Gear reporter DaveSam checks out one of their newest offerings, the Osprey Arcane Rolltop Waterproof 25L Backpack. This waterproof backpack can handle whatever weather system you find yourself in. From blizzards to driving rain, the IPX4 rated Arcane Backpack will keep all your contents dry.

Thank you to Osprey for being a #curatedsponsor for this video.

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The performance menswear brand was born from the frustrations of commuting through Washington DC in professional attire. Standard shirts and slacks just weren’t cutting it – they didn’t breath, weren’t soft on the skin, and creased up when packed in your gym bag at lunch.

Now they have a curated catalogue of staples that work in the office, on the bike, and on your next work trip or weekend jaunt. So we’ve tested the lot, and landed on our very favorite pieces that might very well deserve a spot in your wardrobe or weekender.

Versa Polo

The Versa Polo is the spring and summer staple, but updated. Light and airy, this polo features UPF50 protection, and four way stretch. Those two dominant features make it an easy choice for either travel or a commute, offering protection and comfort while on the move.

The most noticeable characteristic of this polo (and all of the Mizzen+Main gear) during testing is the way it all drapes over all types of body shapes, available in Trim or Classic cuts. I went with Classic and found it very comfortable. I personally like polos to be a little looser – I don’t want them tucking into my armpits – and the polyester/spandex blend prevented that and any wrinkling, too.

I packed this with me on a wedding weekend, and it came out of the bag looking like it had just been ironed. Add in some good antimicrobial (anti-stink) and anti-pilling properties, there’s no reason that this won’t last multiple wears between washing.

Coming in a wide variety of colours and patterns, The Versa Polo is a timeless classic updated for the modern man.

Leeward No Tuck Dress Shirt

This is the shirt that started it all and put the brand on the map. The Leeward was designed to be the best dress shirt in the land, allowing the wearer to go from work to play in a matter of moments without having to worry about sweating, stains, or creases. If you would like the original dress shirt that you can tuck in, you’ll find it here!

The No Tuck version has lots of subtle features that make it an excellent shirt in both form and function. At 2” shorter than the standard model, this will always ride at just the right height. Not too long, nor too short.

It’s wrinkle-resistant fabric is manufactured from a 88/12 polyester and apandex mix. This means you can whip this out of a bag while traveling and be ready to go. The four way stretch and quick drying properties mean you needn’t worry if you work up a bit of a sweat while using it.

The hidden button down collar is a favourite of ours, it’s a simple touch but solves the age old problem of curling collars. The Leeward strikes us as a great halfway house for those needing a blend of formal fashion and function. It can float between the office, bar, and activity without breaking a sweat.

Helmsman 5 Pocket Pant

Good pants can be hard to come by, particularly in the crossover space, and Mizzen+Main have done an excellent job with the Helmsman 5 pocket pant. These are arguably our favourite piece from the selection that we tested. With a similar four way stretch, wrinkle resistant fabric found in the Leeward shirt, the Helmsman can do it all from brisk city walks to day hikes. The stretch waistband provides all day comfort for your escapades, and the stretch pocketing is also great in a pinch when you need to fit slightly larger items.

The great property of this stretch material is that, by design, it moves with you. No longer do you have to worry about popping a seam when getting into a car or lunging unexpectedly. The matte finishing is classy and muted, which isn’t always the case with polyester pants. These are a slim fit, and we found them to be true to size. They’re also moisture wicking, which really comes to the fore in the moments you’re active. A zippered back pocket is great for a wallet or keys, particularly if traveling. These pants are duplicitous in the best way, and very comfortable too. If you’re looking for a new pair of pants for travel, these should be on your list.

Helmsman Chino Pant

If you’re looking for a more traditional work pant, the Helmsman Chino is the option for you. While similar in fit to the five pocket pant, the Chino has some different touches that are more sartorially focused. The elasticated waistband keeps your outfit looking pulled together and refined, and the same waistband has silicone grippers (in the shape of M+M logo) to keep your shirt tucked in for that special work presentation. The self closing slip pockets on the rear are subtle, and just enough for any smaller accoutrement you might need in a day at the office. The slim fit is refined and not too skinny, a trap that some “slim fit” styles fall into. We found them to have plenty of room in the thigh and seat area, but slimmer towards the hem, a good balance between modern style and traditional lines. The Helmsman comes in a variety of colours that can work for any palette. 

ProFlex 1/4 Zip

Traditionally, when you think of quarter zips, you may think of Dads and Sunday dinners. You’d be forgiven for doing so, as they are a staple of many wardrobes. However, they’re also often heavy cotton or wool, and reserved for the cooler months of the year. Well, not anymore.

The ProFlex line (it also comes in hoodie form) is a very simple, comfortable, and understated update to a classic. Featuring the same four way stretch and wrinkle resistant properties as the majority of Mizzen+Main’s catalogue this is another excellent candidate for travel. With a 68% rayon, 27% nylon, and 5% spandex mix, this feels like a traditional sweater, but performs like an athletic piece.

It provides some extra warmth in brisker moments, but isn’t a heavy overpowering winter sweater. The heather texture is subtle and makes the ProFlex ¼ zip blend in, rather than standing out like some sportier sweaters can.

However, the best part of the ProFlex line is the drape of the material. They fit like a glove, and it feels like the sweater is tailor-made for you. It falls nicely from the shoulders, while giving in all of the right places. This is a very comfortable piece to wear, and we’d have no reservation going straight from the airport to the boardroom or dinner in this sweater.

Mizzen+Main are the type of company we like. They have a curated collection of goods that they intentionally add to, but only when necessary. That attention to detail shows in all of their products, and each one serves a purpose, particularly for the traveling man. They’ve taken classic items,  given them a modern injection, and kept it at a wallet friendly price point. If you’re a fan of the clean classic style, but you like to be on the move, look no further than Mizzen+Main for your next wardrobe update.

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There’s a great number of travel lines out in the market, and while many have their own merits, rarely are they truly unique. When we saw the AXONE line, we were pleasantly surprised. It features three new products: a 90L travel luggage, a 35L travel backpack, and packing cubes.

Wheeled Luggage 90L

The wheeled luggage isn’t your traditional checked luggage, with a curated selection of intelligent features, this could become a favourite travel bag in no time at all. Starting with the construction, this piece of luggage has all of the hallmarks of a great bag. Including water resistant 500 denier polyester, YKK lockable zippers, durable PU backing, and in-line skate wheels that are both quiet and robust.

One of the most innovative features on this bag is invisible to the naked eye initially, but in use is a game changer. This piece of wheeled luggage splits in half thanks to the zipper that runs around the equator of the bag. This is useful for two main reasons. Firstly, storage – which is the bane of checked luggage – is now a breeze because of this unique nesting feature. The 90L wheeled luggage, which stands at 78cm tall, will take up literally half of the space that your traditional luggage will. For those with less interior storage, this will change the way you approach storage and packing!

Secondly, the split volume is perfect for family packing. Whether you are a couple, a family of four, or even travelling with different equipment sets for your adventures, you can now parse out your belongings into separate compartments and easily split them. You could hand off the children’s clothing to them on arrival, or store your adventure gear in the back of your car without needing to bring the whole suitcase!

Other notable features include a hidden AirTag or tracking tag pocket, so that you can track your luggage as you travel. A sturdy aluminium telescoping handle for quick manoeuvrability as you travel. Two quick access pockets on the front of the bag for smaller items such as hats and gloves, and a collapsible interior wall to help you divide the contents.

Simply put, the wheeled luggage 90L is the checked bag, elevated.

Travel Backpack 35L

To partner with your wheeled luggage is the 35L Travel Backpack. This backpack is designed to be your carry-on and daily driver when you are exploring your location, or even a smaller bag for four to five days of travel. It is a bag that can do a bit of everything like a true chameleon.

Featuring 420D water resistant nylon, aluminium ergonomic back support, and an ultra-padded back panel, this bag is made to move! The star of the show here is the U-flow harness by AARN. We first saw an iteration of this on AXONE’s urban 20L pack. A connected shoulder strap webbing allows the pack (and its weight) to move with you and alternate from side to side with your stride. This reduces hot-spots and diminishes the fatigue that you often associate with wearing a larger pack. Once you pair this with the adjustable shoulder strap width, you really have a uniquely customisable harness called the dynamic shifting system.

Other features include AXONE’s Pure X system, where the shoulder straps close together in the middle of the chest, to reduce stress and evenly distribute weight. The reduction of rubbing and padding for the sternum is a nice touch, and we can imagine the comfort on long days of travel will be a fan favourite.

Externally you will find multi purpose straps that allow you attach anything you’d like to the bag from jackets, to boots, to tripods all with a few anodized G-hooks. A sunglasses pocket, a collapsible water bottle pocket, a quick access admin pocket and also a packable rain cover adorn the outside of the bag. These pockets give you access to essentials and peace of mind on your travel adventures.

Internally, AXONE have taken some features from the Urban 20L pack and updated them for this new travel line. A dual laptop (17”) and tablet (13”) sleeve keep your electronics close by and protected, along with a useful admin panel for cables, charging bricks, styluses and the like. The main cavity has enough room for four to five days of clothing, particularly when expanded to 35L and paired with their packing cubes. The travel backpack is a perfect partner to the wheeled luggage and can pull double duty very easily.

Packing Cubes

Packing cubes aren’t necessarily the product that gets everyone’s engines revving, but they are an incredibly useful tool for travel, particularly when they are part of a system like AXONE’s. They are a four piece set, comprising of small, medium, large, and a shoe bag.

The set up is customisable to either of the new bags in the collection, and feature the same high quality components and construction such as YKK® zippers. The see through mesh makes packing and unpacking easier, while the compression feature reduces the volume by up to 50% for efficient packing. The small and medium cubes will work with both the 35L travel backpack and the 90L wheeled luggage, while the large packing cube will only work with the 90L wheeled luggage.

AXONE have impressed since arriving on the scene and this new travel collection shows a progression and maturation of already great design instincts. With innovative features, premium construction, and a wallet friendly price point, the travel collection could be the one for you!

The Travel collection is now available on Kickstarter with early bird discounts!

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When it comes to carrying expensive camera gear, I have three key criteria that must be met: Durability/Protection, Functionality, Materials. How does the Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ do here?

Materials

One of the biggest selling points of the Gura Gear line is their use of excellent materials. Infact, they were one the first bag companies to use Dimension Polyant® X-PAC® in their products. On the Kiboko City Commuter+ they use VX21, the climate neutral fabric from the manufacturer. A 210 denier face fabric is low stretch, waterproof, and backed with a 50 denier taffeta backing. It is a fabric that is balanced well between weight and durability.

These are obviously good properties for a camera bag, when you want your gear reliably protected so that you can focus on the job at hand and capture the shots rather than worrying about if your thousands of dollars of equipment are safe from the weather. I think VX21 is a great choice for a camera bag intended for city use too. City shooting often involves chucking your gear down on abrasive surfaces at a moments notice and VX21 can take that kind of abuse without flinching.

Elsewhere on the City Commuter you’ll find excellent hardware from Fidlock®. Their magnetic fasteners are very satisfying to use. Not only do they provide great tactile relief, their engagement is very audible and allows you to be sure that your bag is closed. There are two on the rolltop, one internally for the laptop sleeve, and one on the adjustable sternum strap. Fidlock and VX21 are a great aesthetic pairing too, not just a functional one. Plus, there is a premium leather grab handle that sits atop the back panel and is well positioned for a quick grab at any given moment. 

Durability & Protection

When it comes to protection, the Kiboko City Commuter feels very robust. Protection for camera gear doesn’t have to mean a hard case, and in the last few years there has been a great step forward on internal camera “cubes” or built in protection. In the city commuter that is very much the case with their fully customisable camera compartment. With a variety of different sized dividers, you can make this work for almost any setup comfortably.

I carried two full frame Mirrorless cameras with lenses attached, along with two more prime lenses. I don’t think it would hold a mounted super tele zoom, but you’re unlikely to use that in an urban setting anyway. Your mileage may vary based on your camera loadout, but the main compartment is a healthy size at 11” x 11” x 4”. The depth is critical to your gear’s protection, nothing sticks out just above the dividers which is historically a pet peeve of mine as it can either lead to damage or hot spots when carrying. The dividers themselves are a happy medium between rigid and flexible, and thanks to the velcro panels mounted in the middle of each divider, you should have no problem making it fit your workflow.

The laptop sleeve is on the wall of the rear entry clamshell, and is one of the cleanest I have encountered while reviewing bags. This sleeve can technically hold both a 16” MacBook Pro and an iPad Pro 12.9”, however in reality I only find myself using one or the other rather than both. However, it’s great to know that the City Commuter can accommodate both and keep them protected. The Tablet sleeve is fleece lined to avoid scratches and both are secured by the Fidlock® closure I mentioned earlier. On the front of the sleeve are two large zippered mesh pockets, the natural spot for your hard-drives, card readers, and charging bricks.

Functionality

Personally, this is where I find good camera bag separate themselves from the rest of the pack. It’s easy to attempt to cram in a plethora of features that might sound great on the marketing pages, but don’t necessarily translate to good functionality. After all, if you’re using a camera bag for professional work, speed and efficiency are key, particularly when on the move.

Thankfully, the Gura gear does this well, the quick access side entry isn’t usually a favourite feature of mine, but on a smaller 18L bag, it really works quite well. It makes sense that it would work on a smaller volume, as you aren’t swinging an extra 20lbs off your shoulder like you would on a 30L plus bag. The side entry door does include a mesh pocket for your lens cap, I absolutely love this feature, it saves me frantically searching my pockets before I move to the next location.

The Fidlock® access point for the roll-top are quick and easy to engage, giving you access to an extra 7”/4L of storage. The closure here is more magnet magic which makes access and closure very quick. This small rectangular compartment does have elasticated mesh slip pockets which are designed for filters and lens caps, however I found myself using this space for accoutrement associated with shooting in the city, such as batteries (which I carry in an extra pouch), straps, and a rocket blower. On top of that I can comfortably stick a raincoat or extra layer. Essentially thanks to the roll-top, I can adjust based on my needs for that day’s shooting.

Aside from the main features of this camera bag, the Gura Gear Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ is full of small thoughtful features that enhance your user experience. The two vertical front pockets aren’t just places to dump gear, but instead they are full of clever features for your safety. There is an RFID pocket for your wallet and passport and a dedicated AirTag pocket so that you can keep track of your gear at all times as well as lockable zippers for the main compartment. The vertical pockets also house a key loop,  four small zip pockets and two elasticated slip pockets. During my testing I found it easy to separate the two vertical pockets for different tasks. I used the left side for the accessories that you can get for the Kiboko (Rain cover, tripod straps, and hip belt) and the right side for keys, wallet, knife and pen. During my use of the Kiboko, I very quickly got used to how this bag works. As I mentioned earlier, efficiency is key when working on the go, and the backpack excels here.

Comfort

Comfort is somewhat subjective, some of you reading will not want to feel like you’re wearing anything when carrying a bag, while some of you will overpack and be prepared for the discomfort that comes with that. Well, thankfully I think the Kiboko is a good middle ground. Firstly, it’s a lightweight bag at 3lbs 11oz before you put anything in it, particularly considering its feature set. Secondly, the improved shoulder straps from their previous bags are really very pleasant and work well with the 3D spacer mesh back panel. Of course, like all bags if you overload this bag you’ll have hot-spots, but for the intended load and size of this bag, discomfort wasn’t an issue at all. In-between the three sections of the back panel, you’ll also find a luggage pass through for when you take this on the road. The straps also have magnetic strap keepers, which may look like overkill at first glance, but in use it is a joy. I wish all of my backpacks had them now!

Gura Gear were highly commended by our readers and writers in the Carry Awards VII for their previous line. With this new design, and thoughtful updates, could the Kiboko City Commuter 18L+ be another contender? We think that if you’re looking for a smaller camera bag that is tough, functional, and reliable, you won’t go wrong with this well designed bag and it is now live on Kickstarter at discounted launch prices!

Thanks to our friends at Gura Gear for being a curated sponsor.

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Now they’re back with a new product, The Dex Duffel. This is designed for the eco-conscious traveller who wants both incredible products, and environmental responsibility. Available in both 30 and 45L sizes, the Dex Duffel has the instantly recognisable Black Ember aesthetic, and is sure to be a crowd pleaser. Under the hood, it has all the hallmarks of excellent design and construction.

Materials and Aesthetic

Black Ember are the first brand in the world to partner with Cordura® and use their new Cordura® re/corTM RN66. This is the first 100% recycled nylon from the fabric powerhouse, and as recycled nylon six, six it has the same incredible durability qualities that Cordura® is known for. In hand that means you can trust this bag to take years of abuse and likely look no different than the day you bought it. Paired with laser cut hypalon panels and YKK® AquaGuard zippers, the Dex is ready to travel.

The back panel has a high density frame sheet that flexes with you on the move and is supported by the stowable 3D shoulder straps made from an EVA foam that are both comfortable and supportive. A mixture of Fidlock® V buckles and G-hooks are used on the duffle to great effect, and make opening the bag and transforming carry methods an efficient and satisfying experience.

Aesthetically, the Dex Duffel is as clean and streamlined as you would expect from Black Ember. Their understated and urban style make for great crossover bags that carry just as well in hand as they do on your back. Tidy attachment points, matte zippers, and clever handles all contribute to a look that makes a statement, but quietly.

Functional Design

Like all of Black Embers products, the Dex Duffel series aren’t just about looking good. They are incredibly well thought out products that are a joy to use. 

The Dex Duffels are best described as a myriad of clever pockets and expanding volume. They really are tardis’ when it comes to all that they can hold in a polished package. The wide opening is reminiscent of a doctor’s bag, and the full length AquaGuard zipper is folded and secured by two magnetic Fidlock® V-buckles. Once your bag is closed, it stays that way until you need to have it open again. This easy view and easy access volume isn’t just a bottomless pit, but rather a curated selection of zippered pockets for all of your EDC and travel needs. These line the wall of the main cavity to allow you room for packing cubes and your primary carry. 

Once secured, the rear of the bag has a suspended laptop sleeve, keeping your tech protected on the move. Behind this sleeve is where you’ll find the aforementioned shoulder straps, which can be swiftly stowed to refine the look of the Dex even further. When in use, the shoulder straps also have a sternum strap with magnetic Fidlock® closure. Once you’ve used one of these straps, it’s hard to go back to the analog closure we all grew up with!

On either side of the Dex are useful exterior pockets which are well sized to hold a water bottle, jacket, or other quick grab item. There are some slip pockets for organisation and magnetic key leash also, providing quick access on the go.

At the top of the 45L Dex, under the Fidlock® V Buckle, there is your boarding kit. This separate pouch stores everything that you could need on the move, from your iPad, to your headphones, and not forgetting your passport, this quick grab kit will likely become your best travel companion.

On the bottom of the Dex is a shoe pocket with space for a pair of shoes and a second zippered pocket for your Dopp kit. The two grab handles either side of the main zipper remain flush to the body of the duffle until you deploy them. By a short and sharp tug, these straps come to life and become your comfortable hand carry in an instant.

The 30L model is more geared towards your EDC crowd. With enough room for your daily loadout, and perhaps a little extra, this is the perfect size for running from the office to the gym with one bag to take all that you would need. While the 45L is definitely geared towards those weekend trips or short business trips. Whichever size you go for, you’re going to end up with an incredibly well designed and constructed bag. We have always been inspired and impressed with how Black Embers innovative designs are pushing the envelope in the carry space, and we’re delighted to see that tradition continue with the Dex Duffles. 

The Dex Duffle is now available for pre-order on Kickstarter.

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If there was one critique of the Dashpack, it was its size. At 15L, for some folk it was a little too restrictive for their EDC or too small on a larger frame. Well, ARKTYPE was listening and they took that feedback on board to bring us the new Jetpack. Let’s get into it.

Aesthetics and Materials

Inline with ARKTYPE’s philosophy, the Jetpack flies under the radar. It is available in two models, a ballistic nylon version, and a special edition waxed canvas version. Both are equally subtle, and feel great in hand.

The Ballistic Nylon is, as you’d expect, tough, robust and ready for the grind of urban commutes. Made from 1680D ballistic nylon, that is DWR treated and paired with YKK #8 AquaGuard zippers, the Jetpack is designed to handle it all. It isn’t waterproof per se, but this material, coating, and the zippers will handle pretty inclement weather. Internally a 210D ripstop nylon is used and matches the same high quality finish that you see on the exterior.

On the Waxed Cotton version, the interior and AquaGuard zippers remain the same, but the ballistic nylon is substituted with a luxurious 10oz Army Duck Waxed Canvas. In my opinion, it elevates the bag, and it would be the one I would choose out of the two models, particularly when you consider it is only a fraction more expensive. The waxed canvas gives a nice matte finish, and blends well with surroundings. It has a great hand feel and will take on its own identity over time as it is used.

Both packs use the same exceptionally comfortable Evazote® EV50 forms for the back panel and shoulder straps. I found these to be very comfortable and they began to form to my body pretty swiftly after a few uses. The back panel also has a frame sheet that is removable so that you can have some structure during the work week, and relax a little at the weekends.

On the front of the bag is a strip of ladder-stitch webbing, which is the perfect spot to customise your bag, or add on some essentials. Like the rest of the construction, this is incredibly robust and made from Class I Mil-spec webbing. In my time with the bag, this was the perfect place for my trusty hero clip, and the webbing also lends itself as a handy spot for a bike light if you’re a cyclist. You could easily attach extras like a jacket, umbrella, or tripod by using any accessory straps you may have. 

A removable sternum strap and compression straps round out the construction, allowing you to wear the bag as you please, both from a comfort and aesthetics standpoint. The compression straps allow the profile to become even more svelte if you’re not loaded out. There is no doubt that the Jetpack is an exceptionally well built bag.

Organisation

How you organise and utilise your EDC bag is a very personal matter; some prefer to have a slot for every single item, some prefer a cavernous opening where it can all be thrown in, while others like somewhere in between with good organisation but the ability to use their own pouches or systems. That is the camp that I fall into, and the Jetpack delivers a great balance of useful organisation and space to use.

On the front of the Jetpack is a zippered quick access pocket with three pen/accessory loops, a D-ring for keys, and a horizontal zippered pocket. This has been home to all of my quick access items like earbuds, pen, edc knife, flashlight etc. I even felt comfortable having my wallet in there thanks to the double zipper, meaning that any pickpocket would have to get through two pockets without me noticing. Not impossible by any means, but somewhat unlikely. It’s a slender QA pocket though, so be careful to avoid overstuffing.

Inside the main compartment you have an elasticated slip pocket on the back wall of the bag. This could act as a secondary laptop sleeve, or a spot for notebooks, although with the other organisation on the pack I didn’t find myself using it. On the front of the bag there is a simple zippered mesh pocket, this is an easy home for an IFAK or general use items such as hand sanitizer and tissues. It’s easy to access without opening the bag all the way up.  

The rear entry laptop compartment is well suspended, and houses my 14″ Macbook (in a case), it can hold up to 16″ (slim) machines. In side this laptop compartment there is also a second zippered compartment which can hold up to a 10″ tablet. I housed my e-reader there, and it’s a great hiding spot for important things like passports or documents when travelling.

The profile of the bag lends itself well to using tech organisers, which I always transfer from bag to bag. The Jetpack easily has space for a small or medium camera cube, or a selection of tech pouches. There is also an interior d-ring, should you want to use a hydration bladder when hiking (slip the bladder into the elasticated pocket) or to attach your keys to so that you know where they are at all times.

Externally, you’ll find two large water bottle pockets that house 32oz bottles. These are great pockets and stay out of the way when they aren’t in use. There are also a couple of D-rings–one on the upper side, and one near the strap attachments. Anything you want to clip on is within easy reach.

The Jetpack feels just as accomplished as the Dashpack, and personally, the 22L size is more appealing to me as a larger chap. 22L is a sweet spot for EDC I find, as it allows me to take enough with me to feel prepared for the day ahead, but not too much that I’m dripping in sweat by the time arrive anywhere on account of the extra 10lbs of gear that I’m bringing with me for no real reason. 

The Jetpack is sleek, comfortable, and very well built. Not to mention it is made here in the USA with materials from states all over the country including CA, CO, GA, NJ, OR, PA, and WA. For a bag of this quality to be coming in under $250 is quite an achievement. ARKTYPE continue to evolve and make great products, we’re excited to see more from this thoughtful, functional, and affordable USA made brand.

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As Carry enthusiasts, we live in a golden age, there is a plethora of selections for every consumer. Whatever their preference may be, there are variations on similar styles or patterns, and it can be hard sometimes to discern what is a truly unique or worthwhile purchase.

There are some giant brands which are powerhouses and they create a large volume of different designs, with new iterations every year based on mass market trends. Other brands, like Émigré are more particular, methodical, and intentional in everything that they create. Brands like Émigré always catch our attention here at Carry HQ, and for good reason too because innovators are what create progress, and progress in the carry world is usually something tangible, beautiful and unique.

Today, we step into the world of Émigré and discover who they are, what makes them tick, and what’s coming down the line.

Who are Émigré?

Émigré has some serious pedigree. With a senior team that hails from Canada, Switzerland, and Hong Kong, there is a beautiful blend of ideologies, techniques, and goals. You may have heard of Crafted Goods, a brand that Émigré CEO Ralph Thoma masterminded with Chief Designer Thanh Trinh, a brand that has garnered praise from all who’ve carried. Crafted Goods have innovated time after time with fabrics that are new to market, being some of the first to use variations of X-PAKTM and Cordura® when they were launched. These materials weren’t used because they were new and shiny, but rather because they fit CG’s exacting standards and helped to elevate their already excellent designs to the next level. 

Crafted Goods is an Urban brand through and through, designed to blend in with the sharp architecture of cities, and handle whatever the concrete jungle throws at you. Émigré on the other hand is decidedly refined, understated and luxurious.

Émigré’s inaugural collection

Émigré is built for the modern professional who travels; their products are designed to fit into any boardroom, any jet, and any hotel lobby. It is the modern upgrade to the traditional travel bags that are so ubiquitous in airport lounges the world over. The name comes from a french word meaning those who have left their country and settled in another, something that the founding team all have in common. With a transient lifestyle comes the need for high quality, reliable, and timeless luggage.

Their inaugural luggage collection is a curated selection that includes a weekender, a briefcase, a backpack, and a tote. This is also complimented by a selection of accessories, such as wash bags, shoe bags, tech organizers and garment sleeves. From the design and aesthetic alone, it is clear to see the thought that has gone into these products. These are not a regurgitation of another travel bag with the Émigré logo; these are intentionally designed, function rich bags that will serve you well for many decades. 

A blend of high quality materials such as Robic® 100% recycled nylon, custom Duraflex® buckles, YKK® Metaluxe Tough zippers, and leather detailing cement the premium feel of Émigré’s collection. 

I think Émigré have hit a sweet spot here in a crowded market place, where the premium tag is often associated with heavy leather, or waxed cotton. While I enjoy those materials more than most, there is something refreshing about Émigré’s product line. It feels like the business bag grew up and came into the twenty-first century. These bags work excellently as stand alone pieces, but one could easily replace almost every other bag in their collection with Émigré and be all the happier for it. 

The aesthetics of these bags are simple, understated, and minimalist. However, don’t let that betray you to the level of detail inside. Thoughtful pockets, useful pen loops, high quality finishing and detailing make these bags as enjoyable to use as they are to look at. The 21L Boston Bag, for example, is designed to make your 48 hours of work travel or weekend exploration as seamless as possible. A dedicated section gives you a portable workspace, with space for a laptop, tablet, pens, notebooks and other office accoutrement. Spin the bag around and you’ll find two built in packing cubes, a clothing volume and a cinchable pocket for your water bottle. All elegantly housed in a Bluesign® approved Robic® recycled nylon that is TPU coated for water resistance.

There are hidden backpack straps and a shoulder strap which are easily stowed in a zipper pocket on the rear, along with an angled luggage pass through, that not only looks great, but accommodates easy placement and removal from your rolling luggage.  The garment organizer is a must have for any travel professional. This packing tool can house up to three days worth of clothing, and keep you ready for anything with a rigid compression system that keeps your clothes crisp and compliments the Boston bag for the complete travel set up.

Elsewhere, the briefcase, backpack, and tote all house similar thoughtful features while maintaining a professional outwards appearance. The Backpack is a slender 13L carry, that houses great organization including fleece lined zipper pockets for your precious essentials. The tote also comes in at 13L but the different form factor is charming and serves as a worthy companion once at your destination, the tote can be carried by hand, shoulder, or as a backpack if you purchase the available straps.

 The Backpack, Briefcase and Tote can all hold a 16” device, a tablet, and have intelligently placed organization pockets for your necessary accessories. In true minimalist fashion, these strike us as bags that allow you to carry the necessities and not an item more,  seamlessly working as day bags to allow you to explore in just as much comfort and style as you do on the initial journey.

What’s next?

Not only are Émigré making waves in the Carry world, in the autumn of 2022 they’ll be entering the travel apparel market. Similarly to their new carry line up, the Émigré wardrobe will feature an elegant, minimalist aesthetic that is constructed with natural, performance-driven materials. These apparel items are designed to work in Tandem with their excellent new Carry line, and provide exceptional garments that provide both function and fashion for the Modern professional, we can’t wait to see what they bring to the table. 

Émigré are a brand that is focused on making a refined range of products that work flawlessly, or as is as close as possible. I always admire that, when there is the patience and focus to create a few exceptional products, rather than a plethora of mediocre products. If their previous pedigree and inaugural collection are anything to go by, Émigré are here not only to make your working travel experience better, but they’re here to stay.

Thanks to the fine folks at Émigré for being a curated sponsor

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Hailing from Vancouver, RYU Apparel know a thing or two about movement. Nestled away in one of the most ecologically diverse corners of the North American continent (if not the world), Vancouver natives love to explore, either in the urban city center or nature’s playground in the surrounding areas. To quote RYU “we believe movement can set us free. It helps us grow. Movement lifts all of us up. Movement matters.”  This is clear in all of the products, and below we’re looking at the perfect selection of RYU products to get you moving and shaking, wherever you may be.

Let’s dive in to some of the best RYU has to offer.

Windshell Jacket

You can’t exercise in Vancouver (or anywhere else for that matter) year round without some level of protection. Whether it be wind or rain, or just a morning chill, this windshell jacket has you covered. Lightweight, packable, and stylish, this jacket exemplifies RYU’s well balanced form and function ideology. With OEKO TEX® Certified (Chemical free fabric), you can feel good about wearing it and its DWR and PU coating make this a pretty weather resistant jacket. I’ve found it to handle sporadic rain well, and while I wouldn’t wear in a consistent four hour downpour, it handles precipitation admirably and is certainly enough to finish your workout drier.

The hood has a visor for a little extra protection, and the chin guard keeps you comfortable as you battle the elements while you train. Elasticated cuffs and hems make this comfortable as you bound through the streets, and the two way zipper (essential in my view) allow for good temperature control while maintaining protection. There’s even two subtle zipper pockets on the front of the jacket, which are great for hands or small EDC essentials. Internally you’ll find a zipper pocket, which is the packing spot for your jacket when it’s not needed.

This jacket is not only a great addition to your workout gear, but also one of those products I’d keep in my bag on the move!

Vector Shorts 

The Vector Shorts are an attractive option for anyone who is looking for a pair of “do-it-all” shorts. With a 5” outer, and 6” liner, these shorts will keep you moving whatever your task. Sleek design paired with innovative fabrics make these an easy choice to train in or pack for travel. Lightweight and eco conscious, these are OEKO TEX® certified and use Bluesign® recycled polyester, you’ll be hard pressed to find a better pair of shorts for under $70.

With bonded hems (no scratchy scratchy), and internal drawcord (adjustable fit), and a zippered pocket (keys and gels), you can tackle any challenge in the Vector shorts. With four-way stretch, a brushed waistband, and an antimicrobial liner, comfort is key so that you can focus on crushing. There is no doubt that these will perform well wherever you take them, but they look great too!

Vapor Long Sleeve

I have a bit of a passion for work out shirts, I spend a lot of time in them between coaching and playing rugby, hiking, and running. Over the years I have worn many, I have also given away many. I’m not sure there is a perfect workout shirt that exists, but there are a few that come very close to that elusive moniker. They all share the same characteristics: minimal seams, stretch, and anti-stink! The Vapor sleeve displays all of these qualities and more.

What I like about the Vapor is that it is a workout shirt that you could comfortably wear about town post adventure – without looking out of place. Mesh zones on your back and sides keep you cool as you raise your heart rate, while the circular knit construction not only reduces waste but adds some robustness to the shirt, which isn’t surprising given RYU’s MMA roots. The polygiene® treatment means that you don’t have to wash this every time that you workout, and the seams are barely there thanks to their flat construction.

This is a fitted shirt, so if you’re between sizes I would recommend going up one. This is one of those shirts that you can’t wait to put on, which is always a win when it comes to working out!

Perforated Performance Cap

With all this movement, a little extra protection from the weather (sun or rain!) is never a bad thing. The perforated performance cap is the ideal item to have in your pack for reinforcements when you need some extra help! WIth a wicking interior sweatband, laser perforated for sweat management, and taped interior seams, this is a lightweight hat that you can wear mile after mile.

Competition Duffel 

Airline approved, the competition duffel is ready to hit the road with you on your adventures. Three way carry (hand, shoulder, backpack) makes navigating the airport a breeze, and EVA foam protects both the bottom and the sides regardless of where you set this tank down. The nylon fabric is silicone and PU coated for extreme weatherproofing, and a water resistant zipper helps keep any extra moisture out. There are reinforced grab handles at either end, which are some of the sturdiest I’ve come across, you don’t need to be too gentle with this duffel! My favourite feature is undoubtedly the opening which thanks to the fabric is reminiscent of a doctor’s bag, staying open and allowing you to load or unload with ease. The internal pocketing is just right, with a healthy amount of organization.

This duffel hasFour open stretch mesh pockets with for loose items, a drawstring closure pocket (great for shoes), and the base of the bag even has a zippered compartment so that you can separate your dirty and clean clothes, active and casual clothes, or even storage for a backpack on the road perhaps? This is topped by two cinch straps to make sure you’re maximizing your packing space. There is a zippered sleeve that runs the whole length of the interior, the perfect spot for your laptop or tablet. Two hidden air vents keep it fresh, and an exterior zipper pocket is good for housing your EDC.

A reminder to “respect your universe” is printed on the bottom of this excellent duffel. I’m truly impressed with this and it has features that top bags two or three times its price. It’s comfortable to carry, innovative in its design, and excellent value for money.

Locker Pack 24

We were really impressed with the RYU Quik Pack, and it’s bigger sibling is just as impressive with a few more refinements to make this your go to pack for sessions at the gym, days at the office, and weekends on the road. The 24L locker pack is a Bluesign® certified 65/35 split between polyester and cotton, finished with a silicone and PU coating. This pack is tough, and handsome in equal measure–there’s no reason not to bring it. It even has a Polygiene® finish to keep you odor free while on the move.

It carries many of the same features that make the Quik Pack excellent, such as the two zipper opening, the internal foam shell, internal mesh pockets, and a removable chest strap. However, the EDC additions of an exterior pocket on the lid, larger volume and different material are what make this a versatile pack. It is just as comfortable, even under a heavier load, and the external access laptop sleeve makes your work life just as efficient as your exercise. This is a charming pack that is a joy to use. Understated performance that you can rely on.

Express Pack 15L

If you want a lightweight pack that is simple yet stylish, look no further than the express pack. Coming in under $80, this pack has a lot of features that make it a useful day pack or gym buddy. It has a padded internal laptop sleeve (up to 15”), water resistant zippers, a large exterior stretch water bottle pocket, and a nice wide opening. The exterior has a nice streamlined aesthetic, and includes a useful quick access pocket for your must grab items. On the front wall of the pack there are mesh organizer pockets that you can use for tech or EDC organisation, and there are two internal mesh pockets as well for gear org or dirty gym gear.

This pack is lightweight enough and compressible to lay flat on the bottom of your duffel if traveling, and is feature rich! It doesn’t have the structure of the Locker Pack or Quik Pack, so bear that in mind when packing! The Bluesign® nylon outer is partnered with silicon and a Polygiene® finish, making it tough against the elements and germs! This is a great smaller pack for those who don’t carry much.

RYU are continuing to build on their already impressive catalog with products that are effective in their execution, innovative in their design, and thoughtful in their manufacture. That’s a brand we can get behind! If you’re looking for excellent crossover products, at a fair price, with sleek styling: look no further than RYU.

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We’re big fans of the team at Western Rise, they constantly produce excellent apparel products for life on the road, in the wild, or wherever your days take you. They’ve be featured in buying guides of ours multiple times, we’re always excited by their updates and they’ve won best travel clothing in the Carry Awards three times!

It’s safe to say that we think they’re awesome and one of the best innovators out there in the apparel space! As summer comes into view, they’re having an epic summer sale, with 25% off all of their products, including some of their latest and greatest releases! Use discount code ’SUMMER’!

Below, we’ve picked out a few select items that are likely to make you pack less and adventure more!

Evolution Pant

Western Rise was founded on the basis of creating crossover products that meant carrying less and doing more. The Evolution pant are at the core of that philosophy. These are lightweight, water and stain resistant and very breathable. All our team at Carry HQ love these for travel, and the 2-way stretch means they are comfortable enough for both commuting and roaming free in the wild! These pack small, and are a true do-it-all pant. Coming in a multitude of staple colours, you’ll find yourself wanting a few pairs!

Limitless Merino Button Down

A good button down is an essential part of the modern man’s wardrobe. However, for many of us, gone are the days of sitting in a boardroom staring at the clock, we are more active, more fluid, and sometimes no two days look the same. Enter the Limitless button down, smart enough for your performance review, comfortable enough for your flight, and breathable enough for your weekend hikes. Moisture wicking, odor resistant, and wrinkle free, this shirt will help you attack the day!

Boundless Short

One of my favourite things about the summertime is having full day adventures from the moment you wake up, to the moment you collapse into bed. There is something freeing about just seeing where the day takes you. To do that, you need shorts that you can trust in the water and on land! With one of their newer releases, western rise have you covered! The boundless short is a Swiss Army Knife pair of shorts. Four way stretch, quick drying, mesh pockets, and water/stain resistant (like all of Western Rise’s gear!) These are sure to become firm favourites in your collection. Similarly to the Evolution pant, these will cover all of your bases this summer!

X Cotton T-Shirt and X Cotton Henley

I’m always in a quandary when it comes to T-shirts. I love all of the benefits that come with merino wool but I love the softness and comfort of cotton. I’m certain that the Western Rise team has been in my head as I’ve pontificated and that’s what brought them to creating the X-tee. The perfect middle ground T-shirt. It’s moisture wicking and odor resistant (just like merino), but it has that luxurious comfort and weight to it like your favourite old tee-shirt. With an improved cut (ever so slightly tailored) you can wear this at home, out to dinner, or as a layer under your favourite sweater. I have bought these in pretty much every colour, they are hard not to love.

If you need more sleeves in your life, they come in a Henley version too.

Movement Short

I love the movement short. Ever since I tried my first pair a couple of years ago, they come with me on every trip I take, and they pull double duty as my gym/running shorts and swim shorts. They are perfect to stick in your suitcase as they pack down to nothing but give you options at your destination. The updated material is featherweight, comfortable and super stretchy. Over the last month I’ve used these for rugby training, running, hiking, and swimming. They look as good as new. These are sportier than the boundless shorts and excellent for those of you on the move all the time!

Versa Hat

How could we write our suggestions without including one of our favourite hats? The Versa was an epiphany for me (not a huge baseball hat wearer) a year ago. Crushable, waterproof, and stretchy, this baseball hat is the insurance policy for hot days, wet days, and everything inbetween. It easily slips into a bag or pocket, and comes out ready to go! I swear by this hat, and if I’m outdoors, it is never far behind. Coming in a great range of colours and patterns, your head will stay dry and your nose or forehead will stay unburnt! That’s a win in my books!

Western Rise are one of those brands that we always get excited about. They aren’t interested in making 50 new products a year, or making their version of someone else’s product just to do it. They are in the business of making items that you can use, trust, abuse, and use again–without even thinking about it. If you’re looking to level up your wardrobe, take advantage of their summer sale (Use discount code ’SUMMER’!) and get out there!

Thanks to our friends at Western Rise for sponsoring this article.

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In the modern carry space, there are a lot of buzzwords thrown around in marketing materials. From billboards around cities to targeted social advertising, there seems to be a plethora of items promising X, Y, and Z. This isn’t a judgment, quite the opposite in fact, as it’s understandable that brands are doing their best trying to stand out in a crowded scene. I bring this up because to us at Carry HQ, the current marketplace makes it even more impressive when a brand stands out and lets the product speak for itself. RYU are one such brand.

In traditional Canadian style, they are modest about their considerable pedigree in the high performance apparel industry, with senior designers previously creating products for their compatriots – the behemoth Arc’Teryx. After a few weeks with their products in hand, it’s easy to see that they share the same attention to detail, in both design and manufacturing. Yet, RYU are much more than an offshoot of an established brand, they have their own style, their own functionality, and their own identity. This is perfectly exemplified by the two products we’re looking at today, the Quick Pack 18L and the Waist Bag 1.5L.

Quick Pack 18L

The Quick Pack is a bag that I was dubious about. There is no doubt that the design looks great, however at 6ft tall, 220lbs/100kgs, smaller bags and I usually don’t become firm friends. Thankfully, this concern was quickly dispelled within moments of putting the bag on. At 2.6lbs/1.2kgs this bag is very lightweight and comfortable, particularly considering how robust it is. 

Made from Bluesign® nylon with a silicone + PU coating and a Polygiene® antibacterial finish, the Quick Pack is designed to go with you on all the adventures that you can imagine. I’ve been impressed at how comfortable it is, and it’s easy to see why it’s a fan favourite. I’m not traditionally someone who would choose camouflage or patterned products, but the new Leaf colourway is quite captivating, and chameleon-esque in its performance. It blends into many situations comfortably and looks great doing it. I actually find it soothing to look at, it reminds me of ink droplets in water and the way they disperse and dissipate. The Leaf pattern certainly caught my attention!

Looking good is one thing, but as we all know in the carry world, performance is the foundation of all excellent bags. The Quick Pack achieves a high level of performance for a few reasons. 1, it isn’t trying to be another bag. 2, it houses a curated selection of excellent features rather than a plethora of bells and whistles that don’t work together. 3, its design matches RYU’s philosophy – movement.

That’s where the Quick Pack stands out for me, when I’m on the move. I have worn this hiking, walking, and it has become my go to pack for my OneWheel adventures. I’ve carried this in downpours and 80ºF days and it’s performed admirably during both. The contoured shoulder straps have a mesh padding that aids ventilation, and they are padded enough to keep you comfortable without being too heavy on a lighter 18L volume. The chest strap is adjustable or removable, which is a nice design choice. I have kept the chest strap in the quick access pocket for daily use, and I can add more stability if I’m becoming active. The internal foam structure of this bag is unique, and I like how it almost guides your packing and loadouts, while simultaneously providing a good level of protection and maintaining a nice profile when on body.

Internally, the design language stays the same, and I appreciate that. There are times where bags feel like two different products between the inside and outside, I haven’t found that to be the case here. The half clamshell open is reminiscent of the famed Bellroy Apex, and is complemented by the water resistant zippers. When this front panel is open, you are given access to the first of four internal pockets. I found this spot to be great for my kindle, headphones, or a light jacket, as they’re easy to access quickly.

On the back wall you have a padded laptop sleeve that houses my 14” MacBook and can accommodate up to a 15” device. That is fronted by a zippered stretch pocket that runs the full width of the back panel and is a great spot for chargers and cable etc. if you’re carrying a laptop, or notebooks and pens if you aren’t.

The main volume is well structured with two stretch mesh water bottle pockets, these were able to stomach a 26oz water bottle okay, but not much bigger. The main cavity also has a buckle at the top which maintains the shape of the bag for when you’re on the move, and is cinchable based on your loadout. It’s not a full volume extender per se, but it keeps things in their spot or helps you fit in that extra jacket and keep it secure. This was invaluable when OneWheeling or hiking as it seemed to help keep contents exactly in their spot.  If the bag is full, it’s also worth noting that a water bottle can protrude against the outer wall and changes the silhouette ever so slightly. I really like that this is minimalist when it comes to pocketing, while I love organisation, I’ve become so fond of my own pouches and organisers, I love being able to use them and switch from one bag to another with ease. Thankfully you can do that here with the Quick Pack. 

The closure is elegant, with the lid being secured by two buckles that are angled asymmetrically on the sides of the bag. This looks brilliant and keeps the aesthetic clean, but it also provides extra weather protection by drawing moisture away from the main body of the bag. The lid also includes a quick access pocket, and I found it to be big enough to hold my wallet, keys, EDC knife and AirPods. Quick to reach, but with a recessed zipper that also complements the streamlined aesthetic. 

I’ve been ever so impressed with the Quick Pack, it really does fit the design language that it’s “made to fit your whole day”. It is adept at changing roles quickly, and the execution of the opening, the intentional choice of pockets, and elegant aesthetic means that it can be a chameleon in your collection. Office, Gym, Trail, OneWheel–it can do it all, and it does it very well. For $148, it is a worthwhile addition to any collection.

Waist Bag 1.5L

The 1.5L waist bag is a great companion to the Quick Pack, and fits very well either at the top of your loadout, or deep within! Similarly to it’s bigger sibling, this is refined design and a pleasure to use. Slings are becoming more and more ubiquitous as people recognise the value in them and the Waist Pack offers you sling carry, waist carry, or over the shoulder. Big enough to house your EDC essentials, there is a zip pocket on the rear wall (wallet/keys), two stretch mesh pockets for a small jacket and headphones, and an open pocket behind the rear padding which I found to be a natural spot for my phone. 

The design is sleek and comfortable, with water resistant zippers, a breathable back panel, and a wide opening (a must have feature) which allows quick access. Even the hardware is impressive with a svelte half inch thick buckle that you would barely notice unless you’re actively engaging the mechanism. While designed for EDC, I even found that it comfortably housed some of my smaller camera bodies, another reason that it paired so well with the Quick Pack, it became an impromptu camera carry! The subtle branding is also a win, with a matte RYU adorning the Leaf colourway, which is equally elegant in a smaller form.

I like it when a bag does the basics well. I really do. There is a time and a place for a multitude of specific pockets, and this type of hardware, and that type of material. Those products are great, and obviously we love them at Carry HQ. However, there is something charming about a bag that is ready to saddle up wherever you go, whatever you’re doing and says “Let’s go!”. That’s how I feel about the RYU Quick Pack and Waist Bag, they are dependable adventure buddies that I trust to do the job well. They are excellently designed, well thought out, and affordable. That is a trifecta worth taking note of.

This is a curated sponsor article from our friends at RYU Apparel! Thanks for the support.

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