Smaller Siblings for Lighter Days

The new Pilot 2L and Pilot 3.5L take everything we love about their larger siblings and shrink it down to a lovely size for single body and lens, or compact shooters. For size reference, I was able to fit a large mirrorless body and any lens except a super telephoto in the 3.5L. The 2L easily fit a compact mirrorless with most reasonably sized lenses. Depending on the size of your gear, and how you want to orient it, both sizes come with a divider which I found handier in the 3.5L.

While the main compartment is where you’ll be storing your camera, the only other built-in storage are slip pockets on the back and front of the bags. Both have a zippered pocket on the backside, with a waterproof zipper. Under the front flap, the 2L has an open top pocket, while the 3.5L uses a zipper like the larger Pilots. You won’t fit much in these compartments, but they’re great for a lens cover or extra SD cards. Extra batteries would probably be better served inside the main compartment using one of Wotancraft’s many inserts.

Mostly everything continues to scream “this is a Pilot”, but the biggest change to the silhouette comes in the form of the removal of the side pockets. It’s a reasonable change, as those pockets start to be unwieldy on such small bags, or just useless if they’re too small. Their removal opened up the opportunity to move the typical PALS of the Pilot series to the sides, where I think they’re much happier on these two. This lets you attach any number of Wotancraft’s wonderful pouches, like a lens cover case or zip pouch. The ability to add more storage is welcome.

The new Pilot 2L and Pilot 3.5L are not only great camera bags, but they’re also great camera cubes! That was one of the most pleasant surprises I came across in my time testing them out. I’m not sure if they were designed with this in mind, but they were easy to shove in any backpack or larger bag and they offered peace of mind with their beefy and well-padded construction. Once you get where you’re going, pull it out and you have a wonderful sling to go about your day with.

Pilot Line Updates for 2022

Not only are we getting new sizes, but we’re getting a few small updates for the entire Pilot line of camera shoulder bags. It goes without saying that these are all welcome updates, and we’re happy to see them become standard features. To put them right in front of you, these updates are a new quick-adjust strap with a very nice red leather pull, and the change to Fidlocks being the default on all models. You’ll see these changes on the Wotancraft Pilot 2, 3.5, 7, and 10.

Adventurous Camera Bags for All Shapes and Sizes

The new Wotancraft Pilot sizes were a nice surprise when we heard about their development. While we’ve obviously sung the praises of the 7 and 10, they are a bit big; full kit-type bags. As cameras and equipment continue to shrink in size rather than grow, the smaller offerings are a smart move. Personally, I’ve fallen in love with the 10L and 3.5L Pilots – they’re the perfect size for those little-bit-extra days, or on the flip side, those little-bit-less days. Goldilocks sizes, if you will.

No matter your kit, it’s now (finally) true that Wotancraft has a bag for every shape and size. Check them out on October 28th, direct from Wotancraft.

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Featured gear:

Garage Built Gear x Carryology Kobold

Bellroy x Carryology Tech Kit

EVERGOODS CAP1

EVERGOODS CAP2

Proof 72-Hour Merino Ultralight Hoodie

Leatherman Skeletool

Polar Breakaway Insulated Bike Water Bottle

Arc’teryx A2B T-Shirt

Filmed using:

Panasonic Lumix DC-G9

Panasonic Lumix G Leica DG Summilux 15mm f/1.7

Tascam DR-10L

Peak Design Travel Tripod

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Key Facts

• Price: $175USD
• Volume: 10L
• Dimensions: External: 215 x 360 x 120mm
• Internal: 190 x 270 x 100mm
• Max. lens length (vertical): 175mm
• Max. lens length (horizontal): 230mm
• Weight: 500g
• Colours: Nightsky (Leather Free), Midnight (Leather Free), Ranger Green (Leather Free)

Who it suits, how have I used it?

If you’re a photographer, this is made for you. Sleek design, excellent materials, and flawless functionality should put this right at the top of your list of considerations.

Who it doesn’t suit

10L is a relatively sizable sling, and when packed out it can be weighty. If you prefer a minimalist look and smaller carry look to their 6L non camera options. If you’re looking for an Everyday Carry sling, this could be too niche for you.

Under the Radar

Bellroy have always been focused on closed loop production, and minimizing their environmental impact. Similarly to the Venture 9L, the foundation of the 10L Venture is their water resistant ripstop nylon. It is robust and lightweight, and so far has handled everything that I have thrown at it and has shed dirt, sand, and rain comfortably. It looks new every time after a quick wipe down. The Venture 10L comes in three colours currently, and I’ve been testing the absolutely gorgeous Nightsky colourway. This rich blue has to be seen to be believed and might be my favourite colour for a bag in a long, long time. 

This updated camera version has a removable padded sleeve too, which is very welcome when carrying the extra weight associated with cameras, lenses, and their accessories. Just like the original Venture 9L, the shoulder strap is removable thanks to the custom duraflex hardware and through this strap design and hardware, it still self compresses when not full. I feel as though the removable strap is even more significant on the camera sling, as it allows this to be used as a camera cube. The opening is accessible from either end thanks to the two way shingleback zipper, and the YKK® AquaGuard zip has kept all of my precious camera equipment dry. This is a gloss zipper, which seems like a smart choice given the longevity and chipping issues that you hear about with the matte version of the same zipper. This is a sling designed for the outdoors after all.

Organisation

The amount of pockets on the Venture camera sling drops from the EDC version, and there are technically only four pockets compared to eleven on the 9L. Two mesh pockets internally, a zippered pocket on the inside lid, and then the front zippered pocket. However, each of these pockets also has a lot of internal slip pocketing. The lid pocket has three slots for batteries or memory cards, is microfiber lined, and has a stretch mesh so you could accommodate larger accessories.

The side pockets are stretchy enough to house a lens or large accessory such as a flash or drone battery, but lay completely flat out of the way if not in use. The front pocket has two stretch mesh slips, which are also microfibre lined, these are meant for lens caps, but I found them to be better for EDC, particularly when paired with the key loop. My wallet, iPhone 13 Pro Max, and keys fit in there comfortably with room to spare. I thought I would miss the extra organisation pockets that lived on the rear wall of the 9L version, but in use, I didn’t want for them. This is definitely more of a specialist sling, but I’ve found it to be plenty useful for EDC in a pinch.

What’s most notably different when you open the sling is the dividers. Designed for any array of equipment, these dividers are attached and ‘float’ on a very similar mesh to the end pockets. There are two dividers, one rigid, and one foldable. The foldable one allows you to create a shelf for a larger gripped body, or to house a smaller APSC lens underneath. I’ve grown to love these dividers as I traditionally find the loud, scratchy, and inflexible dividers of other slings a bit cumbersome. If, like me, you change your loadout on the daily due to your work, traditional camera slings with velcro attachments require a good 10-15 minutes of configuration to make sure that you can fit what you need in the sling. With these attached floating dividers, you just put the body, lens, or drone in the sling and with a quick wiggle, you’re ready to go. Now that I’ve become accustomed to how quick those transitions are, it’s hard to see me going back the other way, particularly for sling carry.

Functionality

Traditionally, I don’t love camera slings. While I see their value, I don’t like walking around with a box on my back. Personally, it took me a while to get on board the sling train, and now that I’m there, I find myself valuing their flexibility and minimalist design. I’ve found most camera slings to be overbuilt to a fault. I understand the premise, to have protection for your equipment, but some are essentially a fortress like box hanging off one shoulder. At that point, it negates the point of carrying a sling and you might as well use your hard-sided gear case or a dedicated camera backpack. The Venture camera sling is the opposite of that for me, it’s padded enough to protect my gear (they are tools, so I don’t baby them too much) but nimble enough, light enough, and flexible enough as I move that I don’t have to roll with a full backpack or case. I love that, because I can be quick on my feet and get to what I need.

The comfort of the Venture 10L is not to be underestimated, I’ve spent full days on my feet with multiple bodies and lenses and I’m yet to experience any significant discomfort. The shoulder pad and extra padding on the rear of the sling really excel here. Not only that, but because the Venture is a soft sided sling, it moves with me, rather than resisting every move or bouncing around on my back like some of the boxier slings out there. In fact, this malleability makes it a joy to work out of. As you can see in the pictures, the wide opening from the aforementioned zipper is truly useful as it gives you excellent access, particularly when using on body while I have my camera in hand. I can leave the sling open and still have access to a secondary lens, body, or accessory.

I’ve used the Venture open on my hip countless times, and it’s now one of my favourite ways to shoot. Infact, I often use the Venture as a “primary” cube (you can remove the strap if wanted) in other backpacks or camera set ups. By that I mean I’ll have my first choice lenses/bodies ready to go, then any extra or less used lens in my backpack. I’ve really enjoyed learning this workflow for both photography and video work.

In terms of what the sling can carry, the answer is a lot. These are some of the different camera configurations I’ve had in the Venture Sling at any one time*:

• 1 x Full frame body, 2 x Lens, 1 x flash, accessories.
• 2 x Full frame body with prime lenses attached, accessories.
• 1 x Full frame body with telephoto lens, accessories.
• 2 x Small Body camera, accessories.
• 1 x APS-C camera, 4 lenses, accessories.
• 1 x Drone, three batteries, remote control, filters. APSC-Camera.

*tripod can always be carried thanks to the useful tripod straps. I’ve also found this a good spot for a jacket or they can be removed completely too if you prefer a cleaner look.

In my eyes, that is incredibly impressive. The floating dividers are the star of the show when it comes to that level of versatility. I’ve always spoken highly of Bellroy’s functionality in their products, and this is another example of a product doing one thing exceptionally well, rather than trying to do five things poorly.

Camera  Heaven?

For me, yes. This is exactly what I hoped for from the day JJ mentioned it to me. It is a refined specialist, and I’m smitten. If you’re looking for an EDC sling, this will do the job in a pinch, but you are better suited to sticking to the original Venture 9L. However, if you’re looking to carry camera, drone, or video gear in a compact set up, I think you’ll be hard pressed to find a better option. The Venture Camera 10L straddles the line of function/fashion very well, and I’m impressed at how it has streamlined my workflow. I’ve used this daily for three months now, and in all the other bags I’ve tested, this has come with me, either in the bag as a cube, or slung over my shoulder as the workhorse.

This is a specialist sling, but a very good specialist. Flexible, both literally and figuratively, with great materials and exceptional function, the Venture Sling Camera 10L is a brilliant evolution of Bellroy’s slings. If you love everything that they stand for, from design through to circularity, and you’re looking for the next addition to your camera carry, I don’t think you can go wrong with this.

The post Bellroy Venture Camera Sling 10L Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

I feel like in the carry community, and consumerist culture at large, we often hear that a company is committed to environmental consciousness. This is often followed by some lofty promises for the far-off future or vague marketing jargon. However, Peak Design has woven its promises throughout every piece of their business. They are already carbon neutral and give 1% of their profits to environmental non-profits, and the Everyday Sling, which we will be looking at in this review, is created out of 100% recycled post-consumer material. Add in the fact that Peak Design’s products are made to last, and you can feel good about purchasing one of their products. 

Who It Suits

The Everyday Sling (10L) is a versatile piece. It is sleek and low profile enough to grab as you run out of the house to run errands, yet when packed thoughtfully, you can make this bag work for a day of running to meetings, working from a coffee shop, or taking photos. Though with a sling bag the functionality can be somewhat limited, the flexible dividers allow for customization. This is a great bag for someone who tends to be rougher on their stuff or lives in a climate with unpredictable weather.

Who It Doesn’t

This bag has a lot to offer, but it may not be the right bag for those who want to be prepared for everything. You are going to need to pair down what you are bringing out for the day, even with the 10L size bag. If you have a large or heavy laptop and plan to use this bag for work, keep looking. Though, I found it to be completely comfortable for casual wear. 

Specifications

• Top: 26 cm (Height) x 42 cm (Width) x 15 cm (Depth)
• Bottom: 26 cm (Height) x 35cm (Width) x 13 cm (Depth)
• Strap Length: 86-172 cm
• 10 Liters (Also available in 3 and 6L capacities) 
• Weight: 
  • Without Dividers: 1.50 lb
  • With Dividers: 1.94 lb
• Materials
  • Outside: 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell
  • Interior: High-visibility grey nylon
  • Hardware: Anodized aluminum and glass reinforced nylon
• Price: $159.95

Design

To me, the sleek design of the Everyday Sling is what really sets this bag above the rest. This V2 has rounded out the edges and the profile of the sling compared to the initial release from 2015. Just unboxing this product, you can tell how well made it is. There is not a cheap stitch on this bag. The outer material (400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell) is thick and durable. The zippers are watertight but do not catch or get jammed. The actual zipper pulls are thick and heavy. The strap is padded and is easily adjusted for size with “no-show” pockets to tuck the unused straps. The velcro dividers stay where they are placed with no chance of shifting. 

It’s not often I find a bag with a design that I would feel comfortable wearing to watch a rugby game in the rain but also bring to a professional meeting. This sling spans both environments effortlessly, and this ties right back into the Peak Design ethos of creating thoughtfully designed bags that you can use forever. 

Features

There are 4 pockets in the Everyday Sling. The outer pocket provides the easiest access and is surprisingly roomy. I was able to fit all of my EDC– Kindle, phone, Airpods, wallet, and dog bags in this pocket without any overlap or cramming. Even when this pocket is stuffed the bag keeps its shape and looks sharp.

The large main cavity includes a laptop or tablet sleeve with a thin layer of padding. When I tested this bag, I was carrying an Ipad Pro (11’) and found it to be really comfortable. You can fit up to a 13” Macbook Pro in the sleeve, but I could see the weight becoming an issue depending on what else you have packed for the day. 

There is another internal zippered pocket within the main volume. This pocket is long and shallow across the top of the bag and has some smaller individual stretch pockets within it. This pocket is perfect for smaller items that you do not want to have to dig for such as chargers, camera SD cards or extra batteries, chapstick, or cash. 

The rest of this cavity can be used to fit your needs. The dividers can be arranged in countless ways to make sure your camera gear is snug and safe, to separate a shorter water bottle from your other items, or to maximize space. The dividers have a fold that creates a shelf and allows you to stack items on top of one another with a layer of protection in between. This is great if you are carrying multiple lenses and want to keep them separate and secure.

There are two cord hook carrier straps that can be added to the outside of the bag for carrying a tripod, yoga mat or even a down jacket creating slightly more space and the opportunity to bring this bag into climates where layers are a must. 

I recently used this bag while working from a coffee shop between meetings. I used a divider to keep a small water bottle standing up and filled the rest of the bag with my iPad, an extra layer, snacks, a notebook, and a travel watercolor set. I still had room left. If you pack with care, you can fit more than enough for a day out in this sling. If you prioritize a low profile over storage space check out the 3 liter or 6 liter options. 

Performance

Full transparency, I did not expect to like this bag as much as I did. I consider myself a backpack person. I struggle with neck pain and refuse to wear racerback shirts because of it. I thought I was setting myself up for discomfort when I first took this bag out for a spin. I could not have been more wrong. I’m yet to decide whether the credit should go to the padded strap or the weight distribution of the design, but this bag was really comfortable. 

It also quickly showed me where it outperformed a backpack- accessibility. It was so easy to swing this bag to my front to grab out dog bags or my wallet without having to slow my pace at all. I knew where everything was inside this bag because of the size, pocket placement, and dividers. This really gave me peace of mind throughout the day and cut down on the dreaded digging for something that you “swore you packed”. 

The Good

-Made with quality materials

-Lightweight to keep carrying comfortable

-Clean but versatile design

-Easy accessibility so you can grab important items fast

The Not So Good

-Cord hook carrier straps rely on tension to stay fastened

Verdict

I would absolutely recommend the Everyday Sling by Peak Design. The price is fair based on the quality of the materials used and the brand’s dedication to ethical manufacturing. Wearing this sling is comfortable and convenient. The look is sleek and design allows for focused customization to keep expensive equipment safe in most environments. 

This review was written by our newest contributor–Welcome to the team, Colleen!

Colleen is an avid skier and hiker. She is also a new mom, navigating the best ways to get outside with a little one and all the stuff that comes with them. When not enjoying nature, Colleen spends her time reading and painting.

The post Peak Design Everyday Sling 10L Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

This review is slightly different from others, because not only did I have to consider the functionality as a bag, but I also had to consider the efficacy of its security features. It’s truly an innovative product.

Who It Suits

If you carry sensitive information on your cell phone that requires protection from signal attacks or just want to disconnect from the constant notifications, this is the sling for you. If you worry about potential pickpocketing or other theft, this is the sling for you. And if you want functionality with a sophisticated look, this sling is for you.

Who It Doesn’t

The Anti-Theft Sling is not ideal for Carryologists needing extensive space and versatility. While it can be used as a fanny pack, I did not find the construction of this sling to be appropriate for this purpose.

Specifications

• Name: Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling
• Brand: Collaboration between Pacsafe and SLNT
• Format: Sling
• Height x Width x Depth: 6 in x 12 in x 3.25 in
• Capacity: 3 liters
• Weight: 1.4 lbs
• Hardware / Materials: 750D polyester with a water-resistant coating, YKK AquaGuard weather-resistant zippers, Pacsafe anti-theft technology, Silent Pocket Faraday phone sleeve
• Price: $139.95

Design

The Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling is eye-catching for its sleek and minimalistic design. The 750D polyester exterior and strap are water-resistant and durable – quality you can see and feel. However, the boxy shape was slightly off-putting for me. I do appreciate the fact that the sling is made from recycled plastic though.

Features

With different access points and pockets, the Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling has great organization for a compact carrying bag. The main compartment has plenty of space for even the largest wallet and other essential items. The Fidlock snap-in, Silent Pocket® sleeve is also located in this compartment.

The front compartment is good for separating smaller items, so they aren’t lingering at the bottom of the sling. And there is a “secret secure pocket” on the back panel for valuable items like cash or your passport. The strap has a nifty, anti-theft locking mechanism that makes it difficult to remove if you haven’t used it before.

Security

As I mentioned before, it was important for me to see how the anti-theft and signal blocking features stood up to manufacturer claims and, well, they did!

Upon first receiving the Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling, it took me a couple of minutes or so to figure out the Pacsafe zippers without instructions. There is a locking mechanism to keep the zippers in place, but the individual zippers also slide into each other, creating a secondary security wall. From my point of view, it would be difficult for a pickpocketer to stealthily and speedily steal from anyone carrying this sling.

Furthermore, the patented Silent Pocket® appears to block signals and tracking. While my iPhone is in the Faraday sleeve, it does not receive messages, nor does it share location until removed. However, I do wonder if blocking GPS tracking means I will not be able to track down the iPhone if it were stolen.

Performance

I love some components of the Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling and others, not so much. It’s a beautiful sling, durable, and well-made. However, it can look somewhat bulgy compared to the backpack. The clamshell opening makes it easy to see inside and the abundance of pockets are great for organizing. I don’t use the locking mechanism on the Pacsafe zippers much, since I typically carry a sling to access my items faster, but I can see it being perfect for travel. Lastly, the rigidity of the sling and the stiffness of the strap are not the most comfortable to wear. Since it is boxy, the Anti-Theft Sling has no give to contour to my body, causing it to hang awkwardly. The strap is hard and wide so it digs into the side of my neck if worn long. Although, I must add: the quality construction feels like it will last for years.

The Good

• Sleek, ambidextrous design
• Excellent security features
• High-quality construction
• Thoughtful organization

The Not So Good

• Boxy, bulgy shape
• Rigid design and hard strap cause discomfort
• Difficult to access compartments when zippers are locked
• Unknown how the Silent Pocket® sleeve affects ability to find if stolen

Verdict

I recommend carefully considering what it is you want out of this sling. If you want style, durability, and easy organization, then it is perfect. If you need the increased security in a compact carry, its innovative technology is unbeatable! But if comfort is your top priority, then you may want to look elsewhere. I would recommend the Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling for most if it weren’t for the price point. At $139.95, I don’t feel it packs as much of a punch as its backpack counterpart. One thing is for sure, though, if you buy it, it will last for years and deliver on your security needs. If you’re interested in learning more about the sling head over to SLNT.com or post your inquiry in the Carryology Classified group!

Many thanks to Christina Ortiz for this review.

The post Pacsafe® x SLNT® Anti-Theft Sling Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Who It Suits

Don’t need to carry a lot but still want to keep your essentials secure? The Scout is a solid little workhorse that will keep your gear secure with its beefy zipper and water-resistant build. Fans of waxed cotton and durable construction will appreciate its quality look and feel. And those who like to alternate between cross-body and waist carry will appreciate the flexible portability. It’s a versatile design that can suit a lot of settings, carrying EDC gear, travel essentials, quick-and-light setups for exploring the trails, and more.

Who It Doesn’t

If you prefer high-tech to heritage in the aesthetics department, this might not be to your personal tastes. And obviously, its compact size won’t suit those who need to carry larger gear like laptops. It’s also fairly minimal in terms of organization, which might not suit your packing style. And lastly, this bag won’t suit those seeking a budget-friendly option. At £149 there’s no getting away from the fact that it’s expensive.

Design

Looks

As touched on above, The Level Collective Scout Pack salutes heritage styling with its waxed organic cotton. But the fairly clean exterior gives the bag a sleek feel that fits easily into a range of different environments, from urban explorations to outdoor rambles. The bag comes in four colorways, which is a nice touch too. Black, Navy, and Stone for a more understated vibe, as well as Mustard for an upbeat punch of color if you’re looking to jazz things up a bit.

You’ll find a small logo patch on the bottom corner of the bag; the only exterior branding and an understated nod to the brand’s love of the outdoors and sustainability.

Construction, Materials, and Hardware

The Scout Pack exudes quality as soon as you see it. And that sense of premium quality only increases when you handle the bag and venture out with it. This is due to a combination of excellent construction and top-notch materials and hardware.

The bag is made by hand in the UK. Inside you’ll even find a label with the name of the maker; a high-five to small-batch manufacturing and taking pride in your products. Every aspect of the bag feels sturdy and built to last for the long haul. The stitching is nice and neat with no loose threads and bartacking reinforces high-stress areas such as where the strap connects to the bag.

The Scout Pack uses Halley Stevensons weatherproof waxed organic cotton, which feels super-durable and stands up really well to regular use. The waxed organic cotton is paired with British woven cotton webbing for the strap, a nice chunky YKK zipper with dual paracord pulls, custom stainless steel buckles laser-cut in the UK, and untanned natural Spanish leather for the strap loop. I think all the material and hardware elements work well together as a whole. Nothing feels out of place and they all add to the sense that this bag will last for many years of use, aging gracefully as it does so.

Performance

Space & Access

Sling bags should provide secure yet easy access to your gear. So how does the Scout fare? Really well. One of the key elements to its success is dual zipper pulls, allowing you to access the bag from either end. Webbing loops on either end serve as grab spots to ease opening and closing and can also be used to secure carabiners or keychains. Additionally, the bag opens wide, making it easy to see and retrieve various items inside. The Mustard colorway features a combination of red and mustard in the interior, making it straightforward to spot individual items.

The organization inside is simple. Two slip pockets on the back panel (one small and one large), along with a key leash with a metal key ring on the front panel. At roughly 16cm long by 10cm high, I reckon the larger pocket should hold most wallets comfortably. The smaller pocket measures roughly 8cm long by 10cm high and I found this a useful spot for smaller items like dog waste bags. It’s worth noting the pockets don’t have any extra give to them (unlike for example elasticized mesh). So if you’re storing items inside that are a tight fit, you might have a bit of a wrestling match to get them out.

My phone with its case on fits inside the larger pocket at a wiggled push and is certainly secure once inside (it won’t fall out even if you shake the bag upside down). The flip side is a bit of a time-consuming wriggle to get it out again. I appreciate this may sound like a bit of a nitpick and the simple fix is obviously just to store larger items in the main section for easier access. But if we’re talking ideal personal preferences, borrowing say a cm from the smaller pocket to make the larger one a little bit bigger or elasticizing the pocket in some way would be the sweet spot for me. However, I do want to state that my phone fits very easily in the large pocket without its case on. So what you’ll be able to fit in here will vary depending on your personal setup.

There are no exterior pockets; just the ones mentioned above. This will work great for some and not so great for others. Employing some pouches could be handy if you’re carrying a lot of smaller items. That being said, you’re not dealing with a cavernous pit here so it should be easy enough to retrieve various items even without additional modular organization.

In terms of space, The Level Collective Scout Pack holds a surprising variety of gear. It should hold most small tablets or e-readers (a Kindle for instance fits with plenty of room to spare). Plus a variety of books if paper is your jam. You can fit EDC essentials like your phone, wallet, keys, a small water bottle, and packable outer layer with ease. And even more obscure items like a 700ml gin bottle (short bottle, not a tall one). Suffice it to say it’s very versatile in the range of loadouts it can carry, making it useful for everyday, travel, and outdoor use.

Comfort

The Level Collective Scout Pack features a fairly wide strap to distribute the load. The webbing feels durable yet comfortable and won’t scuff up your clothing. Being a sling, you’ve got some carry flexibility here. The bag can be worn around the waist or across the chest or back, giving you the freedom to keep it out of the way when not in use or alternatively ensuring quick-access items are close at hand depending on your preferences and environment.

When it comes to getting the bag on or off, the stainless steel buckle and leather loop work well together. You’re not going to be able to open or close the strap one-handed and it’s a little more time-consuming than say a magnetic or side-release buckle. However, we’re talking perhaps an extra two seconds, so nothing major. The buckle feels secure when it’s attached and as mentioned above, the leather and stainless steel combo complements the waxed cotton really well.

Be aware there isn’t any padding in the bag or on the strap, so you’re not going to want to walk around with any contents that will potentially prod you or particularly heavy loads. That being said, if you do need to haul heavy gear, in general slings shouldn’t be your go-to. You’ll be better off venturing into backpack or messenger territory.

Weatherability

It’s safe to say Halley Stevensons know what they’re doing when it comes to making weatherproof waxed cotton. I’m not advising you to boldly embrace torrential monsoons with the Scout, but your gear will be fine in most rainy or snowy conditions while you seek out shelter. The Scout also has a storm flap over the zipper. However, I found the storm flap doesn’t fully cover the zipper and you might need to do a bit of fiddling with the flap to adjust it. I do like the beefy look and feel of the zipper but replacing it with a YKK AquaGuard zipper would be a nice upgrade to enhance protection from the elements.

The Good

• Excellent construction and premium materials
• Dual zipper pull access and wide opening
• Stylish, sleek look
• Versatile for everyday, outdoor, and travel use

The Not So Good

• Expensive
• Storm flap doesn’t fully cover the zipper
• Organization may be too minimal for some

Alternatives to Consider

If you like excellent handmade quality and great materials, Trakke comes to mind as a fellow British brand offering pieces such as the Banana Crossbody Bag or the Largo Sling if you want something larger. If urban tech vibes and more organization are your preferences, Aer has some great sling offerings too such as the City Sling 2 and Day Sling 3.

Verdict

The Level Collective Scout Pack is a multifunctional bag that works well across various settings and loads. It’s durable, looks smart and sleek, and offers versatile portability. While not for everyone, the organization will suit minimalists and modular packers.

Of course, no bag is perfect and the storm flap for instance could do with a little tweaking. However, there’s really not a lot to dislike about this bag. I think one of the main sticking points will be the price. This bag is expensive. So I think it’s important to step back and consider what you’re getting for the cost. Namely quality materials, solid handmade construction in the UK, and a lifetime warranty; all wrapped up in a versatile design you’ll get a lot of use out of. Plus you’re supporting a brand committed to making a positive change. If all of that sounds like your cup of tea, then The Level Collective Scout Pack is well worth checking out.

The post The Level Collective Scout Pack Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Rickshaw Bags Fanny Pack (US$59)

Main compartment measurements: 9″ x 5″ x 3″

I’ve had my eye on Rickshaw Bags for a couple of years, but hadn’t had the chance to see one in person until a few months ago. They make custom messenger bags right here in the USA. Yep, custom. They have over 50 different fabric choices and hundreds of combinations available. So if you’re looking for some crazy color combination or something sporty, more business-like, etc., the options are all there. I got their Fanny Pack in White Camo X-Pac with a Bahama Blue X-Pac liner. 

When the bag arrived, the first thing I noticed was the craftsmanship. It’s just a simple fanny pack, but the fit and finish are among the best I’ve seen on any bag. The design maximizes the space inside the bag, allowing for a lot of storage for such a small footprint of just 5″ x 9″ x 3″. There’s a zipper pocket on the outside which easily holds even the largest smartphones. The main compartment has a D-ring for attaching keys and a slim pocket that runs the width of the bag. That’s it.

It’s not filled with a bunch of extra pockets, leaving plenty of room for bulkier items like a small water bottle, pack jacket, travel towel, big paperback, etc., or several organizational pouches. If you’re looking for crossbody bags that have tons of built-in organization, this is not the bag for you. But if you live the modular bag life I like to do, you won’t find a bag with better craftsmanship. 

I really love this bag and it’s almost always the bag I grab when I’m looking for something to carry so I can keep my pockets empty. 

Design-wise, I appreciate how simple and open this bag is. I would like to see a second one of the exact same slim, inside pockets added to the padded inside side as well since they don’t take up any space and it would give me an additional option for carrying along an ebook reader stashed away farther from where I’d clip my keys. 

The only other change I would make is adding some sort of webbing catchers. The belt webbing is long so it can be worn across the chest or back and still be tightened enough to be worn around the waist. But when it’s worn around the waist there is a lot of extra webbing that dangles about. That sort of thing drives me a bit crazy. I wish they’d included a webbing catcher or elastic to hold up the extra webbing. I ended up grabbing a pair of elastic hair bands and I’m using those to keep the extra webbing in place on long walks. Other than that I have to say this is my favorite fanny pack I’ve ever used. Attractive. Rugged. Clean.

Rickshaw Bags iPad Zero Messenger (US$69)

Dimensions: Base 3″ x 10.5″, Height 10″
Volume: 315 cubic inches (5.1 liters)
Weight: 0.9 lb

In fact, I liked the Rickshaw Bags Fanny Pack so much I had to try their iPad Zero Messenger bag. I got it in a matching custom fabric combination to the Fanny Pack and added the small Deluxe Drop Pocket for a really compact EDC crossbody bag to use on days where a fanny pack wouldn’t hold all my gear or fit the dress code. 

Once again I was really impressed with the quality and craftsmanship of this bag. These are custom made to order from their huge selection of really nice quality fabrics. It didn’t take long to arrive, but the bag definitely doesn’t feel rushed.

For a messenger-style bag it is really small (just how I like them), but big enough that I was able to put a padded camera cube and lens case inside and use this as an extremely stealthy full frame mirrorless camera bag. Under the flap is an outside pocket for slimmer items – though big enough to hold a couple of water bottles. The main pocket inside is just an open 10.75″ x 9.75″ x 3″ area of space. It’s perfect for us modular baggers. But it’s also got a strip of Velcro so if you want to get more organized you can add their small Deluxe Drop Pocket with a zippered pocket, several pen slots, and more. This takes up almost no additional space. I love that it’s an option and can be added or removed as needed. 

Because the bags are custom built to order you can have them make it with or without things like buckles or a waterproof liner. I find the Velcro under the flap more than sufficient to keep it closed and elected not to have buckles added – keeping it nice and sleek.

If you’re looking for ultra-compact custom messenger-style crossbody bags with top-quality construction and materials where you get to pick the color combos, definitely check out the iPad Zero Messenger bag from Rickshaw Bags.

North St Bags Pioneer 12 (US$100) 

Dimensions: 12″ wide x 7.5″ tall x 4″ deep (30cm wide x 19cm tall x 10cm deep)
Volume: 350 cubic inches (5.7 liters)
Weight: 10oz (266g)

The North St Bags Pioneer 12 is ruggedly built from quality parts not that far from me over in Portland, Oregon. This bag is a multifunction wonder that quickly converts from hip pack to crossbody shoulder bag with the included belt and optional shoulder strap. There’s even an inexpensive handlebar kit that turns it into a really nice handlebar bag. And since any and all of those carry straps can be easily removed, this is a great bag for us modular packers to use inside our other larger bags.

On the front you’ll find a zippered slot pocket the full width of the bag for slim items. The main zippered compartment opens up all the way – if you like – so the bag can lay flat, making it a handy tool pouch or Dopp kit. There are cinch straps on the sides to keep you from accidentally opening the bag all the way – for when you want to use it more like a standard hip pack. They also keep the bag nice and slim when you don’t have it stuffed full, but loosen the strap and you can fit two 40oz Hydro Flasks inside the main compartment!

There are Velcro strips on the front inside for adding optional North St organizing pouches. But you may not need them as the back inside features several organization pockets and an additional full-width zip pocket that includes two more pockets inside of it. I could easily see travelers using this as their day bag. The inside zip pocket seems like a great place to stash a passport, wallet, and other items that benefit from extra security.

The back of the bag has several webbing attachment points for the optional handlebar kit, belt strap, and even webbing that would let you attach the Pioneer to the outside of other bags. I think the fabrics and design lean strongly toward a cycle aesthetic. So if you’re in need of something for a night on the town or that won’t look out of place in a boardroom, I have some other crossbody bags below. But if you’re looking for a versatile, rugged, compact bag for EDC, travel, day hikes, or even bike commutes, take a look at the North St Pioneer 12.

Aer Day Sling 2 (US$63.75) and City Sling (US$75) Crossbody Bags

Day Sling 2
Dimensions: Length: 12.5″ (32 cm), Width: 6″ (15 cm), Depth: 3″ (7.5 cm)
Volume: 4.5L
Weight: 0.7 lbs

City Sling
Dimensions: Length: 12.5″ (32 cm), Width: 4.5″ (11.5 cm), Depth: 3.5″ (9 cm)
Volume: 2.4 L
Weight: 0.8 lbs

Where the Rickshaw and North St are definitely bicycle-style inspired, these two ultra-compact men’s crossbody bags from Aer – the Day Sling 2 and City Sling – are clearly aimed at men (and women) with more of an urban fashion sense.

The Day Sling 2 features super-clean lines and a design that keeps the bag slim and close to the body. For such a slim, sleek design it has an incredible amount of organization built in. The outside front sports a thick, waterproof zipper that runs the width of the bag. That outside front pocket is super-powered with darts allowing it to be slim, yet pop out to hold thicker items like a 32oz Hydro Flask or even your paperback copy of Twenty Thousand Leagues Under The Sea. It’s also got two slit pockets for phone chargers and cables, etc.

Moving to the main compartment there’s a regular zipper that goes across the top and a third down each side. So the bag can really open up wide. There’s also a little bit of padding on both sides of the main compartment. Inside there’s enough room for a rolled-up light jacket and plenty of additional pockets to keep it organized: two more half-width slit pockets and an additional inside zip pocket that runs the full width of the inside pocket which also contains a key clip. Behind this zip pocket is another pocket large enough to hold a medium-sized tablet. That’s a lot of pockets.

But there’s more! Head to the outside back of the bag and you’ll find an additional full-width zip pocket. This keeps your most important valuables close to your chest.

The strap webbing is the super smooth, seat belt type webbing that looks great and shouldn’t snag those nice clothes you’ll be wearing with this bag. The strap also sports a quick-release buckle. So you can keep the bag nice and snug against your body but remove it without messing up your hair. 

That brings me to the very few things that I’d love to see changed on this bag. The buckle is nothing special. It works great, don’t get me wrong. But the rest of the bag is so thoughtfully designed, I’d love to have a buckle that delighted the eyes. And then there’s the fabric. The outside fabric is amazing. But the lining fabric I like less. It’s durable, but loud. Maybe this won’t be an issue for most people. Some might even like it, but I don’t love the choice of lining fabric. It’s gray. I wish it offered a hidden color pop, and it’s surprisingly loud. I don’t know how to describe it other than it makes crinkly sounds when you use it.

These personal issues aside, it’s an incredibly well-constructed bag that would make an excellent EDC crossbody bag for anyone looking to keep their load light and their style high. 

Love the beautiful, sleek style and close-to-the-body design of the Day Sling 2, but seeking an even smaller men’s sling bag? You’re in luck! The Aer City Sling is very much like the smaller brother of the Day Sling 2. It features the smooth seat belt type webbing and generally the same pocket configuration with zipper pockets on the front, middle main compartment, and on the back. The main compartment also features nearly the same internal organization setup and rugged – though loud – gray liner fabric. The main differences between the two bags are the size – the City Sling is a couple of inches shorter and a few inches less wide and it can be worn as either a crossbody or hip bag, whereas the Day Sling 2 isn’t designed to work as a hip bag. 

I’d love to see this bag with the same changes I suggested for the Day Sling 2. Namely, a quieter liner fabric in a loud color and a more stylish quick-release buckle. But other than that, it’s an impressive small sling bag for men.

It’s compact but easily holds just about everything I would need for a night in the city. Or even everyday essentials if you travel lean. There’s plenty of room for a Kindle, keys, hand sanitizer, pens, wallet, smartphone, and more. And thanks to the compression straps on the side you can stuff it full and still keep it slim enough to hide under a trench coat – if that’s your thing.

If you carry more than will fit in your pockets, but not enough to justify even a small messenger bag, and you’re into quality construction and slick design, check out the City Sling from Aer.

Topo Designs Block Bag (US$72)

Dimensions: 10″W x 8″H x 2.25″D (25.4cm x 20.32cm x 5.715cm)
Volume: 310 cu. in. (5L)

Now onto a men’s crossbody bag for those who love the hiking / outdoorsy style. The Topo Designs Block Bag – like most Topo Designs gear – has a fun, happy vibe. The shiny fabric, block shape, oversized zippers, and giant color pop zipper pulls scream, “Yeah! Life is awesome!” The front outside features two mesh slip pockets for quick access to items that you don’t mind the world seeing. There’s also a full-width zipper pocket big enough to hold a full-size tablet along with snacks for you and the squirrels you’ll be feeding at the park.

The main compartment could easily hold a light jacket along with your daily essentials. There’s an additional full-width zip pocket inside the main compartment that hides a key strap. There aren’t any pen slots, business card pockets, or any additional organization areas. So plan on doing the modular packing thing with sub pouches if you’d like to stay organized.

The body side of the bag has very decent padding. Probably more than you’d ever need unless you’re bringing two of those park squirrels home with you – no judgment. But the padding does give the bag plenty of structure. This makes it very easy to add and remove items from the bag without getting into a fight with it.

Compression straps at the bottom keep the crossbody bag tidy when it’s not stuffed to the brim and also secures a puffy coat if needed. The webbing, though not seat belt style, is the smooth type that’s not likely to snag on your clothes. Additional webbing on one side tucks in extra shoulder strap webbing if not using the strap at full length.

This would make a great personal item bag for when I go back to flying around the world again. It also works perfectly for EDC when I don’t need to bring along a laptop. I’ve even used it for day hikes to carry my phone, sunscreen, light jacket, a picnic for two, and a 32oz water bottle.

Whether you’re a shiny happy person or an emo with a penchant for irony, the Topo Designs Block Bag is a fun, quality-made, compact men’s crossbody bag worth checking out.

Tom Bihn Side Kick (US$75)

Dimensions: 9.6″ W x 7.5″ H x 2.8″ D (245 W x 190 H x 70 D mm)
Weight: 525d Ballistic Nylon: 9.4 oz / 267 grams; 400d Halcyon®/420d nylon ripstop: 8.1 oz / 230 grams
Volume: 185 cubic inches (3 liters)

The Tom Bihn Side Kick is a compact organizational masterpiece made in Seattle, Washington. It easily converts between a crossbody shoulder bag and a waist pack.

The outside zip pocket runs the full length of the bag and secures items in a big, open pocket with a small “O” ring at the top for the included, removable key strap or any number of optional organizational pockets. I like to keep keys and snacks in this pocket along with sunscreen, but there’s room for much more.

Moving over into the main zippered pocket you’ll find four “O” rings for clipping more optional pockets. But you might not need them as this main compartment is packed with organizational options. There’s a large, slim, full-width slot where I keep a tablet or my ereader. That slot pocket is backed with two cell phone / chocolate bar sized slots and two pen pockets. The other side features two slot pockets each half the full width of the bag. These are great for earbuds, phone chargers, mittens, etc. In between these two walls of pockets is space that swallows up thick books, lightweight jackets, or a bento box.

The strap – which is attached to the bag with low-profile clips – is the seat belt type webbing. This helps it glide along your clothes without snagging when moving the bag from back to front in shoulder configuration. There are hip loops on the front and back sides of the bag. If you want to arrange the bag for added security, you can put the optional waist belt on so the outside zipper is now on your body side. Very clever!

There’s no padding anywhere in the bag, so if you are the worrying type, you’ll want to look at other men’s crossbody bags. But the compact form factor and light weight is a fair trade-off for me. The extremely high quality of construction and materials combines with the subtle design and smart organizational features to make it a must-see for anyone looking to find an ultra-compact crossbody bag that could last a lifetime. 

The North Face Lumbar Pack (US$35)

Dimensions: 14.56″ X 2.75″ X 5.9″ (37 cm X 7 cm X 15 cm)
Weight: 6.7 oz (190 g)
Volume: 244.1 In³ (4 liters)

Dig the outdoor style but looking for a retro vibe? The North Face Lumbar Pack would definitely fit the bill. I’ve received compliments on this bag every time I’ve left the house. And not just from my mom. The wife loves it and strangers, too. And I get it. It’s a gorgeous-looking hip pack. But it’s not just eye candy or a strange way to break the ice at a singles bar. I also enjoy using it for its intended purpose: carrying my junk.

The front has an old-school oversized The North Face logo patch that looks damn cool and a zip pocket. There’s nothing inside that pocket other than empty space. I fill it with my big cell phone, a hanky, wallet, and protein bar, but there is room for more.

The main zip compartment is also just a big empty space. Large enough to hold a 40oz Hydro Flask, but a 32oz would be easier to get in and out. I have no problem fitting a windbreaker in here along with car keys, an ereader, sunscreen, and other items.

The fabric is soft but rugged and the color pop zipper pulls are a fun touch. The body side of the bag is lightly padded so you should be able to store your twig collection in a comfortable fashion as you hike the hillsides in search of more lovely sticks. 

The strap is plenty long if you want to take this fanny pack crossbody style. And they’ve included webbing strap catchers to keep that extra strap from dangling about when you pull it tight.

If you’re looking for a hip bag with any organizational features to take on a hike, keep walking. But if you want a stylish retro hip bag that also works as a crossbody and holds more than it looks like it should, check out The North Face Lumbar Pack.

Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack 5L (US$59)

Dimensions: 6″ x 16.5″ x 4″
Volume: 5L (305 cu in)
Weight: 320 g (11.29 oz)

The Patagonia Black Hole Waist Pack 5L is a no-nonsense performance hip pack. From the weather-resistant shell, massive main compartment, cinch straps, and two – yes two – water bottle pockets, this thing is built for all-day hikes, hikers who don’t want to lug a backpack, and urban commuters looking for an eye-catching design.

The first thing you’ll notice when looking at this bag is the weather-resistant fabric. I haven’t seen anything that looks like this on bags from other companies. You’ll either love it or hate it. Personally, I’m a fan. But don’t let that shiny coated fabric fool you, the bag is definitely not waterproof. I think it would do well in light rain and for some splashes. But the zippers aren’t the water-resistant type so be careful around that geyser.

The outside front pocket is slim but wide enough to hold a large cell phone and wallet. Plus you can attach your keys to the included clip. There’s room for a bit more in there, too, but the main compartment is where the real estate lives. 

In the main compartment is an elastic net pocket on the body side, but other than that, no organizing pockets. Net pocket aside, I can fit a 40oz Hydro Flask in here or a rolled-up puffy coat and still have room for a small tablet or ereader. 

Using the two water bottle pockets on the outside of the bag wouldn’t be my first choice if I was hoping to attract a partner. But it lets you pack the bag’s interior with other gear and still bring your thirst cure of choice. I do wish the water bottle holders expanded to be a little bigger and a couple of inches deeper. The water bottles I use don’t play well with these water bottle pockets. Some work, but feel awkward at any pace faster than a slow walk. Smaller water bottles, however, work fine.

There are compression straps over the water bottle pockets to tighten in those bottles or to compress the bag closer to your body when it’s not completely stuffed. Both the compression straps and the belt include elastic webbing catchers to keep things nice and tidy. But my favorite thing about the belt is that unlike most quick-release belt buckles that tighten the webbing at the buckle, the Black Hole Waist Pack tightens at the bag. A more satisfying and stylish choice in my opinion.

This bag is extremely comfortable worn around the waist thanks to the over-padded breathable lumbar area. This doesn’t make it impossible to be worn crossbody. But I do think it makes it less comfortable than men’s crossbody bags without stiff padding.

If you plan to wear this exclusively as a men’s crossbody bag, I think you’ll find some of the other crossbody bags I mentioned more comfortable. But if the modern, outdoorsy Patagonia fashion style floats your boat and you’re looking for an extremely comfortable hip pack that’ll stay comfortable even when loaded down over long distances, the Black Hole Waist Pack is sure to please.

This article was originally published on 15 December 2020 and recently updated.

The post 9 Great Crossbody and Sling Bags for Men to Buy in 2022 appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Delve into the details as we review the Wotancraft Rider sling series…

In today’s world, every new bag released comes with increasingly modern curves, high-tech laminates, and sometimes, unfortunately, they can feel a bit sterile. Wotancraft’s designs are unapologetically old-school-cool, with materials and workmanship that give them a real soul. They’re so distinct that any newcomer would be able to pick them out of a lineup with ease. I think I can say that, without a doubt, this is what attracted me to these bags in the first place.

As you can imagine, a lot of bags come through our hands here at Carryology – dozens upon dozens, or more, every year. So when we get the chance to check out something truly unique, something different, we perk up a bit. While the Rider slings aren’t a new release from Wotancraft, this is our first time taking a look at them, and they left us impressed.

Who It Suits

The entire Rider series of slings is hand-curated for the stylish rider – of bikes, motorcycles, scooters, and everything in between. You might live in a hot climate, and prefer to keep as small of a footprint on your back as possible. Your carry may also vary from day to day, so you’d benefit from an expansion and compression system. To top it all off, you love photography, and tend to carry anything from a small point-and-shoot to a DSLR or mirrorless kit on the daily.

Who It Doesn’t

The onslaught of natural materials may be off-putting to those who usually rock technical fabrics, or anyone with a preference for vegan leather. While these work really well on foot, you may also want to explore other options, even from Wotancraft, if you’re never going to carry these while riding, as that is a center point of the design. If you need a fully waterproof bag, there are also better options.

Specifications

Mini Rider 

23 x 11 x 14 cm (3.5 Litres)

0.55 kg (Canvas / Leather)

0.8 kg (Full Leather)

$209 USD (Canvas / Leather)

$319 USD (Full Leather)

Easy Rider

35 x 15 x 18 cm (9.5 Litres)

0.87 kg (Canvas / Leather)

1.2 kg (Full Leather)

$269 USD (Canvas / Leather)

$469 USD (Full Leather)

Lightning Rider

35 x 25 x 14 cm (12 Litres)

1.2 kg (Canvas / Leather)

1.45 kg (Full Leather)

$299 USD (Canvas / Leather)

$529 USD (Full Leather)

Design

The Materials

Oh, the materials. Like the design, there’s really nothing quite like Wotancraft’s materials out there. That’s mostly due to their custom-developed WAL 500D “Smoke Camo” Cordura – a wonderful hybrid of durable 500D 6,6 Nylon with the look and feel of heritage waxed canvas. WAL stands for the three main properties that the fabric was designed to prioritize; water resistant, abrasion resistant, lightweight. 

Wotancraft achieves this by taking 500D, PU-backed Cordura, and applying a printed “camo” layer, a wax coating, and a water-repellent Teflon top coat. This results in a truly unique look and feel, with the best properties of both Cordura and waxed canvas.

Unlike normal Cordura, but similar to waxed canvas, WAL develops a patina over time. And due to the proprietary application of coatings Wotancraft applies, it remains durable and water-resistant over time without ever needing a re-waxing.

Wotancraft’s leather is also of the utmost quality, and these bags use a blend of two different variations; “battle-distressed” cowhide, and “hand-crunched” Italian cowhide. Both have a unique look, with a different handfeel, designed for specific applications. 

The battle-distressed leather is used for reinforcement and areas of high traffic, like compression straps and handles. This full-grain leather is tough, untrimmed, and comes in at a hefty 4mm.

The hand-crunched leather sees use in larger panels, providing a luxe look and feel. It’s sourced from Tuscany, and is used to induce a sense of calm waves at sea. Each piece goes through the “crunching” process by hand, leaving no two pieces alike.

Wotancraft offers two variants, and two (or more) colorways, of each bag in the lineup. You can choose from a charcoal or khaki “Smoke Camo” canvas with leather accents, or a brown or black full leather version. For this feature, we decided to check out the canvas variants of the Mini and Easy Rider, and the full leather Lightning Rider. I honestly don’t think you could go wrong with either combo. The canvas and leather offerings are lightweight and provide some contrast to the look and feel, while the full leather bags are just beautiful and could even be at home in more formal settings.

Last but not least, the liners are wonderful to look at, and have a very nice handfeel. The canvas variants have an olive green cotton liner with matching micro-fiber on the back wall. The full leather variants have an absolutely striking burgundy red velveteen liner that elevates these bags to a new height. It’s a treat for the eyes every time you open the bag.

The Construction

There’s nothing to scoff at or pick apart here. The folks building the bags at Wotancraft are master craftsmen. Everything is bound, lined, and every stitch is perfectly in place. Even the materials are carefully chosen specifically for each panel, and for a specific reason. Every contact point is either box-stitched or reinforced; we had no mishaps of any sort over our three months of testing. 

The X-Factor

This is the love-it-or-hate-it part. As we’ve alluded to, there’s nothing quite like these bags out there. From the form factor to the materials, these bags are Wotancraft through and through. Even then they’re still a bit more outlandish than normal Wotancraft offerings.

For me, the Rider slings are solidly in the love-it camp. It’s nice to be able to rock something that’s so different from every other bag I get my hands on.

Features

Built-In Expansion

Expansion systems can either make or break a bag. If it’s not implemented well, it can make the rest of the bag feel entirely off at best, and unusable at worst. This isn’t the case here by any means. In fact, this may be the most natural-feeling expansion system I’ve seen. It’s primitive, in a way that I imagine bags from a century ago functioning; leather straps over the top of the bag that you either secure to compress or pop open to expand. It’s simple, works extremely well, and this system certainly won’t be having issues with snaps, buckles, or zippers anytime soon.

I found myself running these compressed about 75% of the time. I think the silhouette is a bit nicer in this configuration and I just never really stuffed them out too often. The expansion itself just pops out the top outside corner a bit. I would say the expansion adds about 30% more space, if I had to make an educated guess based on dimensions and overall “feel” while using.

One thing you will have to pop out the expansion for is…

Camera Carry

Camera gear carry solutions are at the heart and soul of Wotancraft. And honestly, it’s what I believe they’re most well known for. Unlike some other bags, the Rider series was not designed as a wholly dedicated camera bag, but they sure turn into one. Both the Easy (medium) and Lightning (large) Rider slings support Wotancraft’s wonderful Quick-Draw Camera Insert to turn them into one of the better on-bike camera carry bags.

The Quick-Draw insert is a nicely formed and padded box that fits perfectly into both bags with their respective sizes. I found both to fit about one full-size mirrorless camera body and 2 lenses – but it does depend on what your setup is. For example, I was able to fit a Lumix GX9 with a 15mm lens attached, a 45mm lens, and a 25mm lens in the Easy Rider. In the Lightning Rider I could fit the same setup swapped to a Lumix G9 with no issue and room for more. Your mileage may vary on fit; check Wotancraft’s website for more detailed measurements and fit information.

Modular Components

Wotancraft has curated a wonderful hook-backed pouch system that works throughout the Rider collection, and even in the camera inserts. These range from open-top sleeves to zippered pouches, and even elastic organizers. Choose from waxed canvas or leather to suit your style and needs.

Tech Support

If you need to carry something with a screen, these bags have you covered, for the most part. The Mini is just a bit too small to support any device besides a small e-reader like a Kindle, and at the back side there’s a single zippered pocket. 

The Easy Rider is in the same boat as the Mini as far as fit. But it comes with a few extra pockets for a pen and your phone next to the zippered padded sleeve. In both these bags, I found the zippered pocket fit my Kindle Oasis alright, but wouldn’t quite clear the zipper. I suspect a Kindle Paperwhite would fit better since it’s not quite as wide. In the phone pocket, I was able to fit my Pixel 6 Pro, without a case. If you’re okay with keeping one in its own sleeve, loose, the Easy Rider handles an 11″ or so tablet.

The Lightning Rider is where you want to jump in if dedicated tablet and laptop carry are high on your list of requirements. Stacking on top of the same organization provided in the Easy Rider, the Lightning has a dedicated laptop sleeve that they state fits up to a MBP 13. I was able to fit a few 14″ laptops with no issue whatsoever. It’s worth noting that the zippered pocket that this bag shares with the two smaller variants does fit my Kindle Oasis a bit better, so it’s ever so slightly taller.

Performance

Not A Messenger

For this, I’d like to start by sharing a quip directly from Wotancraft;

Ever since the ingenious convertible concept of the Spacejumper by designer Albert Yuan back in 2015, we have always been fascinated by the idea of foldable bags.

So when a member of WOTANCRAFT started commuting to work on a fixed gear bicycle, and wished for a bike messenger bag, Albert told him:

‘No.’

‘You ride for over 2 hours everyday and on a hot summer day you don’t want a large bodied bag that stifles your sweat soaked back. What you need is a small, compact bag that can carry a lot more when required. I will design one for you.’

And in less than a week, Albert came up with an original prototype, a WOTANCRAFT design made for riders, a unicorn of sling bags.

So, did they deliver? Without a doubt. The smaller footprint is noticeable when rocking the Riders on your back. Even without any sort of vented back panel, air flows much easier since the verticality of the three bags is minimal at best.

It is a messenger, just not quite in the traditional sense. You still wear it high on your back, and the included stabilizer straps help keep it there en route. All three bags are designed to be worn this way, and they all use the same included strap. For the larger bags, I’d recommend adding the padded shoulder strap wrap that Wotancraft offers as an add-on.

For the smaller bag, the padded shoulder strap is less than unnecessary. In fact, I kind of wish that it didn’t share the same strap at all. It’s just a bit overkill on a bag this small. It’s certainly not bad, but a smaller strap would feel more “at home” here. That said, the strap is removable (and reversible); so you could always replace it down the line if this is an issue for you.

The Ins And Outs

Each bag has two external compartments; the front slip pocket and the main compartment. The front slip pocket is behind the leather panel, and sits recessed so it’s a bit hidden. At first glance, you don’t even notice these pockets exist, so it’s a halfway decent security pocket; especially since the leather straps run across the zipper, and can act as a guard to keep the slider from opening all the way. 

This is actually a bit of a problem on the Mini. Since the compression strap runs across the center of the pocket, you can’t access it at all without both unzipping and undoing the strap. On the larger variants, the compression straps are on the sides, so you can work the zipper behind the straps without much issue and still have relatively complete access to the contents.

The zipper to the main compartment is smooth and accessible on all sizes, and sits on the side closest to your body. It’s flanked on either side by a strip of stiff leather, to aid in one-handed opening and giving the bag a bit more structure along the top. It’s worth noting that neither compartment on any of the Rider slings is waterproof – they’re metal. I’d have no problem taking these bags out in damp weather, but if the rain started coming down, I’d want to make sure my items inside were a bit more protected at these points of ingress. Keep in mind that metal on metal might be an issue for your gear, which is why the camera inserts have a piece of fabric across the back side to protect from any contact with the zipper; a good move on Wotancraft’s part given the situation.

The Good

• These are, in my opinion, some of the most unique-looking bags in existence.
• The custom Smoke Camo 500D Cordura brings performance to a heritage look, and let’s not forget the high-quality leather used throughout.
• Impeccable construction and attention to detail
• Unique alternative to typical messengers and they work just as great for everyday use as they do for dedicated camera carry
• Wide array of hook-backed pouches and camera inserts

The Not So Good

• The large leather strap doesn’t translate quite as well to the smaller Mini Rider.
• Access to the front pocket on the Mini Rider is less than ideal due to the center strap.
• The metal zippers look nice, but won’t help in the rain, and metal always has a chance of scratching your gear if you’re not careful.
• These aren’t cheap bags to begin with, and the leather variants are anywhere between 50% to 75% more expensive.
• It’s not bad, but I would prefer more than a three-year warranty, especially on the full leather variants.

Verdict

Like almost any bag out there, the Wotancraft Rider collection of slings is not going to be for everybody. However, I’m quite smitten with them. Their weird, successful combination of briefcase, messenger, and sling works exactly as the team at Wotancraft designed it to. I found all three sizes great for riding and everyday use, especially if I was taking camera gear with me that day. 

If I had to recommend only one, it would probably be the Easy Rider – the Goldilocks size. I found myself reaching for that one more often than not. The smaller and larger sizes are wonderful as well, even if some of the features don’t translate quite as well to the smaller Mini. The larger Lightning Rider, oddly enough, works well as a small weekender, and that would be my recommendation if you needed dedicated laptop carry.

I honestly have some difficulty in making a recommendation between the canvas and full leather variants. On one hand, there’s nothing quite like Wotancraft’s waxed Cordura out there. It’s a truly unique material with an even more unique look and feel. They’re also much cheaper than their full leather counterparts. On the other hand, the full leather Riders are simply beautiful, and their burgundy red liners are one of my favorite interiors to date.

If you find yourself on two wheels, carrying camera gear, any combination of the two, or really just want a break from the monotony of current softgoods trends, give these bags a try. I can almost guarantee that you’ll fall in love, and keep it in your rotation for years to come.

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If you’ve read much of Carryology over the past ten years, you’ll know we’re big fans of our Scottish friends at Trakke! We’ve collaborated with them, reviewed them, and interviewed the founder, Alec. As purveyors of all things waxed cotton, I’m a big fan. Their marriage of modern styles with heritage materials have always spoken to me, and to many of you! We were excited to take a look at their newest addition to their portfolio, the Port collection.

We sneaked a look at the Largo Sling and the Laggan Pro tech organiser in the new colour way, and boy do they look good. A rich, enticing colour that really pops in direct sunlight, but is equally demure and understated, something that Trakke bags always do well.

Largo Sling

The Largo sling is a 6L beaut that caught our attention, ever since we got our first look! Comfortable, deceptively cavernous, and just the right amount of organisation needed for EDC, travel and light camera carry. There is a reason it won best sling at this years Carry Awards!

Laggan Pro EDC Tech Kit

The Laggan Pro is the perfect tech kit, for both travel and EDC. With a total of 16 sections, this has a spot for everything you could need, and it has carried both my computer, camera, and entertainment accessories comfortably, and stylishly. It is also protected by the waterproof zips that we’ve come to know and love on Trakke products. Paired with a useful carrying handle, this clamshell tech kit will become a favourite of yours in no time!

Many Trakke favourites, including the following items are available NOW in the new Port colour way:

Bags: Arkaig, Bairn, Banana, Bannoch, Fingal, Hoy, Kelso, Largo, Og, Storr and Wee Lug.
Accessories: Dopp Kit, Foulden Mini, Laggan Pro, Lunch Bag, and Pencil Case.

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1st Place

Trakke Largo

Sling bags have grown in popularity over recent years, finding that sweet spot between pocket carry and pack carry. But creating a truly great sling is no easy feat. There are lots of elements to consider, and they need to work seamlessly together. How easy is it to access gear? What about carry comfort? Is it durable enough to withstand years of regular use? And how will it look while out and about? It’s easy to get wrong. But the Trakke Largo deftly demonstrates how to do it right. And it’s a thing of beauty.

Every element of this bag has been carefully considered in its own right and as part of a greater whole. Trakke’s signature dry waxed canvas, an AustriAlpin Cobra buckle, and waterproof YKK zippers are brought together with excellent craftsmanship to create a burly yet beautiful piece with long swooping lines. This is a sling you can use day in and day out, from work to play, whatever the weather has in store.

The ergonomic design is comfortable whether worn across the chest or back. And you’ve got excellent access and organization courtesy of two separate compartments, each with interior pockets to store smaller items and keep them within easy reach. Add in the high-vis pop of the orange liner and you’re able to access various items in a jiffy while you’re on the go.

At 6L, the Largo is a great option for carrying a decent amount of gear while still retaining a sleek, stylish and comfortable look and feel. The flexibility to zip in and out of diverse settings gives this bag even more appeal, making it great for everyday, travel, and even outdoor use. An eye-catching blend of heritage and modern, designed with practical access, comfort, and hard-wearing durability in mind, this is a sling that will stand the test of time. Touchdown, Trakke!

Highly Commended

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

Heimplanet Transit Sling Pocket XL

Compact performance, excellent organization, and high-quality construction in a perfect grab-n-go sling? Heimplanet delivers with the Transit Sling Pocket XL. The 3L volume and well-considered organization make this a great option for carrying the essentials with a little flexibility for further items if needed. In addition to the main compartment with its adaptable interior pocketing, you also benefit from a quick-access top and front pocket. So rest assured, there are plenty of options for keeping your gear secure and tidy yet close at hand when you need it.

This sling also shines in its construction. Made with durable and eco-conscious DYECOSHELL fabric, water-resistant YKK zippers, and aluminum hardware, this sling is built to last for many years of dependable use. All in a sleek, portable design that blends into a range of environments and keeps you agile on the go. Great job, Heimplanet!

Bellroy Venture Sling

Tech meets urban-friendly style and adaptability in Bellroy’s Venture Sling. Available in 6L and 9L sizes, both options allow you to carry a good amount of gear. But what about when you just need the basics? No problem; an expandable gusset with a clever compression system easily allows the bag to cinch down for smaller loads. So you can roam sleek and compact or max out the volume on the fly.

A padded back and base keep your gear protected on the go, while a wide opening and a host of thoughtfully positioned pockets make storing and accessing gear intuitive and hassle-free. The zipper on the main compartment also opens from either end, while dual side buckles let you easily secure or detach the strap. And all these elements are brought together in a stylish design made with 100% recycled, water-resistant fabric that offers an attractive finish to round out the thoughtful details and practical nature of this bag. Awesome effort, Bellroy!

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