Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack Review - A Rugged Urban Commuter

The Chrome Barrage Cargo is tough-as-nails rolltop backpack for city commuting that ditches fancy technical features for a tried and true design that gets the job done.

As far as urban backpacks go the Chrome Barrage Cargo has everything you need: a seriously waterproof construction, a tough abrasion-resistant exterior, simple-to-use rolltop access and unique cargo netting for extra storage on days when you need more room.

In this hands-on Chrome Barrage Cargo Backpack review we will take a look at all of the details so that you can make a better choice deciding if this bag is right for you.

Where to Buy:

Table of contents

• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What fits inside the Barrage Cargo?
• Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Materials and Construction

When handling the Chrome Barrage Cargo you’ll quickly notice that it feels heavy-duty. Weighing in at 3lbs, it’s definitely not a lightweight backpack but the tradeoff is that the bag is built like an absolute tank with incredibly strong and abrasion-resistant materials.

This isn’t a delicate backpack that you’ll have to baby for fear of losing its integrity. Throw in to the back of a truck (or against a brick wall) and it will be just fine. To be honest, the Barrage Cargo feels heftier then a lot of the “military grade” tactical backpacks we have tried.

Waterproof Construction

Although not submergible, the Barrage Cargo is as waterproof as a daily urban backpack can get without turning into a full on dry bag.

The pack itself is made with a water resistant 1050D Nylon exterior and a thick tarpaulin liner on the inside that prevents any moisture from reaching the main compartment. The tarpaulin liner combined with the welded seams create a waterproof barrier that can protect the inside against heavy rains and nasty splashes from moving cars. 

The bottom exterior also includes a black tarpaulin section for further protection if you were to ever unfortunate enough to set your bag down on a puddle.

We got our hands on the Limited Edition Swedish Camo version of the Barrage Cargo which sports a bright orange tarpaulin liner on the inside. Most other versions include a more subdued light gray color liner - keep this in mind if shopping for the Barrage Cargo in a different color scheme.

Serious Hardware

Chrome uses metal ladderlock buckles for the shoulder strap adjustments and their signature metal “seatbelt buckle” on the sternum strap. 

Chrome Industries metal ladderlock buckle on the shoulder straps

The buckles on the rolltop and cargo net are made of a heavy duty plastic. Although we would have loved to see metal buckles used instead we have no doubts that the massive plastic rolltop buckle can take some serious abuse.

Pockets and Compartments

The Chrome Barrage Cargo has simple compartment placement that makes it quick and easy to store essentials without overwhelming you with lots of smaller pockets, zippers and flaps.

The bag is essentially made up of the large main compartment on the inside and various pockets and attachment points throughout its exterior.

Inside the Main Compartment

On the inside we can find an 18 liter main compartment that is large enough for daily carry or packing for an overnight stay. Here is where you can find a single unpadded sleeve pocket for storing a laptop, documents or other flat items.

14” laptop inside the main compartment sleeve

The sleeve can fit up to a 15.4” Macbook Pro and we found it to comfortably fit a 14” PC laptop. Due to its lack of padding, Chrome suggests that you also use a separate padded laptop sleeve when storing your laptop here. The one problem we found with that recommendation is that even a 13” Macbook with a padded sleeve becomes too thick to fit inside the pocket. Therefore, we found that the only way you can really use the laptop sleeve pocket is by storing the laptop bare.

The silver lining is that the sleeve pocket is suspended an inch or two about the bottom of the bag to protect your laptop from bumps and drops.

External Pockets

Most of your pockets can be found on the outside of the bag for fast access.

Two slip pockets can be found on either side of the Barrage Cargo backpack for storage of water bottles, an umbrella or bike U-Lock. We found that up to a 24oz water bottle can fit inside these side pockets.

A separate quick-access zippered pocket can be found on the front panel. This is a fairly large pocket that covers most of the front panel and we found it to be a good place to stash a small notebook, wallet and laptop charger.

The Cargo Net

The front cargo net is one of the Barrage Cargo’s most distinguishing features and what sets it apart from other rolltop commuter backpacks. 

It’s the ideal size to hold a cycling helmet but we also found it’s great for many oversized items such as shoes or boxing gloves. Whether you are a daily city commuter or need a tough gym bag - you’ll be sure to find the cargo net more than useful.

Men’s size 12(US) shoes attached to the cargo net

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What Fits Inside the Chrome Barrage Cargo?

The main compartment on the Barrage Cargo backpack gives you 18-22 liters of packing room depending on how much you “roll up” the rolltop. We found this capacity to suit most people who are looking for a daily use backpack for work, school or running errands. For travel, this capacity will give you enough room for 1-3 days of travel depending on how light you pack.

Keep in mind that you also have the external cargo net plus various pockets for additional storage.

INSIDE THE MAIN COMPARTMENT

• Over-ear headphones

• Small Camera Cube (8” x 7” x 4”)

• 1-inch binder

• Light jacket

• Tech Pouch (8.5" x 6" x 2.5")

• 13” Laptop

Comfort Features

The Chrome Barrage Cargo features a hefty one-piece shoulder harness that connects at the top instead of the typical two strap harness design. It is small construction details like these that really let us know the Barrage Cargo means business. This shoulder strap design provides a much stronger attachment point and minimizes the chances of failure at the top of the shoulder strap. 

The molded foam back panel has built-in airflow channels to kee you cool and comfortable. We found that the back panel on the Barrage Cargo does not include a stiff frame sheet and as a result the back panel does have some give in it. 

What this means is that if you were to pack the Barrage Cargo with clothing, the back panel can round to the shape of the clothes. Place a laptop or books against the back panel and the back panel with stiffen.

For additional support, Chrome includes an adjustable sternum strap that uses their signature seatbelt buckle. That little click you hear when you close the buckle is incredibly satisfying and definitely one of our favorite features on the Barrage Cargo by far.

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Final Thoughts

What the Chrome Barrage Cargo lacks in specialty pockets and flashy features it more than makes up with its tough-as-nails construction.

This bombproof design is a breath of fresh air when compared to other technical urban backpacks that offer lots of interesting features but threaten with too many failure points over time. You just don’t get that vibe from the Chrome Barrage Cargo. Nothing about this bag made us think “uh-oh, I wonder how long this stitching will hold up…”

But who is the Chrome Barrage Cargo ideally for? We recommend this backpack to anyone who wants a reliable waterproof backpack for commuting and daily hauls. It’s utilitarian design might not be everyone’s cup of tea but if you are less than kind to your gear then we believe the Barrage Cargo is the perfect match thanks to its rugged construction and heavy-duty materials.

In conclusion we think the Barrage Cargo is a great buy if you know what to expect - a simple rolltop backpack that is built to last years and not just a few seasons.

Where to Buy:

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Harber London Office Backpack Review - A Handcrafted Laptop Backpack for Work

Harber London is a brand that offers handmade premium leather bags, laptop sleeves and accessories. Their latest Office Backpack is a departure from their usual all-leather bags as a more attainable option that’s perfect for anyone looking to get their feet wet with a high end backpack for work and travel.

The Office Backpack offers a best of both worlds experience in terms of functionality and craftsmanship. On the one hand it is packed with modern must-have features like a laptop sleeve and tons of organization modern work items. But at its core, the Office Backpack presents a timeless heritage design that ascends modern day backpack trends. We’re talking about the kind of heirloom craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

In this hands-on Harber London Office Backpack review we will take a look at all of the details so that you can make a better choice deciding if this bag is right for you.

Where to buy: Harber London

Table of contents

• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What fits inside the Office Backpack?
• Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Materials and Construction

Each Harber London Office Backpack is handmade by craftsmen in Spain and you can really see the difference in quality when compared to other mass produced backpacks. There wasn’t a loose thread or sloppy stitch anywhere to be found.

Fabric made of recycled plastic bottles

The main fabric is made completely from recycled plastic bottles. Although this fabric has the look of canvas it feels a bit rougher to the touch and heavier in weight. The thickness of the fabric is what gives the Office Backpack a lot of its structure so that the backpack can retain most of its shape when empty.

The front of the backpack and all touch points are made from Harber London’s full grain leather. We expect this leather to take scratches and scuffs like a champ over time. Full grain leather also has the habit of forming a unique character and patina as it ages.

Full grain leather and chrome zippers on the Harber London Office Backpack

This backpack really shines with small details. Every bit of hardware is made out of metal with no plastic in sight. The chromed metal zippers even match the engraved logo on the front of the backpack for a cohesive look.

Although the textile used on this backpack is waterproof, it’s important to note that the zippers on the Office Backpack are not. We regard the Office Backpack to be water resistant but we these zippers won’t do you any favors if you were to ever be caught out in a nasty rainstorm.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

The Harber London Office Backpack is filled with exterior compartments for easy organization. The front of the backpack features a large open zippered pocket that’s great for stashing bulkier items that you need quick access to.

Front zippered pocket with a pair of large headphones inside

There is also a large organizer compartment right behind the leather panel on the front. What’s great about this compartment is that the zipper stays hidden behind the leather for a cleaner appearance.

Hidden organizer compartment on the Office Backpack

Inside this organizer compartment you’ll find a variety of pockets for small items such as pens, business cards, tech accessories and more. Here is where you’ll also find a removable magnetic key leash.

Top pocket for sunglasses or phone

On the top of the backpack you’ll find a zippered pocket for sunglasses, a phone or other items you need quick access to.

Side water bottle pockets on the Office Backpack

Finally, there are pockets for a water bottle or umbrella on each side of the Office Backpack. These pockets are made out of the same material as the body and as a result have absolutely no stretch to them. We found that only slim water bottles will fit inside these side pockets with a 21 oz (621mL) Hydro Flask being the largest bottle we could fit.

Main Compartment

The Harber London Office Backpack has way more pockets and compartments than its clean minimalist exterior leads you to believe. Along with a variety of sneaky exterior pockets, the Office Backpack also gives you plenty of organization on the inside.

Inside the main compartment you’ll find a padded laptop sleeve as well as an additional tablet sleeve.

The Office Backpack is available in both 13” and 16” laptop versions. The version we are reviewing here is the smaller 13” laptop version. Although made with 13-inch laptops in mind, we found that this laptop sleeve can actually fit up a 14” PC laptop. Users with laptops over 14” will want to stick with the larger 16” laptop version of the Office Backpack.

The oversized tablet sleeve can easily fit up to a 13” tablet which makes it perfect an iPad Pro or other large tablet. Harber even adds a small pocket next to the tablet sleeve for an Apple Pencil or stylus.

Although the laptop sleeve is fully padded it is worth noting that there is no false bottom on this laptop sleeve and as a result the laptop sleeve itself reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag. This means that the only thing protecting the bottom of the laptop from the ground is the laptop sleeve padding and exterior material.

On the other side of the main compartment there are a zippered pocket and two slip pockets for organizing your gear. 

These pockets are the perfect size for laptop or tablet chargers and other mid-sized items. We even found the slip pockets large enough to fit a larger 32oz (~1000ml) Nalgene water bottle.

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What Fits Inside the Harber London Office Backpack?

The 16 liter main compartment on the Harber London Office Backpack offers just enough room for your tech, work items and a few personal items. Although we wouldn’t consider this backpack ideal for travel, it’s the perfect size as a daily carry backpack for just the essentials.

The Harber London Office Backpack can fit:

Inside the main compartment

• 13” Laptop

• Tablet

• 1-inch binder

• Tech Pouch (8.5" x 6" x 2.5")

• Light sweater or jacket

• Laptop charger

• External hard drive

Comfort Features

When it comes to comfort Harber London keeps the features on the Office Backpack sleek and simple.

The back panel shares its padding with the laptop sleeve inside the main compartment. This helps give the Office Backpack a slim professional appearance when worn.

The shoulder straps are made out of full grain leather that match the leather details on the rest of the bag. Stitched to the leather is a strip of very soft foam.

Although there isn’t a ton of padding on these shoulder straps, there are no complaints about comfort when the backpack is fully loaded. This bag is too small to really benefit from extra-cushioned foam shoulder straps usually found in larger backpacks.

Swivel shoulder strap design adjusts to your shoulder width

One of the best comfort features is the swiveling shoulder strap design. Each shoulder strap is attached to a metal button that allows the shoulder straps to adjust to your shoulder width.

Although the Office Backpack is marketed as a men’s backpack - it’s still compact enough for women without being too bulky or ill fitting. This is all thanks to Harber’s swiveling shoulder straps that can fit most people regardless of body size.

Final Thoughts

The Harber London Office Backpack really does live up to its name by offering a stylish way for digital roamers to carry their tech and work items to and from the office.

Now let’s talk about price - its $351 USD price puts it up there with brands like Tumi and Filson but with the added value of being meticulously handmade by expert bag makers. With that said, the price seems just about right for a handcrafted bag made with premium materials. We believe that for professionals looking for a more sophisticated way to carry their gear the Office Backpack is definitely well worth the cost of admission.

Where to buy: Harber London

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Everyman Hideout Pack Review - Rugged One Bag Solution for Daily Carry + Travel

The Everyman Hideout Pack is a one-bag solution for those who need a daily backpack that can also be used for travel, workouts and commuting thanks to its weatherproof construction and roomy main compartment.

One of the Hideout’s standout features is its split front zipper design that allows for easy packing and unpacking of clothing and gear as well as multiple ways to access the inside of the main compartment.

In this hands-on Everyman Hideout review we will take a look at the all details so that you can make a better choice deciding if this bag is right for you.

Where to buy: EVERYMAN

Table of contents

• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What fits inside the Everyman Hideout Pack?
• Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Materials and Construction

The main fabric on the Hideout Pack is 1680D Ballistic Nylon that is PU lined for water resistance. Ballistic nylon is known for its great anti-abrasive properties and high-tensile strength. It is also a fabric known for its water repellence and can hold up very well in the rain.

The bottom is made with waterproof PVC for extra protection from abrasion and moisture.

Ballistic Nylon and PVC bottom

Other details include premium leather zippers pulls and a really nice Everyman branded leather handle on the top of the bag.

Leather details on the Everyman Hideout Pack

Overall the construction of the Hideout Pack was designed to help keep moisture out. The materials used are mostly water repellent or waterproof but the zippers are not, so keep this mind if you are looking for a fully waterproof backpack.

3-way zipper split front design

Speaking of zippers, Everyman uses a really chunky zipper on every pocket on the outside of this backpack. The zippers feel mostly smooth, definitely not the smoothest zippers we have come across, but they get the job done and feel resilient enough to take daily abuse.

As a whole this backpack feels tough as nails. The barrel shape gives it an old school military duffel feel. You know, the kind of bag you just want to throw into an open bed of a truck.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

Everyman has done a great job at providing plenty of easy-access pockets on the outside. In total there are three outside pockets.

Small soft-lined pocket on the Everyman Hideout

The first two pockets can be found on the top of the backpack’s lid. One is soft-lined and perfect for holding delicate items like glasses or a phone. 

Large top pocket on the Everyman Hideout

The second top pocket is much larger. We were able to store a bluetooth speaker and sunglasses case inside this pocket with some room to spare. Inside this pocket is where you’ll find a key leash with a removable clip. The removable clip is a nice touch that we wish more backpack brands would incorporate.

Small hidden back pocket on the Everyman Hideout Pack

The third and final outside pocket is a small hidden pocket against the back panel. This pocket is great for a passport, wallet or other important items you want to keep hidden.

Main Compartment

The Everyman Hideout Pack features a really clever 3-way zipper “split front” design that allows for multiple ways of accessing your gear inside. We found that you can access the main compartment in 3 ways: Top loading access, duffel style access and full “split front” access.

Once inside you are greeted with a myriad of pockets for organization. Against the back of the main compartment is where you will find an admin panel with slip pockets for a pen and smaller items. 

Above this admin panel there is a large slip pocket that can fit documents and a large zippered stash pocket for more organization.

Pockets inside the Everyman Hideout backpack main compartment

On the sides of the main compartment is where you’ll find pockets made out of laminated mesh on each side. These large pockets span the entire sides and can easily fit a 32 oz Nalgene bottle. We also like the idea of stashing dirty laundry in these pockets while traveling.

Laminated mesh pocket with 32oz Nalgene water bottle inside

Laptop Compartment

The last compartment is the TSA-friendly laptop compartment located in the rear where you’ll find a felted wool laptop sleeve and separate tablet sleeve.

Both sleeves are very roomy with Everyman stating that the laptop sleeve can fit up to a 15” Macbook Pro. Our 15.6” PC laptop fit with some room to spare and we have a sneaking suspicion it can also fit a 16” Macbook Pro. The tablet sleeve can also comfortably fit larger tablets like the iPad Pro.

15.6” Laptop and 11” iPad Pro inside Everyman Hideout laptop compartment

The entire laptop compartment is raised up from the bottom of the bag. This means that your laptop is protected from hitting the ground if dropped. This is a small detail many backpack brands miss, but Everyman did a great job with the laptop compartment’s design here.

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What Fits Inside the Everyman Hideout Pack?

At only 24 liters the Everyman Hideout Pack could fit a surprisingly large amount of gear after packing it for different situations (EDC, Travel and Gym.)

We made sure the backpack could be zipped shut when fully packed and only left the bag open in the photos so that you could see what it looks like when packed inside.

The Everyman Hideout Pack can fit:

Daily Carry

• 1-inch binder

• 3-subject notebook

• Small Camera Cube (8” x 7” x 4”)

• Small bluetooth speaker

• Tech Pouch (8.5" x 6" x 2.5")

• 21oz Hydro Flask bottle (inside laminated mesh pocket)

• Large headphones

Travel

• Large Packing Cube (17.5” x 12.75” x 3.25”)

• Medium Packing Cube (13.75” x 9.75” x 3”)

• Small Packing Cube (11” x 6.75” x 3”)

The gym 

• Gym Shoes (Men’s Size US 12)

• Weight lifting belt

• Toiletries Bag (10" x 6" x 4”)

• Small Towel

• Jump Rope

• 32oz Nalgene Bottle (inside laminated mesh pocket)

Comfort Features

Everyman has decided to keep the comfort features on the Hideout Pack pretty basic. The shoulder straps are very well padded and use a breathable foam for cushioning. These padded straps really help with comfort when the bag gets heavy.

The Hideout Pack does include a chest strap that rides on the shoulder strap webbing. The chest strap positioning can be adjusted as needed or removed all together.

You won’t find your typical molded foam/mesh back panel with the Hideout Pack as it shares its padding with the laptop compartment right behind it. 

Although we believe this simple back panel design gives the Hideout a much cleaner appearance and helps complete the “rugged duffel” look, it may be something to consider for those who plan on wearing this backpack for long periods of time and need the breathability you’ll find on a typical foam back panel with air channels.

Final Thoughts

The Everyman Hideout Pack is a great choice if you are looking for a versatile backpack that can be used for both daily carry and travel. A big standout is the tough construction and water resistant materials.

We first thought that the 24 liter capacity was quite small for a backpack that would also be used for travel but after testing the internal capacity we found that it can actually hold a lot more than we thought thanks to its unique barrel design. The split front zipper to the main compartment also gives you multiple access points to grab exactly what you need.

All in all, the Everyman Hideout Pack is a good buy if you value tough construction, great compartmentalization and a unique design.

Where to buy: EVERYMAN

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King Kong ZONE25 Review - Meal Prep Backpack for Work & Workouts

Whether you are looking for reliable gym bag, meal prep backpack, or a lunch box backpack for work, the ZONE25 is versatile enough to do it all thanks a smart design that adapts as you need it.

While many other meal prep backpacks include a built-in meal compartment, King Kong has decided to use an insulated meal insert that is completely removable. This means you can convert the ZONE25 into a full capacity gym, work or travel backpack in seconds.

In this King Kong ZONE25 backpack review we are going to take a closer look at all of the small details that make this backpack a great buy for anyone looking for one bag that can do it all.

Where to buy: KING KONG

Table of contents

• Video Review
• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What Fits inside the ZONE25 backpack?
• Fit and Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Video Review

Materials and Construction

Our first impressions of the King Kong ZONE25 were overwhelmingly positive thanks to its rugged construction and clean minimalist design. The bag itself is made from food grade 1000D Nylon that is TPU coated for water resistance. Water just runs right off of this backpack and the coating allows the material to be easily wiped down and cleaned as needed.

King Kong backpacks are known for their tough construction and the ZONE25 is no exception. Along the sides of the backpack you have thick nylon straps that can be used to secure large items like a blanket, towel or yoga mat. These nylon straps are equipped with large heavy-duty aluminum buckles.

The King Kong ZONE Meal Insert

Every ZONE25 includes a matching King Kong ZONE insert. This is essentially an insulated lunch box that comes equipped with two meal containers and an ice pack to keep the inside cool.

The ZONE insert itself is large enough to fit a 6-pack of 12oz cans. Each individual meal container can hold up to .8L (800ml) of food.

Double Up

A really awesome feature of the ZONE25 backpack is that the main compartment can hold up to two ZONE inserts for double the meal storage. King Kong offers additional ZONE inserts separately if you ever want to double up your meal prep capacity.

Pockets and Compartments

King Kong has designed this backpack with a series a separate packing areas they call ZONES. The ZONE25 can be divided into three ZONES: the front compartment, the laptop compartment and the main compartment where meal insert is stored.

Main Compartment

The 25 liter main compartment is just one large bucket-style open compartment. The only pocket inside is a neoprene sleeve that can hold a slim water bottle alongside the insulated meal insert.

We found that both a water bottle and a meal insert can fit inside at the same time. This is a neat little detail that we appreciated. Neoprene is known for its insulation properties and this little sleeve can help keep your water bottle cool while out and about.

On the top of the lid there is a single zippered pocket made out of a thick transparent plastic material. Not only can you easily see what’s inside but the pocket material also makes it easy to keep clean. We found this pocket perfect for items like cutlery, napkins, tea and condiments.

Front Compartment

The front compartment offers additional storage and organization. Inside you’ll find a large slip pocket that can easily fit a notebook, iPad Pro or other large tablet.

You won’t find much in terms of admin pockets inside this front compartment for small items like pens or a phone but the two zippered pockets makes for easy storage of these smaller items.

The front compartment is actually pretty roomy since it fans out to the front instead of digging into the main compartment when full. We found that it has room to store items like a jump rope, weight training gloves, and even a toiletries bag.

Laptop Compartment

The King Kong ZONE25 includes a fully padded laptop compartment against the back panel. Although King Kong says it can fit a laptop up to 16-inches, they really mean a 16” Macbook Pro or other very thin laptop. 

For PC users, you will be regulated to laptops 14-inches and under. We found that a clunky 15.6” laptop PC will not fit inside this pocket.

The padding is good and the laptop does feel secure inside this compartment. Our only complaint is that there is no false-bottom for extra protection. This means that the laptop sleeve reaches all the way to the bottom of the bag with only the padding to protect a laptop form drops.

Water Bottle Pockets

Along with the internal neoprene water bottle sleeve, King Kong gives you two additional bottle pockets on each side of the backpack. That’s a total of 3 storage options for your drink bottles which we thought to be a nice surprise.

The external water bottle pockets are very roomy and we found them to fit a 32oz Nalgene bottle, 30oz Yeti Rambler Tumbler and a standard size blender bottle with room to spare.

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What Fits Inside the King Kong ZONE25?

We decided to dedicate this part of our review to what fits inside the ZONE25 with the meal insert inside.

Although the main compartment has a total capacity of 25 liters, you can expect the meal insert to take up about half that space when stored.

The main compartment measures about 16” H x 11” W x 8” D but with the meal insert inside your height gets reduced to 8”.

With the meal insert inside, the King Kong ZONE25 fits:

• 1x Sweatshirt

• 1x Sweatpants

• 1x Small packing cube (11” x 6.75” x 3”)

• 1x Small towel

Or it can fit a pair of gym shoes with a men’s size 12 (US) being the max size to fit on top of the meal insert.

With the meal insert removed you have the entire 25 liter main compartment at your disposal and we could fit a lot more bulkier items like a pair of yoga blocks, toiletries bag and small towel with room to spare.

Comfort and Fit Features

We found the ZONE25 to be a goldilocks in terms of fit - not too small yet not too bulky. This backpack is unisex in design and we are sure it will fit a variety of body types.

King Kong has done a good job when it comes to comfort features. The shoulder straps on the ZONE25 are well padded with thick foam that really makes a difference when the bag gets heavy. You will also find an adjustable chest strap to help with weight distribution.

Interestingly enough, King Kong has decided to not use traditional foam panels on the back panel. Instead the back shares its padding with the laptop sleeve. 

This design surprisingly works well for the ZONE25 as it makes the back panel easy to wipe down and keep clean. The internal padding was also comfortable when worn, even when the backpack was full.

Final Thoughts

The King Kong ZONE25 does a quite a few things very well. We love its simple and almost minimalist design that takes it’s cues from the larger King Kong EDGE35 gym backpack. The easy to clean surface is a must for a backpack you’ll be using for transporting food and drinks while the quality is tough and rugged. This backpack really feels like it can take a beating over time.

After using the King Kong ZONE25 we found this backpack to be worth the price of admission. Very few bags have the versatility to be used as a functional meal prep backpack as well as a gym, work and travel bag.

This versatility is what gives the ZONE25 its edge when compared with other meal prep bags and when looking for a backpack that can fit multiple needs, the ZONE25 is a serious contender. 

Where to buy: King Kong

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HEX Technical Backpack Review - Wireless Charging, Antimicrobial Fabric and More!

HEX claims that their new Technical backpack is an “engineering marvel” and well… they might be right. Packed with innovative features, the HEX Technical Collection of bags really stretch the boundaries of what is possible with our everyday carry.

Features like their antimicrobial technology and wireless charging pocket gives a breadth of fresh air to the same tired old backpack designs. In a world where heightened hygiene practices are more important than ever, the HEX Technical might be one of the first bags that focuses its design on these special considerations.

In this hands-on HEX Technical backpack review we take a closer look at our favorite features that make this backpack truly unique and an honest contender when choosing your next everyday carry bag.

Where to buy: HEX

Table of contents

• Video Review
• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What Fits inside the Hex Technical Backpack?
• Fit and Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Video Review

Materials and Construction

Our first impressions of the HEX Technical backpack was how “tough” it felt when handled. This is thanks to its 1680D Cordura ballistic nylon construction. Cordura ballistic nylon is a very dense and heavy fabric that is notoriously tear resistant, water resistant and has great abrasion resistance. 

HEX has decided to go with YKK EYL woven tough zippers for their main compartment and smaller front compartment zippers. Like Cordura ballistic nylon, these zippers are engineered to be abrasion resistant and to minimize failure over prolonged use. We found the zippers on the Technical backpack to be incredibly smooth and are big fans of the chunkier zipper pulls that HEX uses.

Antimicrobial Technology

One of the more unique features that the HEX Technical offers is the use of antimicrobial technology on the bag’s fabric. The antimicrobial technology treatment allows the fabric to repel and resist up to 99% of bacteria, mold, and fungus. This technology helps keep the backpack germ free, especially when you put it down on the ground or on other unsanitary surfaces in public.

HEX has had this antimicrobial technology tested by an independent lab. We encourage you to read more about the technology on the HEX website as its packed with info and links to the studies.

Pockets and Compartments

The HEX Technical backpack is comprised of a single 17.5 liter main compartment and a bunch of smaller pockets and compartments that line the outside. 

Most of these outside pockets are slip pockets held together by magnets instead of traditional zippers and buckles. When combined with the antimicrobial technology, you have a bag design that minimizes touch points for more hygienic access to your essentials. These pockets are perfect for EDC like face masks, hand sanitizer and antibacterial wipes where quick and easy access is a must.

Arrows point to slip pockets on the outside of the HEX Technical backpack

Along with a myriad of smaller magnetic slip pockets, the Technical backpack also features a front zippered compartment that includes pockets for organization. 

A notable pocket is the padded and fleece lined phone pocket on the side of the backpack. This pocket is also held together by a magnet and allows for instant access to your phone.

On the other side of the backpack is where you will find a standard water bottle pocket with a key leash for your keys tucked inside.

We found that thinner bottles (24oz HydroFlask or your standard Deer Park water bottle for example) fit just fine but larger diameter bottles like a 32oz Nalgene bottle are a bit too wide to fit inside the water bottle pocket. Unfortunately, you will be regulated to smaller bottles with this pocket.

Wireless Charging

On the top of the backpack is where you will find the wireless charging pocket. This pocket was designed to fit the HEX Wireless Power Bank (sold separately) but can work with a variety of third-party wireless power banks if you already own one.

With the HEX Power Bank not only do you have the ability to charge your devices wirelessly in conjunction with the pocket but it also allows for traditional charging with USB and Type-C cables as well.

We found the wireless charging pocket to work flawlessly. The power bank was able to charge an iPhone through the thick Cordura nylon fabric and a thin case. 

Laptop Sleeve

Inside the main compartment is where you’ll find even more slip pockets and organizers.

The most notable pocket on the inside is the laptop sleeve. This sleeve is fully padded on all sides and completely fleece lined. It also features a false bottom so there is a nice amount of space between the bottom of the laptop sleeve and the bottom of the bag for extra protection.

HEX says the laptop sleeve on the Technical backpack can fit up to a 16” laptop but we believe they mean a 16” Apple Macbook Pro or other slim 16” laptop. With our testing we found that a 15.6” PC laptop is too large for the sleeve. All laptops 14-inches and and under will fit inside this laptop sleeve just fine.

What Fits Inside the HEX Technical Backpack?

Although the HEX Technical backpack is packed with pockets and compartments, the actual open space inside the main compartment is on the smaller side.

With only 17.5 liters of packing room on the inside, the HEX Technical backpack is best reserved for very short travel or as a daily backpack for work and school where you need to carry just the essentials. For a fair comparison on how the HEX Technical stacks up to other backpack sizes we recommend you check out our backpack size guide.

We found that the main compartment (not counting the laptop sleeve and interior pockets) could fit:

Camera Gear

• Small camera cube (8”H x 7”W x 4”D)

• Camera gimbal

• Headphones

• Small microphone

Packing for Travel

• 2x pants

• 2x sweaters

• 2x t-shirts

• small toiletries

• underwear/socks

Comfort and Fit Features

HEX has done a great job with their comfort features! The shoulder straps are very padded and you do get extra support with an adjustable sternum strap. There is no waist strap but you shouldn’t miss this feature given the small size of the backpack.

The star of the show however has to be the Technical’s molded EVA foam back panel. This back panel is stiff without being too hard and is incredibly comfortable when the backpack is filled up. As a result you have a back panel that helps give the bag its shape and gives you nice even support across your back when worn.

The fit itself is very unisex given its smaller size. At only 17.5 liters, people with smaller frames will find the shoulder strap fit to be just right without the bulk of larger backpacks. 

Final Thoughts

After all is said and done our experience with the HEX Technical Backpack has been overwhelmingly positive. This is thanks to the quality of materials, nice protective laptop sleeve and handy exterior storage pockets that allows essentials like a phone, keys or a face mask to be grabbed with minimal fuss.

When you combine the quality of this backpack with features like the antimicrobial fabric technology and wireless charging capability you have a design that is really unique, innovative and is a real pleasure to use.

Where to buy: HEX OFFICIAL

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King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 Gym Backpack Comparison

Those looking for a feature-packed gym backpack should be no strangers to the King Kong Backpack II. This classic backpack offers great gym and daily carry features that make transitioning from work to workout easier than ever.

Recently, King Kong has released the PLUS26 - an updated successor to the popular Backpack II. While the PLUS26 holds on to a lot of the same features that make the Backpack II awesome, it still has some upgrades that are worth your attention.

In this King Kong Backpack II vs PLUS26 backpack comparison we take a hands-on look at what the real differences are so that you can decide which version of this iconic backpack is the better choice.

Quick Specs

	King Kong Backpack II	King Kong PLUS26
Volume	28 Liters	26 Liters
Material	1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon	1000D Polyester Ripstop Nylon Hypalon
Laptop Sleeve	Up to 15" laptop	Up to 16" laptop
Weight	3.5lbs	3.5lbs
Dimensions	20"H x 13"W x 7"D	20"H x 12"W x 7"D
Price	Check on King Kong	Check on King Kong

Video Review

Size and Materials

When it comes to size and carrying capacity there isn’t much of a difference between the PLUS26 and the older Backpack II.

While the Backpack II has a carrying capacity of 28 liters, King Kong has decided to slim it down a bit with 26 liters in the PLUS26.

In terms of actual size and dimensions, the PLUS26 is an inch less in width than the Backpack II while the height and depth has stayed the same.

King Kong has also decided to keep most of the materials the same as well. Both backpack use the same 1000D Nylon on the exterior with YKK zippers and both interiors are made with the same bright red ripstop nylon lining.

One addition to the PLUS26 is the use of Hypalon on high-impact areas. You can find Hypalon along the sides of the front shoe compartment, on the water bottle pockets, shoulder straps and handles. Hypalon is even used to reinforce the stitching on the front shoe pocket strap for extra durability. 

Hypalon panels on the King Kong PLUS26

Pockets and Compartments

Shoe Compartment

One of the best features on the Kong Kong Backpack II has always been its shoe pocket. Unlike other backpacks with shoe compartments, King Kong places the shoe pocket on the front of the bag which helps keep the inside of your backpack fresh. The entire pocket expands by using two zippers on the sides and is secured with a heavy duty carbon steel buckle.

The PLUS26 keeps the same shoe pocket design but has changed the buckle to a Fidlock Quick Release Buckle. Although it doesn’t feel as heavy duty as the old carbon steel buckle it is much easier to maneuver. In fact, you can open and close the Fidlock Buckle with just one hand thanks to the fast action magnets that simply pulls the buckle into place.

Admin Pocket

Both the Backpack II and PLUS26 include a small admin compartment above the shoe pocket that features multiple smaller pockets for pens, business cards and a phone.

On the Backpack II we found the slip pockets inside the admin compartment to be a little too small for items like a larger phone, laptop charger or wallet. But one feature that is missing from the King Kong PLUS26 is the cable port that allows you to port a charging or headphones cable to the outside.

On the PLUS26, King Kong offers similar smaller pockets inside the admin compartment but with the addition of a larger slip pocket that is just the right size for a Macbook charger or glasses case. The addition of this slip pocket makes organization of your daily items much easier to manage and we prefer this pocket over the older style on the Backpack II.

Main Compartment

When it comes to main compartment access, both the King Kong PLUS26 and Backpack II feature a dual access main compartment design. This is definitely one of the best features of these bags and one that King Kong made it a point to stick with. This design allows you top loading access to the main compartment with one zipper and full clamshell access to the main compartment with the second zipper.

Once inside there are a couple of minor differences between the Backpack II and PLUS26 worth pointing out. The first difference is with the internal zip pockets that line the left side of the main compartment. On the Backpack II the top pocket is much higher up and the bottom mesh pockets are much lower than the pockets on the PLUS26.

King Kong centers these pockets on the PLUS26 and the result is easier access to the pockets. This is especially true for the top pocket since the older Backpack II design meant that the zipper was slightly buried in the seam making it harder to find when needing to access it quickly. This is a very small improvement but an improvement non-the-less.

The second difference is with the laptop sleeve on the right side. On the Backpack II there is 360 degree spacing along the entire laptop sleeve that creates a protective bumper around your laptop against bumps and drops.

Unfortunately King Kong got rid of this spacing on the left and right sides of the laptop sleeve with the PLUS26. Instead the laptop sleeve itself stitches directly onto the sides of the back panel. Because of this small detail we have to conclude that the Backpack II has the safer laptop sleeve.

Water Bottle Pockets

The last pockets to compare are the side water bottle pockets. On the Backpack II, King Kong offers a compressed water bottle that expands with a zipper and mesh divider. This allows you to hide the water pocket while not in use.

King Kong changed these pockets on the PLUS26 by adding a simple elastic band design. In our opinion this elastic band design is easier and faster to use since you don’t have to fiddle with zippers. It’s just less fuss to deal with when you are on the move.

COMFORT FEATURES

When it comes to comfort features there are big differences in the shoulder straps and back panel that are worth pointing out.

On the Backpack II, the shoulder straps measure 2.5-inches in width and are very padded with a soft mesh lining on the inside. King Kong has changed the shoulder strap design that is much stiffer with less cushion. They also made the new PLUS26 shoulder straps much wider - measuring in at a little over 3-inches.

Our one big gripe with the King Kong PLUS26 is with the shoulder straps. Although the wider design will give more support to those with broader shoulders, the cushioning could be a lot better. Because of this we have to give the older Backpack II the point for having the more comfortable shoulder straps.

The second difference is with the back panel design. Although the back panels look different they really don’t feel that much difference when the bags are worn. In fact, they feel about the same when the backpack is fully loaded.

What we like about the back panel on the PLUS26 is that the air channel cutout offers much better airflow against your backpack while still providing good upper back and lumbar support. This is great if you plan on using your King Kong backpack for hiking or outdoor workouts.

King Kong Backpack II VS PLUS26: Wrap Up

King Kong Backpack II

King Kong PLUS26

Choose the King Kong Backpack II if… you want a reliable gym backpack that can also be used for work or travel. Despite the upgrades to the PLUS26, the Backpack II offers most of the same functionality such as dual access to the main compartment, multiple organizer pockets and an exterior shoe pocket. The Backpack II also has a more protective laptop sleeve and generously cushioned shoulder straps for added comfort.

Choose the King Kong PLUS26 if… you want the best features of the Backpack II with a few upgrades for easier daily carry. The PLUS26 offers better internal pocket placement and an improved front admin pocket for daily essentials like sunglasses and chargers. Other improvements include quick-access water bottle pockets and an easy to use magnetic buckle in the shoe compartment for less hassle on busy workout days. The PLUS26 also includes Hypalon panels in high impact areas for less wear and tear over time.

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Day Owl Backpack Review - Stylish Grown Up Backpack for Work and Weekends

A backpack with dangling straps, cheap materials and obnoxious branding doesn’t exactly scream sophistication. And while many backpacks have exactly all of the pockets you need, they really leave a lot to be desired in terms of style. Luckily Day Owl offers a stylish alternative with their flagship backpack that is every bit as mature in design as it is functional.

In this hands-on Day Owl backpack review we take a closer look at all of the features and design details that really make the Day Owl the perfect backpack for adults who need a mature yet versatile backpack for work, weekends and travel.

Update: Day Owl has updated a few things about the Day Owl Backpack since this review has been published. Check out our Day Owl Backpack vs Day Owl Slim comparison for what’s new!

Table of contents

• Video Review
• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• What Fits inside the Day Owl?
• Fit and Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Video Review

Materials and Construction

Our first impression of the Day Owl backpack was “Wow, this is a well made bag!”

The materials feel robust and solid. Nothing feels cheap. And we can tell that the waxed canvas and leather will wear very well over time. Waxed canvas is a very hardwearing fabric and one of the few materials that actually looks better over time as it develops a rugged patina.

When it comes to materials Day Owl prides itself in sourcing only ethically conscious materials that serve a greater purpose. The brand is very transparent with how they source the materials to make each Day Owl backpack. Below is a brief overview.

First Mile Waxed Canvas - First Mile supports micro-economies in underdeveloped communities by offering materials from ethically sourced supply chains. It’s a people-first approach to traditional sourcing.

100% Recycled Polyester - The lining, zipper tape and thread are all made out of recycled plastic bottles. This eliminates environmental waste in a huge way.

LWG Certified Leather - All of the leather accents are made out of LWG certified leather. LWG is a group that focuses on compliance for eco-friendly and ethical sourcing of leather materials.

Along with the above materials, Day Owl also ditches cheap plastic hardware for metal ones. Everything from the zipper pulls, snaps on the top handle and shoulder strap buckles are made out of metal. Metal is more robust and long-lasting than plastic pieces and this significantly adds to the durability of the bag over time.

Free Repairs For Life

An underrated feature of the Day Owl backpack is that the brand offers free repairs for life! The bag is constructed to be repaired and not thrown away. This really shows when you look closely at the shoulder strap and body construction.

So few brands offer a warranty like this and we think it’s pretty special.

Pockets and Compartments

Outside Pockets

One of the reasons we call the Day Owl a “backpack for adults” is because of its minimalist design that hides many of the pockets and compartments from view. This gives you a clean profile on the outside of the bag without skimping on organization.

On the front you will find a zippered stash pocket that covers most of the front panel. This is just one big open pocket that is great for bulkier items like large headphones, glasses cases and tech accessories.

On the top of the backpack you will find a small pocket that is perfect for sunglasses or a phone.

On the one side of the bag there is another small pocket that can fit a pair of sunglasses, a phone or a wallet.

But the best pocket is the hidden chimney pocket that can fit long items like a water bottle or small umbrella. This chimney pocket is lined with neoprene - a water resistant fabric that prevents leaks from soaking into the bag.

Day Owl claims that an entire bottle of wine can fit into the chimney pocket so we decided to test it ourselves…

Along with a wine bottle, the chimney pocket can fit most slim water bottles but we found that large diameter bottles (i.e. a Nalgene 32 oz.) will be too wide to fit into this pocket.

The last exterior pocket on the Day Owl backpack is the laptop compartment that is located against the back panel. This laptop compartment is padded on all sides and can fit either a 14” laptop (Smaller version) or up to a 15” laptop (Larger version).

One minor complaint is that the laptop compartment does not have a false bottom. This means that the laptop compartment reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag with little padding between your laptop and the ground. With a false bottom, there is room between the your laptop and the bottom of your bag for extra protection against drops. 

Main Compartment

The Day Owl offers a mostly clamshell zipper design that allows for open access to the items inside. Clamshell backpacks are some of our favorites as they offer full access to the entirety of the main compartment. They make packing and retrieving items a lot easier since you can lay the bag almost flat for easy access.

When it comes to internal organization Day Owl has kept it simple by offering just two slip pockets in the back. These pockets are pretty slim and don’t offer much room for carrying bulkier items. For example, a slim external hard drive may fit in the larger pocket but anything bulkier may not fit.

These pockets are one of the rare cons of the Day Owl backpack since they are simply too narrow and too deep to be very useful. Very small items (chapstick, makeup, Airpods) will sink to the bottom of the pocket and it isn’t fun trying to cram your hand in that narrow pocket to reach for it.

Another small feature is the webbing on the one side of the main compartment. This allows for attaching of keys and other accessories.

What Fits Inside the Day Owl?

The Day Owl comes in two size options: Smaller (16 liters) and Larger (21 liters). Both versions are compact enough to use as everyday carry but may be too small to use as a serious travel bag (longer than an overnight stay).

If packing for a gym workout the main compartment on the regular Day Owl can fit:

• A water bottle 

• Change of clothes

• Toiletries Bag

While the main compartment in the Larger Day Owl can fit the same plus a pair of running shoes.

As a backpack for work or college we found that both the Smaller and Larger versions can comfortably fit large binders, textbooks and notebooks. You also have the separate compartment for your laptop carry.

There is also still room for things small such as glasses, tech accessories and personal items on the outside pockets while the main compartment is full.

Comfort and Fit Features

Day Owl has decided to keep thing simple when it comes to comfort features. The back panel shares its padding with the laptop compartment and the shoulder straps are also padded for added comfort.

When fully loaded the Day Owl comfortable and we found no pinching or digging with the shoulder strap design. A lot of that has to do with the small form factor of the Day Owl that just doesn’t warrant the level of padding you would find in a larger backpack.

One of the best design features on the Day Owl is their “no slack straps” which eliminates dangling straps by using a closed loop design. This is one of those small design details that makes the Day Owl look a little bit more grown up and sophisticated than your average backpack and it’s one of our favorite features.

The only other backpack we have reviewed with similar shoulder straps is the Black Ember Citadel R2 and we wish more backpack brands would incorporate this kind of shoulder strap design.

How comfortable you find the Day Owl relies on picking out the proper size. The difference between the Smaller and Larger version is in the width and height of the bag and the shoulder strap positioning.

The shoulder straps on the Smaller version are a little under 2-inches apart at the very top. Where as the Larger version’s shoulder straps are about 2 1/4 inches apart.

The best size for you really depends on your body type. You should choose the Smaller version if you have smaller shoulders and a shorter torso. Taller people or those with broader shoulders will find the Larger size to be a better fit.

You can tell Day Owl wanted to keep this backpack as simple possible. Not only does a simple construction allow for a light weight backpack but it also makes it easier to repair in the future.

Final Thoughts

Overall our Day Owl experience has been an overwhelmingly positive one.

The clean minimalist design and the awesome features like the chimney pocket and no slack straps really make the Day Owl a true “grown up backpack” that can be worn just about anywhere. 

And let’s not forget about the top notch materials and construction. In addition to looking good, the Day Owl feels like a nice backpack. The wax canvas and leather accents are expected to wear very well over time and the metal hardware is a nice touch. The fact that Day Owl offers free repairs for the life of the bag also brings in some serious peace of mind. 

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Black Ember Citadel R2 Review & Waterproof Test - The best everyday waterproof backpack?

Black Ember is a design studio out of San Fransisco that specializes in innovative technical backpacks for urban carry. Their Citadel R2 Minimal is a revised version of their original award winning Citadel backpack and we wanted to see if this backpack really lives up to the hype.

What we found is a true unicorn. Full clamshell access to the main compartment, a customizable modular design and waterproof construction are just a few of the features the Citadel R2 has to offer.

In this hands-on backpack review we will take a detailed look at the Black Ember Citadel R2 Minimal and perform our own waterproof test to see how the backpack really holds up to water exposure.

Table of Contents

• Video Review
• Materials and Construction
• Pockets and Compartments
• Waterproof Test
• Fit and Comfort Features
• Final Thoughts

Details at a glance:

• Capacity: 25L

• Dimensions: 19.5” (H) x 12.5” (W) x 6.5” (D)

• Weight: 3lbs (without compression divider)

• Materials: 3-layer 900D Microhex textile, laser-cut Hypalon, 200D Ripstop Nylon lining

• Zippers: YKK Aquaguard Zippers

• Padded 15” laptop sleeve

• Removable compression divider with tablet sleeve

• Full clamshell zipper access to main compartment

Video Review

Materials and Construction

The Black Ember Citadel R2 weighs three pounds when empty and this is not including the internal compression divider that adds a few more ounces. When compared to similar non-waterproof backpacks the Citadel R2 is definitely on the heavier side. In our experience this heavier weight is common with waterproof backpacks that use waterproof materials.

Up close: Microhex textile and YKK Aquaguard zippers

The backpack itself is made from three-layered Microhex which is a thick and beefy material and one of reasons the Citadel R2 can hold it’s shape so well even when empty. Other materials used include laser-cut Hypalon for the modular accessory panels and accents and 200D Ripstop Nylon for the internal lining and pockets.

When it comes to hardware the Citadel R2 uses waterproof YKK Aquaguard zippers and a mix of plastic and aircraft-grade anodized aluminum for the various buckles and strap adjusters.

Inside look at the bonded seam construction

To create a waterproof seal Black Ember opted for a bonded seam construction. We were surprised to find that the Citadel R2 did not use a welded seam construction that is common with fully waterproof backpacks but were pleasantly surprised to find the bonded seam construction held up very well during our waterproof testing with no leaking.

Laser-cut Hypalon panel and zipper pulls

When it comes to quality the Black Ember Citadel R2 Minimal gets an A+. It feels hefty, holds it’s shape well and the black on black materials play well together. One detail we noticed is that the Hypalon material did develop water stains after being repeatedly wet. The zippers, bonded seam construction and Microhex fabric however held up to any abuse we threw their way.

Modular Design

What really sets Black Ember bags apart from other brands is their focus on modular customization and the Citadel R2 is no exception.

The Black Ember Citadel R2 comes in two versions: The Citadel R2 Modular and the Citadel R2 Minimal. 

Although the Citadel R2 Minimal has far less modular attachments points, Black Ember still gives you some great options for adding accessories thanks various attachment points on the front, top and sides of the backpack.

Examples of modular accessories for the Citadel R2 Minimal include compression straps, extra handles, and a water bottle holder. For a full list of the current accessory options we encourage you to check them out on the official Black Ember website.

Black Ember Citadel R2 Minimal with and without extra attachments

Along with extra accessories, the Black Ember Citadel R2 Minimal carries the modular theme in  every facet of its design. The handles are removable and can be placed on the top or either side to your liking. The shoulder straps are completely removable if you choose to use the Citadel R2 exclusively as a soft-briefcase and the compression divider on the inside is also removable for a more open layout.

Pockets and Compartments

One thing the Citadel R2 does very well is pocket placement and accessibility. Let’s explore each compartment detail.

Front Pocket

On the front of the backpack you have an essentials pocket equipped with a waterproof YKK Aquaguard zipper. Inside the pocket you will find two small slip pockets and a removable Maglock key leash.

Removable Maglock key leash

This pocket extends to the entire front panel of the backpack to allow you to stow larger flat items like a book or notebook.

Laptop Sleeve

When it comes to inside storage you will notice two zippers on the top of the backpack. The zipper closer to the back panel gives you access only to the 15” laptop compartment.

The zipper closer to the front is where you can gain access to the clamshell main compartment.

This is an uncommon zipper design that takes some getting use to. Once inside the main compartment there isn’t any way to remove your laptop from the laptop sleeve - forcing you to use that first back zipper exclusively to access your laptop.

Cannot access laptop from inside main compartment and must use separate laptop zipper.

The laptop sleeve itself is fully padded on all sides and the inside is lined with a soft fleece material.

One great design feature is that this laptop sleeve “floats” inside the main compartment allowing for extra protection from bumps and drops.

Main Compartment Pockets

The Citadel R2 is filled with pockets and compartments that line both the front and back of the main compartment.

On top of the laptop sleeve you will find two slip pockets and a zippered mesh pocket. Against the front panel you will find a similar configuration with two more slip pockets and a larger mesh pocket.

Inside slip pockets are great for thinner items like sunglasses or a phone

Behind the front panel pockets is a full-size document pocket that is great for storing flat documents, notebooks or folders.

The slip pockets inside the main compartment are pretty small. We were able to comfortably fit thinner items like glasses, phones, wallets and slim external hard drives inside the slip pockets. Thicker items like over-ear headphones, small bluetooth speakers or camera lenses did not fit.

Removable Compression Divider

A cool feature of the Citadel R2 is the removable compression divider found inside the main compartment. This divider allows you to partition the main compartment if needed. 

The Citadel R2 with clothes packed behind compression divider.

A real use example is packing for an overnight stay - you could pack your clothes behind the compression divider and cinch it down. This allows you to open the main compartment without your clothes spilling out.

The tablet sleeve can be found on the compression divider.

The compression divider is also home to the tablet sleeve. This tablet sleeve is very roomy, we were able to place an 11” iPad Pro in there with room to spare.

Hidden Back Document Pocket

The only other outside pocket is a hidden pocket behind the back panel that allows you to quickly stow away flat items like a passport, airline tickets or documents. This pocket extends almost to the full width and height of the back panel.

Waterproof Test

Our waterproof test was pretty simple: We packed the backpack with towels and lined the main compartment with pieces of paper to allow us to easily see if any leaks have occurred. We then tried our best to simulate a heavy rainfall with a garden hose for five minutes at a time.

Waterproof test results

We found that the bonded seam construction and YKK Aquaguard zippers did a great job at keeping water out of the backpack. The waterproof Microhex material dried quickly and did a great job at blocking any water from seeping through the fabric.

There was only one point of leakage we could find and that was between the two zipper sliders. If you look closely between the two zipper sliders there is a very small gap between them that unfortunately let in some moisture.

Small gap between zipper sliders

This was only an issue when we left the zipper sliders on the top of the backpack. Once they were moved to the side it eliminated the leaking after further repeated water tests.

Testing again with zippers pulled to the side

This is a small detail - but one worth pointing out. As long as the zipper sliders are left vertically water will tend to run down the zipper instead of leaking inside that small gap. Once the zipper sliders were moved to the side of the backpack the inside remained dry.

Inside stayed dry after zippers were moved to the side

Overall we are impressed with how the Citadel R2 holds up to repeated water exposure. It’s important to note that this backpack has a waterproof rating of IPX6 - this means that this backpack cannot be submerged in water and be expected to stay dry. It’s not a dry bag - but it’s pretty close. For rainy days we feel confident that the Black Ember Citadel R2 will do a great job at offering moisture protection.

Fit and Comfort Features

The external measurements of the Black Ember CItadel R2 are 19.5” (H) x 12.5” (W) x 6.5” (D). When combined with its weight of 3lbs makes it feels like a larger backpack.

This being said, anyone on the shorter side (under 5’5”) may find the backpack too long vertically and the shoulder straps may not be able to be adjusted to a snug enough fit if you have very slim shoulders.

The shoulder straps are very padded and feature an ergonomic curve. They can be adjusted using velcro straps on the top and strap adjusters on the bottom.

A great feature the Citadel R2 includes is a closed-loop shoulder straps. This design eliminates annoying dangling straps and gives you a much cleaner look when worn. This is a great feature we wish more backpacks would incorporate - one of the only other backpacks we have seen with a similar closed-loop system is the Day Owl Backpack.

Closed loop shoulder straps avoids dangling straps

The back panel is interesting. Black Ember uses two sheets of perforated EVA foam. This back panel hits a sweet spot between rigidity and padded comfort. The space between the two EVA foam panels create an airflow channel.

Back panel foam cut outs for increased airflow

Another subtle feature is that the EVA foam has these small cutouts that aid in back cooling when worn. 

The Citadel R2 includes a removable sternum strap and a waist belt can be purchased separately. The sternum strap is incredibly easy to snap on and off thanks to its inclusion of a Maglock buckle.

Final Thoughts

So is the Black Ember Citadel R2 worth it? Yes, we think so.

Our overall impressions are positive. It’s hard to name another backpack that gives you these many great features all in one bag. The clamshell access and waterproofness already had us sold. 

But it’s not until you add in all of the other details like a modular design and great pocket placement that you really start to appreciate all the care that Black Ember has put into its design. This bag really does feel like a labor of love and we dig that.

Where to buy: Black Ember

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Able Carry Daily Backpack vs Thirteen Daybag - Which everyday backpack is right for you?

Able Carry offers two fantastic everyday carry backpacks with their Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daypack. But what’s the real difference?

Both the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag are designed for easy carry of daily essentials and they don’t disappoint when it comes to style, pocket placement and fit.

In this hands-on backpack review and comparison we will take a closer look at both bags and help you decide which Able Carry backpack is the best everyday backpack for you.

Update: Able Carry have new updated designs for 2024! Check out our Able Carry Daily Plus review and new Thirteen Daybag review for a closer look at what has changed.

Quick Specs

	Able Carry Daily Backpack	Able Carry Thirteen Daypack
Dimensions	19" H x 11" W x 7.5" D	17" H x 11" W x 6.7" D
Volume	20 Liters	13 Liters
Weight	2.1lbs	1.3lbs
Material	Corudra Nylon or XPAC	XPAC
Laptop Storage	15" laptop sleeve	13" laptop sleeve
Document sleeve	No	Yes
Key Leash	Yes	Yes
Sternum Strap	Yes	No
Water Bottle Pocket	No	Yes
Price	Check the latest price	Check the latest price

Video Review

Size and Capacity

Let’s start with the biggest difference between the Able Carry Daily Backpack and the Thirteen Daybag - their size.

• Daily Backpack - 20 liters

• Thirteen Daybag - 13 liters

In the world of backpacks, the Able Carry Daily Backpack is already on the smaller side. But 20 liters can be just the right size for essential carry of daily items.

What fits inside the Daily Backpack?

• 1 large pair of headphones

• 2 light hoodies or sweaters

• 1 small book

• 2 1-inch binders

• 1 laptop up to 15-inches inside the padded sleeve

Note that this is just what can fit inside the main compartment without consideration for the inside or outside pockets (there are plenty of those.)

Can the Able Carry Daily Backpack be used for travel?

Not really. If you are a very light packer then you might be able to make 20 liters work. You may be ok with packing for an overnight stay, but it there won’t be enough room to pack for a longer weekend trip.

What fits inside the Thirteen Daybag?

• 1 large pair of headphones

• 1 light sweater

• 1 small book

• 1 1-inch binder

• 1 laptop up to 13-inches inside the padded sleeve

The Thirteen Daybag has a much smaller capacity of 13 liters. The positive? This is the perfect size for smaller people that find most backpacks too large. The negative? It packs even less than the Daily Backpack.

Pockets and Compartments

In the last section we covered what fits inside the main compartment of the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag - now lets focus on the pockets and compartments that provide some extra storage and organization.

Laptop Carry

• Daily Backpack - 15” laptop sleeve

• Thirteen Daybag - 13” laptop sleeve

When it comes to laptop carry both backpacks offer a padded laptop sleeve with a false bottom. A false bottom prevents the laptop sleeve from reaching the bottom of the bag. This is a great feature that avoids a lot of heartache when dropping your backpack on the ground as it creates a barrier between your laptop and a hard surface.

The Daily Backpack features a roomy laptop sleeve that can fit most laptops up to 15-inches while the Thirteen Daybag can only hold a laptop up to 13-inches.

13” Apple Macbook fit in the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag padded laptop sleeve.

One thing we noticed is that a 13-inch Macbook was actually a tight fit inside the Thirteen Daybag laptop sleeve. There isn’t much room between the laptop itself and the upper walls of the backpack so when you slip in a 13-inch laptop you’ll have to fold over the top of the backpack to comfortably get access to the laptop sleeve. Tablets (12” and under) will fit inside the Thirteen Daybag laptop sleeve just fine.

Inside Pockets

The Daily Backpack features a large mesh pocket right in front of the laptop sleeve that is perfect for storing things like chargers, cables and other small items you don’t want floating inside the main compartment.

On the other side of the Daily Backpack you’ll find an addition zip pocket and a narrow slip pocket for glasses.

The Thirteen Daybag removes the large mesh pocket for a document sleeve. We found that this document sleeve can also hold a tablet for those who want to carry both a laptop and tablet at the same time. The option for double laptop/tablet carry is a feature that the Daily Backpack lacks all together.

On the other side of the Thirteen Daybag, Able Carry offers a zippered mesh pocket for small item storage.

And they moved the slip pocket down to the side of the main compartment. This pocket is too small for a water bottle but it’s great for small items like a pair of glasses or power bank.

Side-Access Pocket

A common feature in both the Able Carry Daily Backpack and the Thirteen Daybag is the side zip pocket in the front of each bag. What’s great about these pockets is that they expand outward to create extra room when you need it. 

The main difference between these two pockets is their size. Not only is the Daily Backpack’s front pocket larger, but it also includes a leash with a key clip for easy access to your keys.

Unfortunately, the Thirteen Daybag hides its key leash in the zip pocket inside the main compartment but that’s still better than having none at all!

Water Bottle Carry

Another big difference between the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag is with their water bottle storage. The Thirteen Daybag has a dedicated water bottle or umbrella pocket on the front of the backpack. This pocket is really convenient and we love how it blends into the front of the bag when not in use.

The Daily Backpack does not include a dedicated water bottle pocket. Instead you can store your water bottle inside the side-access pocket. But this pocket is just one large open compartment with no water bottle sleeve so your water bottle will just free-float in there.

The lack of a water bottle pocket in the Daily Backpack is something to keep in mind if you are someone who likes to carry a water bottle and would like a dedicated pocket.

Additional external storage

The Daily Backpack has one last pocket located on the top of the backpack that is perfect for small items like a pair of sunglasses, phone or wallet. 

The Able Carry Thirteen Daybag skips the top pocket for a hidden pocket right behind the back panel. Although this hidden pocket is great for flat items like a passport or airline tickets, anything that isn’t flat will dig into your back. All in all, we don’t know how functional this large hidden pocket is in a commuter or everyday carry situation. 

The last carry feature worth noting are the attachment loops on both the Daily Backpack and Thirteen Daybag.

Able Carry designed the Daily Backpack with an “A-Frame” anti-sagging straps that double as attachment loops. This A-Frame design is awesome as it allows you to attach carabiners or a bike lock to the outside of the bag.

The Thirteen Daybag does not have an A-Frame but Able Carry cleverly hides a row of small attachment loops on the bottom of the bag. This allows you to have attachment loops when you need them while staying hidden when not in use.

Fit and Comfort Features

When it comes to comfort both backpacks are really comfortable to wear but they are built with differently sized people in mind.

• Daily Backpack: Better for people with wider shoulders and a larger frame.

• Thirteen Daypack: Better for smaller people with narrow shoulders, curved “chest-friendly straps” allow for more comfortable shoulder strap fit in women.

When it comes to comfort the Daily Backpack features a ventilated air-mesh back panel and generously padded shoulder straps. The back panel feels stiff thanks to its foam frame sheet which helps give the bag more structure.

The Thirteen Daybag doesn’t have a frame sheet or air-mesh padding and instead features a quilted padded back panel. But because the Thirteen Daybag is so small you don’t really need a lot of bells and whistles to make this backpack comfortable. 

A lot of the Thriteen Daybag’s comfort really comes from the shoulder straps. If you compare the shoulder straps you’ll see that the Thirteen Daybag has what Able Carry calls “chest-friendly straps.” These shoulder straps are curved to better fit a woman’s body. They are also designed for people with narrow shoulders so all of that adds up to a really comfortable fit if you are on the smaller side.

If you have broader shoulders or a larger frame you are going to want to go with the Daily Backpack because the Thirteen Daybag might be too small of a fit.

One last feature that the Daily backpack includes is a sternum strap. The Thirteen Daybag does not include a sternum strap.

What’s great about this sternum strap is that if you don’t want to use them, Able Carry integrates little pockets on the shoulder straps so you can tuck them away. This avoids annoying dangling straps when they are not in use.

Materials

Cordura Nylon vs XPAC

The Daily Backpack is available in both Cordura Nylon fabric or XPAC depending on the color you choose. The Thirteen Daybag on the other hand is only available in XPAC fabric.

Both fabrics have excellent water resistance, are super tough and are considered best in class when it comes to backpack fabrics but there are some key differences:

Cordura Nylon:

• Heavier weight

• Strong and abrasion resistant

XPAC Fabric:

• Lighter weight

• Great tear resistance

• Signature “X” pattern on the fabric

• Feels more “plastic like” and crunches when you handle it

Both Cordura and XPAC fabrics are really durable and water resistant so it really comes down to personal preference when choosing between the two.

Which Able Carry backpack is right for you?

Choose the Able Carry Daily Backpack if… you need room for a 15” laptop and carry a bit more than just the essentials. 20 liters is a great size for an everyday backpack and will be more than enough storage for most commuters. The Daily Backpack has a unisex fit but is better suited for taller people with wider shoulder when compared to the Thirteen Daybag.

Choose the Able Carry Thirteen Daybag if… you need a reliable everyday backpack for just your essentials. The Thirteen Daybag is great for smaller people with shorter torsos and slim shoulders. The contoured “chest friendly straps” and small size is perfect for women who usually find regular sized unisex backpacks too large.

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Everlane ReNew Transit Backpack Review - Hands-On with Everlane's Best Travel Backpack Yet

When it comes to modern essentials, few brands do it as well as Everlane.

The Everlane Renew Transit backpack is a unisex bag specifically designed for travel and you can see the travel elements in the number of easy-access zip pockets, roomy main compartment and the welcomed addition of a luggage trolley sleeve.

In this Everlane backpack review we are going to dive deep into every nook and cranny and explore each feature in-depth so that you can decide if the Everlane ReNew Transit is right for you.

The Everlane ReNew Transit backpack in Warm Quartz (left) and Dark Gray (right)

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 27L

• Dimensions: 17.5” H x 12” L x 7.25” D 

• Materials: 100% Recycled Polyester, Recycled Polyester Lining, Metal Hardware

• Padded 15” laptop compartment

• External and internal water bottle pockets

• Internal document sleeves

Video Review

Materials and Construction

Everlane made a special effort to offer a backpack made out of environmentally conscious materials. The ReNew Transit is made out of 100% recycled polyester with recycled polyester lining. The outside material is also coated with a CO water resistant finish to protect the backpack from rain and moisture.

Everlane doesn’t state what weight polyester they use - but if we had to guess we would say it’s around 500 denier. The fabric feels lightweight yet tough enough to handle daily abuse.

Both the zipper pulls and shoulder strap buckles are made out of metal, although Everlane doesn’t disclose what kind of metal it is. It feels like a lightweight aluminum. 

Everlane did a great job with the shoulder strap buckles. They feel like great quality and will hold up better than the usual plastic buckles that are used in most backpacks. The branding on the metal is also a nice touch.

When it comes to water resistance, the ReNew Transit backpack does a great job of repelling water away from the zippers and internal compartments. This is thanks to it’s CO water repellent finish that allows water to form beads and roll off the fabric.

The overall design of the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack also helps with water repellency as the top lid covers the main compartment entry and each front pocket is designed with a lip over the zippers. It’s small details like these that go a long way for protecting your stuff from getting soaked during a rainfall.

Pockets and Compartments

Let’s start with the pockets and compartments on the outside of the ReNew Transit.

On the front of the backpack you will find two zip pockets. The first is on the bottom front of the backpack and the second is located on the lid. Both pockets are about the same size and can fit bulkier items such as a large pair of headphones and a laptop power brick charger.

The pockets themselves are large open pockets with no further organizers or smaller pockets for things like pens, a phone or passport. This could be a deal-breaker for those of you who need smaller pockets to keep organized.

On the one side of the backpack you will find a water bottle pocket. 

Our one gripe with the side water bottle pocket is that it has no give. This means when the main compartment is full, this water bottle pocket becomes tight and you are going to have a hard time inserting a water bottle inside the pocket. It also means that larger water bottles simply won’t fit.

In the future Everlane should consider adding some elastic banding to help the water bottle pocket stretch as needed.

On the opposite side of the bag is where you will find the vertical laptop compartment zipper. The laptop pocket is said to hold a laptop up to 15-inches. Our 13” Macbook fit just fine with plenty of room to spare.

The laptop pocket entry measures 15-inches and the pocket depth is 12-inches. Slim 15” laptops will have no problem fitting into this laptop compartment but we are weary about bulkier 15” laptops or laptops over 15-inches.

Laptop sleeve dimensions

Now let’s talk about laptop protection.

The laptop compartment on the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is padded on all sides but it’s lacking a false bottom. This means that the laptop pocket reaches all the way down to the bottom of the bag. 

This could be a problem if you drop the bottom of the backpack on a hard surface as the laptop compartment itself has limited padding to protect from that kind of impact.

A false bottom is a small design feature that many backpack companies ignore but it’s still nice feature to have for the extra protection of your expensive tech.

To gain access to the main compartment you will have to open up the lid which is secured with a magnet. This is a nice feature since you don’t have to fiddle with buckles or straps before you can get into the main compartment.

The inside of the backpack features an incredibly roomy 27-liter main compartment. Inside you will find two slip pockets that are made of the same material as the lining. These slip pockets are pretty thin… but they were designed to hold document papers and magazines and they work well for their intended purpose. Unless we stored documents specifically, we did not find ourselves using these slip pockets all that much.

At the bottom of the main compartment is where you will find a second water bottle pocket. This internal pocket is good for storing a water bottle or umbrella and gives you the option of carrying your water bottle on the inside or outside of the backpack.

Overall, the pocket placement is great and access to every compartment is easy. Our main complaint is the lack of smaller pockets or organizers for little things like a phone, passport or pens. What ends up happening is that all of your smaller items (charging cables, pens, cosmetics, etc) will just float around in one of the two outside zip pockets.

The Everlane ReNew Transit lacks small pockets and organizers.

Another common carry feature that Everlane left out is a key clip. Again, you are going to have to rely on the front pockets to store your keys.  This is something else you should keep in mind if you are used to having that kind of organization in your current bag.

Capacity and Design

The Everlane ReNew Transit’s carrying capacity is 27 liters which makes it a versatile backpack that can be used for school, work, travel or the gym.

For college students or professionals, the main compartment is large enough to fit multiple binders and large textbooks with room to spare on top.

What fits inside the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack: College books and binders

The Everlane ReNew Transit also makes a great work to gym backpack as you can comfortably fit a pair of shoes and change of clothes along with some daily essentials inside the main compartment.

What fits inside the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack: Work and gym items

As a travel backpack we found that the main compartment can fit both a large and small packing cube just fine. This equates to a few days worth of clothing.

What fits inside the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack: 1 large + 1 small packing cube

The back of the backpack features a black polyester strip that functions as a trolley sleeve for attaching to rolling luggage. This is a must-have feature for a travel backpack and we are glad Everlane included it.

For frequent flyers, it’s also worth noting that the measurements of the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack fit right under many airline personal item bag size requirements, making it a great backpack to take with you on flights in addition to your carry-on.

Fit and Comfort

When it comes to fit and comfort, the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack is a nice in-between size for most people. It was designed as a unisex backpack and that is reflected in its size. It won’t be too large for most women, but it’s not so tiny that it will look ridiculous on larger people.

The width between the shoulder straps come to 2-3/4 inches which is consistent with most women’s backpacks. This is important to note because if you have very broad shoulders we are not sure how comfortable these shoulder straps are going to be for you since most men’s backpacks have a gap of 3+ inches between the shoulder straps to accommodate a broader frame.

The shoulder straps do have this nice ergonomic curve to them which does add positively to the overall comfort when you wear the backpack. Adjusting the shoulder straps is incredibly easy using the metal buckles.

The shoulder straps themselves are pretty simple and don’t have too much padding, which can spell trouble for anyone looking to use the Everlane ReNew Transit for long hauls where they will be wearing the backpack fully loaded for hours at a time. In those situations, these shoulder straps are not made for that kind of wear and you might be better suited going with a travel backpack specifically designed for long hauls.

As a backpack for casual wear I would say that the Everlane ReNew Transit is a comfortable wear especially when used for commutes or for light traveling.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day we really do enjoy the Everlane ReNew Transit backpack. The design is versatile enough to be used as a commuter, gym or travel backpack. The 27 liter capacity is the perfect size for a small travel backpack and there is plenty of room for shoes, multiple days worth of clothes and even large books and binders. 

It’s modern design gives it a sophisticated touch that really sets Everlane apart from other backpack brands. Everlane really nails this minimalist backpack style and we are excited to see what else they will offer in the future.

Where to Buy: Everlane

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Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry Review - Minimalist Backpack for Work and Play

Topologie has a lot to offer in the world of work backpacks. Their leading example is the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry, a unisex backpack that takes its inspiration from classic trekking bags and business satchels. The end result is a modern backpack with much to offer in terms of pocket placement and weather resistance. 

We recently did a hands-on review of the Topologie Haul backpack - a water resistant backpack tote with a generous 22 liter compartment. The Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry takes a different route by streamlining the outside for a more minimalist design and a smaller carrying capacity of 15 liters. What we get is a modern work backpack that has everything you need for a full day of carry in a sophisticated profile. 

In this Topologie review we are going to get hands-on with the Satchel and explore it’s waterproofness, carry capacity and comfort.

Features at a glance:

• Capacity: 15L

• Dimensions: 16.5 x 10.8 x 4.7 inches

• Materials: Polyurethane-coated 600D Polyester, Polyurethane-coated poly-canvas, PU

• Padded sleeve for laptop up to 15”

• Internal water bottle pocket

• Hidden back pocket (for phone/passport/wallet)

Video Review

Materials and Construction

The Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry is made out of a combination of water resistant and waterproof materials. The body itself is made out of polyurethane-coated 600D Polyester and poly-canvas. Although these materials are not completely waterproof they are water resistant thanks to their polyurethane coating. This means water will form beads on contact and roll off the fabric before it gets the chance to soak in.

The top lid is made out of waterproof PU. It’s a thick material with a rubbery texture. This design allows the backpack to be protected in rain and snow as moisture hits the top of the backpack when worn.

You can also see this waterproof PU used in the front backpack detail and shoulder straps. The PU on the shoulder straps acts as a waterproof barrier to prevent the shoulder strap padding from getting too soaked and uncomfortable if you were ever to be caught in the rain.

On the back of the backpack is where you will find a hidden zipper pocket. Topologie was thoughtful enough to add a water resistant zipper to this pocket.

If you look closely you can see that the zipper itself is covered by PU “lips” that prevent water from soaking through the zipper on contact. It’s important to note that this zipper is not waterproof, but the PU does prevent water from soaking into the zipper on contact.

Pockets and Compartments

As mentioned above, the only exterior pocket is a hidden back pocket that is large enough for items like a phone or passport. Other then this pocket Topologie has opted to contain all other pockets and compartments on the inside of the bag.

To gain access to the main compartment you will have to undo the front metal utility hook. Underneath the lid you’ll find two magnetic closures that help keep the lid in place. 

Inside is where you will find a plastic key clip, 15” laptop sleeve, separate document sleeve and three smaller slip pockets for organizing personal items. 

What is lacking are the usual specific organization pockets for small items like pens and business cards. But the included smaller slip pockets can be used for these items without issue.

The document sleeve is a welcomed addition. Since the laptop sleeve and document sleeve rest against the back panel it does a good job at keeping your business papers safe and prevents them from being damaged when carrying. This is the “work satchel” part of the backpack that works quite well.

The last pocket on the inside of the main compartment is a water bottle pocket located on the one side. This gives a water bottle or umbrella it’s own spot so it’s not just floating around inside the backpack.

The one con we found is with the laptop sleeve itself. Anyone who is rougher with their backpacks and are worried about laptop protection may be disappointed by the lack of padding on the laptop sleeve. 

Carry Capacity

What fits inside the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry?

The backpack has an internal carrying capacity of 15 liters which is a great size for a commuter or work backpack where you just need to carry daily essentials like a laptop, tablet, business papers and a few personal items.

To give you an idea of what fits inside, you can carry:

• Laptop

• Tablet

• Water Bottle

• Sweater

• Room to spare for additional small items such as large headphones

You could also fit two 1-inch binders and a large textbook with room to spare for your laptop and smaller items inside the slip pockets. 

As you can tell the 15 liter capacity isn’t enough for the Satchel to be used as a travel backpack but it’s great for urban commuting and to carry a few daily essentials. 

Fit and Comfort

One design element we appreciate about the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry is that it is unisex and can be worn by just about anyone. This is mostly due to its small/medium size and shoulder strap placement.

The backpack measures in at 16.5” (L) x 10.8” (W) x 4.7” (D) and the shoulder straps are a little over 4 inches apart. This shoulder strap placement is a nice middle ground for people with both broad and narrow shoulders.

The shoulder straps are adjustable using metal buckles. Much like a belt, you can adjust the length of the shoulder straps via the punched hole placements on the shoulder straps. This allows the shoulder straps to stay in place once adjusted but they don’t provide the same fine tuning you would normally get from a plastic adjuster seen in most other backpacks. 

The shoulder straps are also padded. It’s not very thick padding but the bag itself can only hold 15 liters worth of stuff. So even when the backpack is full it never really gets that heavy.

The back panel padding is also on the thinner side but it’s padded enough to still be comfortable. Part of that reason is how the inside compartments are designed. The back panel shares the same padding as the laptop sleeve. So you have your laptop or documents resting against your back. This design prevents objects from poking into your back when wearing the Satchel and helps give it an attractive flat profile.

Overall the backpack is very comfortable when worn. The shoulder straps and back panel are padded enough to provide a comfortable experience when the backpack is fully loaded with heavier items like books and a laptop. 

For a commuter or work backpack this is all you really need in terms of comfort features. Because of its size it would have been overkill to add more straps or padding since 15 liters is already a modest carrying capacity.

Final Thoughts

Overall the Topologie Satchel Backpack Dry provides a good and comfortable carry experience and we do recommend it if you are on the hunt for a slim, modern and minimalist backpack for work, weekends or commuting. 

Its waterproof and water resistant materials makes it a great choice for daily commuters who want the added waterproof protection during sudden rain showers. The satchel-inspired design also ensures it won’t look out of place in an office or more professional settings. 

Where to buy: Topologie

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Showers Pass Utility Waterproof Backpack Review

Showers Pass is a brand based out of Portland, Oregon that makes technical apparel and accessories for cyclists and people who love the outdoors.

The Showers Pass Utility Backpack is a fully waterproof backpack that was made with cyclists in mind but we wanted to explore if this backpack also makes a good daily carry backpack and see how functional it is for people who aren’t cycling enthusiast but still want a 100% waterproof backpack for college, work or city commuting.

Most waterproof backpacks available today are either rolltop backpacks or bucket-style dry bags with very little storage options. What really sets the Showers Pass Utility Backpack apart from other waterproof bags are the variety of pockets and compartments for everyday items like a laptop, keys and a phone.

Utility backpack Specs

• Capacity: 26.8L

• Weight: 3.4lbs

• Made of 840-denier Ballistic Nylon

• Waterproof welded construction

• Waterproof zippers

• Anodized aluminum hardware

• 3M reflective trim & option to attach included LED lights

• Laptop pocket (15”) and tablet pocket (10”) in main compartment

Video Review

Pockets and Compartments

Let’s dive deep and explore what the Utility backpack has to offer in terms of carry.

Starting with the front of the backpack you have two pockets. The first is a small vertical zipper that gives you access to a fleece lined media pocket. This media pocket is fully waterproof and the perfect size for a phone or a wallet. 

The second pocket on the front of the bag is a larger quick stash compartment. It’s expandable using side zippers and can open large enough to fit a bike helmet.

Unlike the smaller media pocket this quick stash pocket is not fully sealed and waterproof. There are points of contact where water could sneak it. This is something to keep in mind when decided what to store here.

But Showers Pass does address this by providing mesh drainage on the bottom of the stash pocket so that water doesn’t get trapped inside. You’ll see the same mesh drainage points on the side pockets as well. 

The Showers Pass Utility backpack also includes two side pockets that are large enough to fit a water bottle or bike u-lock.

Moving on to the back of the bag you have a hip belt with additional pockets for easy access to small items. One of the hip belt pockets even includes a small key hook. It’s worth mentioning that the zippers on the hip belt pockets are not waterproof and water can get inside these pockets quite easily. 

One clever feature is that the hip belt is fully removable. This allows you to use it as a standalone hip pack for carry of small essentials.

The last pocket on the outside of the backpack is a flat waterproof pocket found on the top of the bag.The pocket was designed for holding a hydration bladder and includes an aluminum clip for hanging. 

Inside the Main Compartment

Now let’s dive into the carry features inside the main compartment.

The main compartment can be accessed through a fully waterproof zipper and inside is where you’ll find your laptop and tablet pockets. These pockets are fully padded and fleece lined on one side. 

The laptop pocket can hold a laptop up to 15 inches while the second pocket can support a tablet up to 10 inches. Showers Pass does a great job at designing a false bottom to protect the laptop from bumps and drops. The Utility backpack also has plenty of room between the laptop and tablet sleeves and the walls of the backpack for extra protection.

The only con for some people will be the size of the laptop compartment. 15 inches is perfect for a Macbook Pro and slimmer laptops but anyone with a bigger laptop might not have enough room. If you do have a bigger laptop then Showers Pass does offer a similar waterproof bag called the Showers Pass Transit that has a laptop sleeve big enough for 17 inch laptops.

On the other side of the main compartment you have an aluminum clip for keys and a zippered media pocket that is fleece lined on one side. This media pocket is great for any small valuables you don’t want getting lost inside the main compartment.

Below the media pocket are two elastic slip pockets that are large enough to fit water bottles but can be used for just about anything like external hard drives or a laptop charger. The main compartment is large enough to fit a couple of 1-inch binders and a few notebooks and still have plenty of room to add something like a light jacket or pair of shoes on top.

At 26 liters the Utility backpack is just the right size for a daily carry backpack. If Showers Pass went any larger they would run the risk of the bag becoming too bulky and heavy. This capacity should work for most people who just need a mid-sized commuter backpack for their books, clothes and tech.

LED Lights & Safety Features

A neat feature of the Utility Backpack is the option to attach LED lights. Showers Pass includes a pack of their LED Beacon Lights with every backpack purchase which you can attach to the front and side of the bag. Everything is included so you can start using the lights right away.

This is a great feature not only for cyclists but for anyone who commutes at night and just wants the added safety feature. Along with the lights the Utility backpack includes plenty of 3M Reflective trim for additional visibility at night.

Waterproof Test

Showers Pass claims that the Utility backpack is fully waterproof and we wanted to test to see if this was true. For our waterproof test we sprayed the backpack with a water hose for about 10 minutes and made sure to soak every side of the back (including the back panel.)

A laptop was stored inside the main compartment and a pair of bluetooth headphones was stashed inside the front media pocket for this test. Both items were completely dry by the end of the waterproof test (thankfully) with no signs of dampness or water leakage inside the main compartment or front media pocket.

As expected the large front stash pocket and side pockets were not waterproof but the mesh drainage did a great job at preventing the inside of those pockets from being flooded.

The backpack dried within 10-15 minutes but the backpack shoulder straps and back panel took much longer to dry. Although they are made out of a quick-drying 3-D mesh they did take about 3 hours to dry completely inside at room-temperature.

Is the Showers Pass Utility Backpack really waterproof?

Yes and if it can survive a downpour with a garden hose then we are confident that it should have no problem during a rainy day commute.

Comfort Features

Now let’s discuss backpack comfort features. The back panel is made out of 3-D mesh and Showers Pass does provide enough padding, especially around the lumbar area. The same 3-D mesh is also used on the shoulder straps for padding.

The shoulder straps are very thick and sturdy. They measure in at 3.25 inches and do a good job at distributing weight evenly. Comfort-wise this backpack is customizable enough where it can fit a variety of body types. The shoulder straps are adjustable and the bag also includes load adjusters on the top.

The only concern is for people with smaller frames and shoulders. Keep in mind that the shoulder straps on the Showers Pass Utility are a little under 4 inches apart. This is important for anyone considering purchasing this backpack who has narrow shoulders or a small frame. Although the backpack is fully adjustable the shoulder strap width is fixed.

Sternum Strap and Hip Belt

The sternum strap has an elastic band that conforms to your body easily. The sternum strap is also fully adjustable vertically and removable.

The hip belt is also fully adjustable to fit your hips and can be removed completely if needed.

The removable hip belt and sternum strap are something Showers Pass does really well. It allows you to customize the backpack so you can wear it how you like it without dangling straps or extra pieces getting in the way.

Once you have adjusted the backpack to fit your body the Utility pack is actually really comfortable when fully loaded. The padded back feels comfortable and the wide shoulder straps, sternum strap and hip belt help distribute the weight evenly.

Where to buy

Final Thoughts

This concludes our Showers Pass Utility Backpack review. Hopefully this gave you some insight into this waterproof backpack with all of its storage options.

We think it’s one of the better fully waterproof daily carry backpacks out there and definitely worth checking out if you are curious about a waterproof backpack for college, work or commuting.

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Topologie Haul Backpack Review - A Modern Backpack Tote

Topologie is an interesting brand. 

Inspired by rock climbing gear, Topologie’s designs are modern yet feature enough outdoor elements to make the bags unique in both form and function. You can see the rock climbing inspiration in small design details like the use of climbing cord as zipper pulls and outdoor inspired grab handles and trim while focusing on an overall clean aesthetic that rivals those of more popular minimalist bag makers. 

This backpack review will focus on the Topologie Haul backpack - a unisex convertible backpack tote that blends climbing haul bag elements with a clean urban carry design. Let’s take a closer look and explore the Topologie Haul’s finer details.

Topologie Bags Haul Backpack (Navy) Buy on Amazon

Features at a glance

• Capacity: 22L

• Dimensions: 17.3” (H) x 12.99” (L) x 5.9” (W) 

• Materials: Water repellent washed Nylon Taslon with PU coating, Polyester Pongee lining and splashproof zippers

• Padded sleeve for laptop up to 15”

• Internal water bottle pocket

• Available in Navy, Black and Green colors

Pockets and Carry

Let’s start with a quick review of the Haul backpack’s pockets and carry features.

The Topologie Haul has a generous carrying capacity of 22 liters thanks to its large main compartment and smaller pockets sprinkled throughout the design. 

What fits inside?

The main compartment measures 16.5” inches in height and is large enough to carry multiple large textbooks and binders. It’s also large enough to use as an overnight or gym bag by comfortably accommodating 1 change of clothing and a pair of shoes.

Inside the main compartment is where you’ll find the laptop sleeve that can comfortably fit a laptop or tablet up to 15-inches.

Inside the Topologie Haul - laptop sleeve

As an everyday carry backpack for work, school or commuting the laptop sleeve will be perfect for most people who just need to separate their laptop from the rest of the contents inside the bag.

What the Topologie Haul laptop sleeve is lacking however is thick padding and a false bottom. A false bottom creates a gap underneath the laptop sleeve to prevent the laptop from hitting the ground if it were to ever be dropped. The lack of a false bottom is worth considering if you are rough with your backpacks and are concerned about extra laptop protection.

Inside the Topologie Haul - internal water bottle pocket

Besides the laptop sleeve, the only other pocket inside the main compartment is a water bottle pocket/umbrella pocket. What’s interesting about this pocket is that it can be easily accessed through a side zipper. This side zipper goes straight into the main compartment to allow you to access the water bottle pocket or things at the bottom of the bag without having to open up the main compartment zipper from the top. It’s a smart design feature that Topologie does really well.

Topologie Haul backpack - side zipper access to main compartment

On the outside of the bag you have two zipper pockets. The first zipper pocket can be found on the front of the Haul backpack. 

The front pocket is a large open pocket with no organizers inside. An idea for improvement would be for Topologie to add some organizers to this pocket for extra small items like pens, charging cables, lip balm and other personal effects.

The second zippered pocket can be found on the back of the backpack underneath the shoulder straps. This allows for safe storage of smaller items like a phone, passport or wallet.

When it comes to pockets and organizers the Topologie Haul backpack offers great options for secure carry of small and large items alike. Our only complaint is the positioning of the water bottle pocket. The way it’s currently positioned results in awkward carry of large books and binders. This could be prevented by moving the pocket to the other side of the main compartment. 

Water bottle pocket placement makes it difficult to store larger items like books

What we really like about the Topologie Haul is it’s overall simplicity. The Haul will not overwhelm you with an array of hidden pockets and compartments that would make the bag feel over-engineered when used. Simplicity is a theme that runs throughout the Haul’s design and pocket placement - which translates into an intuitive everyday backpack that feels as practical as it is stylish. 

Comfort Rundown

One of the Topologie Haul’s best feature is it’s ability to be converted from a backpack to a single hand tote bag. This is possible thanks to two nylon clips that allows you to stow away the shoulder straps behind the back panel. 

Easy conversion from backpack to tote bag

When it comes to comfort - the back panel and shoulder straps are decently padded with the shoulder straps measuring in at a little over 2 inches in width. The Haul’s comfort is due in part to the backpack’s wide tubular body that does a great job at distributing weight on your back and shoulders. The Topologie Haul is also incredibly light which adds positively to the overall comfort and carry experience.

Although the Topologie Haul is a unisex backpack it seems better suited for people with smaller frames and shoulders. The gap between the shoulder straps is about 3 inches apart which is great for anyone with smaller frames but can be a bit uncomfortable for people with broader shoulders. If you are most comfortable wearing men’s backpacks that feature wider shoulder strap than you might want to reconsider if the Topologie Haul can offer a comfortable fit.

Materials and Construction

According to Topologie’s official specifications the Haul built from:

• Body: Washed Nylon Taslon with splashproof PU coating

• Lining: Polyester Pongee fabric

• Zipper: Splashproof zippers

• Hardware: Duraflex nylon buckles (shoulder strap clips)

All of the materials are incredibly lightweight which add to the backpack’s comfort as touched on before. Like most lightweight backpacks, the Haul itself is not structured (outside of the foam back panel) giving it a casual look that we associate with many nylon bags. 

Splashproof Materials and Zippers

One feature Topologie emphasizes is that the Haul is “splashproof.” Let’s see if we can shed more light on that.

The Topologie Haul features “splashproof” PU coating on the outside materials which makes it water repellent. Essentially, you can pour water on the backpack and it would form beads and run off before it got a chance to soak into the bag.

The zippers are also advertised as “splashproof” which deserves some clarity. The zippers used on the Haul include these small rubber lips that cover the actual zipper teeth underneath and gives water a chance to roll off before getting a chance at soaking through. 

It’s important to note that these zippers are not waterproof but water resistant. They do a much better job at preventing water from getting into the backpack than your average zippers but water can still get in if these zippers become soaked. 

How does this translate to real life? Well, you can wear the Topologie Haul during a light rain or snow but it may not stay dry if you were ever to get stuck in a heavy downpour. 

This backpack isn’t for your if you are specifically looking for a waterproof backpack for college or work but it does a better job than most at protecting you from light rains and splashes. For most people a water repellent backpack will be enough protection for daily carry.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to overall design and function the Topologie Haul is an impressive daily carry backpack tote with lots to offer. Its urban design is sleek enough to wear to the office yet roomy enough to use as a school, travel or gym backpack. Its versatility is actually one of its biggest selling points.

The only cons we could find was a lack of organizers for smaller items and the placement of the water bottle pocket inside the main compartment. But these things can be overlooked thanks to the Haul’s intuitive pocket design and clever features like side access to the main compartment and hidden pocket beneath the shoulder straps.

Not many brands can manage to incorporate rock climbing aesthetics into a minimalist bag and the results so far have been impressive. The Haul backpack is unique yet unmistakingly modern and we are excited to see what else Topologie has to offer in the world of carry.

Where to buy: Topologie | Amazon

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Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack Review - Tech Backpack Meets Suitcase

Travel-tech weekender backpacks have become popular in recent years thanks to the increasing number of tech and accessories that help us survive our daily grind. With a main compartment that opens like a suitcase - bags like the Shieldon Travel Carry-On allow us to leave the laptop backpack and duffel bags at home for a more streamlined solution.

This is where Shieldon scores a home run - offering an affordable travel backpack with enough storage for things like a laptop, tablet, and tech accessories.

The backpack’s 23 liter main compartment is large enough for overnight stays while it’s expandable feature allows you to use the backpack for multi-day getaways at an impressive 38 liters. Shieldon does a great job at allowing you to customize the size and capacity to allow you to use the backpack exactly how you need it.

Fully cinched 23L vs 38L expanded capacity

When it comes to its design the Shieldon Travel Carry-on Backpack reminds us a lot of the Incase EO Travel Backpack. But at half the price we believe this Shieldon bag is a worthy competitor if you are looking for travel gear on a budget.

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SHIELDON

Buy on Amazon

Features at a glance

• MSRP: $64.99

• Expandable capacity: 23L-38L

• 17-inch laptop compartment with tablet pocket

• Separate compartment for personal items like water bottles and tech accessories.

• Carry-on friendly size

• Made of polyester with water repellent PVC coating

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Travel Features

Inside the Shieldon Travel Carry-On

Inside is where you’ll find travel must-haves like a mesh divider and pockets for toiletries and smaller items. At 23 liters the bag is roomy enough to hold an overnight’s stay worth of clothing but when expanded it can hold 2-3 days worth of clothing (or longer if you are a light packer.)

Plastic spill-proof toiletries pocket

Shieldon’s toiletries pocket is actually an impressive feature that not a lot of backpacks include.  Instead of mesh, the brand uses a clear heavy plastic to safeguard liquids from spilling into the rest of the main compartment.

Hidden anti-theft back pocket

Tech Carry

Shieldon offers a few spots for tech storage including a laptop compartment with separate zip access. The laptop compartment doesn’t open flat for TSA-friendly access at airports, but it does a great job at giving you quick access to your laptop without disturbing the items in the main compartment.

The laptop compartment includes a built-in padded sleeve for laptops up to 17-inches and a separate tablet sleeve. The tablet sleeve is roomy and can fit a 11-inch iPad Pro. 

Shieldon laptop compartment

The front of the backpack features a full-length compartment equipped with organizers and pockets for things like pens, water bottles and smaller accessories. It’s a great place to store tech accessories like external HDDs, charging cables and still have room for bulkier items like a full sized desktop keyboard.

Shieldon front organizer pocket

Comfort and Materials

The Shieldon offers a padded mesh back and shoulder straps with an additional adjustable sternum strap to offload some of the weight when fully loaded. 

Shieldon shoulder straps and adjustable sternum strap

As far as comfort goes - the backpack’s mesh padding does a good job at offering comfortable carry but you can definitely feel the difference between the cheaper Shieldon backpack and the more expensive Incase EO Travel Backpack or the Aer Travel Pack 2. The back panel on the Shieldon Travel Carry-On backpack feels thinner and not as stiff.

A closer look at the padded back

What the backpack lacks is the inclusion of premium materials in it’s build. Don’t expect materials like ballistic nylon or TPU coating. Instead the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack is made of polyester with a PVC water resistant coating on the front panel. But this is expected with budget travel backpacks in the $50-100 range where premium materials are too expensive to include.

With that said the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack is still scratch resistant and durable enough to survive busy traveling. We also like the water resistant front panel that allows for surviving sudden showers or snow. 

Shieldon hollow zippers allow for travel locks.

All of the zippers are smooth with no snagging and the metal zipper pulls also add a touch of durability. One great design feature that Shieldon does right is including hollow zipper pulls that allow you to lock any of the compartments with a luggage lock. It’s a not-so-obvious security feature that is worth pointing out. 

Final Thoughts

Is the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack worth it? The simple answer is yes.

At the time of this review you can pick up the Shieldon Travel Carry-On Backpack for $64.99 which is a great price if you are looking for a weekender backpack with tech-carry options. Many similar weekenders can retail for twice the price.

When it comes to looks - Shieldon does a great job at offering a minimalist and streamlined design that is stylish enough for casual or work travel alike. Many budget backpacks either sacrifice robust design for cheaper prices but we think Shieldon does a good job at balancing both. 

Where to Buy: Amazon | Shieldon

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