So with these thoughts in mind, we’ve rounded up some of the best laptop backpacks under $125…

The North Face Vault Backpack (US$59.95)

Functional organization at a budget-friendly price? The North Face Vault Backpack is a smart pick. The main compartment features a suspended and padded 15″ laptop sleeve, while the front organization compartment keeps quick-access items at the ready. The pack also provides side water bottle pockets, a bike loop and reflective detailing.

Everlane Nylon Commuter Backpack (US$68)

Simple, stylish and great value for money, the Everlane Nylon Commuter Backpack demonstrates you don’t need to spend big for a practical, timeless piece. The low-key aesthetics suit a variety of work environments (plus downtime ones too), with a variety of pockets on hand to organize your essentials. The 19L pack has a padded sleeve for a 15″ laptop and a water-resistant build for protection from the elements.

Topo Designs Y-Pack (US$79)

Outdoor heritage vibes meet urban versatility with Topo Designs’ Y-Pack. An adaptable 17L backpack that glides from the commute to a day hike or weekend away, it fits a 15″ laptop in its padded interior sleeve. The padded base provides added protection against bumps and shocks, while the zippered flap pocket and side bottle pockets keep small essentials conveniently within reach.

Harvest Label Freight Pack (US$79.95)

Looking for a pack that embraces the office and beyond? The Harvest Label Freight Pack steps up with its handsome aesthetic and straightforward organization. A front pocket and dedicated rear 13″ laptop pocket keep essentials close at hand, with a further interior pocket high up in the main compartment. The pack also provides a side handle and side button straps that convert into a top handle if desired.

Thule Lithos Backpack 20L (US$79.95)

Thule’s Lithos Backpack combines clean styling with considered organization for work, campus or day-to-day needs. The main compartment includes a suspended, padded 15″ laptop pocket as well as a tablet pocket and mesh pocket. For smaller items the quick-access front organization panel has you covered. Side pockets let you store water bottles or similar items at the ready. And a bike light loop helps keep you visible on the go.

RAWROW Square 2Way Original Bag 114 (~US$88)

With its smart-casual styling, functional design and carry flexibility, the RAWROW Square 2Way Original Bag 114 is a solid addition to work, travel and play carry setups. Top and side grab handles let you carry the pack as a tote or briefcase, while front quick-access pockets provide convenient storage for frequently used items. Inside you’ll find a sleeve for a 15″ laptop, with space for day-to-day essentials.

Haglöfs Corker Large (US$88.90)

Want great access with environmentally-conscious construction? The Haglöfs Corker Large provides both. Side access and multiple pockets ensure gear is easily accessible on the go. The bag is also made with bluesign® approved recycled materials and features a design that holds its shape even when the pack is not full. Inside you’ll find dedicated storage for a 15″ laptop, while elastic cord provides options for carrying bulky items externally.

Alite Designs Arcata Pack (US$90)

If you want an outdoor-ready pack that can accommodate your tech, check out the Arcata Pack. The water-resistant pack provides front and side pockets, along with an interior mesh pocket for smaller items. The sternum strap is removable if desired and the pack is also hydration bladder compatible. For added peace of mind, it’s backed by a lifetime guarantee too.

The North Face Rovara 27L Backpack (US$93.71)

If a little added protection from the elements is required, scope out the Rovara 27L Backpack. The bag’s roll-top opening and water-resistant exterior helps protect gear in downpours. Tech stays safe and secure in the main compartment within a padded and fleece-lined 15″ laptop sleeve. Additionally, two front pockets take care of quick-access items. And you’ll also enjoy a lifetime guarantee and a comfy FlexVent suspension system.

Bellroy Campus Backpack (US$95)

A clean and compact 16L pack that carries your essentials in classic, timeless style? Meet the Bellroy Campus Backpack. The padded laptop sleeve fits up to 15″ devices, with an interior zipped pocket and external front pocket for smaller items. And with its quality look and feel in a choice of colorways, this pack moves easily from work to play and back again.

Mystery Ranch Super Booty Bag (US$99)

The Super Booty flexes to your carry needs by doubling as a backpack and tote. The top opening can be secured in roll-top or fold-over configuration to suit your preferences. A front zippered pocket stashes quick-access essentials, with a rear externally accessed sleeve to store up to a 15″ laptop. And with Mystery Ranch’s burly build you’re good to go wherever the day leads.

pinqponq Okay Maxi Backpack (US$99.95)

Love having all your gear easily visible? The pinqponq Okay Maxi Backpack makes that happen with its wide-opening main compartment for rummage-free access. The interior 13″ padded laptop pocket protects your tech, with interior and exterior zipped pockets for those little essentials. Added bonus? The pack is made from 100% PET recycled fabrics too.

Incase ICON Lite Pack (US$99.95)

A sleek 12L pack that looks good on the city streets, in the office or on your travels? The Incase ICON Lite Pack is up to the task, with sufficient organization for essentials without sacrificing the minimalist feel. You’ll find a faux-fur padded sleeve for up to a 15″ laptop, along with interior pockets and quick-access external pockets to accommodate small EDC or travel gear.

Osprey Arcane Large Day Pack (US$110)

With its chic design and clever features the Osprey Arcane Large Day Pack has your back at work, about town or on the weekend. The left shoulder strap can be secured around a stationary object to help avoid theft, while a good range of interior and exterior pockets organize your gear, including a sleeve for a 15″ laptop. For added practicality, the waxed fabric exterior helps shed unexpected showers.

Topo Designs Span Daypack (US$119.25)

A versatile pack for the trail or urban environments, the Topo Designs Span Daypack features a wide-opening main compartment to quickly reach gear. A variety of pockets and lash tabs let you tailor the pack to suit different setups, with space for up to a 17″ laptop. The USA-made construction also includes a cinch collar around the main zipper for added weather protection.

Heimplanet Monolith Minimal 18L Backpack (US$120)

A super-sleek design that doesn’t forget functionality makes this pack a savvy choice for the minimalist. The bag provides three exterior front pockets, an interior 15″ laptop compartment and interior MOLLE webbing to secure pouches or accessories. The durable, water-resistant build takes daily use and the elements in its stride, delivering an elegant all-rounder for the commute and downtime fun.

Filson Small Day Pack (US$120)

With its rugged, water-resistant build Filson’s Small Day Pack is ready to roam in urban and outdoor environments alike. And its understated heritage vibe slips easily into a variety of settings too. The pack has a cinch-down drawcord closure and a reinforced Rugged Twill base. And for keeping small essentials close, the pack also comes with a removable internal zippered wool pouch.

Alchemy Equipment AEL017 20L Roll Top Daypack (~US$121)

Alchemy Equipment does a great job of blending technical construction with considered urban styling and their AEL017 20L Roll Top Daypack is a fine example. The weather-resistant bag has a magnetic roll-top opening that adjusts to a variety of loads, with a front pocket and stretch side pockets for quick-access items. The interior sleeve fits up to a 15″ laptop, while the eye-catching aesthetics will draw admiring glances whether you’re commuting or meandering to your local park or cafe.

Greenroom136 Rainmaker (~US$122)

If you love lots of options for organizing your gear, the Greenroom136 Rainmaker should be on your carry radar. The pack’s three compartments, wide choice of pockets and interior webbing let you store a range of EDC, work or travel items tidily on the move. The bag fits up to a 15″ laptop within an easy-access clamshell-style compartment. Add in the 1000D Cordura nylon exterior and you’ve got a tough and adaptable companion to tackle a diverse array of carry needs.

Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21L (US$125)

Built to conquer changing urban and outdoor carry needs, the Urban Assault 21L delivers a honed mix of durability, adaptability, comfort and access. With its 3-ZIP opening the contents remain within easy reach even at the base of the bag. A lid pocket and two interior pockets prevent smaller items doing a disappearing act, while the suspended laptop sleeve fits up to a 15″ device. Plus there’s also suspended storage for a large tablet too.

Liked this article? You might like these too:

The Best Backpacks for Everyday Carry

The Best Laptop Backpacks for Professionals

The Best Backpacks for Everyday City Commuting

The post The 20 Best Laptop Backpacks Under $125 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

The post Outdoor Retailer Summer 2016 :: Recap Part I appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

But maybe instead you want a backpack that can reliably carry your work tools without taking a significant hit to your bank balance. Or how about an affordable and hard-wearing pack that can tackle the trails or keep you company on the plane. Great bags don’t need to cost a great amount of money. We know it can be tricky to track them down, but Sportique has you covered with some of their best backpacks under $150 presented below. Even better, Sportique are offering an awesome readership discount so you can bag them for less. Use the discount code SportiqueCarry10 to enjoy a 10% discount.

–

Alite Designs Kincaid Pack

The Kincaid Pack offers compact carry for your outdoor and urban adventures alike. The drop-down separator in the bottom access compartment helps keep gear organized, while external attachment points accommodate bulky or awkwardly-shaped items such as tripods and trekking poles. Plus there’s a designated laptop pocket for up to 13-inch tech.

Boreas Echo 25 Backpack

Dark skies look threatening? The Echo 25 has your back. This pack forms part of Boreas Gear’s Waterproof series and will keep your gear dry whether you’re commuting or caught in a downpour during your travels. Plus the addition of zippered side pockets with drainage holes allows you to keep wet and dry gear separate if needed.

Boreas Topaz 25 Backpack

The Topaz 25 is a lightweight and versatile rolltop backpack that’s equally happy to haul your outdoor gear and your groceries. Handy features include an interior zipped pocket and concealed exterior daisy chain, as well as hydration bladder compatibility with a top access hose port so you can easily stay hydrated on the go.

Chrome Rostov Daypack

The Rostov packs plenty of features into its sleek form, including an interior padded laptop sleeve and internal pockets for organization, an exterior zippered front pocket for quick-access items, a side water bottle pocket, compression straps, shoulder strap attachment points and a sternum strap. Combine that all with Chrome’s rugged and ready-for-action construction and you’ve got a solid daypack that will handle work and play.

Crumpler Private Zoo Backpack

Prefer a minimalist approach to your carry? The Private Zoo backpack delivers with a pared-down design featuring an interior padded laptop sleeve and an external zippered pocket. The water-resistant construction helps protect your gear from the elements and the streamlined silhouette looks good in a range of settings.

Fjällräven Greenland Large Backpack

Durable and versatile, the Greenland backpack is constructed using rugged G-1000 HeavyDuty material and does double duty on city streets and outdoor rambles. The main compartment has a drawstring closure and an internal 15-inch laptop compartment with a padded base. An additional interior pocket provides storage for small items, while exterior front pockets keep frequently needed items within easy reach.

Fjällräven Kånken 15 Laptop Backpack

With a design dating from 1978, the Fjällräven Kånken is one of the most instantly recognizable bags in the carry world. Ready for urban EDC needs and happy to venture into nature on day outings, the pack features a padded compartment for a 15-inch laptop, a zipped front pocket, two side pockets, top carry handles and a reflective logo.

Incase Icon Compact Pack

Need to carry tech and like staying organized? The Icon Compact pack provides a padded laptop compartment that fits a 15-inch MacBook Pro, multiple internal organizer pockets, a zippered side pocket with integrated cable port, padded shoulder straps and a sternum strap for carry comfort. In addition, its urban-friendly looks work well for the office, campus, travel or general about-town use.

Incase Reform Tensaerlite 15″ Laptop Backpack

If you want to boost the protection your devices have on the go, the Reform backpack is ready to stand in the way of bumps and scrapes. An impact-absorbing interior Tensaerlite compartment keeps your laptop fully covered and secure. Internal pockets also keep smaller items organized, while external zippered side pockets store your quick-access items. The top carry handle provides additional portability and the heathered fabric and sleek silhouette enhance the pack’s city style.

JanSport Portal Backpack

Stuffed with pockets left, right and center (literally) and coming in at a wallet-friendly price, the Portal backpack is just the ticket if you want a bag that will organize your work/school tools and devices without breaking the bank. The interior features a 15-inch laptop sleeve, 10-inch tablet sleeve, and lots of pockets for smaller bits and pieces. In addition, two side mesh pockets and zippered easy-access front pockets provide fast access to a water bottle and other items you want to be able to grab in a jiffy.

Kletterwerks Market Bag

From moseying around your local market or meeting up with friends, to heading to the gym or taking care of everyday tasks, this flexible bag is ready to get stuck in. A padded laptop sleeve takes care of your tech, while a tote handle and backpack straps provide carry options to suit different environments.

Topo Designs Daypack

Whether your trips are around town or further afield, this tough and functional daypack can handle a range of carry needs, from hauling work gear to serving as your day bag during sightseeing explorations. The rugged 1000D Cordura construction will hold up to frequent use, and a choice of exterior and interior pockets plus leather lash tabs lets you organize smaller and larger items to suit your access requirements.

The post Sportique Presents :: Best Backpacks Under $150 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Cafe Mugshot

Two rules at OR. 1) Stronger and stronger caffeine is needed as the week rolls on, reaching unhealthy proportions by Friday. 2) Always take coffee from a man in a top hat. The coffee from the guys at Cafe Mugshot allowed the Carryology crew to continue holding semi-intelligent conversations with the fine folks from the carry industry from sunup ’til sundown. Cheers, guys.

02

Boreas Gear

Few bag lines in the industry are as distinct or focused as those from Boreas. The team of designers that Tae Kim has assembled are really killing packs geared for the adventure traveler (check out the #adventureunknown hashtag). Building on previous lines we’ll be seeing two new packs for the Super-Tramp suspension system, a travel duffel/backpack in the 50-liter range, and a number of new colorways for existing bags. New for this year are a handful of small bags packable into themselves, and a line of bags geared for a more casual or business version of #adventureunknown featured in subdued browns and grays but definitely still rocking the Boreas vibe. Did we mention they’re killing it?

03 – 05

Black Diamond

Though none of us in the Carryology contingent are anything close to rock climbers or alpinists, we all thought about giving it a go just to have an excuse to use the new Black Diamond bags. Though some unreleased bags prevented us from taking any close-up pictures at the booth, if you’re a climber or alpinist you’re in for a treat.

06

Arc’teryx

With a new director of hardgoods design on board – check out our Carryology-sponsored AMA with John Atkinson here – the team at Arc’teryx held off on releasing any major packs this year. However, the selection of small packs and totes still had us drooling. A good talk with John and learning of the extensive prototyping capabilities that Arc’teryx has in-house has got us excited for what’s coming down the pipeline.

At the back of the Arc’teryx booth lies perhaps the most secretive, but coveted spot in all of OR – the Arc’teryx LEAF product line. Carryology will be going Mission Impossible at next year’s OR to infiltrate that room.

07 – 09

Gregory

Gregory is going to score big points with the carry tribe by releasing a number of packs from their Japanese lines into the US market. Our accountants have advised us that the money saved by not having to buy a plane ticket across the Pacific is best spent on those bags.

Working on their much lauded Baltoro pack, Gregory has pulled off an integrated solar panel design quite nicely by sewing a Goal Zero device into a top flap. Definitely one of the smoothest integrations of a solar panel we’ve seen.

And finally, if you find yourself running through an airport more than a trail, the new Aspect line is a solid offering of bags designed to make your jaunts that much smoother.

10 – 12

Roark

Great time talking with the guys at Roark about their first three bags, the Runner, the Mule, and the Smuggler. The bags, designed by Roark and manufactured by their buddies at HEX, “will scare your mother and inspire your darkest expeditionary desires.” Sounds intriguing. We also found out that the vats of distilling snake wine were not merely for show.

13 – 14

Topo Designs

The distinct aesthetic of Topo Designs didn’t miss a step at this year’s OR. New packs across their lines. In response to the popularity of their Woolrich collaborations, they’ve decided to stock two Woolrich colorways on the klettersack and duffel.

The collaborations that Topo Designs have pulled off in the past are pure beauty. Fans of Topo Designs can rest assured that there are even more collaborations in the pipeline. Check out this upcoming one with sandal maker Chaco.

15 – 17

Ortlieb

While many bags we saw at OR were water-resistant, Ortlieb boasts waterproofness as standard. Some great new commuter packs and a line of travel duffels. Also catching our eyes was a bag that weaved 3M reflective thread into their stitching which we’re told literally lights up the bag at night.

18 – 21

Alite Designs

Just as we tip our hats to Boreas for outfitting the adventure traveler with gear, we’ve also got to show some love to Tae Kim’s other bag company, Alite Designs, for all they’re doing to design for more leisurely outdoor adventures. Outfitted with a full campsite and boasting the comfiest packable camp chairs at all of OR, the Alite Designs booth proved to be an oasis for a weary Carryology crew on multiple occasions.

The majority of Alite gear is designed with car camping or leisurely afternoons in a park in mind. Boasting some really cleverly designed coolers, chairs, and mats that emphasise packability, simple functionality and comfort, we were tempted on more than one occasion to ditch OR for a local park to put some of these products through “testing”.

22 – 24

Patagonia

This year Patagonia refrained from releasing any new packs, instead focusing efforts on updating their travel duffel line and adding new colorways on their heritage packs – some of the best we’ve seen at OR.

For those who fish with a fly, Patagonia has some updates to their line including inverse MOLLE. Much like the climbing industry it’s always exciting to see the hyper-specific bag designs that evolve when catering to a niche market.

25 – 27

Man-PACK

We unexpectedly ran into Man-PACK founder Aaron Tweedie as we were leaving OR. As a big fan of EDC and a successful veteran of both Kickstarter and ABC’s Shark Tank, Aaron has designed an insanely comfortable and versatile pack to scoop up all of your EDC. Keys, knives, wallets, notebooks, glasses, and even a concealed pistol have all got a spot in the Man-PACK.

28

Cotopaxi

There was no mistaking Cotopaxi’s booth at this year’s OR thanks to an actual llama posted up in front of it. Their bags didn’t disappoint either, highlighted by four new packs. A pack constructed with scraps from the production factory, with all colorways left up to the discretion of their sewers, a 55L backpack, a climbing-specific pack, and a travel pack. We were digging the travel pack even before the Cotopaxi crew began to regale us with tales of multi-week treks through Europe with only this bag.

29 – 31

Product Underground

Now in its fifth rendition, tickets for Tae Kim’s exclusive Product Underground have become highly sought after. Leading up to OR, the Salt Lake City cops reported busting up a number of underground rings scalping Product Underground tickets. In front of OR bag nerds could be seen trying to sell the top packs in their collection for an invite. Carryology editor Mike Knispel was even spotted bartering his first son for tickets. Luckily at the last minute, Carryology legend Taylor Welden procured four golden tickets. Carryology was in.

32

The sharp crack of hundreds of cans of beer from the crowd welcomed Tae Kim and Julie Atherton, of JAM Media Collective, as they introduced the theme of this year’s Product Underground, “Give It Up”. Five speakers laying it all out for the audience on “when they let the ship burn.” Sally McCoy, President and CEO of CamelBak, kicked things off with a Letterman Top 10 list on “reasons you should definitely let it go.” Davis Smith, Founder and CEO of Cotopaxi, then took us on his rollercoaster ride from conventional business school to unconventional Cotopaxi. Tom Stewart, Co-Founder of Sunski, in comedic form detailed starting a company selling salsa bowls out of his parents’ house to a Kickstarter campaign for sunglasses. Alyssa Ravasio, Co-Founder and CEO of Hipcamp related an incredible story of simply attempting to streamline booking camping reservations to suddenly taking on an evil monopoly. And finally, James Curleigh, President of the Levi’s brand. All we’ll say is if you ever have the chance to see this guy speak, do it. Between the seemingly constant beer runs courtesy of Tae Kim and the customary shot of whiskey each speaker took on stage it was an awesome atmosphere by the end of Product Underground.

33

Stay tuned for Part II for even more OR goodness and the winners of the second annual Carryology Outdoor Retailer Carry Awards.

The post Outdoor Retailer Summer 2015 :: Recap Part I appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

–

Bedouin Foundry Delireis

Head-turning looks. Premium materials and hardware including Scottish waxed canvas, top grain vegetable-tanned leather and AustriAlpin Cobra buckle. Superb craftsmanship, with worksmanship and materials guaranteed for life. Pretty rad, right? Add in a hand-printed lining that gives great visual contrast to the exterior and you’ve got a bag that packs a serious punch.

Rivendell Mountain Works Jensen

With its distinct design, the Jensen stands out wherever it’s used. Three sections in the main pack provide organized storage, while a number of external attachment points let you carry extra gear as needed. Still as striking as when it first came out, this is a great option if you dig the heritage vibe but want something a little different.

Topo Designs Klettersack

Topo know how to do right by the heritage scene, crafting the Klettersack as a hard-working pack that will do double duty on the trails and the city streets. The construction is solid, with 1000D Cordura and leather lash tabs for external carry. A slim profile keeps things compact when you’re out and about and there’s a choice of 15L and 22L versions to suit your needs.

Gregory Kletter Day

This pack is all about stylish simplicity. If you like your bags with organization, this isn’t for you. However, if you love beautiful silhouettes with durable materials and hardware and attractive colorways, this is a fine choice.

Topo Designs Daypack

A balance of function and form makes this a great piece for work and play. A sleek profile in a variety of colorways, along with a mix of pockets to keep your gear organized, means this pack can handle itself in the city. When it’s time to venture further afield, there’s enough space and external attachment points to carry your exploring essentials while staying light on your feet.

Archival Roll Top

This pack ticks plenty of boxes, from style to build and versatility. The water-resistant waxed twill construction keeps the contents safe from the elements, while the roll-top format lets you expand or shrink the bag’s size as needed. Internal and external pockets help keep your bits and pieces in order and the clean, attractive design looks equally good in the office or taking in nature.

Archival Rucksack

A handsome combination of waxed cotton twill and Horween Chromexcel leather keeps this pack looking classy in urban and outdoor environments alike. Plus the weather-resistant build is a bonus for protecting your gear when the skies look ominous. Fashion-friendly with fuss-free functionality, this trooper is a reliable companion for the trail or the commute.

Brooks Dalston Knapsack

This foxy number packs plenty of cycling chic into a compact and smart design. Crafted by hand in Italy, the bag comes in two size options to accommodate 13-inch and 15-inch laptops. Three interior pockets, two outer pockets and a bottle pouch keep your smaller and frequently-accessed items in order. Want to look good while cruising on two wheels? Job done.

Brooks Pickwick

The Pickwick easily mixes business and pleasure, with its elegant looks that can glide between the office and leisurely cycles round the city. Two concealed pockets on the back of the bag keep prying eyes away from your important items and the roll-top design lets you tailor the bag to changing carry needs.

REI Flashback Pack

Forget all those superfluous design elements. This bag is a firm believer in keeping things simple. The interior of the pack has a zipped pocket and a sleeve for a tablet or hydration bladder. On the outside a lash tab, ice axe loop and shoulder strap loops let you haul extra items. Rounding things off is a tough construction that will withstand frequent use. Even better? It won’t strain your bank balance either.

Tanner Goods Wilderness Rucksack

Who knew a combination of waxed 18 oz. filter twill canvas, quality wool felt, Horween Rich Chromexcel leather and brass hardware could look so good? Well, apparently Tanner Goods. If you can snap yourself out of staring at it admiringly, you’ll find it doesn’t skimp on the functionality either. A laptop sleeve, pockets for your smaller carry items and a tough construction that’s built to last ensures you’ll get plenty of use out of this beauty for years to come.

Azo Equipment Bashilo

The Bashilo has understated heritage style in spades, along with a variety of handy features. Its 25-liter volume offers plenty of space for your daily carry, with a weather-resistant construction that merges British waxed cotton and vegetable-tanned leather into a harmonious whole. The pack also offers a choice of pockets including a sleeve for a 15-inch laptop.

treesizeverse Waxed Canvas Rucksack

Etsy can be a goldmine of carry goodness. Case in point, this attractive pack from treesizeverse. Carefully crafted by hand, the bag is an eye-catching blend of waxed canvas and waxed leather. The roll-top opening gives you carry flexibility and organization comes in the form of interior and outer pockets.

treesizeverse Waxed Canvas Backpack

Another hard-wearing pack from treesizeverse that rocks heritage styling with meticulous craftsmanship. The waxed canvas and vegetable-tanned leather will age beautifully, while the side compression straps and roll-top opening let you adjust the size to suit different loads.

Francli The Activity Rucksack

You’ll be feeling the upcycling love with this pack from Francli, which combines top and side access with interior slip pockets and an exterior zipped pocket. This is a fine addition to your carry quiver if you dig unique bags crafted by hand.

Kletterwerks Kletter Flip Backpack

The Kletterwerks Kletter Flip Backpack originally bounded onto the carry scene four decades ago as an alpine climbing pack. However, it’s more than ready to take on today’s modern carry challenges, featuring a rugged 1000D Cordura construction, a padded laptop section suitable for up to 17-inch tech, along with 22 liters of space for your urban and outdoor adventures.

Teranishi Venture

Fusing heritage vibes with a generous dose of freshness, the Venture backpack looks damn fine without forgetting the importance of a functional design. The waxed canvas and vegetable-tanned leather will hold up to abuse from the elements and frequent use, with pockets for quick-access items and your laptop adding to the functionality. The pack also combines a roll-top opening with side zip access, giving you options for packing and getting to your gear. In addition, it scooped a High Commendation in our Third Annual Carry Awards for Best Work Backpack, so you know it’s good.

Trakke Krukke Harris Tweed Backpack

A clean profile that exudes personality, beautiful materials that will age well and take on the unique signs of your own travel stories, plus Trakke’s attention to the details and reliable construction…there’s tons to love about the Krukke. The Harris Tweed and waxed cotton combo provides a slick visual contrast and there are enough pockets to prevent a tangled jumble of contents while still maintaining an appealing minimalist vibe.

Millican Dave The Rucksack

Dave The Rucksack is one for the organizers who love heritage looks with plenty of stash spots to keep bits and pieces tidy. The pack features a range of interior and exterior pockets and organization to avoid frustrating rummaging, plus space for a hydration bladder. A combination of side and top entry allows for easy packing and quick access to gear, while external attachment points let you secure extra items as needed. The weatherproof construction keeps the elements at bay, with a raincover included for extra peace of mind. When you need to carry a lot, the waist and sternum straps add carry comfort, but can also be removed when you’re traveling light.

Duluth Pack Scout Pack

A lot of brands produce bags that give a nod to heritage…but not so many can actually say they lived through the times that inspired the current trend. Duluth Pack have been in the bag game since 1882, so you know there’s a good dose of history behind the heritage vibes of the Scout Pack. Built to last with 15 oz canvas and leather, the pack is available in a wide choice of colorways and includes an interior zipped pocket for keeping smaller items within easy reach.

Alite X Boreas Collab Pack

The Alite X Boreas Collab Pack isn’t lacking in the looks department, but there’s no shortage of substance under the style. A tweaked version of the Pine to the Pacific Rucksack, the pack combines a weatherproof waxed canvas exterior with Boreas’s Super-Tramp Suspension system so you can easily adjust for more ventilation or stability to suit different situations. Inside is a pocket for your small carry, while the outside leather straps offer extra hauling capabilities for larger items. It’s unfortunately currently out of stock but if you can snag one second-hand it’s well worth it.

Haglöfs Ryggsäck N:o 1

The Haglöfs Ryggsäck N:o 1 is a story of history across a brand, a country, its materials and its craftsmanship. Created in a limited edition run of 1000 pieces, the Ryggsäck N:o 1 celebrates Haglöfs’ 100-year history and is inspired by one of the first Haglöfs packs, the Ryggsäck N:o 6. The bag is made completely in Sweden, using materials produced and sourced in Sweden. It also won the Gold in our Third Annual Carry Awards for Best Work Backpack, so if you want a work backpack with a great story behind it, this is a classy choice.

The post Buyer’s Guide :: Best Heritage Backpacks appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Either way, it’s safe to say that the guiding principle behind Valentine’s Day is celebrating love – and there’s one love we’re all about celebrating: the love of awesome carry. So we’ve put together a little gift guide that will speak to the heart of carry lovers, whether they’re family members, friends or yourself. Yup, there’s no rule saying you can’t get yourself a Valentine’s Day gift – you are meant to love yourself too, after all…

–

Luxurious leather they’ll fall in love with

If you have a lady in your life who loves classy leather designs, you can’t go wrong with KILLSPENCER’s new Women’s Collection featuring the Soft Tote, Mini Daypack and Structured Tote. For the leather-loving man, stylish new pieces such as the Work Tote, Attaché Briefcase and Utility Pouch 2.0 are sure to impress. Plus if you use the discount code “LOVE2015” you can get 15% off orders costing $150 or more until 15 February 2015.

Something for the weekend

Whether you’re planning a romantic weekend away with your significant other or love the spontaneity of spur-of-the-moment, drop-everything-and-go short getaways, both trips have something in common – the need for a bag you can pack the essentials in that’s not too shabby in the style department either (the versatility to suit a variety of situations is always handy). The QWSTION Weekender is a solid choice thanks to quick access to the main compartment, a selection of pockets for organisation, a variety of colourways to suit individual tastes, plus the ability to carry it as a backpack, on the shoulder or using the grab handles.

Easy access meets flexible portability

For carry lovers who appreciate quick access to their bag contents but also want a choice of carry options to suit different situations, Alite Designs and Côte&Ciel have both played with the converting-tote format. Alite have shrunk their Bike to the Beach Bag into a more compact form – the appropriately named Mini Bike to the Beach Bag – which can be carried as a tote or a backpack. Côte&Ciel’s signature experimentation with form is present in the Kalix Tote, a bag that takes inspiration from the cocoon of a butterfly and can be carried as a tote or shoulder bag.

It’s the little things that count

If you want to splash the cash on Valentine’s Day, that’s great. If your budget is more modest, that’s awesome too – there are plenty of useful carry pieces that won’t break the bank. For people who love to keep things organised, the Grid-It Organiser is an inexpensive gift with a multitude of configuration possibilities that will appeal to their sense of ‘Everything has its place…’ Alternatively for someone who loves to be prepared for emergency situations, the Gerber x Bear Grylls Fire Starter will be greeted with warm enthusiasm thanks to its easy-to-use form that includes a whistle, rescue signal instructions and a waterproof compartment for storing dry tinder.

The post Valentine’s Day for Carry Geeks appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Run us through the collab, how did it go down? Was there a lightbulb moment over drinks? 

It has been something we’ve been discussing for a while now. Alite and Boreas have two very different users, and we’ve always wanted to hone in on a product and make it attractive to both audiences. We knew that we wanted to make an aesthetically pleasing bag that was well designed for functionality. Keeping both brand identities in true form was the name of the game…

How did the product evolve? 

WIth several sketching meetings, prototype iterations, and arm wrestling matches, haha. It was fun for us to work together and combine our design ideas. We both came into it with our favorite products in mind and how we can combine forces. We wanted to keep the waxed canvas appeal but still keep the Boreas technical feel. Certain details like using black leather and SR buckles really helped the bag take on its own personality.

How long did the development take?

Less than six months and eight prototypes later…

What were the biggest challenges along the way?

Deciphering how to properly connect the suspension with the waxed canvas was a big milestone. The curvy back panel of the suspension required us to do a few modifications on the pack body, and we ended up having to add another side panel to the Pine to the Pacific Rucksack body. Keeping both brand aesthetics in mind along the way also was challenging, but in an educational way.

(Tae and Liz) One awesome thing that you learned while developing the product?

Having an in-house prototyper is the best!

What makes this particular pack special?

We integrated the needs of two users into one bag design, and the results are a progressive direction both companies are stoked on. The suspension system combines urban and technical capabilities. We can honestly say that we’d use this bag for going anywhere – it’s sleek enough for happy hour and it’s rugged enough for a bike ride up Twin Peaks.

What single thing are you most proud of in relation to this pack? What did you really nail?

The colorway. Black leather, black rivets, black SR buckles. Super attractive if you ask us…

If your collab pack was a celebrity, who would it be?

Ahhhhh we just took an office vote and the winner was a tie between Patrick Swayze and James Franco.

The post Carry Evolution :: Alite X Boreas Collab Pack appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

So who did we have on our radar for rad carry crew during our latest visit? Step up Boreas Gear and Alite Designs, who have continued to spread their wings since our last interview and are really making a name for themselves in the San Francisco carry sphere. Here are some of the highlights from a great afternoon spent with these awesome folk…

Product

If you’re keen to bag yourself some new Boreas packs, you don’t have long to wait. Set for a release in Fall ’14, the Monterey and Echo bring a water-resistant approach to the Boreas lineup. A suspended liner is a new thing for Boreas, but a great thing in our books. The packs feel really good and resolved.

Boreas have also been busy on the collaboration front. Their Boreas Mash collab has just dropped, and this partnering brings their awesome Erawan duffel format into the world of cycle racing. Working as a haul bag for the Mash racer’s kit, it also doubles as a stand-in change station. Plus, there’s also a Larkin Daypack in the collaboration. Boreas want to use collaborations like this to expand on the stories of particular bags and how they can be used.

When the Kezar dropped, we were stoked to see a more tactical vibe creeping into the Boreas lineup. Apparently customers agreed, as the bag sold out fast. While most bags in this vein are in matte fabrics with a bit more weight to them, the Kezar features shiny nylon and reduced weight. It also fits the Modular Super-Tramp suspension from their Bootlegger system.

Speaking of the Bootlegger system, it’s been just over a year since it launched on Kickstarter – a launch that far exceeded what Boreas had hoped to achieve. Any fears of not reaching their $10k target were unfounded, as they eventually raised $145k. Beyond the financial confidence this provided for Boreas, it also helped to introduce the brand to a new audience that love fresh and innovative ideas.

Folks have since returned to get new modules, as they seem to be buying additional suspension systems to unlock more of their packs. Boreas have also recently released the Women’s Modular Super-Tramp suspension, a tweaked version of the Modular Super-Tramp suspension that is designed to provide a better fit and more comfort for female users. Currently the folks at Boreas are designing for 2016, and while we can’t yet show you what’s in the works, there are some nice evolutions and great new fabrics that we’ll be stoked to see coming through.

Alite has also been up to plenty of exciting new things under the guidance of lead designer Elizabeth Clark. One of the most intriguing developments on its way this Fall is an Alite DIY backpack-making kit (with instructional videos). Alite will be partnering with Workshop SF to teach classes using this kit. It’s a simple pack, but when you’ve been actively involved in making it there will be loads of added warm fuzzies.

From the sounds of things most Boreas fans connect through geeking out on the bags, whereas Alite fans generally talk of being inspired to go places and get outdoors. That’s a nice mix for the two brands, and the new Alite developments will continue to push the playful and approachable side of things.

Interestingly, when asked about what bag Tae would most covet, he responded that a simple paper-sack style bag works fine. He’s around bags so much that he likes to almost go anti-bag.

People

Since we last caught up with Boreas and Alite there’s been a bit of movement on the people front, as tends to happen when ‘adventure travel’ is your reason for being. So there are some new faces, but still lots of familiar ones too. Todd Wilkinson is the lead designer for Boreas, while Liz is Alite’s lead designer. Design creativity also stems from assistant designer Luke Matthews, while Tae Kim works to keep things fresh and foster new ideas and developments through innovation projects.

Processes

Every brand we caught up with in the Bay Area spoke of how expensive developers are up there. That means that after hugely expensive quotes for a new website, the guys balked and found a friend to build it for a tiny fraction of the cost. But that also means they’re much more willing to dive in and change it, which is why we’re starting to see lots more updates.

One of the best parts of this website liberation is that both Boreas and Alite are now sharing sketches, development and the tools of their trade with an appreciative audience. Check out their sites for lots of neat stories:

Muir Woods Process
Durkopp sewing machine
Design Process: Bike to the Beach

Thanks again to the guys for a totally fun afternoon. We’ll keep you all updated as the fruits of their labor come through.

The post Studio Visit :: Boreas and Alite appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.