was annoying to have to unzip both zippers to get to what I needed sometimes. I suppose there is a small give-and-take, since having dual zippers made it easier to retrieve items in certain circumstances as noted above. The one thing that was always a hassle is when zipping this pocket back up, the top flap of the triangle stays tucked out, requiring me to tuck it in manually, or else this little sliver of fabrics would allow water to get in, and make it easier for someone else to open it without me knowing.
Several mesh pockets allow for a bit of organization. Unfortunately, these pockets are not 3D, only allowing for smaller items. This includes the luggage compartment, where even a rolled-up belt pushed against the limits of the mesh. This issue is further exacerbated when the pack is loaded up. Perhaps in a future revision, Knack could add at least one 3D mesh pocket.
After two months of near-constant use, the Knack has held up well, but starting in week one I noticed little loose threads, and some fuzzy fabric ends sticking out of the top handle and other areas. Initially, this concerned me, as it foretold possible durability issues going forward. Thankfully that wasn’t the case, but it’s still relatively early days. It’s just slightly jarring to see such manufacturing and quality control hiccups in what is otherwise a quality bag.
The Knack includes stowable hip straps, a thoughtful touch given that they’re not completely necessary for the primary use case of this bag. Unfortunately, they are inadequate and don’t offer much in the way of support, making them more trouble than they are worth. Rather than make them stowable, I wish Knack would produce beefier hip straps that were later attachable if needed. This would reduce the weight of the pack but allow for greater distribution of weight when required.
When comparing the Knack Pack to other bags like the WANDRD PRVKE, the Aer Travel Pack, Peak Design Travel Backpack, Tortuga Outbreaker, etc. one can look at the exterior materials and conclude that the Knack looks and feels cheap. The unique exterior fabric is a victim of comparison because it’s different from what is usually used. Additionally, the material does make certain sounds, especially when constricting and expanding the luggage compartment that makes it seem cheap. Of course, this is entirely subjective, as multiple non-bag-enthusiast friends and colleagues commented on how “fancy” my bag is after I gave them a tour of it.
Verdict
With those issues mentioned and understood, this is the closest I’ve come to having a bag that’s met my minimalist and one-bag travel needs without breaking the bank. The strength of the Knack Pack is its mix of everyday carry features with travel features; it’s about adaptability. If all you want is something for everyday carry, there are better options out there. If all you want is something for travel, there are better options out there. But if you want something that strikes a delicate balance between the two at the cost of specialization, the Knack Pack is worth your time – it excels at being adaptable while only sacrificing some finer features and polish. At $195, the price point is a little high, but not terrible within the product category it’s contending in. Its materials, aesthetics, design, and functions are solid.
All this being said, if what you’re seeking is an adaptable, versatile, and professional-looking bag that can take you from the boardroom to adventure and back, the Knack deserves your attention.
This article was written by Jovanni Bello. Renaissance man, adventurer and cell phone photographer.
MODERN DAYFARER (formerly Farer Design) garnered a lot of well-deserved attention with the DAYFARER Backpack, one of our community’s favorite EDC packs. But it’s just received a slick limited edition upgrade and to celebrate we’re giving one away!
The Prize
The limited edition DAYFARER VX delivers a lighter, more sporty twist on the original. Weatherproof VX-21 fabric from Dimension-Polyant takes center stage here, providing a practical and enticing blend of durability, protection from the elements, and light weight.
Additionally, the water bottle pocket also gets tweaked to a durable and stretchy nylon/spandex fabric. And with YKK AquaGuard zippers on the front and side opening your gear gets that added protection when inclement weather threatens.
The stylish and tough material upgrade complements the pack’s functional design. All of the original benefits are still present, such as a ventilated shoe pocket, separate quick-access laptop storage and the wide-opening main compartment. So you get one seriously well-considered design with the premium look and feel to match.
Want a chance to win this super-sleek and functional limited edition pack? Find out how below…
How To Enter
Make sure to complete both these steps to enter:
1) Follow both @carryology and @modern_dayfarer 2) Visit the giveaway Instagram post and tag two friends in the comments
Fewer things are as exciting and terrifying as navigating in tight corridors, underground, and being completely alone with your entire world illuminated solely by the glow of your headlamp. The darkness blips speckles of life, like stars on a clear night sky, as your light source reflects back off the minerals on the walls. You calm your breathing to hear what the darkness has to say. Sometimes the darkness answers with nothing. Pure silence that’s magically deafening. Sometimes it serenades you with a symphony of acoustics as drips of water echo and reverberate all around. Movement is slow and methodical as you look all around to process hazards above and below you. You duck, crawl, climb, squeeze, press, and slide your way deeper and deeper into the heart of darkness.
Going alone on any adventure can be a hazardous endeavor. However, it adds an element to the adventure that can only be experienced being solo. For this writer, it’s a true test of gear, skill, and mindset. You’ve got to be self-aware, confident in your abilities, knowledgeable with your gear, and constantly evaluating your knowns and unknowns to make informed decisions on the regular to avoid bad situations.
It’s risky, but incredibly rewarding. Every precaution should be made. A plan of execution and desired outcomes should, at the very least, be considered. Approaching excursions, such as this, with this mindset should help make prep and execution easy. And let’s face it, more fun too! After numerous solo adventures and many mistakes leading to experiences along the way, here is how I now PLAN, PREPARE, and EXECUTE when it comes to gear selection and carry options for solo adventures.
(It’s always wise to time log adventures. When a new leg of the adventure starts or ends. How long you’ve been where, etc. In an emergency this can be critical intel.)
PLAN. Start with a list. Yes, a physical list.
There are two lists I suggest you start:
Adventure timeline
When should things be happening?
Gear list
What am I going to need and when?
Dialing your lists to a precise measure will help you avoid potential issues in the field. Take your time and think it all out from desired outcome to worst case scenario. A list is the quickest and easiest way to identify finer logistical points, if you have the right or wrong gear, or too little or too much gear instead of staring at a pile on the floor and scratching your head.
It’s a dress rehearsal to some degree. Remember, great movies and TV shows aren’t made without a script and storyboards as guidelines. Similarly, great adventures should be carefully planned.
A gear list for this outing looked something like:
Having a comms plan is critical (and could be an entire article in itself). Having a capable support team of friends and family that know where you are, how long you’ll be there, a copy of your gear list, and a check-in schedule is highly recommended. I also usually leave a cheapish radio or note in my truck with basic info. Should something go wrong, someone (hopefully a ranger or support member) can get in (break in, if necessary) and attempt to establish communications. It’s not without flaws, but is better than nothing at all.
Pack (see below)
PREPARE. Pack in the order of need. Don’t just cram it in.
Once the desired timeline and gear are established, selecting carry considerations and packing for such an endeavor should be based on logistics of use. Like going through airport security, you don’t want your boarding pass and ID at the bottom of your pack when you arrive at security. You want what you need, ready to go, when you need it.
For this trip, logistical planning looked like the following:
Travel: Off road on forest service roads.
Packing considerations: Need to be able to secure gear so it doesn’t bounce around in the back of the truck (becoming unorganized or damaged) when on those forest service roads.
Hiking in: ¾ mile hike on narrow, aspen forest, switchback trail with moderate elevation gain (700 ft).
Packing considerations: Comfortable carry solution that can hold all required gear (around 20-25 lbs) while maintaining a narrow, clean, profile. You don’t want a ‘garage sale’ of gear flopping all over the place, potentially getting snagged on brush, becoming lost (depending on the item, this could be a catastrophic failure).
Entrance: 60-foot rappel down shaft into main cavern.
Packing considerations: Effectively hold required gear in an organized and secure manner that can be easily accessed. Should be able to arrive, unpack needed gear without affecting any other gear, set up rappel, and execute without worry of misplacing or losing required gear for the next leg of the adventure.
Subterranean: Tight corridors, possible rough and high abrasion environment, possible wet environment, pitch black.
Packing considerations: Large enough to hold required gear, small enough as to not hinder mobility in tight spots. Ability for moderate amount of organization and quick access. High abrasion resistance and high water resistance.
(Average growth rate of a limestone stalactite is about 1 inch every 200 years.)
Planning and packing with this type of logistical use in mind helps build an effective system that maximizes your ability to perform. You can stay focused on the task at hand while minimizing the possibility of losing critical gear. This can often happen when you are constantly opening and closing your pack, digging for the gear you need at that moment, pulling everything out, putting it back, creating rushed, sloppy organization that you’ll have to deal with again later.
(An example of external battery organization and storage. Making it quick and easy to change batteries out without even opening the pack at all.)
After narrowing down what gear you’ll need and when you’ll need it, selecting the perfect pack option is a matter of fact, not theory or desire. Use what checks the boxes.
For example, with this adventure:
25L to 30L should be enough to haul all the needed gear.
External mounting and compression a must for attaching and hauling rope and helmet. Once the rope is used for the entrance, it will stay in place for the exit. The pack must be able to manage compression slop easily when not in use.
Comfortable hauling around 20-25 lbs.
High abrasion and water resistance.
As minimal a profile as possible (not a lot of external flare).
Ability to organize internals to a moderate degree.
I opted for the Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed Special Edition (perks of employment). The Litespeed SE is 22L of internal capacity, the ability to be highly organized utilizing Control Panels and Pouches, easy mounting of quick-access gear externally, and made from high abrasion and water-resistant VX42 sailcloth material. Not to mention, I field tested the pack on a different caving adventure earlier in the year before its release to the public. It’s got a proven track record for me.
EXECUTE. Focus on the moment. Not your gear.
From here, if you stick to your plan (remember your lists), support gear and how to carry it should be an afterthought. It’s time to focus on the rest of the journey from navigation to skill set, weather, physical fitness, etc. After all, gear is great, but it’s only a force multiplier in the hands of a capable user. “The aviator flies the aircraft.”
Now, let’s be real, is this approach to planning and packing absolutely critical for every excursion? Probably not. It’s vastly dependent on the excursion. Rappelling in and traversing a cave out in the backcountry means I should have my gear as squared away as possible. Traveling to a new city for a weekend getaway means you’ll likely have access to grab additional, forgotten, lost, or discarded items, so your planning and packing can be less strict. Regardless, it’s always a good exercise to practice. And it’s fun!
The key takeaway here is to know what you need and when. Plan for contingencies without compromising the overall objective. Pack accordingly based on your timeline of need. If you can dial that in before being in the moment, then you can focus on the moment when it happens and not on your equipment.
I hope you found this helpful and that it aids you in avoiding mistakes I’ve made in the past. Good luck out there, and remember, life is always good when you have a dirty pack.
This article was written by Phil Adams : Marketing virtuoso at Triple Aught Design, adventure connoisseur, and gear enthusiast. He’s devoted to inspiring others to live an adventure-driven lifestyle with captivating stories through imagery and written works.
If you don’t need to carry a lot, why haul a backpack around? Sling bags are the compact alternative, keeping your essentials at the ready when you need them, but secure and out of the way when you don’t. And these streetwear sling bags serve up a dialed-in mix of style and design for the urban crew among us.
The North Face Lumbar Pack rocks a fine balance of vintage climbing aesthetics with a little performance to store gear for the city streets or outdoor trails alike. The main compartment and zipped front pocket provide organization, while the adjustable buckle strap allows for adaptable waist or cross-body carry options. And with its affordable price tag it won’t squeeze your wallet too hard either.
You don’t need to splash the coin to bag EDC with slick streetwear style. As well demonstrated by the Carhartt WIP Payton Hip Bag in a sweet forest camo. A solid budget-friendly option, the bag is made with water-repellent polyester Cordura and offers a main compartment and back zipped pocket to stash your daily essentials. And with its adjustable strap you can wear it around the waist or as a sling to suit your vibe.
Parisian brand Bleu de Paname nods to style-conscious functionality with their Waist Bag. Crafted with an eye-catching woodland camo nylon ripstop, the bag features a main compartment with two-way zip closure. Inside you’ll find an organization pocket, while externally the adjustable strap lets you switch between sling and waist carry as desired.
master-piece’s distinct blend of Japanese street-style, quality craftsmanship and functional design is well on display with their Link Series Waist Bag. Made in Japan with a combination of nylon twill and vegetable-tanned leather detailing, its durable and water-resistant construction handles everyday use like a champ. And with a choice of interior and exterior pockets and an external carabiner to secure additional items, you can keep essentials tidy on the go.
Function and style come together in C.P. Company’s Waist
Bag. A versatile waist bag for smaller setups, it’s made with a water-resistant
nylon sateen that’s undergone a dyeing process to create a distinct visual
appearance. The bag’s front pocket stores frequently used items, while an
interior pocket provides additional organization. The bag also includes a carry
handle and adjustable strap for flexible portability across the back, front or
around the waist.
Striking in looks and top-notch in build quality, master-piece’s Hunter Waist Bag stores a variety of setups in style. The excellent Japanese craftsmanship is complemented by quality materials including Cordura nylon, leather detailing and metal hardware. A choice of interior and exterior pockets help organize your gear, while the adjustable strap accommodates waist and cross-body carry alike.
Keen on a minimalist aesthetic with a clean, fashion-forward silhouette? Look to the sleek côte&ciel Isarau, where Parisian style meets everyday practicality. Made with water-resistant coated canvas, the bag takes inspiration from traditional Japanese breastplate armor and can be worn across the chest, back or around the waist. It fits a 9.7” tablet in the main compartment, with exterior pockets also on hand to store smaller essentials within easy reach.
Looking for timeless style, durable construction and everyday functionality in a sling? Japanese brand nanamica deliver with their Waist Bag, an adaptable piece that can be worn as a sling or around the waist to suit your needs. The bag is made with durable yet lightweight polyester and water-resistant zippers to help protect your gear from the elements. And speaking of gear, you’ll find multiple quick-access pockets to keep essentials close at hand, large zipper pulls for convenient access, and a carry handle for grab-and-go portability.
If you lean towards sleek simplicity, the A.P.C. Taped Seam
Waist Bag is definitely one to check out. The French brand’s bold logo
contrasts effectively with the pared-back, functional design featuring durable
canvas, leather detailing and a water-resistant zipper. All in, resulting in a
clean silhouette whether you sling it over your shoulder, across your chest or
round your waist.
master-piece’s Potential Leather Trim Waist Bag provides a dapper spin on streetwear carry. Expertly crafted with tough Cordura nylon and leather detailing, the waist bag offers a durable and water-resistant build that will serve you well for years to come. And you’ll also find a selection of quick-access and interior pockets at the ready to organize your EDC.
Dig plenty of pockets in your EDC? Look to Porter-Yoshida & Co.’s Waist Bag. The main compartment is complemented by four front pockets and daisy chain webbing, ensuring your essentials are secure yet readily accessible on the go. And with its durable nylon canvas and meticulous Japanese construction, it’s build to last for years of trusty use.
Yes, it’s premium pricing here. But the premium quality is also spot on. Porter serves up a slick blend of military-chic styling, excellent craftsmanship and everyday functionality with their Counter Shade Waist Bag. The nylon bag can be worn as a sling or around the waist and keeps your gear neat and tidy with three front pockets in addition to the main compartment.
Black is the ultimate versatile carry colorway. Bringing understated stealthy chic to your setup and making it easier to transition between a range of environments. So we’re flying under the radar with a EDC blackout edition that might just inspire some tweaks to your own collection…
Ultralight mountaineering gear, phone protection, and versatile carry-on bags are just some of the enticing new offerings that September has served up. Dig into a feast of best new gear below…
Looking for clean functionality in your carry-on? Osprey’s Transporter Global Carry-On is well up to the task, combining a sleek silhouette with practical access and useful organization. The bag’s main clamshell compartment is complemented by a quick-access padded laptop sleeve. And for portability you can opt between the shoulder strap and grab handles, with a luggage handle pass-through at the ready too for all-in-one carry.
If you’re keen on Osprey’s Transporter Global Carry-On but want a little extra space and more carry options, look to Osprey’s Transporter Carry-On. The bag can be carried briefcase-style, as a shoulder bag or as a backpack courtesy of the stowable shoulder straps. Additionally, you can also utilize the luggage handle pass-through if required. And you still benefit from a clamshell main compartment and quick-access, protective tech storage.
One bag that can take you from home to the office or double up as a travel companion for short trips? Topo Designs serves up the goods with their Global Briefcase. Practical and adaptable, the bag can be carried as a briefcase, shoulder bag or backpack. Plus there’s also a luggage handle pass-through for further flexibility. A wide-opening main compartment, separate quick-access laptop compartment and convenient front pockets also keep your commute or travel essentials easily accessible.
If you’re a fan of Aer’s well-considered Travel Pack 2 but want something a little smaller, you’re in luck. With the Travel Pack 2 Small, Aer have shrunk the size but still pack in big brother’s great functionality. The pack offers 28L of space (compared to the 33L Travel Pack 2) and a more compact size, handy for travelers with smaller frames or if you simply want to carry less. The clamshell main compartment, separate storage for shoes or dirty laundry, suspended quick-access laptop pocket and range of smaller organization pockets make this a solid travel companion for carry-on use.
Shoes often take up a lot of packing space. But the Lems Boulder Chukka is a savvy pick for a travel-friendly and versatile option. Lightweight and packable, it can be rolled up for compact storage in your luggage. And its stylish zero-drop design is easy to dress up or down too. Add in its comfy suede upper, removable moisture-wicking insole, durable yet light and grippy IBR outsole and wide toe box, and you’re all set to stride through diverse travel environments with ease.
Work is becoming increasingly on the move, from traveling to meetings to catching up on some tasks in your local coffee shop. So QWSTION designed their Office Collection as a sleek answer to mobile working. The collection features the new Office Pack, an adaptable and slim piece that can be carried as a backpack or shoulder bag. Additionally, the collection includes updated takes on the Daypack, Office Bag and Simple Office Bag, serving them up in a combination of organic cotton canvas, vegetable-tanned leather and YKK zippers for a chic, quality look and feel.
Technology is an ever-increasing part of our lives. But sometimes you can’t beat the straightforward convenience of pen and paper. A concept saluted by RAWROW’s PEN PACK Collection. The series features RAWROW’s favorite designs including the Pen Backpack, Pen Pack Tote, Pen Pack Helmet Bag, Pen Pack Panini Bag, Pen Pack Clutch and Pen Pack Messenger, crafted with water-resistant nylon and available in various sizes and colorways. And each bag in the series comes with a pen, secured in place with an elastic loop and ready whenever you need it.
WP Standard puts an added security twist on their Vintage Tote Bag with the Zipper Tote Bag. Crafted with beautiful full-grain leather, the tote can be used with the zipper open or closed to provide faster access or greater security as desired. Inside you’ll find a drop pocket for small essentials, with an optional monogram service available too for a personalized touch.
Coolers are traditionally bulky, awkward items to carry. But Monti Coolers has a nifty solution on hand with the Shasta. This packable 16L cooler weighs just 14.6 oz and packs down into an inbuilt stuff sack. It features a waterproof lining, can keep drinks below 36° F for up to 10 hours and is machine washable for easy care. Plus with its moldable, USA-made construction, it’s easy to store in larger bags filled with a variety of loads.
A shoe you can wear indoors and outdoors, zipping from the office to the gym or urban streets to outdoor trails? GORUCK designed their I/O Cross Trainers to do all that and more. Made with a Cordura and full-grain leather upper, they don’t require breaking in and offer considered comfort with a wide toe box, suede heel counter to help prevent blisters and hot spots, and midfoot webbing for stability. The dual compound rubber outsole is designed with durability and traction in mind, while the 10mm heel-to-toe drop balances mobility and support.
Urban styling and discreet anti-theft features come together in the slick Unbox Therapy x Pacsafe collaboration featuring a briefcase and backpack. Handy design elements such as puncture-resistant lockable zippers, cut-resistant materials, an anchor strap and RFID-blocking pocket help keep your gear safe and sound on the go. And with the collaboration’s self-healing fabric, surface scratches can be removed by simply applying heat.
Timbuk2’s Catapult Sling 2.0 makes it easy to cut the carry bulk and zip around with the essentials. Backed by a lifetime warranty, the bag is tough enough for everyday use and comes with an ambidextrous strap. The front pocket provides a useful stash spot for items such as your phone or wallet, while the main compartment is accesible via a flap or back panel zipper. You’ll also find a built-in bottle opener at the ready when it’s time to relax with a cold brew.
Want the flexibility to quickly reach small everyday gear or carry more discreetly as the situation calls for it? DSPTCH’s new RND collection lets you do both. The collection includes a Unit Holster Pouch, Unit Vertical Pouch and Unit Sling Pouch, each designed to be worn over your clothing or under an outer layer to suit your preferences. The bags are made in the USA and feature a semi-translucent panel of Dyneema Composite Fabric so you can discern contents at a glance.
ORBITGear takes inspiration from highly mobile lifestyles for their CIGSeries 2020 Collection. Designed to carry daily essentials while protecting them from the elements, the collection features four pieces made with weatherproof polyester and quality hardware. A daypack, messenger, hip bag and sacoche provide a range of options to accommodate diverse loads.
A great pair of jeans should mold to you, delivering a personalized fit you’ll love wearing for years to come. And the KATO’ Pen Slim 14oz 4-Way Stretch Selvedge jeans do it oh so well. Each pair is made in Los Angeles with top-notch Japanese selvedge denim featuring four-way, 360° stretch. So you get comfortable wear from day one, with long-term durability and enduring style.
When you’re on the go with one bag, you need it to function well while looking good in changing settings. Guiding principles behind Haerfest’s Apollo Collection. Minimalist style meets everyday practicality in the collection’s backpack, tote, and satchel/briefcase. The bags offer professional aesthetics that transition from work to play and back again. And with features such as thoughtful organization, durable and water-resistant fabrics and luggage pass-through sleeves, the collection keeps your gear tidy and protected on excursions both near and far.
Multitools aren’t always the easiest items to grip. But this Leatherman Charge+ with orange G10 grip scales provides a reliable hold for a multitude of uses. And if you drop it in long grass or misplace it in your campsite, that bold pop of color makes locating it a lot easier too. Add in its externally accessible cutting blades, variety of tools and durable build and you’ve got a trusty task companion for EDC and adventure use alike.
Don’t want to waste time hunting for misplaced EDC items? The Orbikey x Chipolo Tracker offers a slim and stylish design that fits inside Orbitkey Key Organisers or standard keyrings, plus a tassel that lets you easily secure it to larger items. Simply use the free Chipolo app to ring the Bluetooth tracker or see its last location. Alternatively you can use the tracker to locate your phone too. Additionally, the tracker can double as a selfie remote for your phone and includes a replaceable battery for easy use.
If you’ve got your eye on the iPhone 11, you’re going to want solid protection for it too. And Bellroy deliver that protection in sophisticated style with their selection of iPhone 11 cases. Slim yet durable, the cases feature a combination of premium leather and polymer, with a microfiber lining and chamfered edges. The Bellroy Phone Case offers chic protection for your phone, while the Phone Case 3 Card doubles as a minimalist wallet with a handy compartment for storing cards.
Small tech gadgets, cables and accessories are easy to lose in a large bag. But Bellroy’s Tech Kit provides all-in-one storage with a generous dose of style too. The pouch opens wide for convenient access and offers a selection of pockets and elastic webbing to organize your smaller day-to-day or travel items. The pouch also includes a floating wall that stretches out to accommodate items of diverse sizes.
Carabiners are a convenient way to carry quick-access items on your bag or your person. But what if they could do more? The GPCA Carabiner is designed to do just that, packing in multiple features such as a knife blade, screwdrivers, bottle opener, pry tool and storage capsule to successfully carry out a range of day-to-day or adventure tasks. Available in a choice of durable metal options, it’s an appealing multitool for urban and outdoor use alike.
If you’re looking to shed the weight in climbing trips, Hyperlite Mountain Gear offers functional, ultralight gear to help you effectively do that. And their Prism Collection provides a practical, durable and weatherproof range of pieces that organize and protect your gear from the elements while keeping carry weight to a minimum. The collection includes the Prism Pack, Prism Ice Screw Case, and Prism Crampon Bag, each made with Dyneema® Composite Fabrics for lightweight durability.
What do you get when Vans and Finisterre come together? A collection of eco-friendly footwear that embraces sustainability and adventure-ready design. The range features tough, environmentally-friendly materials including eco synthetic leather, recycled PET and recycled polyester ripstop, resulting in the most sustainable footwear in Vans’ range. The water-resistant collection includes the UltraRange Hi DL, Destruct, and Slip-Er designed for rugged and wet surfing environments.
It’s often hard to escape the technical look of performance clothing, making it stand out when you want to enjoy its benefits in non-traditional settings. But the Foehn Brise Pant takes a different approach, blending urban-savvy styling with outdoor-ready performance. Designed as a rock climbing pant, the Brise embraces hikes and mountain biking too, with a durable, abrasion-resistant stretch fabric with a DWR finish to repel dirt and water. Comfort and freedom of movement are well catered to with a stretch waistband and cuffs, knee articulation, crotch gusset and zippered ankle gusset. And a thigh pocket stores smaller essentials while being situated low enough to sit below a harness.
Some gear requires next-level protection. The kind of protection that Thyrm’s DarkVault and DarkVault-Comms Critical Gear Cases provide. Designed to protect vital communication and navigation gear, the cases feature rugged, waterproof and dustproof construction. The DarkVault case also provides GPS and cellular signal blocking, allowing for isolation without constant power-cycling. And for added flexibility, the MOLLE-compatible cases also offer tunable hinge friction for convenient on-body use.
Being stuck in busy commute traffic is a drag. But running to work takes this frustration out of your day – and keeps you fit. And of course, you still need to transport all your work gear with you. And the IAMRUNBOX Backpack Pro 2.0 is designed to be the only pack you’ll need for your run commute.
Swedish brand IAMRUNBOX took extensive customer feedback on board when creating the upgraded version of the original Backpack Pro. Introducing more features, enhanced professional aesthetics, and extra space to create a 12L backpack that looks stylish in work settings but performs when you’re hitting the pavement at pace.
Commuting in comfort
Key to the pack is the considered carry comfort and ergonomic design. The lightweight bag features a sternum strap, waist belt and load lifters, allowing you to dial in the fit for secure, anti-bounce carry. This not only keeps you comfy during your run but also helps avoid impact on the bag’s contents. A ventilated back panel adds to the comfort, helping you stay cooler when you’re clocking up the miles.
Protection for you and your gear
You can’t always avoid inclement weather when running to work. But the Backpack Pro 2.0 has you (and your gear) covered with its water-resistant hardshell and water-resistant YKK zipper. Handy not only for keeping the elements out but protecting against scrapes and impacts too. And the pack can be paired with an optional rain cover for added protection if your city is prone to torrential downpours.
But the protection doesn’t stop there. Reflective detailing helps keep you visible in low-light conditions, while a safety whistle on the sternum strap provides added peace of mind if ever an emergency appears.
Optimized, wrinkle-free organization
Running to work necessitates packing a change of clothes. But what you don’t want is a wrinkled jumble when you arrive. So IAMRUNBOX provides a range of thoughtful organization to keep your clothes wrinkle-free while also neatly storing your work tools and tech.
The bag features a clamshell design for convenient packing and access. One half of the pack stores your work clothes, with an included Clothes Folder smoothing out the packing process. The other half provides a dedicated pocket that fits up to a 15″ laptop. And with further interior pockets on hand you can securely store smaller items too.
But what about items you want readily accessible during the commute? Large waist belt pockets store quick-access items such as keys, a phone and wallet. Bulkier items such as outer layers can be secured to the pack with external attachment straps, while MOLLE webbing on the shoulder straps provides a handy place to attach a safety light, pouch, optional water bottle holder or other items you want at the ready.
Rounding off the organization, the pack includes excess strap management to avoid distractions while running. So you can focus on the path ahead and not annoying flapping straps.
Added functionality with practical add-ons
The Backpack Pro 2.0 can be paired with optional add-ons to further tailor your commute carry. The Space Bag is a ventilated bag that secures externally to the pack and is useful for storing bulkier or wet items such as shoes, dirty laundry, or a lunch box. The optional Rain Cover provides an added barrier in downpours, while the Quick-dry Microfiber Towel is a compact and fast-drying alternative to larger, more cumbersome towels. And to help you stay hydrated on the move you can also pair the pack with the Water Bottle Holder, which you can attach to the shoulder straps or hold by hand to suit your preferences.
Doing your bit, one step at a time
Running to work can change an annoying commute into something mentally and physically enjoyable and beneficial. But it’s also a great way to reduce your carbon footprint and save on commuting costs. And with this pack as your partner, it’s easier to embrace the change.
If you want a comfortable active commuter pack that doesn’t skimp on style, effectively organizes your gear, and isn’t afraid of the elements, the IAMRUNBOX Backpack Pro 2.0 is well worth considering. If you’re keen to make it your own, check out their Kickstarter campaign which runs until 5 November 2019.
You’ve read the articles and the blogs before. You’ve heard all these frequent travelers and explorers singing from mountain tops about the idea. But you still haven’t made the jump over to one bag travel. Listen, I was in the same boat… lugging 60-100 liters of gear (mostly clothes) on trips that were anywhere from 7-90 days of travel, like a damn tourist. I’d see folks carrying 30 liters and my ignorance-based hubris made me dismiss this one bag travel idea entirely. That’s insane, even stupid. How could they do it? These individuals, despite their deep travel experience, they just had to be missing out on basic creature comforts by not bringing all the stuff I was bringing. Then I finally listened (reluctantly, I might add). I gave it a try on a quick 5-day trip. And I’ve never looked back since. Each trip, despite being even longer in duration, I find I’m bringing less and less. And here’s a list of 23 reasons why you should give it a try, too.
#1. It’s FREE. This is a super easy and obvious one. If you figure it costs $30-$50 per EACH LEG of the trip you plan to take (at least 2 legs on a round trip flight, but could be 8+ legs if you’re doing a multi-city trip). As a quick example, let’s say you fly 12 times each year. That’s $40 x 24 (don’t forget, each leg), with a total of $960. The more you travel, the more it adds up. Over the years of my travels, I’ve personally saved thousands of dollars… if not tens of thousands of dollars.
#2. Checked bags can get lost. Yes, your luggage can go missing forever… leaving you with absolutely nothing once you arrive at your destination. I’ve had it happen. You might get lucky and get it back in 2 days. Or maybe 2 weeks. Or you may never see it again… ever.
#3. Checked bags can be stolen or have important items stolen from them. Remember, the folks down below have the keys to those required TSA locks and they’re allowed to open your luggage behind closed doors for any reason they choose. If theft does unfortunately happen, the airlines very likely won’t claim responsibility for the airport’s baggage handler thieves.
#4. Unfortunately, some travel destinations aren’t safe and that’s just a sad reality. For me, those are the destinations that I love traveling to. Regardless, with additional luggage, you become a much easier target for thieves who prey on tourists. Whether they’re after your bags or your wallet, you’ve now become low hanging fruit. At least one of your hands/arms is constantly in use and there’s no way you can outrun a sprinting thief while dragging some rolling luggage behind you.
#5. Luggage can get damaged or destroyed. Smashed latches, broken roller wheels, snapped trolley handles, zippers destroyed, and/or the bag’s fabric shredded which spills the contents all over the baggage carousel. Even though your bag might be completely useless upon arrival, the airline claims zero responsibility for these damages. Go read the fine print, this is unfortunately 100% true. Just because you care about your luggage and its contents, doesn’t mean anyone else does.
#6. Traveling to a densely populated city like Manila, Tokyo, Shanghai, New York City, or Mumbai? Be aware that you’re not going to be able to board a subway/train between the hours of 6am-8am or 4pm-6pm.You’ve seen the YouTube videos of the professional “Pushers” (押し屋 oshiya). It’s just not going to happen. And beyond those hours… *if* you are able to squeeze in tightly among the locals, your presence will not be welcomed.
#7. There will be many other private and public places that you simply physically cannot fit. Starving for a quick bite at a ramen shop after you’ve just flown 14 hours, before you deal with checking into your hotel across town? The shop owner may politely tell you that you cannot enter… not because they’re being rude… but because you simply cannot fit inside with your luggage. Try staying in a capsule hotel (which I absolutely love doing) and the front desk will send you rolling your bag back onto the street, because you and your bag just can’t fit inside your coffin-sized sleeping quarters. Sure, trying to get your pack down to 20 liters is going to be tough at first and that will take some time and practice. Anything above 50 liters is where all your problems are going to start.Even for 3-6 weeks of international travel, we’d recommend capping your bag to 40 liters, absolute maximum. 30 liters is much better. 25 liters or less? Well now you’ve entered the halls of legends.
#8. Speed. Waiting for bags at the luggage carousel often puts you back of the line at customs on international flights. Suddenly there are hundreds of people deboarding the plane. Breezing by those folks patiently waiting at baggage claim puts you at the front of that exodus, which can mean the difference between a 10-minute wait and a 90-minute wait. Plus, in general, you’re faster getting to where you want to go. If two people of equal fitness take the same means to get from Point A to Point B, the person carrying 50L less and with only one bag will arrive first.
#9. Luggage limits your options for transport. We’ve already talked about subways/trains at rush hour, which are a no go. But now you’ve only got 1-2 travel options versus dozens of other travel options (which frankly, are way cooler and much more fun). I like the freedom of hopping trains, subways, gondolas, scooters, bicycles, motor bikes, trikes (photo below, in The Philippines), buses, hitchhiking, or just walking. You’ve basically limited your options to a private taxi and maybe one other form of public transportation if you can fit (and if it’s not rush hour).
#10. You can enjoy going off the beaten path, which is always where the most interesting things are always found while traveling. Staying on the main roads is boring and touristy. Getting down narrow alleyways, backstreets, cobblestone sidewalks, up flights of tight staircases, across rickety wooden bridges over creeks in a village, through city parks, down nature trails/pathways, and the like is much easier with a bag on your back. Note: The root word lug (“to carry or drag a heavy or bulky object with great effort”) is in the word luggage (meaning “inconveniently heavy baggage”).
#11. Bag lockers. Finding small lockers at train and bus stations can be much easier with a small bag. I found this helpful when travel delays occurred and I could lock up my small pack and wander around vs sadly sitting next to my luggage and waiting as the world goes by.
#12. Smaller bags mean less (but better) stuff. For me, it forces me to be diligent with my gear and clothing choices. So I’ve found things like a good black cashmere sweater are infinitely packable, exceptionally warm as a layer, and can quickly get tossed over a t-shirt to dress up a situation. One item, multiple uses. You start to choose quality items versus disposable items. As Dieter Rams says, “Less, but better”.
#13. You have everything with you when you want it, it never leaves your side. But if you so choose to leave your larger one bag behind at your Airbnb, you can bust out your packable daypack (packed down to the size of a baseball) and walk around with 5-20L of necessities on your back, effortlessly exploring your destination.
#14. Having one bag makes quick trips and spontaneous moves easier. Luggage is an anchor and constantly reminds you that you cannot do this or that… without first having to figure out how to go get your stuff where it’s currently being stored and then where to leave your stuff while you’re getting to and/or while you’re at the next spot. “Several times I’ve taken my one bag with me to an office or friend’s house just in case a plan to go elsewhere comes up and I have everything with me.”
#15. We already covered the careless luggage handlers destroying your bags, but you can break your own stuff too. Even if you’re being extra careful, roller wheels break while you’re using them. This quickly converts your boat anchor luggage to an even more useless boat anchor. Ever try finding a spinner wheel for a specific model of Samsonite rolling luggage that was made in 2003 while you’re out in the rural fishing provinces of The Philippines? Good luck.
#16. Flying standby! You can’t fly standby with checked luggage. Not to mention, you’re screwed if any other unexpected mechanical issues happen with your plane. If you have luggage under the plane while they work on it for 6 hours (which would make you miss your next important flight connection), you can’t walk over to the ticket counter and ask to be on the next flight out in 20 minutes. One bag? You’re already on the jetbridge, boarding your next flight. “I once had a mechanical out of Saigon and jumped a China Air Flight via Taipei back to SFO. I arrived only 4 hours later than originally planned. My co-worker with the suitcase was another 20 hours behind me and had 2X the number of stops to get home. I can’t count the number of times I’ve had a plane issue and gotten rebooked immediately on another plane or carrier simply because no one had to figure out my checked luggage issue.”
#17. In circumstances where there’s only ONE SEAT left in a taxi or on a bus (luggage areas are filled to the brim) and they’re looking for someone to jump in and fill it… well now you can hop right in, leaving those 30 folks with large luggage to stand in line while you depart for your adventure. They’ll turn you away with luggage.
#18. Physics. It weighs less so you will be less exhausted. Even if the luggage is on buttery smooth rolling wheels; there are still curbs, there are still cobblestones, and there are always laws of physics. You’re still technically using more energy because there is additional weight that you don’t need with you. While traveling, you’re already going to be expending more energy than normal, so why waste even more? Work = Force * Distance. With one bag, the joules of energy you expend (your W) will be lower than someone with larger/heavier luggage. That’s not just a theory, it’s a law.
#19. Do you want to be *that guy* that slows your entire group of friends or colleagues down because now they have to wait on you and change their plans for you to go get your luggage and figure out where to stash it? They’re ready to go, while you start begging for time and performing mental mathematics to figure out the most efficient way to cross a foreign city that you’ve only been in for 2 hours.
#20. Generally speaking, 99.9% of seasoned travelers will talk about the benefits of traveling with either one bag or traveling with less. And they’re not wrong. You’ll never meet someone who has traveled to 30+ countries who is bragging about how they’ve added more gear to their packing list after each trip they’ve taken. It’s all about carrying less and carrying better.
#21. Nothing screams tourist louder than wheeling luggage down the street. Being a tourist means that you’re getting overcharged for things, that you’re getting deceived, that you’re getting sold unnecessary junk souvenirs, that you’re not being invited to someone’s family home for dinner, that you’re just visiting a place and don’t belong, that your taxi drivers are taking you the (very) long way, that you’re getting the scam $900 tea ceremony the moment you get off the airplane, and that you’re staying at and don’t leave Sandals resort for your whole trip. Take some time to process that. No matter how kind and beautiful the humans and culture of the place you’re visiting are… it happens. How do you feel when 15 tourists instantly stop on the sidewalk in front of you while you’re trying simply to walk? How about when all 15 tourists all have their own roller wheel luggage bags, now making the path an impenetrable wall of polyester, plastic, yelling, and point and shoot cameras?
Be a traveler, not a tourist.
#22. It’s a fun new challenge and practice that requires thinking and problem solving versus just adding more and more stuff carelessly (90% of which you won’t use anyway).
#23. It will make your travel experience better. Because of all of the reasons above combined… simply put, you will enjoy your trip more. Period.
Special thanks to Mtn Lab for the contributions to this list and who helped inspire me to sit down and finally write this article! This all happened via a casual conversation in a post on our Facebook group, Carryology Classified. Join up to read, lurk, and/or take part in the fun.
Hey there, Carryologists! It’s Yong-Soo, Founder & CEO at Urban EDC Supply. This week, we’re going to highlight the Suru designed by Jesper Voxnaes, manufactured in Italy by Fox Knives. The Suru won Knife of the Year in 2018 at Blade Show, and it’s become one of the more popular knives among the everyday carry community. I’ll highlight 5 different reasons why the Fox Suru should be your next EDC knife. Hope you like it!
1) High-quality blade steels
Both Bohler M390 and Damasteel are some of the highest quality blade steels out there. M390 is a stainless super steel with a high hardness level and excellent corrosion resistance. Meanwhile, Damasteel is known to be the best performing stainless Damascus patterned steel in the world.
It’s made from a plain solid stainless steel billet that’s melted into a tall tower. Then, the unique patterns are made by blacksmiths using traditional forging techniques to create the intricate patterns. It’s quite time-consuming to make!
There’s a reason why both M390 and Damasteel are crowd favorites among knife enthusiasts everywhere.
2) Small yet mighty
Like many of Jesper’s designs, the Suru is made to work and is pleasantly stout and beefy. It packs a stonewashed 2.3″ blade into a compact 3.5″ frame (one of the best blade-to-handle ratios we’ve seen).
Having a great blade-to-handle ratio is critical for EDCers who are looking for a compact carry yet are still able to perform the unexpected daily tasks that may come up.
3) Sturdy framelock mechanism
The Suru features the trusty framelock mechanism which keeps your knife safely locked while in use.
Originally invented by the legendary Chris Reeve, the framelock remains one of the most preferred locking mechanisms in the knife community. The Suru doesn’t disappoint here.
4) Easy-to-use pocket clip
Often overlooked in many production knives, the pocket clip is arguably one of the most important details on a pocket knife. It’s easily one of the most used parts on a knife, especially for everyday carry.
The Suru’s discreet tip-up carry pocket clip features a zirconium ball bearing, which makes it much easier to slip into and out of your pocket. This small detail, while seemingly trivial, will make a big difference as a true everyday carry pocket knife.
5) Plenty of options to pick your favorite
Last but not least, there are plenty of Suru options to fit your style. Here are 5 different variants that we recently released:
Arguably the classiest of the five, this monochromatic variant keeps it cool with a beautiful sandblasted finish, and an acid etched M390 super steel blade. The titanium framelock handles are incredibly tough and milled out for extra weight relief.
Ready to take the Suru to the next level? Check out this Marbled Carbon Fiber Suru paired with a gorgeous Damasteel blade! The swirls of the marbled finish rolls right along into the blade. Knife fanatics will appreciate all the details on this one. The lockside features titanium to keep the trusty framelock mechanism.
Equally outstanding, this Suru variant features bronze anodized titanium handles along with blackened hardware, with skeletonized handles to further reduce the weight (along with extra style points). The M390 blade steel has also been acid etched on this one, providing a darker, stealthier look than its counterparts.
Copper shred carbon fiber handles are found more commonly in the custom knife world, but we loved the material so much that we did a full sprint run with them. Carbon fiber is known to be very lightweight yet incredibly tough. The copper shred adds an aesthetic appeal that really pops. For this variant, the M390 blade steel is plain stonewashed for a cleaner look. The lockside again features titanium to maintain the reliable framelock mechanism.
Last but not least, we have this gorgeous Suru variant with a blue anodized titanium finish and acid etched M390 blade. The anodized blue color really pops and shows off a variety of hues in different lighting conditions. To finish it off, we kept it classy with bronze anodized titanium hardware.
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approach to design, making quality products as clean as possible while ensuring all critical elements are present. Dedicated to functionality, innovation and a love of the outdoors, Norrøna caters to a wide range of niches including hiking, skiing, mountaineering, mountain biking, surfing and hunting. 
