Best Active Messenger – The Sixth Annual Carry Awards

1st Place

Arc’teryx LEAF Courier Bag 15

Designed for Jason Bourne-type operatives, the Arc’teryx LEAF Courier 15 is built to perform, adapt and blend in. A serious bit of kit, honed for the hardest gear users on the planet. But just like many pieces from Arc’teryx LEAF (their military and law enforcement wing) there’s a DNA that allows the Courier to flex: a ‘cannot fail’ attention to build, access, and adaptability, that works so very well for everyday civilians wanting to crush their daily missions (whilst carrying a laptop and a few snacks too).

This is technical construction and materials delivered in a super stealth design – and it glides easily from work to play to travel.

Made from Arc’teryx’s “DONGJIN 310gsm/9.1osy 630d HT Nylon Plain Weave with DWR” – a lightweight, super durable, matte and waterproof fabric – and built with LEAF’s signature military precision, the Courier is truly the apex for a performance over-the-shoulder bag. 

Three entry points to the main compartment provide access that works with you wherever you are. And multiple carry options allow for ambidextrous high and low mounting, and for it to be slung on the shoulder or across the back, or carried as a briefcase with the top handle. And for those with serious ‘pouch games’, an interior Velcro panel enables you to  ‘plug in’ your pouches as your day pivots from one scenario to the next. 

Sleek active design done right, the Courier 15 is an exceptional piece, refined to the point of perfection. Bravo, Arc’teryx!

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Highly Commended

These are the pieces that just missed out, and in most cases, by the smallest of margins. To them, we award a High Commendation. The below were of outstanding quality, displaying fine craftsmanship and design flair. With honor, we bow our heads in the utmost respect and kudos. If this were a dais, they’d be biting their teeth into silver medals, while their flags were hoisted into the horizon – a feat not to be overlooked. And we’re sure they’ll be back, to take it one notch higher, next year.

Crafted Goods Mr. Groove

When Crafted Goods dropped their Ultimate Collection at the beginning of this year, the Carry World took notice. It flagged their entry into a new realm; an elevated level of technical prowess. And Mr. Groove here was one half of that collection. A versatile and adaptable shoulder bag like we’ve never seen. Tote, shoulder bag and backpack carry modes let you easily adapt to changing environments, while its two removable ‘pouchettes’ do double duty as quick-access organization and standalone bags for minimalist loads. Chic and considered, this is a classy take on active carry. We stand and applaud, Crafted Goods!

Code of Bell X-PAK PRO / X-PAK ONE

Code of Bell pushed the boundaries of what an active sling could be with their X-PAK PRO and X-PAK ONE, taking what was once a simple and minimal style to a whole new tier of burliness and functionality. Combining layers of pocketing, expandability, adaptability, and premium X-Pac into two slick and urban-focused silhouettes. The result? Two of the most dynamic slings to have ever been released, period. From the active daily commute to overnight trips, the X-PAK PRO and X-PAK ONE will adapt and keep on going. Fine work, Code of Bell!

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