You’ve heard the term before; tactical backpack.  It’s hard to avoid, in fact.  It’s impossible to deny that “tactical” packs are a trend that isn’t going away any time soon in the carry world.  In fact, at this point it may not even be a trend, but one of the pillar groups.  How did this happen?  Well, as long as there has been military, there have been people who want to use the gear for their civilian lives (the common day tshirt is a perfect example of gear popularized by military design and use).  And just to be clear, civilians using military gear is awesome.  As long as you’re not going around claiming you’re a soldier when you’re not.  That’s not cool.  Otherwise, feel free to enjoy the benefits of these awesome packs and gear.  In one way or another, you’ve already paid for them via taxes!

Photo by Senior Airman Tryphena Mayhugh

What is the point of a tactical backpack?

People are drawn to this rugged gear for good reason.  Packs, clothing, and kit that is designed specifically for armed forces are all meant to go to war.  Literally.  They’re focused on strength, durability, modularity, high activity, and premium quality materials/hardware.  Fashion is not even considered.  It’s all pure function here.  That being said, some may think tactical packs are a bit loud/attention-grabbing, so they’ll want something a bit more subdued.  Everyone has their own preferences, which we dig.

Long story short, in this particular case the term “tactical” is essentially another word for “military” or “military-inspired”.

What is MOLLE?

One of the things that makes a pack visually scream “tactical” is the MOLLE webbing (and in some cases, laser cut fabrics with MOLLE “holes”).  MOLLE is short for “Modular Lightweight Load-carrying Equipment”.  The whole purpose of the MOLLE system is for attachment of external gear and pouches.  If Brand A has a MOLLE backpack, you should be able to put accessories on from Brand B, Brand X, onto infinity.  It’s a standard that brands follow worldwide.  MOLLE is awesome because you can build out your pack based on what you’re doing.  A trip to the market versus 10 days in Southeast Asia can make your MOLLE backpack look wildly different.  MOLLE webbing can also be on the inside of a pack for organizing less used gear or expensive gear that you want to keep on the interior.

As the title states, this is a breakdown of tactical EDC packs for beginners.  An introduction.  So let’s dig in and explore what makes one functional tactical pack great versus a cheap knock-off for fashion’s sake.

Authentic (military surplus) is best, right?

The military uses this actual pack in combat, so the real deal must be the best, right?  Not necessarily.

Photo by Senior Airman Tryphena Mayhugh

Yes, *actual* military packs are awesome for a lot of reasons.  But sometimes other brands and design teams do it better.  One issue is that these original packs are indeed actually made for war.  They’re made to fit an M18A1 Claymore Mine or a Single Channel Ground and Airborne Radio System (SINCGARS)…probably not necessary for your run to the coffee shop or even a Tough Mudder race.  These packs probably don’t have a pocket for your iPhone 26 or your VR headset for your pet Samsquamch.

Not to mention, we all know how cheap the government can be.  Government runs the armed forces.  They write the checks for the gear.  Sometimes they’ll cut corners (imagine that), and use heavier material, cheaper hardware, etc.  Sometimes it just isn’t possible to make something as nice as it should/could be, because they need to make 20 million units of them versus 200 units.

I own a lot of military surplus packs from various timeframes.  One of my favorite packs in my collection is a WWII era backpack made in Switzerland for Swiss soldiers. The material is still rainproof today.  While it might be heavy and clunky, it was ultralight back in its time (and there are a few examples of this pack that are actually made out of Swiss pony fur, for wintertime warfare).  Another favorite is an old leather WWI map case.  And there’s just something about the East German “rain camo” fabric used on a couple of vintage packs I own.

These packs are all cool and I can adapt my gear to fit into all of them, which is fine, but not ideal.  Generally they’re too big, as they’re meant to carry a lot of gear into the field.  They’re too heavy, since soldiers are usually young men/women in peak physical shape.  Etc.  Long story short, authentic is not always best.  So let’s see what to look for when hunting down your new tactical EDC backpack.

What to look for in a tactical backpack?

Materials:

We’re material geeks over here.  And generally military tactical packs all should be made from quality fabrics that can take a beating.  As a general rule of thumb, they should be made from 500D – 1200D CORDURA nylon fabric (or better).  Not 200D.  Not Kodra.  Not polyester.  This is an easy one.  Some packs may even use nicer materials, such as X-Pac (VX) fabric.  Usually these fabrics are heavier (not always), but they’re weather resistant and take a fall down a mountain or twenty.

Zippers/Hardware:

Look for brand names listed in the pack’s specifications.  Brands to look for are YKK, TiZip, ITW Nexus, AustriAlpin, and more.  If you haven’t heard of the brand (or if it’s intentionally left off), it probably doesn’t have a reputation of having a great track record.  These parts can make or break (literally) a pack, so you’ll want something you can trust.  If you’re deep in the wilderness and a buckle that keeps your shoulder straps attached busts on you, you’re out of luck.

Construction:

This one is tough.  Anyone can say “built tough” or “high-quality construction”.  But these details can be hidden away from the untrained eye.  What this really means might be “brand reputation”.  If you’re able to find out what kind of thread they’re using, search for nylon thread.  And look for brands that are using a solid third party factory or have their own factory under their own roof.  All of this information isn’t normally quite public, so the best bet here is to dig through reviews on our site and other websites that can help you learn more about the products and brand’s reputation for quality.  Take all reviews with a grain of salt, as you’re well aware.  Lastly, a solid warranty never hurts!

Comfort:

Are tactical backpacks comfortable? Well, many brands have their own proprietary suspension system to transfer weight from your shoulders down to your hips.  They’re all genius in their own ways.  Some rely just on super comfortable shoulder straps, which is fine if you don’t plan to load out your pack with tons of weight.  While I have my favorites, I have my own body type and preferences.  So this one requires a bit of legwork on your end.  Try on the packs, see if you can load them down with weight, and have a feel.  Find what works best for you for your requirements, body type, and comfort preferences.

Access:

How do you get into the pack and its compartments?  Is there one massive cavernous compartment?  Are there a few smaller easy-to-access zippered pockets to store your small gadgets?  Is it a clamshell that opens to expose everything inside?  Does it have a 3-ZIP (Tri-Zip) style opening?  There are pros and cons to all of these.  I lean towards a full clamshell opening and Tri-Zip myself, as I find they provide excellent and easy access to everything inside.  Rolltops provide a large main compartment but can be a bit cumbersome when you’re armpit deep in your pack’s opening that looks like a largemouth bass’s mouth, trying to get your fingertips on a Tic Tac mint you dropped at the very bottom.

Country of Manufacture:

This is one tough nut to crack.  And I’m going to set the record straight here.  Some folks swear by Made In USA packs.  Some folks want a pack that’s manufactured in their own country.  Some folks don’t care.  The simple answer is…it doesn’t matter.  Yes, I said it.  I know some factories in Vietnam that are MUCH better at making packs than dozens of USA factories.  On the inverse, I know some USA factories that are better than Vietnamese factories.  For the US military, it is a requirement that the packs be made in the USA (via the Berry Amendment).  So unless you’re an actual enlisted soldier, this shouldn’t matter to you.  Because in that case, you’re being issued your gear anyway.  It really depends on the pride that each individual factory and each individual sewer puts into their product.

Aesthetics:

Yes, I talked about how military/tactical packs are made for function.  They are.  But you’re more than likely a civilian walking around on urban city streets.  So this is really up to you.  How loud do you want to be?  These packs are visually covered in MOLLE webbing which translates to “military” to most onlookers, whether they realize why or not.  Most of these packs come in my favorite color, black.  In my opinion, black is the best way to rock a tactical pack without shouting “military”!  But they also come in a variety of other colors and camouflage patterns.  A subdued olive drab green can look super handsome and MultiCam (or MultiCam black) can be fun too.  Just think about this before you commit to the purchase.  Even with my all-black Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed, I’ll have people casually ask me when/where I served while I’m in the security line at airports.

Additionally, do you like Velcro patches?  These are generally called “morale patches”.  Inspired from actual armed forces with a civilian spin on them.  Some people think they’re cool and funny.  Some think they’re tacticool.  There are hundreds of manufacturers of fun and serious patches to adorn your pack.  Depending on which vibe you’re going for, look for a panel or strip of female/loop Velcro on the exterior of the pack.  Some brands even offer packs in Velcro-less options, to maximize your “gray man” status.  Check out some morale patches from our friends over at ITS Tactical.

What will YOU be using your tactical backpack for?

Now that we’ve knocked out the basics, what exactly do you have planned for yourself?  What expectations do you have from your pack?  Do you want a pack that is designed to go to war, knowing that you will only carry your laptop and office supplies to the office?  That’s totally fine.  But it’s different than someone who might be using a tactical pack solely for GORUCK Challenges.  When it comes down to it, if you’ve checked off all the boxes above, it really comes down to volume and organization.

Volume:

Generally speaking, 15-26 liters is what most people are looking for in an EDC backpack for an even mix of office use, light hikes, coffee shop runs, errand running, and 1-3 day trips.  So if this is your sweet spot, then focus on a pack that has 15-26 liters.  Though some may want upwards to 30 liters for their EDC bag.

Are tactical backpacks good for travel? Yes, they can be, assuming their aesthetic will fit in with where you’re going. Often they provide good access and organization for your gear. But if you want a tactical pack to travel the world with or go hiking for 3 weeks on end, a larger volume is obviously better.  More gear = more volume.  There are many schools of thought here; some can handle as low as 26 liters for these epic voyages, but most will want 30-60 liters.  That really depends on you, your practice of minimalism versus hoarding, your gear, and your activity.

Organization:

Here’s what really makes a pack “for you” or not.  In the past, I used to love more pockets, more zippers, more hidden compartments.  I could fit X into this pocket, then Y into this separate area, and then Z into its own compartment.  The thing is, separate pockets and compartments mean extra construction = extra cost, extra material/hardware = extra weight/cost, and it takes some impressive memory skills if you swap out packs as often as I do.

Personally I lean more towards Inception Packing, with multiple visually recognizable organizer pouches.  I prefer one large compartment for bulky items with maybe 1 (maybe 2) extra pockets for small stuff that I want to access quickly.  That’s what I like in my setup.  And I recommend this for most.

But maybe you like having one pack that you don’t swap out.  So this is where dedicated pocketing can be intriguing for some.  Just remember, gear advances in technology.  Gear grows and shrinks in size depending on technology.  So that pocket for an iPhone 4 definitely won’t fit the new iPhone 8 Plus.  In this case, try fitting some of your must-have gear in the pack before committing.

Best Tactical EDC Backpack Recommendations:

Mystery Ranch ASAP ($300)

There was no chance this wasn’t making the list.  We write about this one a lot (example one and example two).  This one hits all of the marks in flying colors, with the 3-ZIP access, made in USA, from 500D Cordura nylon fabric, using YKK zippers and ITW hardware, and one super comfortable Futura Yoke suspension, made by one of the most trusted brands on earth with one of the best reputations for quality ever.

It has one large compartment and one top zipper for accessories.  I’ve used this pack traveling the world and still can’t believe it’s only 15 liters.  When necessary, I’ve added external MOLLE backpack pouches on the exterior to fit even more gear.  If you like this pack, but don’t care about MOLLE and don’t care about Made in USA, you can get the stripped down version (the Urban Assault) for only $139!

Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed ($345)

You get a whole lot of pack for the price here, as you can see here.  Made in the USA with 1000D Cordura nylon and so much modularity, it’s practically a Transformer.  It’s a bit larger, coming in at 22 liters.  With a full clamshell opening, you’ll have access to all your gear you shove in there too.  This one also checks all the boxes with YKK zippers, ITW hardware, a HDPE frame sheet to make it comfortable, and so much more.

I’ve seen photos of these packs loaded up for serious excursions, but also stripped down to be super slick and clean.  Whatever your preference may be, this pack can adapt to you.  Likely the “smartest” pack on this list, if that makes sense.  Additionally, TAD makes my favorite MOLLE backpack pouch/accessory which mates perfectly with the FPL backpack; the OP1 (available here, review here).

GORUCK GR1 ($325)

Yep, you knew this one would be on here.  The cult classic…the GORUCK GR1.  Now also coming in at a slightly smaller 21 liters, this size is nearly perfect for EDC (versus the slightly larger original at 26 liters).  It also comes in my favorite color, black.  Back when this pack was first released, it only came in black, which I thought was super rad.  1000D Cordura nylon stitched together in the USA makes this pack a favorite for durability.

It has one massive main compartment with some mesh organization/pockets in there and then one simple zippered pocket on the outside.  The dream layout in my opinion.  What’s nice about this pack is there are (only) 3 rows of MOLLE webbing for attaching additional pouches.  Minimal but functional.

Arc’teryx LEAF Assault Pack 30 ($399)

Both the most expensive and largest (30 liters) pack on this list from Arc’teryx’s LEAF (Law Enforcement and Armed Forces) division, but it definitely deserves to be here.  The renamed Khard 30, now called the Assault Pack 30.  The silhouette of this is just magic.  But it’s not all looks here.  This pack is made from 500D Cordura HT (high tenacity) nylon fabric, with YKK zippers, and ITW hardware.  Removable hipbelt and aluminum frame stays for full suspension customization.  I love the access and organization here.

A full “3D clamshell” gives you deep unobstructed access to everything inside.  Female/loop Velcro inside for attachment of modular pouches and pods.  Two side zippered pockets and a top lid pocket for organizing small items.  Thin vertical MOLLE webbing allows you to attach gear to the outside, but it doesn’t actually look like MOLLE which is nice to blend in.  Speaking of blending in, Arc’teryx spent a whole lot of time on their “wolf” colorway, which blends into almost all urban environments.  Hello, Gray man.

Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. ($198)

Love the lines and the access of this pack.  It’s got all the checkmarks, without looking overly tactical.  That’s probably because they’re using the MOLLE in a tactful manner, vertically down the shoulder straps.  Rather than use MOLLE on the rear-facing exterior, they have elastic cordage for additional storage, with nylon loops to attach gear to.

Optional super comfortable padded hipbelt.  500D Cordura nylon, YKK zippers, made in the USA (California specifically).  This has the silhouette of an outdoor pack with all the features of a military pack.  We dig this pack.

Vertx Gamut 2.0 ($242)

This pack can fill up 25 liters without a problem.  This is a really clever pack on the list, almost a “best of” all the packs here.  It has a “3D clamshell” that opens flat similar to the Assault Pack 30, giving you uninhibited access to a large main compartment as well as a built-in admin pocket towards the top.  This has loads of Velcro on the inside, for the attachment of modular pouches for organization.

One thing you’ll notice is that there are no MOLLE webbing strips visible on this pack…but I did mention this is a clever pack.  You simply pull down on a discreet loop on the front outside and the entire panel drops down to expose several rows of MOLLE that will give you endless setups.  While they only list “nylon” for the materials (the other details are also mysteriously left off), this example makes up for it with loads and loads of organization/features and great reviews from die-hard fans.

5.11 Tactical RUSH12 2.0 ($105)

A budget-level pack that is packed (pun) with a load of features seen in some of the pricier options above.  While it’s not made with genuine Cordura nylon and it is made in Asia (if that matters to you), it is indeed made with 1050D nylon to take some serious abuse.

High-quality and beefy YKK zippers are present.  And while I prefer the minimalistic compartments, this one boasts 16 individual compartments, including a fleece-lined sunglasses pocket.  It will swallow up to 24 liters of EDC gear.  Definitely a solid contender for just over a bill.

Maxpedition Falcon-II ($136.04)

While I’m not a fan of this pack when at full price ($179), it generally can be found for much less.  At its retail MSRP, you’re just too close to some serious packs to justify saving $30-$40.  But at that lower price point, it is definitely a contender.

It uses off-brand 1050 ballistic nylon fabric, YKK zippers, and Duraflex hardware to keep things going strong.  This one also has several pockets, so if that is your particular thing, you might dig this option.

In Conclusion…

Sure, none of us will be storming Normandy (thankfully because of those who did before).  Most of us will beat up our gear along adventures, travels, daily life, and more.  And for those customers who demand the best, we can use these rugged, durable, and modular tactical packs that were directly inspired from military gear that is designed for the harshest of all conditions.

So now that we’ve covered the basics of tactical EDC packs, what do you think?  What’s your vibe?  Are you thinking a subdued black colorway is your thing?  Or do you lean towards the MultiCam camouflage pattern?  Will you strap MOLLE backpack organizer pouches all over the exterior or interior based on different activities?  This list of suggested packs is nowhere close to near a complete list of everything out there; what are some of your favorite tactical EDC backpacks that aren’t listed here?

*Feature image by PFC Jamill Ford

*The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

This article was originally published on 5 October 2017 and recently updated.

The post A Beginner’s Guide to Tactical EDC Backpacks and MOLLE appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Well, there are. We’ve scouted out solid packs like the GORUCK GR1 that give it a good run for its money, delivering on military vibes, ruggedness and versatility…

5.11 Tactical RUSH24 (US$ 129.99)

If organization is a priority, and you’re happy with a strong tactical vibe to your gear, the RUSH24 should definitely be on your radar. A host of interior and exterior pockets and webbing attachment points give you great flexibility to tailor carry setups to different needs. It’s also hydration bladder compatible, ruggedly built with 1050D nylon, and offers a wide-opening main compartment for quick and easy access. This pack comes in at 37L, with a 24L and 55L option also available.

The Brown Buffalo Conceal Pack (US$ 139)

Available in small runs in a range of colors, the Conceal Pack is a durable pack crafted with water-resistant 1000D Nylon CORDURA® and water-resistant YKK zippers. Made in California, the pack features a concealed side zip pocket for quick-access essentials, along with a choice of interior organization for pens, notebooks, a laptop or tablet, keys and other work and EDC items.

CamelBak HAWG Hydration Backpack (US$ 139.11)

This adaptable backpack keeps you easily hydrated on the go with an included hydration bladder, while also handling a range of day-to-day or short travel needs. The 23L pack is made with 500D CORDURA® fabric and features two compartments for organization, along with plenty of attachment points to secure quick-access items externally.

First Tactical Tactix 0.5-Day Backpack (US$ 159.99)

With a variety of internal and exterior pockets, Hook & Hang Thru compartment and no shortage of attachment points, this pack gives you plenty of options for customizing your carry setups to changing needs and preferences. The clamshell-style opening lets you easily pack and retrieve items, while the durable build takes demanding use in its stride.

Vertx EDC Gamut (US$ 199.95)

The EDC Gamut offers a thoughtful blend of great access, organization and low-key aesthetics that blend into diverse settings. Front panel organization, wide-opening main and secondary compartments, multiple pockets, and tech storage for up to a 15″ laptop make this a versatile bag for work and play.

EVERGOODS Civic Panel Loader (US$ 229)

The sleek style and versatile access makes this 24L pack a stylish choice for city use. But its durable, water-resistant build is tough enough to take on outdoor environments too. The pack features a clamshell-style main compartment, top and side carry handles, multiple pockets for organizing your gear, padded storage for a 15″ laptop, and hydration bladder compatibility.

Triple Aught Design FAST Pack Litespeed (US$ 245)

Extremely tough and adaptable, the FAST Pack Litespeed shares a lot of the GR1’s features. It’s built in the USA with 1000D CORDURA® fabric, is hydration bladder compatible, offers a clamshell-style main compartment for easy packing and access, and provides a range of pockets and webbing attachment points for organization. However, the 22L FAST Pack Litespeed has a more tactical exterior aesthetic than the GR1, which is something to bear in mind if you’re looking for a bag that won’t stand out in urban settings.

Triple Aught Design Axiom 18 Pack (US$ 245)

If you’re keen on a TAD pack but want more understated urban styling that suits work and play, consider the Axiom 18 Pack. The weatherproof pack includes a front admin pocket and further quick-access pockets for organizing smaller essentials. There’s also separate front storage for dirty items or fast access to items like outer layers. Additionally, the back of the pack offers separate storage for up to a 13″ laptop. The main compartment features a clamshell-style opening, fits up to a 15″ laptop, and includes Helix attachment points for securing accessories and other items.

Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack (US$ 260.10)

The S.H.A.D.O. 28L backpack is a versatile bag that finds a good balance between urban and outdoor functionality. Rugged enough to embrace the outdoors but still understated enough to suit a lot of urban environments, the pack features dual clamshell-style compartments for general and EDC storage. An exterior cinch cord, daisy chain and pockets keep essentials within easy reach, and the main compartment includes a padded laptop sleeve. Made in the USA with 500D CORDURA® fabric, the pack features a bright orange lining for easier visibility and is also hydration bladder compatible.

Kifaru Urban Zippy (US$ 300)

The Urban Zippy works well as both an EDC and travel pack. A useful range of organization options keep smaller items tidy and within easy reach, while a cinch cord and compression straps allow you to secure bulkier items externally. The functional design is backed up by durable US-made construction featuring 500D CORDURA® fabric.

Mystery Ranch 3 Day Assault CL (US$ 375)

Looking for a tough hauler that embraces outdoor and urban needs? This hard-wearing 30L pack is well up to the task, made in the USA and built to take a beating. The 3-ZIP closure provides fast access to the main compartment, with a laptop sleeve that also doubles as storage for a hydration bladder. And with exterior pockets and webbing, you can easily add additional items as required.

The post Alternatives: Packs like the GORUCK GR1? appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

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Peak Design Everyday Backpack

The Everyday Backpack is carry at its apex. With its intuitive, simple and clean design it’s easy to see why this is the most successful bag Kickstarter to date. And to be real, this is something that’s changed the game.

A supreme ‘crossover’ bag, this weatherproof pack excels just as well in everyday use as it does during photography sessions or on the move. From photographers to travelers, to commuters and adventurers, this pack nails crazy sets of carry needs.

So how does it do it? Let’s roll it out. It’s ultra-customizable. Features such as configurable FlexFold dividers allow for customized organization, flipping and folding to suit any gear combination you can throw at it. It’s expandable, with a multi-catchpoint MagLatch closure enabling the top of the bag to broaden and swallow more. It carries inside and out, with configurable tension straps that are sweetly hidden away but then latch to its frame to help lug those large and awkward items.

Finally, next-level access: a MagLatch opening provides top entry while duel side access allows for lightning fast hands-to-gear when time is of the essence. But what makes this bag truly worthy though is that all of these useful features are combined harmoniously in a way that makes sense. It’s just so darn smart.

Congratulations, Peak Design. You’ve built a game changer.

Arc’teryx Bora AR 63

The Bora AR 63 is an excellent example of Arcteryx’s commitment to continuously pushing technical design forward. As you move, your back length changes. The pack’s RotoGlide hipbelt adjusts to these changes by gliding up and down as well as rotating from side to side, in the process reducing chaffing and improving balance. The pack also features GridLock shoulder straps that are adjustable in width and height to enable a custom fit. And of course, being Arc’teryx, these excellent comfort features are complemented by solid construction that ensures durability in demanding use environments. When you discover a way to significantly improve carry comfort, the world takes note. Kudos, Arc’teryx.

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Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack 28L

The S.H.A.D.O. is a tactical pack that’s equally at home in outdoor wildernesses or roaming on urban streets. This California-made pack combines ruggedness and performance, allowing it to adapt to changing needs and keep up wherever the action leads. The bright orange lining boosts interior visibility and can assist with emergency signalling. The bag’s dual compartments feature clamshell-style openings for quick and easy access to gear, while a mix of pockets and attachment points keep items tidy and within easy reach. Slip a laptop in and store your EDC for the commute, or hook up a hydration bladder and head for the hills. Adventure to everyday carry to overnight trips…the S.H.A.D.O. Pack handles them all. Great job, Prometheus Design Werx!

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Arc’teryx LEAF Assault 30

Arc’teryx Blade 20

Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack 28L

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Alpha One Niner Recon 9 EVADE

The EVADE was one of the first proper crowd sourced packs, starting on the Everyday Carry Forums and becoming a hit with the EDC community as a whole. It’s sleek, comfy and wonderfully organised. There’s also a range of fabric and colorway options to suit various environments and personal tastes.

Triple Aught Design Azimuth Pack

The Azimuth excels as a lightweight and versatile bag that’s good for carrying the essentials, whether on a day hike or hitting the city streets. Its packable design makes it convenient for carrying in luggage or a larger weekend or day bag. The pack provides handy top and side access, a choice of pockets to stash your gear, and is also hydration bladder compatible.

Prometheus Design Werx S.H.A.D.O. Pack

Patrick Ma’s first bag offering since departing from Triple Aught Design, this pack was a hit with the active community as a multi-use adventure pack. The S.H.A.D.O. V2 is out, and improves on a couple of key points from V1. Two clamshell-style compartments provide easy packing and access to gear, a range of pockets and exterior attachment points are on hand for organization, and the design is versatile enough to move between EDC and travel use.

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If you’re feelin’ any of this stellar recommendations, click over to the Carry Awards and log your vote. 

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Take 1000D Cordura and mil-spec webbing and just make it big – that’s the whole recipe, right? NOT! The devil is in the details. So let’s have a quick look at the Prometheus Design Werx CaB-2 Tote Bag:

Who It Suits

This bag immediately puts a big smile on the face of an adventurer, outdoorsman, hunter, etc. It’s well made, bombproof, the right size, US made and priced below $50. The CaB acronym stands for Carry-all-Bag – and it really carries ALL I need to. I found it perfect for toting kindling and bigger pieces of firewood, all kinds of camp gear, ropes, tools, groceries, boots…anything! From my home to my car, from shop to truck, from 4×4 to cabin, etc. It’s great to have at home, at camp, or in your car. And for me it’s really A MUST around a country cabin.

“I found it perfect for toting kindling and bigger pieces of firewood, all kinds of camp gear, ropes, tools, groceries, boots…anything!”

Who It Doesn’t

An alpine climber during a summit attack. Other than that…it’s for you! You get the picture, I guess?

The Good

Materials are important so yeah, 1000D and mil-spec are good. But also quality thread and manufacturing are important, so it’s good to know CaB-2 is made in the USA, California to be specific. It’s relatively big but not too big to be carried comfortably – on paper: 18″ x 13″ x 8″ (just the bag). In real life the CaB-2 is bigger than you think. Here it is next to the 28L S.H.A.D.O pack – a similar size but thanks to the regular shape it can swallow even more, roughly 30+ liters depending on the actual shape. The more ‘rounded’ the shape of the loaded bag, the more it actually holds, up to about 35 liters (my estimation). There are short carry straps for quick grab and go, and longer webbing straps for easy shoulder carry. The blaze orange color of the short straps is a great idea too, that way it’s easy to pair straps without even thinking about it (short with short). Also notice how the long webbing straps go around and also under the bag…that way the CaB-2 is a serious weight hauler – even stuffed with fresh hard wood (40-45 lbs easily) it survived flawlessly.

“There are short carry straps for quick grab and go, and longer webbing straps for easy shoulder carry.”

What I really like about PDW’s take on the tote bag is the Velcro panel. It’s not a practical thing, I know, but I’m a morale patch junkie so a patch panel (4×4 inches) is such a refreshing idea on a tote bag for me. Another (practical) aspect, which separates the CaB-2 from other totes on the market, is the total number of pockets. First of all there are huge front and back flat pockets – spacious enough for magazines, an iPad, or even a hand-saw or mid-size axe (Hultafors Hunter’s Classic Axe shown).

“I’m a morale patch junkie so a patch panel (4×4 inches) is such a refreshing idea on a tote bag for me.”

Smaller side pockets are also well designed. The admin pocket with divided space is great for small items like a folding Lapplander saw, knife (fixed or folded), pen, multitool, etc. And you’ll find a single-compartment deep pocket on the other side, which is big enough for stuff like work gloves, a small hatchet, hammer, pliers or other tools. And check out the stitching reinforcements on the admin dividers – that’s real attention to detail.

“Another (practical) aspect, which separates the CaB-2 from other totes on the market, is the total number of pockets.”

The Not So Good

It doesn’t come in pink (yet!).

Verdict

Handy stuff! I got two for myself and I gave away a couple as gifts. It takes up no space in the trunk of my car and it’s always ready for any hauling action. This is very much a bag you can use every day for a range of carry requirements.

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How has your career up to this point led to the birth of Prometheus Design Werx?

Patrick: Previously with my first brand Triple Aught Design, which I founded in ’97, it was a shot in the dark. I had a vision, but no experience with the “how to’s”. I was like I’m just going to try to make some stuff and sell it. See how it goes. Before I knew it, I mean, it turned into a formal business. I was very lucky to have the right kind of consumers who picked up on the brand, and this was the very beginning of the whole Internet era. It just happened that the types of core consumers who first picked up on what I was doing were a lot of guys in the shadowy special operations realm. They didn’t want to wear the classic US Woodland camo or the stuff that was available. These guys are the ones who wanted to have the functionality of mountaineering-grade equipment and apparel but not in bright conspicuous color palettes commonly available, OR use what was issued and obviously look like they were “Big Army”. They picked up on the types of purpose-driven, subdued palette technical jackets that I was doing, the very functional pants that I was doing, nylon goods, and the other objects such as knives to billet survival items.

“Previously with my first brand Triple Aught Design, which I founded in ’97, it was a shot in the dark. I had a vision, but no experience with the “how to’s”.”

All these design, use case, functional, and color preference realizations I’ve been developing and evolving in my particular personal sort of narrative about lifestyle and a design ethos starting around the age of 10 or 11. I had a mentor-teacher in school around this time when I was living in the Adirondacks, who was a grisly old-school mountaineer. He showed me the whole world of mountaineering, backpacking, rock climbing, backcountry skiing – what our industry now calls “core outdoor” or “mountain sports”, as opposed to what I was already exposed to, which was the hunting-fishing genre, or what is referred to as the “cast and blast or hook and bullet” outdoor segment. Those are the two sort of dividing general categories of outdoor gear in the industry these days. Being exposed to and participating in all these experiences from an early age really helped shape my life to how I create my designs today. This whole world of outdoor activities just really drove home to me the variety and breadth of what you could do outdoors.

And that led into your previous venture?

Patrick: The whole idea of “tactical equipment” as we see it today was in its very nascent sort of stage at that point. I’ve heard some folks say that I really helped usher in what you would call the tactical products category to the general population. Up until then you had your police supply stores, you had what was available in Army-Navy surplus stores and obviously anything that was issued to you if you are in any of our Armed Forces, but I was able to take some of the best of those existing ideas and update and retool them with the advancements from the core outdoor industry. Now the general population, anybody could purchase and use my unique designs with an extra degree of durability, technical performance, and a different and fresh functional aesthetic. The many other products already on the market that perhaps didn’t quite connect with or resonate with my customers, I now provided, offered that voice.

“Up until then you had your police supply stores, you had what was available in Army-Navy surplus stores and obviously anything that was issued to you if you are in any of our Armed Forces, but I was able to take some of the best of those existing ideas and update and retool them with the advancements from the core outdoor industry.”

Apparel styles that people would now describe as the “tactical softshell”, I have been credited for defining, and I would humbly claim as my idea. Taking what was already being produced as a softshell jacket in the outdoor industry, but then applying a lot of the design and functional details from military and law enforcement uniforms and duty wear. Take for instance the flight style bomber that you’re wearing now, that sleeve pocket. Because if you actually had a backpack, vest, or harness on, you can’t easily get to your chest pockets, so sleeve pockets make a lot of sense. You have items here that you can still get to, so applying those functional military-in-origin design details like a sleeve pocket to a technical outdoor jacket was very apropos for today’s user getting to an iPod, smartphone, even lip balm or an energy bar while on the move, in the field, or on the trail. The sleeve pockets, and adding the military-LE loop swatches for hook & loop morale patches to put on modern performance outerwear, nobody I am aware of had done this before for the general population. Obviously military and police have their unit crests, but with my jacket, fleece designs, and also my embroidered “morale patches” any consumer could now individualize and customize how they wanted to represent themselves and their gear; they could show whatever “tribe” they belonged to.

Designing and working with performance fabrics, materials and modern core outdoor fabrication manufacturing techniques hadn’t really yet caught on with Big Army and police suppliers. For me and where I happened to be at the time, it was timing, and the industry and the consumer and the market seemed ready for what I was offering. I just was in a great place to show an audience this type of functional product aesthetic, this design direction. It really caught on and I ran with it until 2010-2011.

“For me and where I happened to be at the time, it was timing, and the industry and the consumer and the market seemed ready for what I was offering. I just was in a great place to show an audience this type of functional product aesthetic, this design direction.”

What are some key insights to your design and your vision for PDW?

Patrick: PDW is a continuing evolution of a singular design vision that is staying true to itself, and as a business model, uncluttered by stodgy corporate dogma. Being able to evolve and holding true to the authenticity about what a brand is, who we are as individuals, what we are passionate about in life, creative freedoms, lifestyle, are all critical and key in being able to do what I/we do. I believe it is necessary to divorce oneself from any work and staffing environment that is counter to those fundamentals if ever found in one. It was incumbent upon myself to create PDW where a shared lifestyle and product vision would flourish and thrive. We’re not about being locked down by old definitions that some might consider. It’s about continuing to blaze your trail, walking one’s own path, staying true and yet looking ahead. PDW is a brand and a breadth of products that are much more pluralistic in how you choose to live your life.

“Being able to evolve and holding true to the authenticity about what a brand is, who we are as individuals, what we are passionate about in life, creative freedoms, lifestyle, are all critical and key in being able to do what I/we do.”

Yeah, we’re shooters. We enjoy that community, I grew up in it, been around it all my life. We go out and we hit the range, train and other opportunities as they present themselves.

When not working and designing-developing new products, we go backpacking, camping with the kids, overlanding, getting out there and doing field projects with people who we know, scientists, geologists, biologists; as often as we can. I’ve had the great fortune of traveling to most of the continents at this point working on field projects typically in wildlife conservation. Most recently we’ve been engaged in anti-poaching work in Latin America. That’s not what you would consider tactical per say, but the equipment-apparel-products we produce still applies. Our products must be rugged and reliable without weighing you down, technical and performance driven, clean styling; they’ve got to withstand traveling on the racks of busses, all manner of airplanes, 4x4s, being able to hike, climb, go through the brush and jungle; the equipment you use has to survive and it’s got to perform for you.

“Our products must be rugged and reliable without weighing you down, technical and performance driven, clean styling…”

How do you differentiate your brand from the rest?

Patrick: The difference I would say, that is really I think the most salient, is that we allow ourselves a greater degree of latitude in regards to how we want to design and then use our products; as opposed to being pigeonholed by what you would constrain by just describing as tactical to hunting, or even backpacking. Each of those descriptives defines a consumer subculture at this point. We’re not interested in being constrained or confined by just utilizing any one of those terms to blanket define who we are. Ultimately, this is adventure gear in the best and broadest sense; to use as you see fit and living a life on your own terms. A life less ordinary. Helping others to help themselves to live a more fulfilled life in the true spirit of adventure at the very core. If you want to use our products to bike-bike-climb, stage a dive, explore an ancient jungle ruin, go shooting, bag a peak, go wheeling, discover an epic new point break, great. If you’re doing private contract work, want to go pursue some rare species of mammal to save in Australia, if you’re a doctor traveling to some remote part of the world to do humanitarian work, to the US Government agencies and elements in DOD we continue to work with, we are a brand that this caliber of user(s) goes to. We’re not big box, we’re not mass production, we’re not stuck in one corner. We strive to create feature-rich designs and use the finest materials. We truly love what we design and make, and using it. A while back a few employees of another brand in our space were lamenting to us how they received an email from their superiors informing the staff of a “mandatory company camping trip” and that they were “required to have fun”. Those of us who were hearing this had a good chuckle over it, then thought to ourselves, what kind of brand would ever have to say that to its employees. PDW is certainly not that. We get out and seek adventure in every aspect of our lives and we’re creating the gear and apparel to do it.

“Ultimately, this is adventure gear in the best and broadest sense; to use as you see fit and living a life on your own terms. A life less ordinary.”

We love the colors found in nature but we tend to punctuate our products with hits of brighter colors in an overall subdued palette as opposed to making it entirely colorful outright. With a lot of these details in our goods, the consumer again can dial in and customize how they want it. Ultimately, these are products that help you with how you want to define your life. The goods you own and use should not define who you are. You define your own life by your actions and deeds. Products and goods should accentuate and accessorize how you want to live that life.

Chris: I think everything that we do is infused with the actuality of our usage of it. I mean look around the room. It’s like when you came in, Patrick pointed out the manual nature of everything that’s here. We’re very manual, tactile designers and craftsmen, and so all of the products that we produce and put out are infused with the fact that we do a great many things by hand and we have a great amount of experience and understanding with a lot of different processes that involve the use of the hands. We’re not the same tea shop. We don’t just generate 3D models of things and have a machine spit them out. We’re fully engaged in the process of what all of these objects become. We touch them. We handle them. If we work with somebody and they’re doing something for us, but we want to take it to the next step further, we do it ourselves. Everything that we make, we understand its usage because we participate on it on many levels, if not all levels.

“We’re very manual, tactile designers and craftsmen, and so all of the products that we produce and put out are infused with the fact that we do a great many things by hand and we have a great amount of experience and understanding with a lot of different processes that involve the use of the hands.”

So as part of your process you actually wear test it yourselves?

Patrick: Absolutely. We don’t make anything that doesn’t speak to ourselves personally and that we wouldn’t use ourselves. If we don’t use it ourselves, it gets tossed out. It doesn’t even see the light of day. If we can’t use what we make, it doesn’t get done. If we don’t love what it is that we’re wearing, using, cutting with, putting stuff into, hiking with, camping with, we’re not going to make it. 

“We don’t make anything that doesn’t speak to ourselves personally and that we wouldn’t use ourselves.”

Chris: And we really do. I mean right now I can go get my pack, open it up and show you. It’s loaded out with tools because I want to see how our product holds up to the daily use of lugging around tools. I have all of the little tools that I would need for anything that we might do here with regard to our hard goods and just things that would help me in any particular situation day-to-day.

In terms of the future of the brand and direction is it to create more timeless, iconic, staple pieces?

Patrick: Yeah. I mean everything that we’re doing right now is core basics. I mean we rock this stuff every day. We’re creating today’s modern classics that are defining our brand and lifestyle. We don’t get behind the flash-in-the-pan garish design trends. We do our thing based on a variety of sensibilities and often unintentionally create our trends in our industry. While our designs are clean and streamlined, they’re never short on features. For example our EDC Shorts, they’re plain-looking shorts but have 11 pockets. These aren’t your big box store type walk shorts.

That’s incredible. Did you design it with everyday carry in mind?

Patrick: Absolutely. These look like a really great pair of tailored Bermuda style shorts but made out of awesome four-way stretch DWR nylon fabric, and the many pockets accommodate your modern user – smartphones, earbuds, pocket knives, multi-tools. There’s a pocket for all that stuff. I mean 11 pockets in these shorts…being able to clip on keys and other little things.

Which brings us to the latest pack from PDW, the S.H.A.D.O.

Patrick: So the S.H.A.D.O. Pack. From the design perspective, you always have to start out with writing down what your top-level criteria are that you want to achieve with that design. So, you can apply it to anything. In this particular case, a backpack. What does it need to have? Well, it needs to have a full Suspension which includes a versatile and removable modular waistbelt. It needs to be able to be Hauled in any number of ways. Oftentimes, when I’m traveling and moving a pack from roof racks, cargo hold, etc. you’ll notice that you only have one handle on a pack to grab. It can be difficult for the porter or for the bus driver. He is the one who will grab it. So being able to grab it from either end with the top handle or the other one on the bottom just allows a lot easier handling when you’re traveling. We want to make sure that that aspect is covered for the user and handler.

“Oftentimes, when I’m traveling and moving a pack from roof racks, cargo hold, etc. you’ll notice that you only have one handle on a pack to grab. It can be difficult for the porter or for the bus driver. He is the one who will grab it. So being able to grab it from either end with the top handle or the other one on the bottom just allows a lot easier handling when you’re traveling.”

And then Access, being able to get your gear quickly. It’s got to be Durable enough but not weigh you down and feel like a burden to carry. There’s some really good backpacks out there. I look at everything. I love packs-bags. I love useful, well designed clothing. I love knives, cars, motorcycles, tools. The packs out there which are, you know, one pound two ounces whatever, and it just won’t last if you’re really out there and travel for a month or more. When we’re out on the field most people spend three days out. When I’m doing my field projects I’m out for weeks, almost a month at a time. Your stuff has to hold up. If it breaks down and you’re in the middle of nowhere you –

Chris: You got nothing.

“It’s got to be durable enough but not weigh you down and feel like a burden to carry.”

Patrick: Then O for Organized. With all the great variety of gear that you can have now as a consumer, multi-tools, batteries to charge up your devices, portable devices, optics, camera equipment, personal effects such as I’m in the middle of nowhere and I can’t make it to my hotel tonight, I’m going to be stuck out in the field. I want to brush my teeth. So, you want to have some of those basic personal effects. So, this pack design took all of these points into consideration for today’s user, and I designed a unique dedicated zippered compartment and optional accessories just to organize one’s EDC gear in a pack without any of it getting in the way.

So the S.H.A.D.O. name for this pack came from those terms in the design criteria and what we were making.

We love it. This is a versatile full-sized daypack for field and EDC. It might be a bit big for some EDCers at 28L, but we wanted to make sure it could handle an overnighter on the trail. We shaved I would say almost half the weight on this pack versus my first daypack I did over 10 years ago. That first pack I did dry-weight without any stuff in it was heavy. It was great for its intended purpose when I designed it almost ten years ago. I’ve moved on, way on. So have my customers.

“This is a versatile full-sized daypack for field and EDC. It might be a bit big for some EDCers at 28L, but we wanted to make sure it could handle an overnighter on the trail.”

The S.H.A.D.O. Pack is a pack that reflects how I live my life now, how I’ve progressed and applied the many lessons learned. It’s way more comfortable in terms of how I want to apply my carry methods in our context now. This pack’s shape is based on many of your modern outdoor alpine packs or summit assault packs as you would call it, its core DNA is an outdoor pack. It’s designed with those considerations, but what makes it unique is that we certainly considered and took into account how everyday carry users wanted to be able to organize all their stuff. This pack here not only has a main compartment. There is a very classic outdoor beavertail. You can put a bump helmet here, bulky rope, a jacket. It’s also a great place to store a tablet or scarf. I always have one with me. Living in San Francisco it can be 80 degrees one day and 50 degrees the next, so it’s always great to have these things with you.

“This pack’s shape is based on many of your modern outdoor alpine packs or summit assault packs as you would call it, its core DNA is an outdoor pack. It’s designed with those considerations, but what makes it unique is that we certainly considered and took into account how everyday carry users wanted to be able to organize all their stuff.”

Chris: Our micro-climate weather can be crazy. Those temperature variances can happen in the course of a day.

Patrick: Yeah, a day. The Gear Trap is reversible. It still accommodates and accepts MOLLE-compatible accessories, which I think is a really smart system and everybody has approached different ways to make improvements on it. I think the only disadvantage at this point with traditional MOLLE is that it’s really heavy. You have to have these straps. These do add weight and make it all work, but in terms of its modularity and its organizational intent, overall it’s really brilliant in its simplicity and execution. For many being able to have the main compartment as a clamshell opening, this is probably the most efficient way to access your equipment at once inside. We have our pack lined with international orange oxford nylon so it’s easy to see the internal contents, and can be used to signal in an emergency. Also inside the main compartment is a padded sleeve for a 15-inch Mac or iPad Pro.

“We have our pack lined with international orange oxford nylon so it’s easy to see the internal contents, and can be used to signal in an emergency.”

Is it padded?      

Patrick: Yeah. It’s padded. Nothing about this pack is, I want to say, is overkill. We wanted it durable, but didn’t want it too heavy at the same time. We want it to be fast and lightweight but still offer organization and storage, and be big on functionality and field ability. What really makes our pack is our EDC Organizer Compartment, which sits behind the main compartment. We have a separate clamshell compartment in the back of the bag where you can go ahead and use what we call the other options such as our EDCO panel. It’s the EDC organizer panel that you mount on the top. All these pouches and third-party brand pouches you see will fit on this organizer and keep things out of the way most of the day and accessible when you want it. Everyone can dial in how they want to organize their EDC items in this compartment. So, if this pack is all buttoned up, what is it that I want to access first and foremost? It’s going to be stored in the top so I have my pens and pencils and things that I use the most here, right? I have my two knives here. If this wasn’t here I’d probably have a battery pack for my charger to charge my phone. If you wanted to get something that you want to have on you, but probably typically would use less frequently, I would have it on the bottom, so then you can go ahead and open the pack all the way. If you’re traveling overnight, that’s where I keep all my charging stuff because you don’t use this typically, but rather maybe every couple of hours. Here I keep a first aid kit which I just want to have with us for camping or hiking.

“We have a separate clamshell compartment in the back of the bag where you can go ahead and use what we call the other options such as our EDCO panel. It’s the EDC organizer panel that you mount on the top.”

What’s the future for this pack?

Patrick: It’s only available now in two colors. We are planning on releasing OD Green and Wolf Gray in January 2017, they are currently in progress. We spent a great deal of time making sure the details are there. So, the hardware, the loop, proprietary stretch fabric.

What makes that special?

Patrick: We have the only US made pack that has stretch water bottle pockets. It’s just a really weird piece of trivia but there is no other US made pack that has stretch fabric water bottle pockets which are found in every single high-end quality pack made today.

That comes in handy. I’m excited to see what else comes out in the near future.

Patrick: Thanks, we have a lot more on deck and this just represents some of what’s to come.

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