Who It Suits

This series of carry products is made for kayaking, rafting, boating, yachting, fishing, scuba diving, snorkeling, etc. It’s fully IPX7-rated for the most demanding amphibious adventures. 

Who It Doesn’t

It’s dedicated waterborne gear, so obviously not for winter mountaineering, skiing, climbing, or bushcrafting. It’s also neither a commuter’s dream nor an office pack… except maybe if you’ll be commuting by Venetian gondola.  

Specifications

1. All Terrain Duffel 60L:
Weight: 37.6oz
Length: 23″, Width: 14″, Height: 12″

2. All Terrain Duffel 45L:
Weight: 33.6oz
Length: 20″, Width: 12″, Height: 11″

3. All Terrain Pack 24L:
Weight: 41.6oz
Height: 20″, Width (max): 11″, Width (min): 9″, Depth: 7″

4. ATP-1 pouch (small):
Weight: 0.8oz
Length: 4.0″, Width: 1.0″, Height: 3.0″

5. ATP-2 pouch (medium):
Weight: 1.4oz
Length: 6.0″, Width: 1.25″, Height: 4.5″

What the IPX7 Rating Means

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The IPX rating goes from 0 to 8 (0 means no protection at all, and 8 is rated for deep submerging). The PDW All Terrain series is IPX7 rated and the number 7 is very important here. Ratings up to IPX6 define waterproofness against splashes, rain, waves, waterfalls, and other ‘above surface’ flowing water. However, IPX7 is the first level which guarantees no leakage when the bag is fully submerged under the surface. To be exact it means that the object would withstand being submerged to a depth of at least 1 meter for at least 30 minutes without letting any water in. Could it survive even deeper submerging? Sure, usually way deeper and for a longer time – these values in the IPX7 norm are MINIMUM values. And since you ask – IPX8 is assigned for dedicated diving equipment, not really for all-terrain amphibious gear. So in other words – as long as you don’t take these new bags deep to the bottom when scuba diving, they will keep your stuff dry.

They are actually so well sealed that they could be used as floatation devices. And I checked that (with some help from my son) quite extensively as you can see in the photo – needless to say, the bag didn’t let even one drop of water in. Just be sure all zippers are fully closed, with the sliders clicked into the end gates – this is crucial. And last but not least – for extended longevity and ease of operation use the supplied zipper lubricant every now and then, preferably when you clean your gear after an expedition.

Materials and Design

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The whole series is made of fully laminated 1000D and 600D RPET (recycled polyester fibers) with high-frequency welded seams. Critical areas (like carry handles) are first sewn for strength and then sealed with an extra layer of 600D RPET by frequency welding – so yeah, it’s tough stuff. The main zippers are almost oversized scuba-diving style, fully watertight within the IPX7 norm, of course.  

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The overall design of the series is quite consistent, and it immediately says: Hey, I’m not just super heavy-duty but waterproof too! The central zippers are big and bold, with a massive diver’s style T-shaped handle instead of a standard zipper pull. And they work great, just make sure you close it to the very end so that it clicks into the closing gate – only then is the waterproofness guaranteed. PDW also supplies a special zipper lubricant, which makes the zipper easier to close and open and ensures full waterproofness (and longevity).

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The duffels in both volumes are equipped with oversized handles and additional padded shoulder straps for easy pack-like carry. If you’ve ever been boarding a sailing yacht you know how crucial it is to have your hands free, so that you can grab railings, ropes, etc. The shoulder straps can be quickly removed if required. 

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The pack, however, is considerably more advanced – it’s not only waterproof but also has a full-blown, really comfortable harness – not a common thing on a drypack. So you’ll find a padded back panel and lumbar pad with an integrated venting channel. Add to this wide, also fully padded shoulder straps with attachment D-rings and MOLLE slots. The pack comes equipped with a padded waist belt too, which has MOLLE slots on for easy pouch attachment. The padding is made of closed cell foam, so it doesn’t absorb any water. Side gear leashing points accept standard 1″ webbing straps with locking buckles (4 of them included) which I mostly used to carry my fishing rod or a big camp knife in a Kydex sheath.  

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There’s small daisy-chain webbing at the front (for carabiners, etc.) and a D-ring too. Plus MOLLE slots on the bottom so I could attach an additional pouch, small drybag, or other gear. The main compartment features a half-opening with a diver’s zipper (of course), and there’s even a front pocket with a smaller T-handle on it. As I said, this thing ain’t a simple roll-top drypack. And I admit, this pack looks cool.

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Features

The key feature of the All Terrain series is waterproofness as you can imagine, but not only! To ensure the required buoyancy you need to control the volume of air inside the bag. And for that, you can use a spring-loaded valve, installed in both bags and the backpack. You can inflate it to keep it floating, but you could also deflate it and make the package submersible – depending on what you need. For me, such a valve is simply a MUST on a serious amphibious product. Well done, PDW!

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As you can see in the photos, PDW added multiple leashing points, daisy-chains, D-rings, and MOLLE slots to all products – so you can not only attach extra gear to the bags but also clip on a carabiner or tie a safety line. And finally, all bags have full-size Velcro panels on them, which are good not only for patch junkies (like me) but more importantly for easy personalizing and identification. This could be useful when similar bags are used by several people. And I can imagine this when kayaking or rafting with friends.

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And What About The Pouches?

If you need to protect some of your smaller equipment against aquatic conditions, the ATP pouches are the way to go. Imagine stuff like batteries, a power bank, cables, a Swiss Army Knife, maybe a fire-starting kit, or simply a mobile – all that fits there. Both the ATP-1 and ATP-2 are watertight too. Also, both feature translucent windows on the front for a quick and easy content check – this comes in really handy if you use more than one pouch of the same size. 

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Both pouches feature MOLLE on the back, so you can attach them to a pack, bag, boat, RIB, or kayak. There’s also an admin pouch available at PDW, which I haven’t tried so far (but it looks good). You can notice that the zippers (or rather sliders) on these pouches are a bit harder to operate than regular non-waterproof zippers, but that is how they work to keep water away. So don’t pull it too hard and don’t try to zip them in a split second – they are designed for a perfect seal, not for speed.

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Space and Access

The All Terrain series philosophy is simple; it’s a waterproof space for your gear, that’s it – nothing more and nothing less. Both provide easy access via oversized divers’ zippers, which open the bags really wide. The 60 liters of space in the big bag is more than enough for any sailing trip. Just keep it slightly open when stored in a cabin to allow for air circulation. The 45-liter bag is not just a great weekender, but also the perfect bag for multi-day canoeing in summer. The organization inside is very straightforward – just one big cavity, plus a small internal pocket welded inside, which works fine for small valuables like a wallet or car keys (the Swiss Army Knife in the photo is for a size reference). 

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In the 24-liter pack there’s also an additional flat front pocket, right below the main compartment’s opening. It is IPX7 rated as well and I used this one to keep a map in there, a miniature compass, and a fishing license. The pack’s size is perfect for any day trip in a kayak, canoe, or on a small RIB fishing boat (which is what I used the pack for a lot). Plus there’s a small hanger loop inside the backpack, so you can clip on your water bottle there or attach a fixed blade knife inside for covert carry. Of course, it’s not a hydration-compatible pack – there’s no way a tube port would be waterproofed enough to keep the construction well sealed. 

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Comfort

The duffels work fine for all kinds of carrying – as a backpack, on one shoulder, in hand, and also when grabbed by the front and back carry handles. Sure, it’s not a backpack per se, but to carry even a heavy duffel from a car trunk to the boat’s deck this system is more than adequate. 

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The backpack carries great! The fully adjustable shoulder straps are equipped with not only load lifters but even integrated webbing management D-frames and a quick-release buckle system (which in my opinion is a must for safety when wearing the pack on a boat). The waist belt can be easily removed, and I used my pack mostly without one for easier carry. Even just the shoulder straps, lumbar pad, and back panel did a good enough job of transferring the pack’s mass to my body. Any grab handles? Absolutely! Four of them, one on each side, for easy loading on a vessel or safe passing from hand to hand.

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The Good

– Fully waterproof – IPX7 rated

– Lightweight for the size

– Super tough laminated material

– Multiple attachment points outside

– Velcro patch panels for easy ID 

– Good price point

The Not So Good

– No organization inside the bags, a side zipper pocket would be welcome

– Limited versatility, dedicated to maritime adventures

– Only one color is available now (grey/foliage)

Verdict

There’s a lot to like about the new PDW All Terrain series stuff – it is lightweight, tough, and waterproof. They have all the features you need, but they are not overbuilt with them. I’m also glad to see they released the whole series, not a single bag or pack just to test the waters. It’s quite an audacious move for PDW, as this sort of product is not mainstream – you need a reason to own one. But of course, even that badass tactical look alone could be a good reason to get one, if you don’t have a drybag in your carry collection yet.

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However, if you plan any rafting, fishing, boating, or other maritime adventure, such a duffle or pack is a must. The price starts at $163 for a 45-liter duffel, which is in my opinion the most versatile model in the whole series. Sure, it’s not dirt cheap, but do a quick search and you will find out that for an IPX7-rated duffel (considering all the features, IPX7 and valve) that price is fair, to say the least. And even the most expensive, the backpack, at $218 is not a bad deal on the market. This is an interesting series in PDW’s lineup for sure and priced well.

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Care to know which is my personal favorite in this series? Well, surprisingly the big 60-liter duffel! Big enough even for me. I could easily pack for a full two-week cruise on a sailboat… and I’m notorious for packing too much gear, especially knives and gadgets to test later in the outdoors. Combined with the All Terrain pack it makes an outstanding pair for any kind of amphibious adventure for me. 

The post Prometheus Design Werx | All Terrain Bags Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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Who It Suits

Anyone looking for a compact but capable hiking daypack, which is comfortable even with a heavier load and tough as nails. Adventurers and survivalists who would like to experience something different from the generic mainstream pack, both in summer and winter. And especially if they’ll need to haul a bit heavier gear in a pack (like binos, bushcraft gear, hatchet, etc.). Plus all HPG fans, of course!

Who It Doesn’t

For city commuting and general urban or office use, this would not be my recommended pack due to the scarcity of proper EDC organization inside. Due to the specific harness, this pack wouldn’t be a technical climber’s dream either. True ultralight hikers wouldn’t be fans of the Junction, as 500D Cordura is overkill for them. However, there’s also a lighter variant of this pack available (made of thin and light Sil-Nylon material), which combined with a Pocket Harness is almost 40% lighter than a regular Junction. I didn’t try this one but it seems to be a good option if weight is your main concern.

Design

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Looks

I’ve been a die-hard fan of Hill People Gear since the very beginning about a decade ago. I’ve tried many of their packs, including the immense Qui-Ya, small Tarahumara, and also the iconic mid-sized Umlindi (quite possibly my overall favorite pack ever). And recently they created a scaled-down lighter variant of the latter one. A tough backcountry compact daypack with an obvious Umlindi look – the Junction! Technically speaking it’s a relatively short top-loader pack with pronounced side pockets and a flat top. And inherently, the unmistakable horseshoe-shaped harness system, which HPG is famous for. This pack has all Hill People Gear’s DNA in it. And it’s available in multiple color schemes: black, gray, coyote, ranger green, some 2-tone variants, teal, and bordeaux! It’s a variety, which even the biggest pack companies rarely offer these days!

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Construction

As I mentioned earlier it’s a top-loader pack with a flat lid running on a heavy-duty bi-directional zipper – a simple and effective design. It’s produced in the USA by the First Spear company, only with US-sourced materials. In case you didn’t know – First Spear is a top-tier tactical manufacturer of Berry Amendment Compliant gear for US troops. Of course, it’s stitched flawlessly, as expected.

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Materials and Hardware

No surprises here: 500D Cordura, YKK zippers, heavy-duty molded plastic hardware (US-made too). No corners cut by the material department – the Junction is definitely a tough specimen that is made to last. It’s one of those packs that is going to serve you for a long, long time… a rare thing these days, with more and more disposable-like products that fall apart after just three seasons or so.

Features

Usually, HPG gear is really feature-rich, so this one must be as well, right? Wrong! It’s a light and simple pack, with enough features to be useful, but with no frills and unnecessary complications (which always come with a weight penalty).

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So what do we have here? The bucket-like main chamber, a lid with a flat pocket, two spacious side pockets, and a back hydration zipper sleeve. Plus classic features of the HPG harness like bungee keepers on shoulder straps and gear attachment loops. There are also sewn-in multiple webbing loops (G-hook compatible) on the sides of the back panel, which allow attaching compression straps, paracord, bungee net, top and bottom straps, etc., and even add-on pockets like the Line Pocket. There’s also a super simple paracord X-attachment on the back, but it’s more useful than one would expect. Not only was I able to carry a wet rain jacket there, but I used it also as a keeper to carry dry twigs for my wood stove on a bushcraft outing into the forest, and even to carry my fins and other snorkeling gear when I was on vacation with family in Croatia this year! Now that’s true versatility.

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Performance

Space and Access

The main sack is roughly 22L. That’s more than enough for a daypack if your gear list is not too excessive. The top access and clean interior make loading/unloading super easy. There’s only a single webbing loop inside, so you can attach a pull-out pouch there to store your valuables. Also keep in mind there’s no side zipper or any other access to the main compartment so sometimes you need to dig inside a bit to find items in the bottom. It’s not a huge pack, so that shouldn’t be too painful, but it’s still something to consider. Well, as I said HPG stuff is made to last so don’t expect possible weak links like a side zipper – makes sense, right?

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Pockets and Organizing

The oversized open side pockets are instantly apparent – they are just huge compared to the overall pack size and can easily carry a 1L water bottle and knife or small hatchet together… each! They’re not elastic per se, but HPG designed them in such a way that they don’t eat up too much of the main sack’s space even if filled up with gear. On the contrary, the back hydration/laptop pocket is rather flat and not designed to stuff it too heavily with gear. A tablet or small (thin) laptop would fit there, but I prefer to use it for a 2L Source hydration bladder. There’s no dedicated hose port on the Junction, so you just need to use a corner of the zipper as one.

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The top lid pocket doesn’t have too much volume in it. It’s good for some small accessories, like a Swiss Army knife, headlamp, energy bar, compact folded map – and not much more. But it’s not without reason – thanks to the flat design you can strap a rolled jacket or a sleeping pad to the top of the pack with extra straps, especially if you use the optional Line Pocket attached to the Junction to expand the pack’s load capacity.

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I mentioned the Line Pocket here – an accessory that is tailor-made for the Junction. It fits great, can be installed on G-hooks within a minute or so, and adds about 5L of volume with nice organization inside. But the Line Pocket also adds the possibility to attach a bedroll, dry bag, or other similar items under and over the pack. I truly enjoyed the Line Pocket on my Umlindi when using it last year, but on the Junction it’s just an exceptional accessory! So if you want your Junction to be a really multi-purpose scalable pack – simply buy the Line Pocket in a bundle.

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Comfort

The broad horseshoe-shaped harness doesn’t need too much of an introduction – or just search Carryology for my previous HPG pack reviews. It distributes the weight not just on the shoulder, but on the whole back and shoulders area. Combined with a removable frame sheet and padded back panel it’s one of the most comfortable carry systems of all daypacks, and it’s optimized for seriously heavy loads. The junction might be small, but it can surely carry big! Much more than any other 22L pack would. There’s no waist belt on a Junction, but you could attach a stabilizing waist strap via a pair of G-hooks if you’d like to.

Okay, back breathability is not as good as on packs with ventilated back panels – but during hot summer days you’d sweat anyway, and in colder seasons you don’t need mesh or bungee net on the back as your clothing should be your real wicking-sweat-out device. Also due to such construction, it stays close to the body for good balance and stability, even in dynamic situations – and that’s what you want in the real backcountry. Plus it’s tougher too.

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Weatherability

The Cordura on the Junction is somewhat weatherproof, but stitchings are not. So if the weather gets really bad and you expect a downpour coming… I’d suggest either a rain cover or a decent dry bag (or simply a plastic trash bag) fitted inside the main compartment. Still, the HPG Junction will handle snow and occasional drizzle with ease.

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Alternatives to Consider

Hill People Gear packs are really hard to compare to other carry gear on the market. So below you can find some packs that serve a similar role as the HPG Junction, just in a bit different way. Still, all of them are tough, offer similar volume, and have similar dual functionality as a day-hiking and bushcrafter’s pack.

– Kifaru Echo

– Mystery Ranch 2DAP

– Fjällräven Greenland Top 20

– Eberlestock Switchblade

The Good

– Overall tough construction

– Sturdy proven materials, US-made

– Carry system – works even under really heavy load

– Side pockets design

– Modularity, compatible with other HPG add-ons

– Outdoor versatility from mountaineering to bushcrafting

Not So Good

– No back panel ventilation

– Heavier than alpine climbing packs (but there’s a lightweight version of the Junction too, which you could check out)

– No waist belt

– No internal organization

Verdict

The Junction is a hybrid creature, combining some elements of a hiking pack and classic bushcraft and backcountry pack. It’s a very versatile and compact outdoor carry tool, good for summer hikes and winter snowshoeing. It’s light and small, at home up on the hills, deep in the valley, and in the forest too. Tough, impeccably made in the USA… and also not costing you an arm and a leg – an MSRP of $175 is not particularly cheap, but still manageable, and certainly justified in this case. For all HPG junkies, this pack is a must-have! If you’re looking for a lightweight summer daypack, which is strong enough to withstand both tough day hikes and bushcraft outings, and which is scalable, multi-role, and will serve you for many years, the Hill People Gear Junction should be on your shortlist, without any doubt.

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The post Hill People Gear Junction Pack Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Now, that’s just my personal opinion, and I know that some photographers will take protection over everything. However, for me there is a balance between keeping my cameras locked away in the most protective case, and letting them run free and do their thing! My cameras are tools and I want to be able to bring them with me and use them. More recently I’ve found myself defaulting to under the radar camera slings, or my own favoured backpacks with an insert that I like, sometimes even a homemade solution using clothing as the protection. People often say that the best camera is the one you have with you, I feel as though the same theory can be applied to camera bags, the best one is the one you’ll have with you; the one that allows you to take your gear to the best places, to capture the best shots.

So, for the past five years I’ve accepted my fate that there isn’t a camera bag for me to rule them all, there are some very good ones that I turn to, but ultimately I hadn’t found the “one”. My criteria for “the one” was pretty straight forward on paper. It had to carry excellently (20-40lbs of gear gets tiring very quickly), get me into hard to reach places with my gear,  it had to have genuinely useful features, and it should be disguised and not advertise the payday sitting on my back. Could the Atlas Packs Athlete Camera Pack be the one I’ve been looking for?

Who’s it for?

If you are Outdoor enthusiast or content creator who is looking for an excellent hiking pack, which is also an excellent camera pack, then look no further. With the capability to handle almost any professional camera set up, ingenious functional features, and excellent materials and build quality, you’ll be amazed you’ve used anything else.

Who’s it not?

If minimalism is more your style, and you don’t like straps on your bags, move on. The Athlete is designed for life outside, and that’s where it thrives. If your setup is smaller, maybe a single body and lens, you may also want to look elsewhere.

Construction and Materials

I think this is an exceptionally important piece of the puzzle for a good camera pack. When your livelihood is coming with you, you want to know not only that it’s protected from a padding point of view, but also that the materials are good quality and the manufacturing is up to scratch. It’s not hard to put up to 50lbs in a camera pack, so reliability is key. With the Atlas Athlete, I had no concerns from the snowy day I unboxed it, and I still have no concerns now after almost 10 months of use and abuse. A 240D ripstop shell is a great balance of durability and weatherproofing, not once in my use have I been concerned about its robustness. Atlas Packs have a mantra that a happy pack is a dirty pack, and this pack has been around the world, taken a fair beating, got dirty, been wiped off, and come back for more without wavering.

There is a detachable and stowable rain cover zipped into the base of the pack should you need extra protection from the elements. Internally the 10mm thick dividers provide plenty of protection to stop your lenses and bodies becoming too closely acquainted. Sturdy YKK® zippers and hardware make access a breeze and these buckles and zippers have actually become one of my most appreciated parts of the pack. They are easy to adjust and manipulate, even with gloves on in the depth of winter. I love being able to adjust quickly on the move when shooting, and material and hardware choices such as these make all the difference.

The same applies to the sturdy webbing used around the pack–simple, reliable, and easy to interact with. Elasticated strap keepers help you manage any dangling strap ends and keep them out of the way, which I love, no one likes straps flapping around! I know at Carryology we love to wax lyrical about some pretty technical materials, but sometimes simple can be best, and in my experience, for photography packs (and cameras in general) reliability is key. It is a constant theme throughout the pack, and is likely why I’ve grown so fond of it. 

A removable aluminium frame/stay allows you to compress the pack smaller should you desire, and is easily inserted/removed when needed. It fits into overhead cabins or airplanes with ease, something I really appreciate. The Athlete is the smaller of the two packs offered from Atlas, and comes in three colours and two sizes. Their excellent fit guide will help you choose the best option. 

Organisation

Where to start? This can be a contentious point amongst photographers. Some love an ICU for the flexibility and some love built in protection. Well, why not have both? This is one of the areas for me where the Atlas Packs both stand head and shoulders above the rest. The Origami Camera Core is hands down the best way to carry camera gear on your back. Now I hear what you’re saying “X, Y, and Z have customisable cubes!” etc. etc. However, the OCC is really the best of both worlds, elevated.

The OCC is really quite ingenious, with a simple tug of the loop or a push of the core, you can either gain around 3L of gear space in the main compartment or extra room for another lens/body combo. This feature makes the pack really excel for travel, because now the Athlete just became your daily pack too. You can quickly dump some unnecessary camera equipment at your abode, and use the extra space for whatever adventures lay ahead! This proved to be useful for extra food, clothing, or towels. I think where the OCC excels is its clean function. There is no “unsnap this, twist this around, and there you go” it is a quick and clean motion that takes no time at all. With the Athlete you can’t help but feel like you’ve cheated the system and got an excellent hiking pack, camera pack, and day-pack all in one.

Now, a word on dividers. I often find myself frustrated by camera dividers. They are either far too rigid, and leave my gear bouncing between them, with no ability to be flexible around gear, or they’re poorly constructed, with fabric coming away from the foam. Once you start using that type, forget it, the velcro destroys the fabric and it ends up taking ages to customise your load-out. Thankfully, that’s not the case with the Atlas Athlete, it is truly customisable, coming with a set of 15 dividers (various lengths), you can make this work for almost any set up. As you can see from the examples of mine, and the thorough examples on the Atlas website, no matter what gear you use, you can make this work for you.

These dividers are a happy medium between what I just described, providing you enough protection to feel confident, but enough flex to make it work and squeeze that little extra space out of your pack. At 10mm thick with a soft to touch lining and distinct blue “top”. These dividers are provided to give you the flexibility that you need to carry and shoot well, and for something seemingly so small they do just that. No matter what variation you come up with, they’ll work for you. I’ve used it in a multitude of different variations while testing, but I’ve settled on a load-out that works for me: 1 x mirrorless body (two if no drone), 1 x 400mm telephoto lens (or two small primes), 1 x 50mm prime lens, 1 x 12-24 wide angle zoom, 1 x drone, and 1 x drone controller. This load-out worked perfectly for me when travelling, and gave quick and easy access to all of my gear without worry.

Outside of the OCC, the organisation continues. You have a top lid that houses a quick access outer pocket, then a larger pocket under that (excellent for hats, gloves, headlamps on sunrise/sunset shoots) and on the inside of the pack, there is another slender pocket with a spot to put your contact info. This lid pocket can hold a surprising amount, and becomes a great caddy for the smaller items that you want zipped up so that they don’t fall through the cracks.

The lid also houses two rows of MOLLE webbing, which can be used to attach anything you might need–hero clips, guardian lights, hand sanitiser. You name it, it can fit there. This is where I kept my bungee cords which are just so incredibly useful, I didn’t use them all the time, but boy do they come in handy for things like hats, coats, shopping bags etc. 

Once you look past the OCC and the Lid, you still have more organisation. On the back of the rear entry you’ll find two slim zippered pockets, these are perfect for remotes or batteries, and a large stretch sleeve which is well sized for microfibre or flatter parts such as drone propellers. There is an internal padded laptop sleeve on the “front” of the OCC, that sits inside the main pack. It can house a MacBook comfortably, and I found it to be well placed and easily accessible from the main drawstring cavity. Technically, you can even add extra protection by whatever you decide to place in the main volume, for example when I travelled on a plane, I’d shove a jacket in front of it, just for a little extra bump protection. In all honesty, I didn’t use the laptop sleeve much as I mainly travel with an iPad which I kept in the origami insert, but it’s nice to know the option is there.

On the side of the pack you’ll find two large stretch water bottle pockets, easily big enough for a 48oz Nalgene, large insulated water bottle, or tripod. I kept a tripod on one side, and a first aid kit/bear spray on the other. They are easy to reach while wearing the pack, so it’s great to have those items close by!

On the hip-belt you’ll find two fold out dump pockets which can hold up to a 48oz Nalgene. These are also great spots for secondary lenses, snacks, phones, tools–and many other things I’m sure! While the front of the pack has a stretch mesh sleeve (with zippered vertical pocket) that can be a good spot for quick to grab items. I stored an insulation layer in here so that I could grab it if I was getting chilly.

The organisation of the Athlete is really excellent and very customisable. Whether you want to use the pack at its most compressed 20L, or fully expanded 40L, you’ll quickly find a way to maximise its functionality. You have three access points on the pack, the rear opening to the OCC, side entry to either your water reservoir or your other stored gear, and traditional top entry via the drawstring opening. As with most of this pack, the variety is actually incredibly useful, particularly with thoughtful packing you can access different parts of your gear without too much thought.

It is worth noting that you can only access your camera gear from the rear entry. On the larger sized athlete, there is also a zippered pass through window that allows you access to the main storage cavity, this is useful if you need to grab something quickly while the pack is open on the ground. If you use the origami insert with the Athlete, your opening through the passthrough window is blocked.

The Origami insert is a limited release for the Athlete Pack and it elevates your experience of travelling with the pack. It is essentially a caddy that attaches (via velcro loop) to the top of the top of the OCC, in the main volume. It has the same origami fold, so the volume available in the insert will depend on your OCC load. It is a dream for airplane travel, I keep my e-reader, tablet, and headphones all in here and remove it from the bag before to keep with me at my seat. I’ve even used it as a side table “tray” in lodging while on the road. It stands on its own and elevates the organisation options of the Athlete Pack even further.

Comfort

Now most of the time, I don’t dedicate a whole section to comfort on a pack. However, it seems apropos here, because it is so critical to the success of a camera pack particularly under load.

With a slightly unique construction the foam and sponge used on the Athlete is both open cell and EVA foams. They serve a different purpose in different areas. The open cell foam is for comfort and padding in areas such as the shoulder straps, while the closed EVA is for support and strength in high wear areas such as the waist belt. Straight out of the box the Athlete is incredibly comfortable, but once you’ve dialed in the fit is when it really excels. You can book a 1-on-1 zoom fitting with Atlas Packs where they will help you adjust your pack perfectly, you can also visit their Arizona showroom for this same service.

I was lucky enough to be with founder Allan at Outdoor Retailer this year, and I’d already been using the pack for a couple of months. He said to me “How’s the fit?” And I keenly responded “It’s great, I’m loving the…” before I could finish he said “let me show you some adjustments”. Within a short five minutes, the pack was floating on my back. The moment I got home I made the adjustments and I’ve been living with a happy pack (and back!) ever since. The load lifters, hip belt, and construction harmoniously work together to genuinely make this one of the most comfortable packs I have ever worn, and I don’t just mean camera packs. I mean packs full stop. I’ve used this pack without camera gear (okay, I did bring one camera with me, I’m an addict!) just as a hiker, and it performed exceptionally well there too. 

Each pack comes with a custom hip belt. These hip belts are available in a variety of sizes, including big and tall and multiple styles based on overall load. All of these belts are compatible with all Atlas packs. The hip belt includes MOLLE attachments, excellent padding, and easy to use magnetic fastenings. The hip belt is another example of Atlas making their packs function focused, so that you can tackle the adventure at hand.

Comfort cannot be taken for granted when you’re on your feet all day with expensive and heavy gear on your back. The back panel breathes exceptionally well, I’ve used this in climates ranging from 0ºF to 110ºF on my travels and not once have I felt discomfort from the pack, just the hostile environment. I would go as far to say that the comfort of the Athlete is the foundation of what makes everything else on the pack work so well.

Verdict

Atlas Packs are great for all of the reasons that I’ve listed in this review, but not only is their product great, their ethos and customer service is too. Each Atlas pack comes with a lifetime warranty, 100 days to trial or return and exchange, 1 year theft protection and online fittings via zoom call. These services aren’t marketing ploys, they come from a place of genuine care for both the product and the customer. Founder Allan Henry, renowned photojournalist, designed this pack as a solution to a problem, we often find those products to be industry leaders because they aren’t focused on gimmicks or “keeping up”, they are trail blazers and want to create the most functional and useful product they can. That is most certainly the case with Atlas Packs Athlete Pack. 

As I’ve alluded to, the success of a camera pack in my eyes is all to do with how well it lets you focus on the job or task at hand and this is where the Athlete truly excels. It is a portable studio, and you become more and more comfortable and in sync with it the more you use it. In my case, the Athlete Pack has travelled with me to Iceland, St Martin, and all over the USA through winter, spring, and summer. I’m yet to find a climate it can’t face, or a use case where it really falls short. I’ve dragged it across cliffs, beaches, airport floors, airplane overhead bins, taxis, sidewalks, and it keeps up every time, it’s hard not to admire its grit!

Multiple access points, robust materials, excellent protection, reliable construction, and thoughtful touches make this the most enjoyable camera pack I’ve had the pleasure of using. It’s no Nomin in its aesthetic, but it isn’t designed for that, nor is it trying to be. This is the photographer’s Pack Mule that you didn’t know you needed until you used it for the first time.

Over my ten months with this V2 updated pack, I have traveled with it extensively, and not just because I’ve been testing it, but because I’ve trusted it and wanted it with me on my adventures. That is the greatest compliment I can give a camera pack, I want to use it, and I can’t wait to see where the Atlas Packs Athlete Pack takes me and my camera gear next. After all, a happy pack is a dirty pack.

The post Atlas Packs Athlete Camera Pack Road Test Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Who It Suits

The Peak Design Everyday Totepack is as versatile as its name sounds. It is made for commuters and professionals whether headed to a board meeting or tailgate. No matter the climate, the light and durable materials will keep your everyday items dry and protected without sacrificing accessibility or style.

Who It Doesn’t

The only limiting factor of this bag is the size. If your laptop is bigger than 15” or you’ve been told you have exceptionally broad shoulders, this may not be the bag for you. The top opening is narrow. This allows the bag to stay low profile but could be a deal breaker for some. Although I personally found accessibility to be a highlight of this bag. 

Specifications

• Dimensions:
  • External Dimensions: 46cm (height), 38cm (width), 17cm (depth)
  • Internal Dimensions: 38cm (height), 32cm (width), 15cm (depth)
• Capacity: 25 Liters
• Weight: 
  • Without Dividers: 2.31 lb
  • With Dividers: 2.76 lb
• Materials
  • 400D double poly-coated DWR-impregnated nylon canvas shell
  • 100% recycled post-consumer material
  • 900D waterproof bottom liner

• Maximum Laptop Carry: 15/16” MacBook Pro
• Maximum Tablet Carry: 9.7” iPad Pro
• Price: $179.95

Design

The Everyday Totepack was the first Peak Design bag designed by a woman! We love to see it! I tested out the Bone color and was really impressed upon unboxing. The color is creamy and makes the bag look expensive. The hand straps are a rich brown leather. Low profile is a term used for a lot of Peak Design bags. I haven’t fully appreciated that design choice until trying to put my Totepack in the bottom of my jogger stroller on the way to the beach. 

In my experience with Peak Design bags, the design is always beautiful and functionality is enhanced rather than sacrificed because of it. This concept is shown by the strap system. The backpack straps tuck away and the process is one you won’t dread. More on that below!

Features

From the outside, the Everyday Totepack may seem simple but its features set it apart. Every aspect of this pack is well thought out without being over designed. Often this can be a hard balance to strike, as sometimes when a product tries to be two things at once, it does neither thing well. This is not the case for the Totepack. With shoulder straps that stow in the bag and are completely hidden when not in use, the tote looks tailored but sporty and fits five liters more than the original Peak Design Tote. It certainly doesn’t look like a 25L pack, which is a good thing!

Comfort wise, the Everyday Totepack surprised me. Every touchpoint was joyful to use, essentially, I didn’t have to think about them, which indicates success! The tote handles are padded and magnetic so they stay together, not only good for organisation, but great for quick grab and go, and avoiding the dreaded rub between handles. When in use, the shoulder straps are comfortable and sturdy, I had no problem using them for an extended period of time.

The downfall of a backpack is on the go accessibility. With most backpacks, you need to put the bag down to retrieve items or you swing it to your front and are rifling through as things fall out. I spent five years living in New York City. Finding a clean place to put down your bag can be a tough thing to do in a big city. That’s why the side access zipper on both sides of the Everyday Totepack is so crucial. By swinging the bag around you can easily access whatever you need from the weatherproof side zippers. You may be thinking the side access zippers are a stolen wallet waiting to happen. The solution to this are the small loops on the bottom of the bag. By unsnapping the zipper pull and feeding it through the loop, the pocket remains secure. The top opening has a weatherproof zip closure as well as a magnetic seal. 

The outside of the pack houses the only smaller pocket of the bag. Within the external pocket there are some smaller stretchy pockets, intended for camera accessories, but I’ve also found them a great spot fo keys, chapstick, and the like. The internal cavity has no pockets but offers customization through the classic Peak Design FlexFold dividers. The dividers allow you to break up the space of the main cavity and safely stack all of the items you will need for your day. The Velcro lining the walls is incredibly sturdy and a line shows the center to help with divider placement. Inside this main volume, there is also a laptop sleeve and a tablet sleeve. I use an iPad for work but am never without my kindle so these two pockets are perfect for my everyday carry. 

My favorite feature of this bag surprised me. There are external carry straps that can attach to any of the eight attachment points along both sides and the bottom of the pack. This feature suits me so well because I am constantly packing my bag then running back in the house to grab a sweatshirt just in case. Now, instead of trying to shove it inside the main cavity of the bag I can cinch it down to the outside of the pack! I used this bag as one of my beach bags during my testing. I kept a beach towel inside the pack on the way to the beach. After a day in the sun, I cinched my towel to the outside for the walk home to keep sand out of the main cavity.

Performance

A pack can look good but it all comes down to how the product performs when it’s actually being used. I don’t want to sound like a Peak Design fan girl but they really never disappoint. Using this bag was so enjoyable. The zippers never catch, the straps are comfortable. Seemingly small examples like these make a big difference to the user experience.

I am a serial bag overstuffer. So despite my average strength I am constantly worried I am going to rip my bag or break a zipper. It feels like this bag was made by a fellow overstuffer. The zippers are so substantial and the material feels so strong. I’m confident it will last.

The testing for this bag was two-fold. I use it in my everyday life which these days consists of work, grocery store runs, and walks with my two month old daughter. I did not use this as a diaper bag but a bag for my things- iPad, Kindle, sunglasses, wallet and sweatshirt. For this use, the Everyday Totepack is near perfect. The only missing feature is a water bottle pocket. You can arrange the dividers to create a spot for your water bottle. However, that’s an extra step that isn’t going to happen while my beautiful but temperamental daughter screams from her carseat on the way out the door. That being said, the lack of a water bottle pocket is far from a deal breaker for me. I used this bag often and will continue to use it happily!

I also used this as a beach bag. In the main cavity I had a sweatshirt, extra set of clothes for my daughter, wet/dry bag with my sunscreen, beach towel, and Kindle. I also filled a Camelbak bladder with ice water and fed the hose through the top magnetic opening. This was my solution to the lack of a water bottle pocket and I will not go back to bringing a water bottle. At the end of the day I strapped my towel to the outside of the pack and was still able to fit the bag in the bottom of the stroller because of the sleek design. 

The Good

There is so much that is good about the Everyday Totepack. It’s beautiful. I would feel confident using it while in business casual attire. The lightweight materials add to the comfort of the bag and the straps are padded and adjustable to prevent any pinching or squeezing. 

For me, the star of the show is the accessibility. Instead of a zipper that spans the entire pack, the 3 zippers allow access to every corner of the bag without the threat of spilling all of your goods on the street. I used the side zippers more than the top while testing and that surprised (and delighted) me. 

The Not So Good

Thinking critically about changes I would make to this bag was a tall task. I was able to come up with just two things. There is no water bottle pocket which I missed for everyday use. The backpack straps have daisy chain webbing for the size adjustment. This is only an issue if you will be sharing this bag. When my husband grabbed the bag he had trouble fitting it on his back and the daisy chain just makes it slightly more time consuming to adjust. As this is some extreme nitpicking but it did come up throughout my testing so I had to share my experience! 

It is also worth mentioning that this bag is a light color and bags get dirty. I do not consider this a flaw and am not bothered by mild wear. I even consider stain removal to be a competitive sport at times. It’s amazing what a little baking soda and dawn dish soap can do. However, if the thought of keeping the bag pristine gives you heartburn, check out the Totepack in black! 

Verdict

This bag has me feeling like a real bag geek. You know you really like a product when you are trying to work it into all of your conversations. I’ve tested a few Peak Design bags and this is my favorite. It’s well priced for the quality and versatility. The accessibility is unrivaled and the weight and durability of the materials used really set it apart! 

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 Totepack Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

Who It Suits

Professionals in environments ranging from business casual to business formal will find this bag excellent. It can also be dressed down to casual with the right outfits and styles. Think smart casual or preppy. If you’re constantly on the move, then you’ll appreciate the quick-access compartment and the magnetic pocket on the outside.

Who It Doesn’t

If you need a ton of space, either upgrade to the “double” version of this bag which is slightly larger or maybe opt for a backpack. Of course, if your own style and wardrobe don’t match the vibe of this bag, then it’s going to look out of place in use. This probably wouldn’t go well with streetwear, athleisure, etc. However, style is subjective, so be sure to use your own discretion.

Specifications

Name: The Cary Briefcase, Single

Brand: Stuart & Lau

Format: Briefcase

Dimensions: 16.0″ (W) x 12.0″ (H) x 3.9″ (D)

Zippers: YKK Excella

Material: DuraLite fabric and full-grain leather

Price: $375

Design

The Cary Briefcase has a timeless aesthetic. It’s sophisticated, stylish, and versatile in what it can be worn with. The leather accents complement the bag and add luxury that gets better with age. The navy and tan colorway that I went with looks good with most of my outfits, never looking out of place. One thing I appreciate about the look of the bag is the difference in textures. The soft leather contrasts against the canvas-like fabric, and the metallic luster of the hardware contributes to an overall premium look.

Speaking of materials, this briefcase does not disappoint. The exterior fabric feels like a thick nylon canvas, the leather is full-grain, the hardware is rugged and burly, and the lining is soft to the touch. Every single material choice here is exceptional.

The material choice wouldn’t really matter too much if the bag wasn’t built well. However, Stuart & Lau killed it on the craftsmanship. Clean stitch lines, nice finishing on the edges of the leather, and not one loose thread in sight.

Although the finishing on the edges of the leather looks and feels nice, in use it causes a lot of friction against clothes. It did break in over a few weeks, but it’s still something to think about. It also peels off into tiny little strings on the shoulder strap. I do wish that the pad on the shoulder strap was lined with some sort of fabric instead of just being leather since it’s hard to adjust, especially when it’s on your shoulder.

Another pain point I have with this bag is the laptop sleeve being just barely too small. Although their website doesn’t explicitly say that it will fit a 16″ MacBook Pro, on their website, they do show a laptop that closely resembles it. A 16″ MacBook will fit, but it’s uncomfortably tight and I’m worried that the zippers will scratch my laptop. This is important to mention because the removable laptop sleeve is a pretty integral part of the bag and its organization. If you have a larger laptop that you need to carry for work, then be sure to refer to their provided measurements to make sure it will fit. I know there’ll be some folks who are running with a larger laptop for their jobs, especially if your workflow requires one with a lot of power.

Features

This is such an unexpectedly innovative bag, and there are so many useful, non-gimmicky features. The aforementioned detachable laptop sleeve, although being slightly too small for a 16″, is seriously awesome. It’s got some organization that seamlessly works whether it’s in the bag or out, a nice carry handle, water-resistant zips, nice padding, and a microfiber lining. It’s easy to put in, and easy to take out. I really like being able to take out the whole sleeve and put it on my desk.

There are some straps on the front that you can slip an umbrella through that don’t look out of place when not in use. This is an awesome feature, and it makes it super easy to access your umbrella, newspaper, or jacket while saving space on the inside of your bag.

I also love how everything is included, from the tote bag, to the shoulder strap, to the luggage tag. It makes the product feel complete.

I personally think that when done well, magnets can really add to the experience of a bag. On this briefcase, there’s a sleeve on the outside with a magnetic closure. I use this to store my keys, the tote bag, and papers that I just need to put away quickly. Some other features include a zippered quick-access pocket, a magnetic key ring, and a luggage passthrough.

Performance

In use, this bag has great access if you’re on the move or if you’re seated at your desk. I love how the organization is considered and useful, and the quick access coupled with the magnetic pocket on the outside makes it easy to grab certain items on the go.

The strap isn’t the most comfortable on the shoulder as it does dig into your skin a bit. It’s not unbearable, but it is worth mentioning. If you’re just holding the bag by its handles, then it feels nice and luxurious. They’re stiff, but not rough on the hands. Trust me when I say that the handles are delightful.

Their proprietary fabric feels sturdy and durable and has handled rainy weather quite well. While the zippers on the bag aren’t water-sealed, the ones on the laptop compartment are, so I feel okay with walking in the rain as long as I have an umbrella to at least cover part of the bag.

The Good

· Stylish

· Luxurious materials and hardware

· Great craftsmanship

· Innovative and feature-packed

· Well-thought-out organization

· Easy access

· Decent water resistance

The Not So Good

· Laptop sleeve is a little tight

· Edge finishing on the leather peels a bit

· Shoulder pad on strap is hard to adjust and a bit uncomfortable

Verdict

The briefcase is a format that has stood the test of time. Stuart & Lau managed to take a classic style and elevate it through innovative features that are genuinely useful. These great features coupled with the premium-feeling materials create a bag that is a pleasure to use day in and day out.

The Breakdown

Space & Access- 8

Organization- 8

Comfort- 6

Look & Feel- 9

Build, Materials, & Hardware- 8

Features- 8

Warranty & Support- 8

Brand Experience- 7

Value- 8

X-Factor- 8

The post Stuart & Lau Cary Single Briefcase Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

BIGx TOP is a UK brand founded by Jordan Trent. This one-man operation focuses on backpacks and cycling bags. Jordan began making bags in 2011 and is inspired by the tough climbing packs of the ‘70s and ‘80s, while the bike bags find the sweet spot between functionality and simplicity.

The Daysack is designed for use in a range of settings, including cycling, camping, and walking in both outdoor and urban environments. For my testing, I used the pack in a variety of environments, from trekking about the city to outdoor hikes and short trips.

As you can surmise, I was excited on seeing the pack. But aesthetics quickly fade to the background when you’re depending on a bag to protect your gear in wet weather, to endure multi-hour treks in rural outdoor terrain, and to efficiently hold everything you need for the day ahead. So let’s find out how the BIGx TOP Daysack fared when put to the test…

Who It Suits

The BIGxTOP Daysack will suit those looking for a hybrid urban/outdoor daypack. A bag that will haul your groceries home during the week and stride up the hills with you on the weekend. It’s a versatile travel companion too, offering more than enough space for overnight trips or stashing your essentials during a day of sightseeing.  

Who It Doesn’t

This pack is not well suited to carrying tech, as there is no dedicated storage for this. If you are carrying tech devices, you’ll want to store them in protective sleeves first and you won’t benefit from a separate quick-access laptop compartment. It also might not appeal to those who enjoy highly technical-looking packs or techwear vibes.

Design

Looks

You can see the nod to classic hiking packs in the design, though the silhouette is understated enough to blend into urban settings too. I think it’s a thoughtful design that won’t shout ‘I’ve just stepped off the trails’ in the city but also looks at home in more rugged terrain. It’s outdoorsy in a subtle way, giving it the flexibility to move smoothly between a variety of environments. And hey, if you’re not digging the orange, rest assured there are plenty more colors to choose from too.

Construction

I was really hoping this bag would be built tough. And I’m happy to report that it is. I’ve hauled it through a range of different environments with a variety of different loads and haven’t experienced any issues with the construction. No stitching failures. No rips or tears. It’s solid and will take a beating, so you don’t need to worry about venturing out with this pack for a hard day of use.

Materials and Hardware

The BIGxTOP Daysack features a 1000D nylon exterior (apart from the Multicam Black colorway which is 500D) and a white floating truck tarp liner. The pack currently comes in 11 colorways, so as mentioned if orange isn’t your jam, there are plenty more options to suit your personal tastes.

The pack uses US 550 paracord for the zipper pulls and drawstring. The paracord comes in four colorways, so you can have fun choosing your favorite material and paracord combination. The pockets feature reverse YKK zippers that feel solid and operate smoothly.

All the hardware on the pack is plastic but it feels durable and high quality and helps cut down on weight too.   

Features

Pockets and Organization

I think the BIGxTOP Daysack offers a well-considered mix of organization that’s functional and versatile, without cluttering up the design.

First up, pockets. One in the lid, one on the front of the pack, and dual side pockets. The lid pocket provides handy storage for quick-access items like a wallet and phone and has a storm flap over the zipper. The front pocket stretches the width and height of the main compartment, with the zipper protected from the elements by the top lid. Given its size you can store a variety of items in here, though these can become a little harder to access if the main compartment is full.

The side pockets are deep and securely hold water bottles without feeling like they’ll tip out. These pockets are handy for other quick-access items too (such as stashing a hat or snacks) and could also be used for items such as a tripod. One thing to be aware of is that these side pockets don’t have any give to them, so they can be tricky to store items in if the main compartment is full. Jordan has previously hinted that there may be a pocket redesign in the future and it would be great to see these with a bit of elastic give or similar to them. 

Other key features of the pack’s organization are the side compression straps and front straps for securing larger or quick-access items. The side compression straps let you adjust the volume of the pack if needed and help secure longer items stored in the side pockets. The front straps provide a simple and effective means of storing bulky items like a rolled-up blanket or jacket and can also be used to hook carabiners or pouches on. If you don’t want the tactical look of PALS webbing but still want exterior attachment options, this setup could be a great alternative for your needs.

Additionally, there’s a spot for a bike light or carabiner at the front bottom of the pack. You can also create loops with the buckle webbing if you want to hook additional items on. Last but not least, each shoulder strap also has a D-ring on the front for securing quick-access items.  

There is no organization within the main compartment itself, so it’s well suited to those who like using pouches for their smaller items. I found the organization worked really well for my needs, keeping my smaller valuables secure but accessible on the go and providing the flexibility to accommodate bulkier items too without commandeering the entirety of the main compartment.

Performance

Space and Access

The BIGxTOP Daysack has a dual-buckle top lid with a drawstring closure underneath to secure the main compartment. While they don’t have the speed of magnetic buckles, the pack’s lid buckles were secure yet easy to open as needed and the drawstring opening was simple to operate too, with no unwanted slippage while in use. The adjustable lid buckle webbing and drawstring closure provide flexible volume too, allowing you to store additional gear or taller items if you need to.

The pack offers plenty of space for daily essentials in urban or outdoor settings. It comfortably holds an outer layer, a camera, food, a multitool, a water bottle, and more if you’re hitting the trails. I’ve comfortably carried everything I needed for me and my dog for an overnight trip too, including a change of clothes, dog food, a dog bowl, some toys, and his blanket bed rolled up and strapped to the outside. Only having to carry one bag made it easy for us to maneuver on and off the train and complete the hour’s trek home from the station on foot.

The white lining is convenient for quickly discerning different items in the main compartment. Additionally, I found the main compartment offered a good amount of space without being too deep, so I could still easily retrieve items at the bottom of the pack.

To confirm, this is a top-loading pack with no other access to the main compartment. So you’ll need to pack accordingly to ensure frequently used gear isn’t at the bottom of the pack. However, the exterior webbing straps and pockets provide flexible storage for keeping quick-access gear close to hand. 

Comfort

The back panel and shoulder straps are well padded and the sternum strap is easily adjustable in height to find your preferred position. The pack doesn’t come with load lifters or a waist strap but I don’t think this is too much of an issue, as you’re unlikely to regularly haul really big or heavy loads with it, given its size.

The option of a removable webbing waist belt might be a future design iteration worth considering. There were a couple of instances where I was clambering over rocks and felt the pack shift to the side, making me more conscious of having to maintain balance. However, I was carrying a fairly heavy load and moving in awkward angles so pack movement was understandable here. So again, I think “optional” is the way to go if a waist belt features in a future design, as not everyone will require one for their intended use and loads, though it could come in handy for load stability during active use.

I like to wear the pack quite high up and the shoulder straps are straightforward to adjust by pulling on the strap webbing. There is no excess webbing management but you can create a temporary fix by tucking the excess into the webbing running up the front of the shoulder straps. Not ideal, but it does in a pinch if you don’t have an alternative means of webbing management on hand.

Apart from the shoulder straps for portability, there is a simple webbing grab handle at the top rear of the pack. It’s not padded but it feels fine for carrying the pack over short distances or lifting it into and out of vehicles or tight spaces and has come in useful on multiple occasions.

One thing to note is that there is no breathable airmesh or large airflow channels on the back panel. So this won’t be the best option for really humid conditions. I’ve hiked for several hours with this pack in Scottish early summer conditions and it’s been fine. But if you’re tackling extended hikes in sweltering heat, you may want to look at a more specialized hiking pack.

I like to think of the BIGxTOP Daysack as a jack of all trades; a day bag you can use across a variety of environments. While it’s not the most comfortable pack I’ve ever worn, it’s comfy enough for day-to-day use in town or exploring some trails on your travels.

Weatherability

The BIGxTOP Daysack’s floating liner makes it highly weatherproof as there are no seams from the bag’s exterior to the interior. You’ll find the lining under the lid, in the main compartment, and on the front interior face of the front pocket. I had no issues with water getting into the main compartment during testing. Do note though that you’ll want to make sure the drawstring is securely closed and the sides are tucked in at the top of the main compartment so you benefit from the lining underneath the top lid. Plus obviously don’t put anything in the open side pockets that can’t afford to get wet.

If you’re going to be in monsoon conditions, you’ll likely want a 100% waterproof bag but I’ve used this pack while kayaking and in moderate rain and the contents have been fine.

The Good

• Durable materials and construction
• Versatile organization
• Great value for money
• Multifunctional for outdoor and urban use

The Not So Good

• Back panel lacks breathability
• Side pockets can be restricted when the pack is full

Verdict

To be clear, this pack is not a specialist. Its strength is in its versatility. Earlier I mentioned the BIGxTOP Daysack is something of a jack of all trades. But that doesn’t mean it’s trying to be everything to everyone. Primarily I think this pack is a great urban/outdoor hybrid for users who want straightforward, hard-wearing design with the flexibility to take on the trails or city streets.

I also think it’s a worthy option for those who want a more affordable pack that still exudes quality and dependability. This pack comes in at £130, which isn’t necessarily ‘cheap’ but I think is awesome value for what you’re getting. The materials and craftsmanship provide peace of mind that this pack will keep going strong for many years to come. The BIGxTOP Daysack is made to order, so you might need to wait a couple of weeks to get it. But it’s worth the wait and will become a trusty grab-and-go companion for a wide range of activities and loads.

The post BIGxTOP Daysack Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

As a company, Ventir aims to “create backpacks that adapt to the demands of urban living by combining technical functionality with a sleek aesthetic” and I think the modular system does just that. The modular system is Ventir’s first go-around at a modular backpack and the entire system is comprised of the Core pack and three attachable modules: Basic, Travel, and Gym. This modular system is made with the standard urbanite in mind and mixes function with simplicity. During my time reviewing this pack, I found myself using most of the modules extensively. The core pack was great for a slim everyday carry, the travel module provided extra volume during weekend trips, and the basic module was the MVP for those quick grocery trips. 

Who It Suits

Ventir’s modular system was thoughtfully made for urbanites who are on the go and need to switch gears with ease. The sleek design of the pack is meant to blend in while on the subway, at the gym, in a grocery store, or almost anywhere you need to be. The modules are thoughtfully made for those who want quick and easy versatility in their packs as well as great value.

Who It Doesn’t

While the modular system was meant for people who are constantly changing their carry needs, it may not be well suited for someone who works in an office space or for those who find the simplicity of a pack to be essential. With the bright orange zipper, large text on the side of the pack/modules, and urban design, the bag may not be appropriate for use inside an office environment. The need to have multiple modules can also be a dealbreaker for those of you who want your essentials housed in one single place. 

Specifications

NAME: Modular System 

BRAND: Ventir

FORMAT: Backpack with three modular attachments 

Measurements: 

Core Pack: 18” x 13” x 2.5”

Travel module: 18” x 13” x 5” (compressed) 

Basic module: 18” x 13” x 5.5”

Gym module: 18” x 13” x 6”

Capacity: 9L (varies with modules)

Materials: Nylon from recycled plastic bottles, waterproof YKK zippers, orange ripstop interior, mesh padded straps

Price (USD): $80-$250 – varies depending on the modules you select to purchase

Design

Looks 

Overall, the backpack and its modules have a sleek and minimal aesthetic. Each piece of the modular system is made from black nylon, has minimal branding (except for a strip on the right of each component with various pieces of information on them), all-black zippers with plastic zipper pulls, and one orange zipper on the core pack’s main compartment. However, it’s important to note that on Ventir’s site they do show some orange zipper pulls that are not present on the pack that I received, which may be an update to the design. All in all, it’s a handsome pack with minimal branding, which is very much to my liking!

Construction

The construction of the bag is top-notch. Upon first inspection there were no loose threads, the stitching of the bag was great and it looked symmetrical with no clear points of misalignment. Although the bag was tested for only a few weeks, the bag still looks brand new even after two to three weeks of daily use, two weekend trips to New York City, and multiple small grocery trips. The only concern from wear and tear is the dust and dirt that gets picked up due to the slightly gritty texture of the nylon material. These small patches of dirt were easily cleaned with a bristle brush or a small toothbrush so as long as maintenance isn’t an issue this bag should wear in nicely over time. 

The only minor areas of construction that I wish were beefed up are the back panel and straps. Although they are well made, there is a need for more padding on the straps, given that you may sometimes load the pack up a lot when using the travel module. Similarly, improvement to the overall breathability of the back panel would be great since it can run a little warm at times, even during the cooler Fall season. I think adding some channels to the back panel could help! 

Features and Performance

Space, Access, and Organization 

Since each component of the modular system was built for a different use case, they are all well thought out and designed. 

The core pack has 9L of volume with three places to house your daily essentials: the main cavity, a front zippered pocket, and a small hidden pocket on the right side of the back panel. The flexibility of the nylon material allows for the pack to expand as you use the main compartment, letting you comfortably fit whatever you need inside. It also has a semi-clamshell design that opens to a 45-degree angle thanks to the mesh sides, which helps prevent items from falling out if the pack somehow comes unzipped. The mesh components also allow you to easily navigate the main compartment so that you don’t need to spend time searching through a cluttered mess.  

As expected, the modules are all made with easy access and efficient space utilization in mind. 

The gym module has a simple duffel-style opening, which I would argue is the easiest access style aside from a tri-zip. It has one compartment space, two expandable water bottle pockets that fit up to a 26oz blender bottle, a separate shoe compartment that fits a pair of size 12 (US) shoes, and an internal drawstring bag to separate your clean and dirty gym items. 

The travel module is made for quick weekend trips. The main compartment is a full clamshell opening that allows for easy packing and access. The inside of the module has an organizational panel, two pockets located behind the organizational panel, an expandable zipper feature, and a drawstring bag inside that is great at preventing your clothes from tumbling out upon opening. 

Finally, the basic module is the simplest of them all; it’s an extra compartment with one pocket built into the inner back. This module has a spacious oval-shaped opening and allows you to pack the inside with whatever you need. You can use pouches or pack in something bulkier like a lunch bag or a sweater. It worked very well as a grocery bag for quick trips to the grocery store as well! With the generous cavity, what you can store is really up to you.

Overall, it seems that Ventir went for a simple yet effective approach to their design and I loved it. The only complaint I have with the modular system is that overfilling the modules causes some expansion into the core pack space, compressing the items and making it a little difficult to retrieve them or put them back into the core pack. I believe that adding a rigid sheet or panel to the back of each module may have worked to prevent this issue from persisting.

Comfort 

The modular system’s comfort varies depending on how heavy your carry is as well as the module you are using. When I fully stuffed the core pack with either the gym or basic module, the backpack worked like a charm and the straps didn’t dig into my chest or shoulders.

That being said, the experience was very different with the travel module attached. As is expected, the travel module expands the storage to the system’s absolute max. I was able to pack enough items for the weekend including some toiletries, a laptop, chargers, clothes, and sweaters. With all the weight, the bag did start to dig into my shoulders unlike with the other modules. If you had to carry this fully loaded travel pack for more than a couple of blocks, it could start to wear on you so there was some concern there.

The only issue that did persist throughout the different carry options was the breathability of the pack. The back panel is very simple but lacks channels for airflow, which can make the pack get hot on your back. 

Weatherability

The core pack and modules were built with weather resistance in mind. The nylon material protects most of the pack from some light to medium rain and the weatherproof YKK zippers help to further prevent water from seeping into any of the cavities. I took the core pack with the basic module attached on a quick grocery run while there was some light rain out and when I inspected the items they were fully dry and no water had seeped into any part of the core pack or the basic module. I assume that this would stand true with all of the modules as they are built with the same care and materials. Unfortunately, there were no heavy rainstorms in my area during my trial period so I couldn’t determine the weather resistance in more intense weather conditions. 

The Good

• Versatile selection of modules 
• Bright orange ripstop to improve visibility within the pack 
• Durable bag quality 
• High-quality hardware (a must with the zipper attachment system) 
• Sleek and minimal design choices 

The Not So Good

• Lots of zippers when using some of the modules 
• Straps were not comfortable when loading up with the travel module 
• The back panel is not very breathable 
• The elastic mesh within the core pack holding the clamshell together sometimes snags on the zippers

Verdict

Ventir’s modular system is through and through a great piece to own for your everyday carry. It is made with quality materials and a well-thought-out design, and the three modules provide versatility that other bags don’t. If you’re someone who wants a variety of carrying options but doesn’t have the budget for multiple bags then this is the perfect bag for you. At a price range of $80-$250, depending on the modules that you’d like, you can get a similar experience to some of my favorite packs such as the Aer Duffel Pack, Aer Travel Pack, and the Remote Equipment Bravo 18. That’s not to say that this bag provides all of the same features as the Aer or Remote Equipment bags, but when you can get a pack that can perform similarly for about half the cost, if not more, then it’s difficult to argue against the great value you get here.  

If you’re interested in snagging Ventir’s modular system you can head over to Ventir’s site. Make sure to also check out their Instagram if you’re interested in learning more about the company, future plans, or other cool stuff they post on there. It has been a blast trying out this innovative product and I’m excited to see what this flourishing bag maker has in store for the future. 

Many thanks to Jonathan Hurtado for the above review.

The post Whipsaw Ventir Modular Backpack System appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

A few years ago they released their Tocayo backpack. While not perfect, I was a fan of that bag. It showed great promise and reminded me of a more EDC-focused GR1. It stood on its own, had a clean silhouette, and lots of simple but thoughtful features that made it a great daily bag for many. A couple of years later, they came back with a smaller bag, the Crossroads 23, which sadly I really didn’t love, it felt like a regression in some ways, almost like it was stuck in the middle of trying to be two things.

However, last year, they unveiled an updated Crossroads collection which I’ve been testing for the last six months. I must say, I am really, truly impressed by this bag. It has built on the promise of the Tocayo, and delivered a well thought out, tough, and reliable bag.

Let’s dig into the YETI Crossroads 27L.

Who’s it for?

If you’re after a do it all bag, and I truly mean “do-it-all”, you can’t go wrong here. This bag performs in every environment, has just the right balance of pockets and open space, along with a few features that you really grow to love. It’s a well priced bag that will serve you for a long time.

Who it isn’t

Ultralight fans keep moving, while this bag isn’t super heavy, it is definitely on the burlier side of the spectrum at 3.6lbs. If you’re after a city slicker minimalist aesthetic, you might not like the rugged look of this bag.

YETI’s Legendary Toughness

YETI are known for their ability to take a seemingly standard product, over engineer it, and let it loose in the wild. From their coolers to their water bottles, their products can take a fierce beating and still perform well. You only have to see the viral videos of a few rogue coolers that were lost from a container ship washing up on the coast of Alaska after a few weeks and then be put to work to understand how bomber their products are. I personally have a bunch of their water bottles and mugs, and some look like they’ve been through the mill, but they still work perfectly.

Now, admittedly that’s a slightly different prospect for a bag, mainly because of the contents, but I was hopeful that this bag would become something of a beater, one that I could take anywhere and rely on it as a hauler and workhorse. Well, I was wrong. It was unfair of me to preemptively demote the bag to just a “hauler”, as it has become one of my most used bags. It has been dragged through snow, dropped on muddy trails, and pulled day duty at the beach. Not to mention the countless downpours sat on the side of a rugby field. 

The TuffSkin^TM Nylon is inspired by the motorcycle world. That translates to a 700D nylon that is water and abrasion resistant.. Paired with a GroundControl^TM Polyurethane coated base, this bag was made to take the hits. I’ve found great comfort in carrying my gear in the Crossroads, knowing that it’s well protected. Not only can it take the abuse, it also cleans up really easily. My bag has been covered in all kinds of dirt and gunk, but with a quick wipe of soapy water (and a bit of elbow grease for the tough stuff) the Crossroads scrubs up really well. While this is primarily designed for commuting, travel, or weekend trips, don’t be afraid to trust it out in the wild either!

What can it do?

This pack is versatile. YETI have done an excellent job of striking a balance between thoughtful organization and usable space. Sometimes I find EDC bags can get caught in the middle there with too much or too little either way. Using the Crossroads reminds me of my interactions with Bellroy bags, where I’m just doing and not thinking about what to put where, or “what should I do with this pocket”, or “I wish it had…” That’s an invaluable feature for a daily bag in my eyes, there isn’t a steep learning curve with this bag.

Pocket wise, there is a selection throughout the bag that are all different, but just as useful as the last. The front admin pocket is vertically aligned for easy access of the shoulder, and has two horizontal slips inside. These are where I’ve found myself putting an e-reader, pens, notebook, and other miscellaneous EDC. This could easily hold your phone and wallet too, but I always prefer to have those closer to my body rather than further away.

On the top of the bag, you have an excellent quick access pocket. This has its own individual volume (I would say around 2L) and a key leash. I found this to be home to my sunglasses, wallet, phone, keys, and essentials. The whole bag is protected by water resistant zippers, including this pocket, so you needn’t worry about your electronics too much. Like I mentioned, this has weathered many downpours and I’m yet to see ingress. 

In the main cavity of the bag you’ll find three zippered pockets, and two internal water bottle sleeves. On the front wall of the bag there is a pocket, again with it’s own volume, although this time smaller at around 1L. On the back wall you have two zippered pockets which are perfect for tech accoutrement such as chargers and dongles. The top pocket of these two is also accessible from the other side where it meets the laptop sleeve. I found the 27L version great for my EDC, it pulled double duty between outdoor gear and photography gear very easily. The 22L and 35L versions are configured a little differently, so I found this to be the Goldilocks size.

The stretch water bottle pockets are genius in my opinion, and I really do wish all bags had them. It was one of my favourite features from the original Tocayo, and I’m glad to see it new and improved in the Crossroads series. Now made from a stretch material, they can hold a 46oz bottle easily. You can access this bottle from the top of the bag, or, thanks to the two-way zippers, you can hydrate from the side without having to dig into the main opening. THe stretch material also allows you to adjust what you put in there, depending on activity! I’ve easily fit a tripod in there, and it’s a great spot for sunscreen/bugspray too, keeping them out of the way and upright. If you aren’t using them, they slink out of the way and don’t take up much, if any, volume. 

The laptop sleeve is excellent, it is well padded and suspended, surprisingly spacious and has separate access to the main compartment. I’ve managed to have both a 14” MacBook Pro and an iPad Pro in the compartment, with one in the sleeve and one just in front of it. While the main opening of the bag is almost full clamshell, the laptop sleeve entrance comes about a third of the way down the bag, so you don’t have to worry about any escapees from quick opening at TSA!

Extras

I mentioned a couple of extra features of this bag, that I think make it such an excellent all rounder. Firstly there are four handles on the bag. Two on the sides, a traditional grab handle up top, and then one placed right at the base of the front of the bag, just below the admin pocket. These handles are a joy to use, and just make moving with the bag so seamless. Whether you’re grabbing it from an overhead bin, your car, or the floor by your desk, you don’t have to feel around to find the handle, there is just one there waiting for you at all times.

Compression straps are not something that I usually associate with EDC bags, but I’ve come to love them on the YETI Crossroads. Easily adjustable, these can be used to shrink the footprint of the bag, or used to attach any extras to the bag. I’ve mostly used them for a wet rain jacket, or a damp towel at the beach. There are a few subtle loops on the bag so you can keep it tidy, and they also come with elastic strap keepers. Simple and thoughtful design that is well executed. 

The whole back panel is a luggage pass through, which does a couple of things in practice. Firstly, it’s super easy to use as there is room for maneuver, you don’t have to pry the bag over the handles of your rolling suitcase, and secondly, I’ve found it to promote more airflow. Now that isn’t a huge issue for day to day, but on the occasions I’ve used this for hiking, it’s made a noticeable difference.

What can it do better?

This is always a hard part to write about bags that I’ve enjoyed using, as your mileage may vary. However, two things stand out to me as simple tweaks that would make this bag even better. Firstly, I wish the shoulder straps had a little more padding, the ¼” EVA foam is comfortable on the whole for daily use, but on the occasions I carried more gear for longer periods of time, I started to notice some hotspots on the front of my shoulders. A small increase in foam thickness would nullify this instantly I feel. I was using the 27L model (there is a 22 and 35L version too) and I can imagine on the 35L that the thin padding might be more of an issue.

Secondly, I feel like this bag should have locking zippers, at least on the main compartment. These are designed for travel and commuting, and I know there were times where I was carrying a lot of expensive or important goodies, and I would have felt some peace of mind had I been able to throw a security lock on there. Neither of these issues are deal breakers for me, but worth noting certainly.

The Crossroads 27L has surprised me, in the best way. This bag isn’t a show stopper made out of cutting edge materials, nor is it a limited edition bespoke model. However, it is incredibly functional, easy to use (and clean), and very reliable. This is the type of workhorse bag that you rely on, and come back to time and again, just like I have over the last six months. I also think in the current market place it represents great value for money. For a new Carryologist, it could be a great step onto the ladder of better bags, and a worthy addition to the collection. I think YETI are on to something with this updated Crossroads collection, and I’m excited to see what’s next! 

The post YETI Crossroads 27L Backpack Review appeared first on Carryology - Exploring better ways to carry.

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.

Founder Justin Sirotin writes, “Our intent was to build something we’d use every day and love. We wanted the product to be durable, practical, stylish, and outperform the category.” 

Route Werks were kind enough to send one along, and we have stress-tested the whole kit. Read on for a deep dive into how the Handlebar Bag achieves its goals and how it might just transform your ride.

Who It Suits

The Handlebar Bag and its related accessories will be a welcome addition to almost any cycling enthusiast’s quiver. During our extended testing, the unit performed well in a variety of environments and road surfaces, transferring between several road, gravel, and touring bikes.

Road riders will be glad that their jersey pockets no longer strain to hold extra nutrition. Commuters should enjoy easily accessible space to store foul-weather layers. Touring cyclists can appreciate a stable and well-organized platform for their navigation units, lights, and other small tools of the trade.

Who It Doesn’t 

Route Werks states that this product is not designed for suspension forks. Sorry to the gnar-shredders out there! Mountain bikers will have to stick to hydration packs and other bags for singletrack adventures. 

Speed demon triathletes and road racers will likely find the Handlebar Bag unsuitable for training rides. Aero-bike cockpits tend to have designs and materials that interfere with a clamped mounting system. Additionally, the front-end weight of this particular bag is probably more than gram-conscious riders are willing to take on.

Long-distance tourers may find that this bag is both a bit small and a bit heavy when compared to more established options. We consider this in greater detail below.

Lastly, folks interested in a ‘Bike Lifestyle’ bag largely for off-bike travel should look towards a proper messenger bag or hip/backpack.

Specifications

Our unit was accessorized with a Handlebar Stub and Quad Lock Integrated Mount. Adding in the Handlebar Mount this setup comes in at a comparatively hefty 706g / 1.56lbs.

Route Werks provides the following details for their Handlebar Bag, which were measured and found to be quite accurate.

Volume: 

3.2L / 3.4qt

Dimensions:

145mm x 235mm x 153mm / 5.8in x 9.3in x 6in

Bag Weight:

(Bag + Bike Mount): 684g / 1.5lbs

Max Carry Weight:

4kg / 9lbs

Materials:

500d PU-coated Cordura, 220d Gridstop Nylon, polymer lid, aluminum hinges, machined anodized aluminum hardware, 2.5mm shock cord, waterproof zipper on interior pouch.

Cost (USD):

The Handlebar Bag – $179.00

Bike Mount – $30.00

Bike Mount Adapter (shim) – $15.00

Handlebar Stub – $10.00

Quad Lock Integrated Mount – $29.95

Design Philosophy

Quality materials are the ‘core of carry’ and Route Werks did not skimp in this category. Designed to be fully field-serviceable, the Handlebar Bag boasts a design oriented around durability and reparability. Sustainability comes in many forms, and it is great to see products that are designed from the outset to last a lifetime. Reuse and rebuild!

“You can fix every part of a bike to keep it running for decades. Our bag is built the same way. Everything is replaceable or repairable. Other bags are completely integrated so if one thing goes wrong – you chuck the whole bag in the trash. With ours, you just get a replacement part and the bag can carry on,” writes Mr. Sirotin.

Any experienced adventure cyclist can probably tell you how important this mindset is. When used hard enough and long enough any carry system will wear down. Kit built with standard parts reduces the odds of getting stuck with a jury-rigged setup. Looking for bits and bobs in a small-town hardware store is significantly easier when you don’t have strangely sized fasteners. While journey interruptions are part of the fun of travel (anyone for a “side quest”?) the faster you get back on the trail, the smoother your trip will go.

Features & Performance

The Frame

What sets the Handlebar Bag ahead of the competition? Route Werks’ design team has given their flagship product a literal structural advantage over similar handlebar bags. The backbone of the system is a three-part rigid frame. 

Firstly the ‘Bike Mount’ handlebar mount keeps everything planted to the bike. It is machined from a thick stock of anodized aluminum. The Mount straddles standard stems comfortably, using a four-bolt attachment similar to a threadless stem faceplate. It is sized for 31.8mm bars with 26.0/25.4mm shims available direct from Route Werks as ‘Bike Mount Adapters’ for a reasonable cost. Check with your local bike shop for any sizing questions. The Bike Mount itself is also sold as an accessory, which is clutch for folks who have a stable of bikes. 

Second, anchoring the Handlebar Bag to its Mount is a high-surface-area Clamp mechanism. This Clamp levers into place over the aforementioned handlebar Mount, providing positive engagement to the bike. It is an extremely stable, confidence-inspiring and speedy attachment platform. One note: after a couple of rides this unit’s lever action squeaked something fierce. A small adjustment to the bolt tension and added Tri-Flow lubricant has had the mechanism working flawlessly since.

Bolted perpendicularly into the Clamp base is a 1-inch aluminum D-Frame, to which all other parts and materials attach. Small aluminum accessory blocks are bolted to both left and right sides of the D-Frame. These side blocks hold a paracord carry strap in place, and also accept accessory ‘Handlebar Stubs’.

During testing it was simple to transfer the Handlebar Bag between the bikes: 

Beautiful day for a gravel ride? Your kit is pre-packed and ready to roll. 

Taking the commuter bike into work? Pop the Handlebar Bag over and hit the road.

The Bag

Suspended from the D-Frame is a combination of external 500d PU-coated Cordura and internal 200d Gridstop nylon. Sandwiched between those layers is a light plastic U-shaped form that has the dual role of giving the bag form (even when empty) and supporting the fabric when stuffed to the gills. The combination of materials and layout allows riders to confidently cram gear into the bag’s otherwise small “bucket”. This organization setup has a very solid feel and good utility.

The workmanship of this bag appears mostly well done. The stitching is clean and the fabrics are pieced together well. Additionally, the hardware is solid and of good material. There is a minor spelling error on the stitched-in label, but that has no bearing on the bag’s function.

The internal volume of the Handlebar Bag is ideal for short trips, but I believe a slightly larger volume would make it more versatile. Even having a wider opening cross-section (with the same total volume) would improve the rider’s ability to store common objects and access them on the go. Currently this unit doesn’t pass the “Sandwich Test”: can a normally sized sandwich fit flat in the bag? That may sound nit-picky, but having an intact lunch means quite a lot for morale on longer rides. This version of the Handlebar Bag is very good – but it could be even better.

The Lid

A hard polycarbonate lid connects to the D-Frame and provides a stable platform to which electronic devices attach for easy visibility. Aluminum hinges work smoothly for opening and closing. The lid opens away from the rider for great accessibility to bag contents. A spring-loaded latch keeps the lid closed while riding. This is a very functional setup. However, during testing we ran into minor annoyances with an iPhone Quad Lock Mount attached to the lid.

Most noticeable is a constant plastic rattling caused by a small gap between the Cordura-lined frame and the lid itself. The weight of a phone bounces the two materials together at every bump in the road and this seems like a design oversight. Fortunately, the solution is cheap and simple: cut some 3M-backed hobby felt to size and attach it to the metal latch platform. Once the gap is taken up the noise goes away! Note: no modifications are pictured in this article. 

The Shoulder Strap

Cleverly mounted into the D-Frame’s accessory blocks is the Handlebar Bag’s off-bike carry solution. It is a paracord shoulder strap that is lightweight and easy to tuck inside the bottom of the internal compartment. The system sort of works in a pinch-hit scenario but ultimately could be better. 

Paracord is a very thin, somewhat abrasive nylon that does not disperse even the low 4kg/9lb capacity of the bag comfortably on one’s shoulder, except maybe to bring the bag from garage to house. Even ½-inch webbing would increase the surface area and carry comfort considerably. 

Beyond the material’s comfort limitations, the strap often just gets in the way. When the shoulder strap is deployed it is difficult to open and close the bag’s lid without snagging. On multiple occasions during testing, I attempted to pull out a rain jacket from the main compartment only to find the strap coming out too, dangling close to the front wheel. Currently, the paracord remains coiled and largely unused in the bottom of my test bag.

For a future revision of the Handlebar Bag, a front-mounted handle would be a welcome addition. I mocked up a front-facing handle to the accessory bars for several weeks (using some spent nylon rim tape) and removed the shoulder strap entirely. This setup made mounting the bag to the bike easier, carrying the bag into work more comfortable, and the paracord was not missed. To the Handlebar Bag’s credit, making small modifications is very straightforward.

Internal Organization

Simple, functional, and well laid out – the best combination for bag organization! Route Werks’ four-pocket system works great. The three lower pockets have snap closures which have a very solid feel. The two smaller pockets are great for keeping small items in place, such as keys, chapstick, and multi-tools. The large lower pocket can fit a full-size smartphone. An under-lid pouch suspends from the same shock cord that allows for top-side expandability. This pouch is highly water resistant and good for small electronics.

External Storage

Shock cord that runs through the lid allows for top-side stashing of gloves, glasses, or unplanned gas-station snacks next to one’s mounted navigation device. This works really well for situations when a rider needs to quickly tuck a glove or other small item away. While not particularly secure in high winds or on bumpy roads, this shock cord setup provides the ability to greatly expand storage on the fly. 

Two small external Cordura pockets are sewn into the bag’s sides. Their closure system is a flap with a grommet-and-hook system integrated into more shock cord storage under the bag. These pockets and cordage never saw much use in my testing, though when on tour they would inevitably be filled with small bits. Note that when un-hooking one pocket, the whole under-side shock cord goes slack, potentially spilling anything stored there onto the front wheel. Protect that front wheel! On our test unit the lower shock cord is a contrasting hi-viz orange, which I think looks smashing. 

Weatherability

The Handlebar Bag is not rated for waterproofing; however, Route Werks constructed the bag from a combination of precipitation-resistant materials. The exterior is roughly in the IPX4 range – excellent splash and drizzle resistance. 

Assuming the lid stays tightly fastened, front wheel spray should not work into the unsealed main compartment. Fenders may be helpful here. The internal zipper pouch provides significant added water protection for small objects – a good place to stash your wireless earbuds or other small electronics. 

On test rides of less than one hour, objects stored in the main compartment turned up bone-dry every time. Light rain and heavy sleet did not seep in at all! Longer jaunts, bikepacking, and severe precipitation will require the standard bag-in-bag method of waterproofing. Depending on gear selection 0.5L – 1.5L ultralight drybags are ideal pairings to achieve full protection.

Accessory – Handlebar Stubs

‘Handlebar Stubs’ are a key feature of this product, sold separately. Think of them as tiny BMX pegs, cut perfectly so that accessories do not obstruct the rider’s hands when installed. The stubs accept most 31.8mm accessories and perform their task flawlessly. Everything from double-barrel headlights to brass bells fit well. Gone are the days of handlebar real estate woes! 

It is quite a satisfying change to ring your bell with a thumb, while the rest of your hand remains on the hood. This is clutch on mixed-use trails so that a rider can both signal their presence and maintain ideal brake/steering control. The test setup worked well with a single stub but I will be ordering a second one for future accessorizing.

Accessory – Device Mounts

Is there anything better than having your cycling computer or smartphone mounted in front of the stem? Most folks find that position best for keeping navigation aides visible without having to take their eyes off the road. Route Werks smartly integrated a quarter-turn mount into the Handlebar Bag’s lid for standard device compatibility. It comes stock with a flush cover if a “no tech” clean look is preferred. 

We initially tested a Garmin brand cycle computer and found the quarter-turn mount to be simple and effective. Alternatively, swap to your device’s preferred attachment system with just a couple of small bolts. Route Werks has adapters for K-Edge, Bar Fly, and Quad Lock available as accessories. 

During testing we installed the provided Quad Lock Integrated Mount, and then purchased a Quad Lock iPhone case. It has confidence-inspiring engagement and is unlikely to eject a device even during a crash scenario. The Quad Lock system works well with minimal fuss! Only one minor annoyance: attempting to remove a phone while wearing thicker gloves feels clumsy as there is very little space between the phone and the top of the lid. 

The other small issue is that with thicker gloves on, the lid latch is often difficult to open. There is likely a clever engineering solution to this, and I’d love to see a future revision with improved ergonomics.

The Good

• Extremely stable platform
• Accessory mounting
• Effective organization
• Designed for repairability
• Unique features
• Visually appealing

The Not So Good

• Minor fit and finish issues
• Expensive
• Heavy for size
• Smaller volume

Verdict

Route Werks states that they wanted to improve the classic “burrito bag”. Bag makers have made admirable stabs at addressing this style of bag’s inherent flaws over the years – check out Gino Romano’s excellent Orucase review. 

In the end, Route Werks have created a storage platform that outperforms any burrito bag on the market. The Handlebar Bag solves several traditional issues with excellent internal organization, eliminating bag sway, easy compartment access, and cable routing considerations. Rather than punching down on the humble burrito bag, Route Werks has produced a product good enough to fight above its weight class. Larger touring and commuting products on the market have advantages in cost, weight, and volume – but few have the “it” factor of the Handlebar Bag. 

Nearly every cyclist who handled this test unit was left with a “wow that’s a great idea” impression. Sprinkle on some minor design improvements, small quality-of-life changes, and a better size-to-weight ratio, and the folks at Route Werks could contend for the best handlebar bag on the market. The first foray has been a pleasure to test and has become my go-to bike bag. I’m looking forward to their future offerings.

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