ACRONYM Bag & Backpack Reviews - Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry https://www.carryology.com/brand/acronym-2/ Exploring better ways to carry bags, wallets & more. Mon, 15 Aug 2022 13:06:31 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.1.1 My Techwear Packing List https://www.carryology.com/travel/my-techwear-packing-list/ https://www.carryology.com/travel/my-techwear-packing-list/#comments Thu, 15 Mar 2018 14:37:13 +0000 https://www.carryology.com/?p=38098 If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate fashion/function balance in your packing list, techwear is...

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If you’re on the hunt for the ultimate fashion/function balance in your packing list, techwear is a niche definitely worth exploring. And having somewhere to start is always helpful if you’re new to the scene (or simply looking to unearth great pieces you may not have heard of). So we reached out to Expedition Documentarian Benjamin Pothier, a man who often finds himself in demanding and diverse environments, to share his ace techwear packing list…


As an Expedition Documentarian, a PhD researcher in Anthropology and a recently elected international fellow member of the Explorers Club (NYC), I’ve had experience packing for a wide range of trips. These included venturing to the driest desert on Earth with a group of astronaut candidates, an 18-day journey on a boat in the Arctic Ocean, the Himalayas, and more than a month’s stay at a research station in the high Arctic in between Finland and Norway. But it’s probably the first time I’ve packed for an 800,000-kilometer trip, sort of.

You see, I got the amazing opportunity to be invited by the artist Daniela de Paulis to actually send my photos to the moon and back as radio waves from Dwingeloo Radio Telescope in the north of Amsterdam. Crazy as it sounds, it’s for real.


Check it out: we used a formerly classified technique to beam to the moon and back a radio signal containing my photo of the Mars Curiosity Rover Test Site in the Atacama Desert:

Communication Moon Relay was a military project by the U.S. Navy using the technology ‘Moonbounce’, also called Earth-Moon-Earth. This is a radio communications technique developed shortly after WWII which allows sending radio signals to the Moon and receive them back as reflection. Communication Moon Relay grew out of many ideas and concepts in radio espionage. Some impetus for the project was provided by the post-war efforts to develop methods of tracking radio signals, particularly those originating in Eastern Europe and the Soviet Union.

Communication Moon Relay played an important role in the Cold War and the Space Race.

Source: Daniela De Paulis 

This is the image I selected (on the left) and what it looked like coming back from the moon (on the right).

Techwear packing list


A trip to the Netherlands from France is definitely more urban than outdoorsy, but beyond my quest for adventures in the wild I am also a big fan of what is now called “techwear”, i.e. a streetwear fashion style as much as a daily life application of gear and clothing developed first for extreme environments and the outdoors. If you are familiar with science fiction like Ghost in the Shell, you probably have an idea of what I’m talking about: Super technical black Gore-Tex hardshells, next generation textiles and fabrics, designs influenced by Japanese streetwear, practicality, insanely technical bags, and oh man, many layers! 

Techwear packing list

I therefore took the opportunity to share my more usual packing habits, a light EDC and a selection of my favorite techwear gear, bags and clothing.

This is my quite usual packing for a professional short trip in any European country, for a not too hard winter. Some of my choices were definitely influenced by the techwear scene, some come from my experiences during mountaineering.

If you want to know more about the techwear trend, check the hashtag #Techwear on Instagram. You’ll see some amazing fit pics by some people from the scene that I salute! (@Acrhive @erlsn.acr @blahboahbkah @Bagjack @valdizbro @aokuco , just to name a few…)

What I like mostly for my gear is versatility, high-tech textiles, ruggedness, waterproofing and breathability.

Techwear packing list

The Netherlands can be a bit cold and misty, but colors pop up sometimes unexpectedly…

HARDSHELL & RAINWEAR:

ACRONYM GT-J34

Since 2014 my favorite hardshell is my beloved and much taken care of Acronym jacket, a brand that has been a synonym of techwear since the beginning, and which is sometimes considered the “Porsche of Hardshells”. Beyond the breathability of Gore-Tex that also provides a neat waterproofing that I have tested in Fall in the North of Finland, I like the overall look of the GT-J34 that maintains an amazing balance between a killer techwear Japanese style (even though it’s designed by a Canadian from Chinese-Jamaican origins living in Berlin) and the quiet anonymity of its overall look and cut. Neat for a professional rendezvous or to attend an international conference, and streetwear enough to walk anonymously in Paris or Prague’s subway.

Techwear packing list

CARINTHIA SURVIVAL RAINSUIT

However, as there was a storm alert in France and the Netherlands the week I took my train, I also packed a supplementary Gore-Tex Pro parka. It’s actually a NATO-approved survival rain protection. It’s very rugged (I guess it’s the new version of Gore-Tex Pro) as well as pretty minimalistic (there are no pockets for example). I must admit that the very simple design reminds me of Ghost in the Shell, and on other occasions I have used this one during a training run in the rain for example.

Techwear packing list

A6 RAIN PANTS

For the same reason (storm alert) I also packed this neat pair of Gore-Tex pants from Beyond Clothing, even though most of my pants already have a DWR coating. These pants do the job, i.e protect you from heavy rain. And Gore-Tex breathability is certainly a plus in terms of comfort.

Techwear packing list

BASE LAYER:

A1 AETHER LONG JOHN

Items I definitely didn’t use on a daily basis in urban environments before participating in expeditions are base layers and long johns. I find them particularly handy since I used some extensively in the Himalayas, Arctic and on Ojos Del Salado in Chile. For this trip I wore a Beyond Clothing pair of bottom base layers. It’s the best way for me to still wear a pair of jeans during the cold months in Northern Europe. I have many different pairs of base layers, but I particularly appreciate this one from Beyond Clothing due to its particular texture and fabric. I must say it’s actually as they mention on their website:

a high-performance breathable, moisture wicking baselayer built from Polartec’s® super lightweight Power Grid™ fleece. The next-to-skin grid pattern is made up of air channels that help release excess body heat and perspiration. The smooth exterior of the fabric forces moisture to disperse and evaporate quickly. The grid construction also increases compressibility and reduces garment weight.

It’s incredibly comfortable and allows me to still wear in colder months some of my favorite lightweight pants.

Techwear packing list

Layering was a good idea for that one-hour wait at the railway station in The Hague…

PANTS:

SWRVE DOWNTOWN BLK LABEL

One of my favorite pairs of pants is the swrve Downtown Blk Label.

Techwear packing list

I was wearing them when I met the French Ambassador in Nepal at the Embassy, at my show opening in South Africa, while biking in Paris and recently in the Netherlands with a pair of long johns underneath. I found this brand while searching for techwear a few years ago and I am more than happy to have discovered it. The versatility is great. The fabric is flexible enough to feel very comfy while biking or even hiking, yet very durable and waterproof with a DWR coating. Definitely a classic for me.

KNIGHT PANTS POUTNIK BY TILAK

I also brought for this trip a pair of Knight Pants from POUTNIK BY TILAK that will soon become another favorite.

Techwear packing list

A little techwear gem coming from the Czech Republic and pretty hard to find in France.

The fabric is lighter and I was definitely wearing long johns underneath, but I’m sure I will enjoy these in the warmer days. The overall cut with articulated knees makes it extremely comfortable on a daily basis. It’s a bit less formal than the swrve Downtown pants, with that clear “techwear” look, but still neat enough for a professional meeting. The plus is definitely the super innovative cut. I think it’s got DWR treatment but I can’t confirm that. And the line was designed in collaboration with Errolson Hugh from Acronym.

TOP:

LT-SA 11 CCP.FM

Meet Japan’s techwear best kept secret.

Techwear packing list

One of the most comfy hoodies I’ve ever owned, that I currently wear in urban environments but that I will probably use extensively during expeditions as well in the coming years. I am more than happy to own this one that is super hard to get in France. You don’t need to go full ninja to understand how comfortable and well thought out this hoodie is. 100% recommendation on any gear from this amazing brand.

MEMBRANE PULLOVER heavyweight layer by ONU.IS

Step into the future with this piece definitely at the border of techwear and fashion tech. 

Techwear packing list

The kind of gear I enjoyed wearing while working at a radio telescope. Talking about innovative textiles, this one is a beast: DWR, Cordura combat wool lining, odor control and super comfy kangaroo pockets. A glimpse at the future of clothing probably. I packed it as an upper layer and deeply enjoyed having it for those rainy days in the Netherlands.

GYAKUSOU BEANIE

As an active runner I particularly enjoy GYAKUSOU, a collaboration between Undercover and Nike. I own various gear from Gyakusou and bought this nice wool beanie recently. My head is usually shaved so a beanie is definitely welcome during winters.

Techwear packing list

FOURTH ELEMENT XEROTHERM LAYER

I’ve used it in the Arctic Circle and came back for more…one of the best top base layers I’ve ever owned. Certified by the FBI diving team and made with a fabric developed for NASA. I’ve enjoyed its comfort on the Arctic Ocean and sleeping at 5300 meters high near the Nepal-Tibet border in the Himalayas, as well as on that cold evening in Den Haag’s subway coming back home after a nice dinner and a few glasses of red wine with some artist friends who collaborate with the European Space Agency.

Techwear packing list

Apart from this, I packed some Merino underwear and wool socks.

A Merino T-shirt from Howies, two other T-shirts and a black wool pullover with no brand, that’s simply comfortable and looks neat.

TRAVELING LIGHT HANGING TOILETRY BAG

I’ve been using this lightweight yet durable toiletry bag since 2015, and find nothing to complain about it. The hanging feature is definitely a plus, be it on a lodge in the Himalayas or in a hotel or Airbnb room.

Techwear packing list

BAGS:

Considering my work as an Expedition Documentarian you can easily imagine that I have quite a collection of bags. A part of my desk is actually filled with Pelican and Nanuk cases filled with microphones and camera gear, and I own a large collection of backpacks as well, including prototypes I tested for different companies during my trips. However, for this particular trip I decided to go quite “low profile”.   

Techwear packing list

LOWEPRO PRO ROLLER X300 AW

Techwear packing list

A versatile camera suitcase that I have traveled with from South Africa to the Arctic Circle, and from Brazil to China.

Apparently not available anymore. I enjoy this model in which I usually fit my clothing, some gear and my tripod while traveling by plane (not carry-on) and in this case on the Paris-Den Haag high speed train. Not much to complain about it, after 5 years or something of intensive use it still looks pretty neat and doesn’t scream “photo equipment”. Thanks to the removable panels I have used it to carry only film-making equipment on many occasions, for example to interview the astronaut candidate Ulyana Horodyskyj at the Cité des Sciences et de l’Industrie in Paris in 2017, meaning that a 4K recording studio including lights, tripod, camera and high-end audio recorder with HF and gunshot mic fit into this little beast. But as I said previously you can definitely remove the panels and use it as a “normal” suitcase for a three-week trip. My only concern would be the lack of omni-directional wheels. The best feature is the three handles on the top, bottom and side, so that the taxi driver puts it nicely in the rear of his car. An overall very good product, but not surprising coming from Lowepro.

Techwear packing list

EASTPAK HUTSON

Yes, a good old Eastpak backpack…can you get that “Back to school” feeling?

I bought it years ago…maybe in 2008 or something. Along the years it became my do-everything bag. In the past I’ve managed to fit inside a Hakama and full Aikido gear plus Aikido sandals, I’ve used it as a grocery bag many times, and even to carry pieces of wood for a sculpture project. I think you’ve got the idea…

Techwear packing list

WOTANCRAFT WATERPROOF SHOCK RESISTANT INSERT

I however use it from time to time as a photography bag in sync with a WOTANCRAFT waterproof and shock-resistant pouch:

Techwear packing list

Once again the idea is to not draw too much attention while still providing protection for my camera. I use other backpacks and camera bags for expeditions or on other occasions, but for this short trip to the Netherlands it was perfect. Definitely not a bag that will draw attention in a Paris subway at 6am, but that’s the idea.

Techwear packing list

I have customized my bag with a BENIPI.COM (my website and portfolio) patch made especially for me by AOKU.

Techwear packing list

BAGJACK SNIPER BAG + HNTR POUCH & PACK

A Next Level bag from Berlin. I must say I loved bagjack gear before I got the amazing opportunity to collaborate with them. The Sniper Bag that was released last year comes with so many features I might forget some…amongst them the integrated/removable soft shell muff is definitely amazing.

Techwear packing list

The MOLLE webbing is also a nice feature, moreover considering that you can decide which side of the bag you want to have facing toward you. Meaning that you can switch from a pretty badass bag with strapped pouches to a low-profile and very classy “man purse”. Regarding the quality, it’s handmade in Berlin with top-quality fabrics, and the people at bagjack are definitely skilled craftsmen and women. Probably the reason why Acronym bags are made by the same company.

TCL HNTR Pouch XS

I use the pouch to carry a Nomad PowerPack that fits perfectly inside it. The same as usual for bagjack, the quality is top-notch and every detail is very well thought out. The people at bagjack bring a 19th century craftsman’s attention to quality and details to a 21st century use of innovative fabric and next level design.

HNTR PACK

Techwear packing list

Techwear packing list

The Sniper Bag in Full Mode with the two pouches attached through the MOLLE system…from a discreet stealth mode bag to a badass do-it-all techwear bag.

FOLDABLE GROCERY BAG MADE WITH RECYCLED PLASTIC

I bought this one in an organic store in The Hague, and now it never leaves my Sniper bag. Perfect for bringing some wine to a party, then coming back with it folded in my Sniper Bag.

Techwear packing list

EDC:

NOMAD POWERPACK

A very well designed power bank that I use with their dedicated cable.

I like the super neat black design and ruggedness and it definitely does the job.

Techwear packing list

NOMAD UNIVERSAL CABLE 1.5 M

This universal cable comes with integrated multi-tip charging options to charge mobile devices. The core cable is USB A to Micro USB. Two attached tips, an MFi approved Lightning tip and a USB Type C tip, let you charge iPhone, Android and other USB powered devices. I must say I now use this cable most of the time with my various USB devices.

FOXFURY Flashlight

One of my favorite flashlights from FoxFury, I don’t think my white model is still available. A neat flashlight made by a company that produces forensic flashlights for the FBI and other agencies. The shape makes it a “nice” tactical flashlight.

DIY SCREWDRIVER 

I made this in 2008 and brought it with me on many occasions, as well as used it while working on my sculptures. I brought it for this specific trip because I wasn’t so sure about the new rules in the Thalys high speed train so I didn’t pack any multi-tools or knives, but still wanted to have a small screwdriver that could also be used as a small pry bar (I actually took the same train as the one featured in the Clint Eastwood movie depicting a failed terror attempt between Bruxelles and Paris. And security has increased since that event).

Techwear packing list

BELLROY ALL CONDITIONS PASSPORT COVER

Apparently it’s not made anymore by Bellroy, but I guess it’s pretty similar to thisI must say that I am very satisfied with this Passport Cover from Bellroy. The mini pen inside is always useful for filling in documents on the plane, the waterproofing is definitely a plus, and it has a classy design and a great feel.

Techwear packing list

OP/TECH RAINSLEEVE

Since my first Arctic trip I always pack an OP/TECH Rainsleeve when I plan to do photography or film-making. My camera deserves a little hardshell as much as I do!

I also packed a light photography setup, consisting of a Nikon D7500 and a Giottos Vitruvian VGRN8265 tripod.

Techwear packing list

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The Best Modular Backpacks https://www.carryology.com/liking/the-best-modular-backpacks/ https://www.carryology.com/liking/the-best-modular-backpacks/#comments Tue, 28 Nov 2017 01:02:59 +0000 https://www.carryology.com/?p=35852 If there’s been a trend in the past few years, it’s been modular design in carry. But...

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If there’s been a trend in the past few years, it’s been modular design in carry. But what exactly does ‘modular’ mean? In essence, a ‘modular’ backpack features a range of smaller parts or modules (such as pouches) that can be used in tandem with the primary bag. The key benefit of a modular backpack is adaptability. Add modules you need and remove ones you don’t, allowing you to tailor different carry setups to different loads and environments.

In addition to the separate modules, modular design also encompasses the means by which those modules (or other gear) are secured onto or inside the bag. Think webbing, magnetic buckles, O-rings, Velcro panels and more. The possibilities are kinda endless.

And when you really get down to it, there’s two variations: external and internal. So we’re going to explore both below, and give props to the brands pushing the envelope and doing it well.


External modularity

The origins of lacing and latching modules to the exterior of a pack stem from the military’s MOLLE and PALS webbing. And nearly every ‘tactical‘ pack you’ll spot will have PALS webbing somewhere, so below we’ve chosen pieces that have done it best, and/or differently, with brands and designers introducing modular design to photography, fashion and everyday use. And those pushing past the criss-crossing of PALS and moving to magnetic connections and fully modular harness systems.

Colfax Design Works SDP_01

The Colfax Design Works SDP_01 is a weatherproof rolltop pack that uses an Advance Modular Cargo System (A.M.C.S.) to adapt to a variety of carry needs.

Colfax Design Works SDP_01

Colfax Design Works SDP_01


Black Ember Citadel Modular Pack

Black Ember’s Citadel Modular Pack provides slick modularity through magnetic hardware that quickly and securely attaches modular accessories (MODs) to the pack. And with a range of modular pouches and straps to choose from, it’s easy to adapt to diverse loads.

Black Ember Citadel Modular Backpack

Black Ember Citadel Modular Backpack


Mission Workshop Arkiv Modular System

One of the first pieces to bring modular design to daily urban carry, Mission Workshop’s Arkiv Modular System offers extensive customization thanks to its use of ‘rails’ to connect your modules to. And from a choice of base packs and colorways to numerous modules and accessories, its versatility in the urban arena is hard to beat. A classic, no doubt.

Mission Workshop Arkiv Modular System


Boreas Bootlegger

The Bootlegger system takes an innovative approach to modularity with its Super-Tramp suspension. The modular suspension allows the user to swap out a range of packs and attach them to the harness, such as a dry bag, camera pack, hydration pack or daypack.

Boreas Bootlegger

Boreas Bootlegger


Triple Aught Design Spectre Carry System

Triple Aught Design’s Spectre system is a well-considered modular system featuring a range of backpacks, carry rigs and accessories to adapt to a variety of urban and outdoor carry needs, like hiking, running and fly fishing. Designed to be lightweight yet durable, the modular components can be used together or individually depending on your requirements and existing carry setup.

Triple Aught Design Spectre System

Triple Aught Design Spectre System


KUIU ULTRA Pack System

The KUIU ULTRA Pack System is primarily designed for hunting but is adaptable to a variety of carry needs and environments. The KUIU Carbon Fiber frame and suspension serves as the system’s foundation and is able to accommodate any KUIU ICON Pro or ULTRA packs. Pouches and additional accessories allow you to further customize carry setups to suit specific settings.

KUIU ULTRA Pack System

KUIU ULTRA Pack System

KUIU ULTRA Pack System


Orbit RECON Spec

Hailing from Indonesia, Orbit Gear make some of the best value modular packs around. Sleek aesthetics and weatherproof builds make this a great modular system for urban and travel environments. The system features two backpacks and a messenger, along with a choice of straps, cubes and pouches that are versatile enough for exterior and interior organization purposes.

Orbit RECON Spec

Orbit-RECON-Spec-3

Orbit-RECON-Spec-11


Hold Fast Sightseer Backpack System

A luxurious and heritage take on modularity, the Hold Fast Sightseer Backpack System features the Sightseer Backpack along with a range of Sightseer Pouches. The waxed canvas and leather backpack includes an integrated slider on the shoulder straps for quick access to a camera on the go. Additionally, the pouches can be secured in a variety of configurations to suit your needs.

Hold Fast Sightseer Backpack System

Hold Fast Sightseer Backpack System

Hold Fast Sightseer Backpack System


Spyder Skid Backpack

Urban styling meets modularity with the Spyder Skid Backpack. Handmade in Berlin in collaboration with Bagjack, this gym bag’s stealth styling is complemented by features such as multiple attachment points, ergonomic rotating buckles, and a removable ‘grid’ for attaching pouches.

Spyder Skid Backpack

Spyder Skid Backpack


estreich/design Honu Pack System

Currently only a concept (but an awesome one!), this system combines a hard frame with a choice of soft modular attachment options to configure carry setups to your specific needs. The Lattix frame can accommodate a range of bags, and the system can double as a mobile workstation with the attachment of a tripod mount.

estreich/design Honu Pack System

estreich/design Honu Pack System

estreich/design Honu Pack System


NAUT Modulor M1+M2

A bold European fashion piece, the NAUT’s modular system utilizes the Modulor platform as the base, to which the 8L M1 and 20L M2 modules can be attached. Use them together for larger loads or separately for smaller loads, with no need to unpack when you just need one or the other.

NAUT Modulor M1+M2

NAUT Modulor M1+M2

NAUT Modulor M1+M2


Acronym 3A-7TS Tec Sys Messenger Backpack

The rugged Acronym 3A-7TS Tec Sys Messenger Backpack (made in collaboration with modular pioneers Bagjack) features a Tec Sys grid for securing pouches and other items externally. Additionally, the main compartment liner, the laptop sleeve, the back pad, the interior pocket, and logo tape can be removed to customize your carry to changing loads.

This, and many of Acronym‘s and Bagjack’s early designs, inspired so many. Notch this down as carry royalty. Oh, and it’s now a unicorn. So good luck tracking one down!

Acronym 3A-7TS Tec Sys Messenger Backpack

Acronym 3A-7TS Tec Sys Messenger Backpack

Acronym 3A-7TS Tec Sys Messenger Backpack

Y-3 Multipocket Backpack

The Y-3 Multipocket Backpack merges clean streetstyle, minimalism, and functional modularity. The bag offers multiple exterior pockets that can be removed and used internally as organization pouches or separately from the pack.

Y-3 Multipocket Backpack

Y-3 Multipocket Backpack

Y-3 Multipocket Backpack


Internal modularity

Internal modularity also originated in the military with medic bags and first responders, folk who needed to carry a lot of gear, in varying formats, and access key items quickly. But now it’s commonplace in travel and everyday carry pack loadouts. In reality, any pack can have internal modularity with just the addition of pouches, but we’ve chosen the below because they’ve taken it a step further, and not only built-in internal attachment points and specialized pouch quivers, but entire modular ‘systems’.

Boundary Prima System

The Prima System includes a choice of three modular components to help you adapt to diverse carry requirements. The Prima Pack, Verge Case and Fieldspace allow the bag to function as a work bag, camera pack, daypack and more, there when you need them and removable when you want to cut carry weight.

Boundary Prima System


Black Ember V4 Modular Adventure Travel Backpacks

Black Ember’s V4 and V4M backpacks offer a variety of modular options for different needs. Both packs feature multiple exterior attachment points to secure additional items, while the V4M also features an interior mag-lock mod-panel that works with a range of modular units for further organization.

V4 Modular Adventure Travel Panel / CONNECTIONS from BLACK EMBER on Vimeo.

Black Ember V4 Modular Adventure Travel Backpack


Arc’teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30

The Arc’teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30 opens out flat for great access throughout the main compartment. And for added functionality it also features Velcro loop panels that allow pouches to be placed according to specific carry needs.

Arc'teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30

arcteryx-assault-30---best-modular-backpacks-2

arcteryx-assault---best-modular-backpack


Triple Aught Design Meridian Transport Case

Available in 25L and 40L sizes, the Meridian Transport Case offers three compartments and an integrated Helix attachment system to organize and secure gear internally. And with multiple carry options, you can further tailor the case to specific settings.

Triple Aught Design Meridian Transport Case


Triple Aught Design Meridian Transport Case


Tom Bihn Brain Bag

Not only does the Brain Bag offer a variety of pockets for organizing your gear, but also a range of attachment points to secure additional items. Whether you’re attaching personal gear or using Tom Bihn accessories such as Caches or a Freudian Slip, you can alter your carry setup for diverse work, EDC and travel needs.

Tom Bihn Brain Bag 1



Tom Bihn Brain Bag


Slicks

Want to keep your clothing wrinkle-free and your gear tidy whether you’re commuting or catching a plane? Slicks is ready to lend a helping hand with modular bundles tailored to meet specific carry needs. Choose from the BIZ, TRIP or SUIT bundles which feature various modular accessories such as the Suitcover, Tripcover, Washbag and more to cater to diverse needs on the go.

Slicks

Slicks


Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack with EDCO Panel

Team the PDW S.H.A.D.O. Pack with the EDCO Panel and you’ve got a versatile modular option for work or play. The panel can be easily removed to transfer items between bags if desired, and features a MOLLE-compatible grid as well as two mesh pockets on the reverse side.

PDW-SHADO-2.0

Prometheus Design Werx EDCO Panel

Prometheus Design Werx EDCO Panel

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Kickstarter’s most funded bag and Carry Award winner, the Everyday is a pack that can flex from photography work to daily duties with ease. Mostly thanks to three FlexFold dividers that create modular internal origami-style shelves. Position them as needed and remove them when you don’t. Load them up when you need to shoot. And take them out when you’re rollin’ away for the weekend or off to work. Simple. Awesome. And super versatile.

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Peak Design Everyday Backpack

Peak Design Everyday Backpack


Any awesome pieces you think we’ve missed? Please share in the comments!

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Bag Collectors :: Tony Held https://www.carryology.com/bag-collectors/bag-collectors-tony-held/ https://www.carryology.com/bag-collectors/bag-collectors-tony-held/#comments Wed, 01 Jul 2015 03:15:20 +0000 https://www.carryology.com/?p=20789 Meet Tony Held, CEO and co-founder of Incase, and world-class bag collector…or bag user as he...

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Meet Tony Held, CEO and co-founder of Incase, and world-class bag collector…or bag user as he likes to call it…

Parabellum Medicine Man Duffle

What was the very first piece in your collection? And do you remember where and why you picked it up?

I don’t remember the first bag I purchased; I’m 46, so that was some time ago. I wouldn’t necessarily classify myself as a bag collector; I’m more of a bag user. However, I do consider myself a collector of vintage and modern steamer trunks, as well as vintage luggage. I do remember purchasing my first Goyard steamer trunk in Rome, Italy.

trunks

When did you begin to feel more than what might be called an “average obsession” for bags?

I wouldn’t call it an obsession, more of a deep appreciation for good design, and equal respect for bag brands, designers, and craftsmen. I’m not only into Incase bags, and have zero issues supporting or using other bag brands.

La Martina

What do you look for? What makes a bag a must-have?

I’m drawn to bags that make intelligent use of unique or performance-driven materials, hardware, details, finishing, and an overall clean and timeless aesthetic.

“I wouldn’t call it an obsession, more of a deep appreciation for good design, and equal respect for bag brands, designers, and craftsmen.”

Do you have a certain fetish? A brand crush?

I’m a huge fan and supporter of both Acronym and visvim. I’ve been buying their apparel, footwear, outerwear, and bags since the inception of both brands. I live in California, and have a closet full of bad weather jackets. My wife constantly reminds me that it never rains here, but when it does, I’m beyond prepared.

Acronym

Was there anything from the past that you hesitated on that you would kill to have now?

I wish I had purchased more KAWS, Bathing Ape and Louis Vuitton collaborative bags, all highly collectable.

A Bathing Ape

Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogramouflage Duffel

How many bags do you have in your quiver? Can you run us through an itemized list?

I probably have 30-40 bags in rotation, and more trunks than I know what to do with. I pulled a few select pieces* for this story.

Fidlock

How do you store your collection?

I don’t have a specific area. I keep my bags in closets throughout my home, and make a point of using my bags. They were designed to serve a purpose, and I let them do their jobs. I’m also not a packaging or hangtag saver.

“[I] make a point of using my bags. They were designed to serve a purpose, and I let them do their jobs.”

Can you tell us a favorite carry memory? Or a memory garnered whilst donning a particular piece?

I love my matching travel duffels. They were wedding gifts from a close friend. The bags were made by another friend who designs, crafts, and manufactures bags/accessories. He’s one of the most recognized brands within the high-end luxury and vintage watch markets. His name is Jean Paul Menicucci, located in Firenze, Italy.

Jean Paul Menicucci

Jean Paul Menicucci

If your house was burning down and you only had enough time to grab one bag, which one would it be and why?

My vintage Gucci (wild Boar hide) carry-on. I searched for this piece for a number of years, not sure I’m going to find another in the same condition.

Gucci

What’s next on the wish list?

More investment grade Goyard steamer trunks. I love the stories each one tells.

Goyard

*List of bags:

Vintage Louis Vuitton Steamers (early 1970’s) & Modern Day Murakami x Louis Vuitton “Monogramouflage” Duffel (2008)

Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogramouflage Duffel

vintage Louis Vuitton and Murakami x Louis Vuitton Monogramouflage Duffel

Vertical: Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1920’s), bottom: Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1900’s), white: Modern Goyard Trunk

Goyard

Vintage Goyard Trunk (early 1900’s)

Goyard

Vintage Louis Vuitton Steamers

vintage Louis Vuitton steamers

visvim Backpacks (left: Red, center: KAWS, right: Olive)

visvim

Acronym Messenger Bag, 3rd Arm, and Concealable MB Air + iPhone Sling

Acronym

Original Bathing Ape Backpack

A Bathing Ape

La Martina Duffel [Editor’s Note: this bag is a reflection of Tony’s and his wife’s passion for horses and the equestrian lifestyle]

La Martina

Gucci Boar Hide Overnight Bag (1970’s)

Gucci

KILLSPENCER Weekender & Daypack

KILLSPENCER Weekender

KILLSPENCER Daypack

Parabellum Medicine Man Duffel & MacBook Sleeve

Parabellum Medicine Man Duffle

Parabellum Sleeve

Custom his & hers Jean Paul Menicucci Weekenders

Jean Paul Menicucci

Jean Paul Menicucci

RTH Los Angeles Tote Bag

RTH Los Angeles Tote

 

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