Eastpak Padded Pak’r Welded Backpack (US$175)

Pared-back and streamlined, the Eastpak Padded Pak’r Welded Backpack looks equally good in the office and relaxing down at your local park or cafe. And its stylish looks are only emphasised by its practical, adaptable design that moves from work to play. The welded construction offers excellent protection against the elements, while simple interior organization including space for a laptop keeps gear tidy without becoming cluttered. And the little things you need ready access to? Handily taken care of with an exterior quick-access front pocket.

ISM The Classic (US$215)

Premium materials, meticulous construction and elegant aesthetics make this a fine pack to reach for every day, from work to the weekend. The ISM Classic Backpack is handmade with an attractive and durable combination of full-grain leather and water-resistant nylon. Added bonus? It’s backed by a lifetime guarantee. The sleek design is complemented by functional organization including a weatherproof laptop compartment, interior pockets, and a quick-access front pocket. There’s even a leather flap so you can charge your phone externally while storing the charger internally.

ISM is this month’s curated sponsor. Click here for a 10% off for Carryology readers.

Côte&Ciel Oril Small (US$305)

The chic and clever patterning of the Côte&Ciel Oril Small organizes day-to-day essentials well while exuding plenty of Parisian style. The pack’s dedicated laptop compartment fits up to a 13″ device. Two further compartments and a range of pockets provide convenient and flexible storage for work supplies, EDC or travel essentials. All in a water-resistant and sleek design that moves easily between changing carry needs.

Troubadour Roll Top Rucksack (US$475)

It costs more than a pretty penny but this Troubadour Roll Top Backpack will stand the test of time with its superb craftsmanship and minimalist styling. Classy enough for work settings and exuding low-key refinement for more casual environments, the bag features an interior padded laptop sleeve and quick-access pocket for smaller items. The rolltop opening secures conveniently with a magnetic closure, and the water-resistant build provides welcome peace of mind when showers threaten.

WANT Les Essentiels Kastrup Backpack (US$495)

If all-black luxury is what you’re after, look to the WANT Les Essentiels Kastrup Backpack. The pack is crafted with a handsome contrast of organic cotton-canvas and leather detailing. Interior pockets and a padded laptop sleeve keep your essentials tidy, while the exterior pocket provides useful storage for frequently used items. Additionally the bag comes with a padlock and lockable main compartment zippers for added security on the move. Clean and versatile for work and your downtime alike, it’s a savvy choice for fashion-friendly yet functional carry.

The post 5 All-Black Urban Backpacks Designed with Fashion and Function appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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).

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! 

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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. 

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.

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.

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.

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”.   

LOWEPRO PRO ROLLER X300 AW

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.

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…

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:

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.

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

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.

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 19^th century craftsman’s attention to quality and details to a 21^st century use of innovative fabric and next level design.

HNTR PACK

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.

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.

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).

BELLROY ALL CONDITIONS PASSPORT COVER

Apparently it’s not made anymore by Bellroy, but I guess it’s pretty similar to this. I 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.

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.

The post My Techwear Packing List appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

So for a little inspiration, we’ve scoped out some of our favorite backpack camo patterns, from the fashion-slanted to the hardcore hunter.

A Bathing Ape x Porter 1st CAMO Collection

Bring together one of Japan’s top lifestyle brands and carry brands and great things happen, like the 1st CAMO Collection from A Bathing Ape and Porter. The collection features a duck hunter style of camo in two colorways across a variety of pieces, from wallets and totes to packs such as their Rucksack and Daypack. The camo is distinguished by its solid background overlaid by large splotches in several colors, and originates from the US M1942 camouflage worn in the Pacific Theater in WWII. And psst, look out for the hidden ape!

Stone Island 90361 Nylon Canvas Backpack

This Stone Island daypack combines camo and compact multifunctionality in a design that works well in school, EDC and day trip settings. And with two front pockets you’ve got hassle-free storage for items such as your keys, wallet and phone. The combination of greens and grays salutes camouflage intended for use in snowy environments.

Haerfest Arch Backpack

The camo on this pack hints at a US Woodland or US tri-color desert pattern, which combined with the Navy colorway and pared-back profile gives the Arch Backpack a casual-chic feel that suits informal work and play environments alike. The durable build featuring Japanese jacquard cotton, brass hardware and leather detailing will stand up well to years of use, and there’s space for a 15″ laptop and a quick-access pocket for smaller essentials.

master-piece x nowartt Collaboration Series No.02110-p11

master-piece and nowartt team up for this collaboration made in a choice of three camo colorways. Incorporating inspiration elements such as water, clouds and flying birds, the backpacks feature a forest-like camouflage pattern with hints of leaves and other vegetation that would break up the outline of a human in a stealth situation.

KUIU ICON Pro 1850 Hunting Pack

This rugged and modular pack is designed for hunting but adaptable enough to suit a range of heavy load-bearing needs thanks to KUIU’s ICON Pro Carbon Fiber frame and suspension, which are included with a Full Kit purchase. Additionally the horseshoe zip opening and multiple interior and exterior pockets provide quick, easy access to your gear. The pack is available in a choice of colorways including Vias Camo which is reminiscent of US Woodland camo. Alternative camo options include Verde Camo and Verde 2.0, both incorporating elements of digital camouflage which feature pixelated micropatterns to better blend in with their surroundings at a distance.

Eastpak x Christopher Raeburn Bust Backpack in Camouflage

Military inspiration with a fashion slant, this collaborative pack features quick-access front and side pockets and a separate bottom compartment. The limited edition bag is sustainably made with recycled materials, featuring British Military Woodland camouflage, desert camouflage, multi-terrain camouflage and fluorescent yellow drawn from British Border Force jackets.

Porter Counter Shade Backpack

Giving a nod to US Woodland camo, Porter leans towards low-key with their Counter Shade Backpack in Woodland Khaki. Crafted in Japan, the pack includes an interior laptop pocket and choice of exterior pockets to store frequently used day-to-day or travel items at the ready. US Woodland served as the Battle Dress Uniform for most of the United States Armed Forces from 1981 to 2006.

The Brown Buffalo Conceal Pack – COVERT® Transitional Camouflage

The Conceal Pack is compact, well organized and versatile for daily or travel carry needs. Made in California with water-resistant COVERT® Transitional Camouflage material, the bag features a mix of interior pockets for keeping gear tidy, along with an exterior pocket for quick-access items. The patented camouflage pattern is designed and developed exclusively for the United States Army.

Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed

TAD’S FAST Pack Litespeed is well suited to EDC, day trips or overnight travel, with a durable build that handles urban and outdoor environments equally well. The 22L bag also packs in plenty of webbing and attachment points to tailor carry setups to different needs, along with a clamshell-style opening to easily pack and retrieve items inside the main compartment. The pack is seen above in Black MultiCam, a pattern designed to blend in when darkness falls.

Eberlestock Transformer Pack

The Transformer is a tough, versatile bag that can be used on its own or paired with Eberlestock’s Mainframe Pack for a modular load-bearing system. In addition to two side pockets and compression straps, the pack also includes top and front access for convenient usability. The Transformer comes in a variety of camo options, including a digital camo pattern and patterns designed to break up the wearer’s outline in diverse hunting environments such as woodlands and slopes.

Mystery Ranch Metcalf – GORE OPTIFADE Subalpine pattern

Designed for hunting but adaptable to other uses, the Metcalf features a Guide Light Frame for heavy loads, as well as a detachable lid when you want to travel lighter. This version comes in a GORE OPTIFADE Concealment Subalpine pattern, and includes an Overload Shelf feature as well as top and side access to easily pack and reach gear throughout the bag. The camo pattern was designed by camouflage and animal vision experts and features a digitally rendered blend of micro and macro patterns. Intended for hunting ungulates from ground level in areas with vegetation and tree cover, the pattern is designed for optimal engagement ranges of 50 yards or less.

Atelier de L’Armée Flight Pack

This Flight Pack features M90 Camouflage, a pattern utilized by the Swedish Armed Forces. The pattern features geometric shapes in four colors designed to blend into temperate forests and plains. The pattern also comes in additional variants to suit jungle and desert terrain.

Helinox TERG Daypack

The pattern on this TERG Daypack takes its cues from Tigerstripe camo. Tigerstripe patterns were first developed for the South Vietnamese Armed Forces as variants of the French Lizard camo pattern, and designed for use in dense jungle environments. Tigerstripe camo was also used by US Special Forces during the Vietnam War. The camo traditionally features black, green and brown stripes in a pattern that, as the name suggests, resembles tiger stripes.

What’s your favorite camo print? Hit us in the comments. 

The post Blend In: Our Favorite Backpack Camo Patterns appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

The post Bo’s Favorite Bags appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

The post Traveling with Bo :: How I Pack appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

But Greg’s numerous activities, from mountaineering and surfing to cycling and skiing, ignited a spark to find the best bag for each activity. Fanned by his 15-plus years in the outdoor industry – with easy access to a variety of heavily discounted or free (carry jackpot!) bags – that spark became a flame and eventually an inferno. More than happy to add fuel to the fire, we asked Greg to tell us more about his hot collection…

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

Well, if we’re talking my first carry piece, it would probably have been a long-gone book bag for elementary school. Most likely a JanSport or Eastpak bag. If we’re talking about the piece I’ve had in my collection the longest, it would have to be my Zo Messenger Bag or Great Pacific Iron Works early 70’s climbing pack. I picked both up used at yard sales because I recognized the labels as being a rare find and just liked how they looked.

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

Not too long after starting to work in the outdoor specialty retail business. I had access to tons of amazing products at serious discount, or sometimes even free. The first shop I worked at sold used goods as well as new, so the opportunity to get hands-on experience with unique carry options was really amazing. I started to regularly rotate out one pack, duffel or bag for another, always looking for the ideal option. For a while, I would give away, sell or exchange a bag for what I deemed an improvement, keeping things in balance and owning just a few. Eventually, I found myself justifying keeping a few more. I was beginning to see the need for diverse carry options for my many different activities. That’s when the problem really began. My varied interests include (or have included) extensive traveling, cycling, fly fishing, surfing, backcountry skiing, snowboarding, climbing/mountaineering, drumming, backpacking, paddling, and raising a family. It’s easy to justify a specific carry option for each activity, right?

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

Over the years, what I look for in a bag has changed in some ways, and stayed the same in other aspects. I used to go for more technical options, and then lighter-weight options, but always gravitating towards US-made product with carry comfort taking priority (that’s when the messenger bags started to go away). These days, I still lean heavily towards durable, US-made backpacks, most often built with classic 500/1000 denier Cordura. I really dig the aesthetics and unique design of some of the more cycling-specific oriented brands (Road Runner, ILE, BaileyWorks).

“It’s easy to justify a specific carry option for each activity, right?“

Necessary features include a decent sized, easy-access outside zip pocket for quick-grab items (keys, wallet, sunglasses), bottle pockets, comfortable harness system, and relatively clean look. Historically I have preferred panel-loading bags (zippered main compartment) for quick and easy access, but have been favoring top loaders and flap packs lately. I appreciate the simplicity and lack of things that can go wrong with this sort of design. Not too much to ask for, right? But, as you folks at Carryology are well aware, this can be more challenging than one would think. 

Do you have a certain fetish? A brand crush?

Fetishes, well, I already mentioned classic Cordura materials in bags. I love how amazingly durable these materials can be, as well as the character it takes on over time. Brand crush, well that’s always changing as well when I discover brands along the way. BaileyWorks out of New Hampshire is a long-time favorite. Their bags are about the most bomber bags I’ve ever come across, and still a small, made-to-order operation. I recently discovered Road Runner bags out of LA. They are also producing extremely tough products on a small scale, with smart design and looks. Topo Designs out of Colorado is another favorite.

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

Ah yes, the “Why didn’t I grab that bag when I had the chance.” There have been a few, but a Dana Design pack when they were still made in Bozeman stands out. I had a number of opportunities to pick up one of their bags, but never did, and then they were gone. I know Mystery Ranch keeps the tradition alive, but there was something about some of those classic Dana packs that I miss.

“[I] have been favoring top loaders and flap packs lately. I appreciate the simplicity and lack of things that can go wrong with this sort of design.“

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

ROAD RUNNER ANYTHING PACK, MED (ALL OPTIONS) = My current EDC/bike commute bag. Custom-made in LA, waterproof, great organization, materials and looks.

GREAT PACIFIC IRON WORKS “FISH PACK” =  Early 70’s pre-Patagonia brand rucksack. Named for the odor that still permeates it.

ZO BAG MESSENGER = One of the original messenger bag brands from the mid 80’s, I think. Simple, practical, indestructible and all made by Erik Zo.

BAILEY SUPER PRO MED = Messenger bag. Great over-the-shoulder carry system

BAILEY CITI PACK = Larger capacity bike commute bag. Bomber.

BAILEY POUCH (My camera bag)

BAILEY WHALEMOUTH DUFFEL, CAMO MED = Weekend trip bag in cool pattern

TOPO KLETTERSACK  22L, all-black Ballistic Cordura = My go-to do anything pack

GREGORY TARGHEE 25 = Backcountry ski pack

BLACK DIAMOND BANDIT = Small ski pack

CAMELBAK MILSPEC M.U.L.E. = Mountain bike hydration

BLACK DIAMOND QUANTUM = Multi-day backpacking pack made with Xpac fabric

PATAGONIA BLACK HOLE DUFFEL 60L = Go-to gear hauler

PAT HYBRID FISHING PACK/VEST = Unique specialty rig for fly fishing

PAT FISHING DUFFEL = Dual compartment duffle. One side waterproof, the other mesh so wet things can dry out during transport.

PAT MLC = Go-to carry-on luggage piece that converts to a backpack

MOUNTAINSMITH BIG-ASS ROLLING BAG = Everything goes in it for extended travels.

MOUNTAINSMITH WORLD CUP = Unusual design US-made late 80’s Cordura 500 daypack

SEALLINE URBAN PACK, MED = Great waterproof pack for bike commuting and paddling

ILE SADDLE BAG = Holds the essentials for flat tire fix, plus its Multi-cam pattern is cool

OSPREY DAYLITE (40th ANNIVERSARY PROMO EDITION) = Great for day trips on the road

MYSTERY RANCH SWEET PEA = Bomber daypack/overnight bag

PATAGONIA SURFBOARD BAG = Padded and made with reflective metallic fabric so wax doesn’t melt

JANDD SNOWBOARD BAG = Long discontinued, bomber bag carries two boards and converts to a backpack

How do you store your collection?

The collection is mostly stored in large Rubbermaid containers and on hooks in my “gear cave”. The hooks are mostly occupied by bags that are in frequent rotation, are drying out, or contain gear that gets transferred to whatever I happen to be carrying that day. Most often daypacks, fishing setups, cycling and ski packs. I always keep my current EDC bag loaded up near the front door.

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

I lived out of one relatively small pack for a month on my honeymoon in Ecuador. It was a 30L Arc’teryx pack that I had used for years on climbing and overnight camping trips. During this amazing adventure, the bag experienced backs of pick-ups, roofs of buses on very sketchy roads, shoved under seats, dog attacks, stomach bugs, near altitude sickness and dehydration, SO much mud, sandy beaches, rotten taxis, amazing hikes, rainy mountain bike rides, ornery pack horses, riot police, volcanoes, over-friendly Alpacas and local children, culinary delights – all the while stuffed to seam-breaking capacity. It had to be permanently retired after that trip. I believe it made the voyage home in a plastic garbage bag. That’s not a criticism of the pack, but is a testament to its amazing durability and comfort after the intense abuse it suffered. Like letting go of some very well used, high-quality socks that have seen all the trail they can take, and well, just need to go away.

“I lived out of one relatively small pack for a month on my honeymoon in Ecuador.”

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

When you’ve lived through disaster that destroyed your home, you don’t really want to imagine another one, let alone what bag to grab. I suppose it would be whatever bag I was carrying that day, as it would be near the front door.

What’s next on the wish list?

Wish list, well I can’t believe I’m saying this, but I’m pretty darn satisfied with my quiver options at this point. But, I’m always on the lookout for that elusive unicorn…

The post Bag Collectors :: Greg Davis appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.