Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Lightweight 45L backpack review

REVIEW – Camp Palawopec, in the rolling hills of Brown County, Indiana, is my son Mason’s happy place. But he’s had gear issues the last two summers, so this year he’s trying the Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Lightweight internal frame 45L backpack.

Mason’s first year at camp, a sneaky raccoon unzipped his large canvas duffel and finished off his candy stash the very first night. The next year, he didn’t take any chances and brought his gear in a large plastic bin. It proved to be animal proof, but also too bulky to fit under his bunk.

He reviewed the Rhyolite backpack and says it lives up to his name, it’s certainly lightweight at just over 4 pounds. It’s also comfortable, with easily adjustable straps, including a heavy-duty, cushioned waist strap to protect his back.

Mason is 5’7” and the backpack fit well. It was fairly easy to get on and off, though certainly easier with a buddy once we packed it full.

What’s in the box

  • The backpack in a plastic bag
  • Packing slip
  • Outdoor Vitals sticker
  • Marketing postcard with a backpacking gear checklist

Specifications

  • Lightweight: 4 lbs 5 oz
  • Removable hood that doubles as a fanny pack
  • 600D polyester fabric waterproof to 1500mm
  • Adjustable suspension to fit those from 5’5″ up to 6’6″

Design and features

The fabric quality and backpack design make it waterproof enough for most backpacking adventures. Unless you’re expecting extreme weather, you can probably get away with skipping a separate rain cover.

We really appreciated the thoughtfulness and practicality of the design. There were convenient places for everything, from water bottles (or hydration-pack straw, if you go that route) to your phone and bug (or bear!) spray.

The many compartments and full-length zipper make it easy to find everything, even those items squished at the very bottom.

Our favorite little pockets were the ones on either side of the waist strap, making an easy grab for your phone or chapstick, sunscreen or protein bar. No need to take off your bag, or even twist, turn or reach for the essentials. And if you’re braving it through bear country, that’s no joke!

True outdoor enthusiasts or the most practical grown-ups might appreciate how the hood transforms into a removable fanny pack. My teenager wouldn’t even try it on. And, even as a totally uncool 40-something, I don’t think I’d wear it in public. We found the day pack (the name Rhyolite gives to their waist pack) bulky, awkward and unattractive. For day hikes, I’d much prefer a packable backpack or string sack.

We tested the 45L bag, which may or may not be large enough for Mason’s two-week nature getaway. Fortunately, with the many straps and axe loops, it’s very easy to fasten a tarp, sleeping bag, hammock, etc., to the outside of the bag.

The Rhyolite also comes in a 60L size for those who need more cargo room.

Our only remaining question is if this backpack is raccoon-proof. I guess we’ll find out this summer!

What we like

  • Comfortable and lightweight
  • Easy access to the inside
  • Well-designed, accessible pockets

What could be improved

  • Zip-off fanny pack is bulky, unattractive
  • Uncertain if it’s critter-proof

Final thoughts

The size, comfort, and design of this backpack make it a smart, practical choice for hiking and outdoor excursions. We will do a follow-up review after Mason puts it to the test at camp this summer.

Price: $84.97
Where to buy: Outdoor Vital’s Web site
Source: The sample for this review was provided by Outdoor Vitals. Please visit their site for more info.

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Outdoor Vitals Rhyolite Lightweight 45L backpack review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on February 26, 2019 at 8:00 am.

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Mobile Edge Core Gaming Backpack w/Molded Panel 17″ review


REVIEW – Let me start this review by making it clear that I am not a gamer. However, my EDC gear includes many if not most of the gadgets that a gamer would carry. For that reason, I was very excited to receive the Mobile Edge-Core Gaming Backpack w/Molded Panel for review. So, here we go!!

What is it?

The Mobile Edge-Core Gaming Backpack with a Molded Panel is designed specifically for gamers and will hold most popular models of gaming laptops up to 17 inches, plus accessories. There are three large storage sections and it is has a compartment specifically for a USB power bank or external battery (You have to add your own). The design includes four side accessory pockets and a built-in external USB Port for charging or powering devices. The backpack is constructed from ballistic nylon and includes a molded back panel, a padded carry handle, and a trolley strap.

What’s in the box


1 x Mobile Edge-Core Gaming Backpack w/Molded Panel 17″
1 x Warranty Info card
1 x Informational Leaflet

Design and features

Features

    • External USB 3.0 Quick-Charge compatible port and built-in charging cable
    • Molded Front Panel
    • Sized to hold most popular models of Gaming Laptops up to 17″
    • Checkpoint-Friendly design to speed through TSA checkpoints
    • Constructed of durable ballistic nylon with tailored contrast stitching
    • Prewired universal power bank pocket for charging items in each section
    • Three separate sections for a laptop, tablet, keyboard, files, accessories and your personal items
    • Padded Air-Mesh shoulder straps, and ventilated back panel and trolley strap
    • Organizer section provides pockets for pens, phone, business cards, keys, cables, and other accessories
    • Separate poly-fleece lined iPad/Tablet pocket
    • High-capacity storage compartment holds all your gaming accessories
    • Four zippered side accessory pockets for cables, gaming mouse, phone, large water bottles, etc.
    • Lifetime Warranty

Specs:
Product Weight: 4.2 lbs.
Fits Laptops Up To: 17.3″
Product Dimensions (WxHxD): 19.5” x 17” x 9”
Laptop Compartment (WxHxD): 16.4” x 11.5” x 2”

It is important to note that this bag is constructed with Ballistic Nylon, and comes with a lifetime warranty. On the back of the backpack, there are two well-made adjustable shoulder straps with a cross body clasp that has the elasticity to allow for a great fit. The shoulder straps also have loops that allow you to attach small items like a flashlight, etc. The back of the backpack is well padded and molded to provide good air ventilation.

The two pictures below show each side of the backpack that includes upper and lower compartments. The picture on the left shows the side that had the built-in USB charging port.


The picture below on the left shows the bottom side pocket. It is quite large and has a mesh divider in the middle. The picture on the right shows the top pocket which is also quite spacious. As a reminder, these pockets are on both sides of the backpack.


On the back, there is also an elastic strap that goes across from side to side. This is great for attaching the backpack to the handle of a carry-on bag or suitcase.

Looking at the inside of the backpack from the back compartment there are 2 pockets. On one side there is a pocket with an elastic strap fastener that holds my 15″ HP laptop, my 13″ MacBook Pro and my 12.9″ iPad all at once. This pocket is designed to hold up to a 17″ laptop. Opposite that there is a mesh pocket also with an elastic strap fastener that I use to store documents, but it is deep enough to hold many accessories.


The picture below shows the handle that is sturdy and well padded.

In the middle section of the bag, there are large pockets on each side.


On the front side of one of the pockets where the USB cable passes through, there is another pocket with a smaller pocket on the inside and then a zippered mesh pocket on the outside.


In the front section of the backpack, there are several pockets. As shown in the pictures below, there are pockets for SD cards, business cards, pens, a key ring and a separate pocket for a USB battery pack.



On the bottom of the backpack, there is a zippered pocket that contains a rain cover that is secured by a buckle. As shown below, the rain cover protects the entire exposed area of the bag.


Performance

Just as I suspected, this backpack works well for me. The reinforced molded back panel not only helps to protect the contents but also ensures that the bag sits straight on your back without the weight of the contents causing it to be bottom heavy and disproportionate. The material seems very strong and the stitching seems to be top quality. I say “seems” because time will tell whether or not it stands up to the weight of the contents that I carry every day. I really like the pockets on the side which are big enough to hold a 16-ounce bottle of water and I am able to zip it closed with the bottle of water inside.  I carry 2 bottles of water, one in each pocket. The following is a list of the items that I carry regularly and comfortably in this backpack every day:

1 x 15” HP Laptop with Power Supply
1 x 13” MacBook Pro with Power Supply
1 x 12.9” iPad Pro with Power Supply
1 x USB Portable Battery Pack
2 x 16 oz. Bottles of Water
1 x iStorage DiskAshur Pro2 portable encrypted hard drive
1 x KNZ SoundFlux dual driver wireless headphones
1 x MPOW T5 True Wireless Earbuds
1 x LUX Wireless Earbuds from Ashley Chloe
1 x Shure Wired earbuds
1 x Linedock
1 x Netgear mobile Router with Power Supply
1 x Verizon MiFi with Power Supply
1 x iPhone 8 Plus with Power Supply
Miscellaneous items like pens, USB flash drives, cables (micro USB, USB-C, HDMI)


The picture below shows how the bag sits on your back. it is comfortable and stays straight.


What I like

  • Construction quality
  • Versatile design
  • The numerous compartments and pockets
  • The Molded external panel
  • The attractive look
  • Its ability to sit straight up on your back and provide balanced weight as opposed to allowing all the weight to go to the bottom.

What can be improved

  • For what it is designed to carry, I cannot think of anything

Final thoughts

This backpack has really lived up to my expectations, and as I previously stated, although I am not a gamer, I carry many similar gadgets and have a similar backpack need. I do feel that it is very well constructed and that it will stand up to my daily abuse. I am also reassured by the lifetime warranty. If you are in the market for a backpack like this, I feel very comfortable recommending this one. As a photographer, I have purchased more bags and backpacks than I can count or remember, and I am very clear that there is no such thing as one bag that fits all. With that in mind, I give this backpack two thumbs up and a well done!!

Price: $129.99
Where to buy: Mobile Edge website and Amazon
Sample: The sample for this review was provided by Mobile Edge.

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Mobile Edge Core Gaming Backpack w/Molded Panel 17″ review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on February 14, 2019 at 9:00 am.

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Mystery Ranch Updated ASAP Pack

Exterior view of Mystery Ranch ASAP backpack

If you are looking to upgrade your day bag or create the ultimate dad bag, Mystery Ranch of Boseman, Montana recently released an updated version of their smallest assault pack, the ASAP. Like many of their other assault packs, the ASAP uses their patented 3-Zip design to allow you to access even the deepest recesses of the pack without having to unload everything from the top. The military / tactical design of the ASAP means it will stand out in a crowd and stand up to just about any abuse you can throw at it.

The main compartment has three pockets, of which two are designed for holding water reservoirs, but can also swallow light jackets, water bottles, or a changing pad, baby wipes, and diapers with ease. In addition to the main compartment, there is a small compartment in the top lid. MOLLE / PALS (pouch attachment ladder system) webbing on the outside of the ASAP allows for expansion and customization using any pouches that utilize the PALS system of attachment.

Interior view of Mystery Ranch ASAP pack

The ASAP utilizes Mystery Ranch’s internal Futura Yoke system to customize the fit of the pack to your torso once you’ve selected one of the three frame sizes. ASAP packs are available in four colors: black, coyote (tan), foliage (green) and multicam (green with multiple shades of brown).

Mystery Ranch designs and manufactures all their assault packs in the United States. While many of their mountaineering packs are available through various brick-and-mortar retailers in the United States, most of their assault packs are only available from their website www.mysteryranch.com. The ASAP retails for $275.

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Mystery Ranch Updated ASAP Pack originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on February 4, 2019 at 10:00 am.

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Keysmart Urban 21 Commuter Backpack review

REVIEWThey thought of everything. That was my first impression when I started testing the Keysmart Urban 21 Commuter Backpack. If your daily carry involves a lot of travel and tech, this bag has just about every feature you could ask for wrapped up in a slick looking contemporary package. There’s a whole lot to like with this one. To the review!

What is it?

It’s a 21 liter commuter pack for the office warrior, with organization and features that go on for days. It’s also designed to work with additional accessories.

Hardware specs

  • 21 liter capacity
  • Grey Ripstop 4000D Nylon exterior
  • Anti-theft pockets with RFID blocking
  • Pass-through for a suitcase handle
  • 21.65” by 11.4”
  • Fits up to a 15” laptop
  • Waterproof front pockets

Design and Features

I don’t recall the last time I reviewed a bag with this many features. We have a lot to cover, so bear with me as we go through all the details!

Great looks and a killer build

The KeySmart Urban 21 Commuter’s compact, angular design language gives it a very contemporary (and highly technical) look. A grey textured primary material is offset by black elements and red accents, providing some style without taking away from the contemporary look of the bag.

The construction of this bag is outrageously good. Seriously. Check out the beefy main zip, padded grab handle, and ring-style reinforced zipper pulls. I don’t recall seeing zip pulls like this before:

All stress points use something Keysmart call Parafinity stiching. It’s essentially a circular stitch pattern that is intended to provide more strength and durability:

Here’s a closeup to show some of the angular finishing used to emphasize the contemporary style. The material itself is Ripstop 4000D nylon and provides water resistance in addition to durability.

And did I mention the Fidlock buckles? Fidlock is one of my favorite closure systems. It employs magnets to facilitate a “slide and snap” system that is quick to connect, stays locked, but is quick to remove. Fidlock is good. Fidlock makes us happy.

Every strap on the bag includes a matching fabric locking collar to corral that extra material. I really, REALLY wish more bag makers would do this. It keeps your bag tidy and keeps those loose bits of strapping from getting caught in bad places.

Here’s a closeup of the layered fabric work in the shoulder straps. That hexagonal pattern is the back pad, and it’s designed for breathability and comfort.

In my opinion, the construction work on the Urban 21 Commuter Pack is right up there with some of the industry leaders like Mission Workshop, Tom Bihn, and Red Oxx. This one is definitely in the “buy it for life” category.

Pockets, spaces, and features galore

Things start to get really interesting when you look at the layout. The spaces are arranged in layers that overlap to maintain a tight, sleek profile. It’s almost like an origami puzzle as you start digging into the bag that makes the most of every square inch of space. And features abound as you explore each pocket and corner.

Take the side pockets for example. You’ve got one on either side, which is great for providing options to stash water bottle, sunglasses, and umbrellas. But check out how they wrap around the sides and tuck in under the front flap:

See that little detail? That means that they disappear when not in use while expanding to take even larger hydration bottles. That’s my big ol’ Tervis 24 ounce mug in that side pocket. I can carry one on each side if I want without interfering with the main compartments. Nice.

The face of the bag is built around a large open pocket, designed to collect the assorted flotsam and jetsam you’re tossing about during the day. It’s got elastic sides so it will expand to handle larger items. Throw your notebook and tablet in there while you dash to meetings or that big hydration bottle. Maybe you grabbed a sandwich on the run. It doesn’t matter. This pocket happily swallows all of it and expands as needed.

And see that little pocket on the inside flap? That’s for your Tile tracker if you want to keep tabs on where your bag is roaming.

It’s important to note that this outer pocket doesn’t have a hood, so you won’t want to have delicate stuff stashed here in a downpour unless you buy the optional rain cover (not shown). But don’t fret! There’s a big pocket on the front face of the pocket that is, in fact, waterproof. It is accessed by a vertical zipper, and runs the width and length of the front flap:

A pair of adjustable straps run from the rear panel to the front pocket. These straps allow you to cinch down the bag for streamlined carry while locking down access to the main compartments. These straps use those Fidlock buckles we saw earlier. You’ll want to pop these loose to get into the other bag compartments, but the good news is that they make it tough for wandering hands to get to your stuff.

The hard shell external compartment is one of the key features of the Urban 21 Commuter. Accessed from the exterior by dual zips, this compartment is waterproof and shockproof. Pop those side straps to reveal this compartment behind the front pocket:

Dual zips secure the clamshell-style opening, which reveals a multipurpose organizer panel. It’s lined with soft-touch materials to prevent scratching delicate electronics or sunglasses and uses RFID blocking materials to keep items like credit cards secure. You’ll also find a dedicated pocket here for your Keysmart (more on that below). There’s a larger pocket behind the organizer panel that closes with a magnetic snap and a pass-through port for charging your phone. It’s basically a built-in hardshell case in your bag. The zips are tight and can take some wrestling to loosen up over time.

The main compartment sits behind this rig and is accessible by dual zippers. You’ll find a padded pouch here sized for 15” laptops, fronted by a tablet pouch. There’s a clip-on attachment loop on the back panel of the bag as well as a velcro tab on the face of the tablet pouch. These can be used for adding accessories designed for the Urban 21 or your own gear.

The front face of the main compartment features a key leash and a strap pocket below the hardshell case for extra stash organization. Note that the hardshell case, laptop pocket, and tablet pocket do take up quite a bit of room in the main compartment. You still have a 4″ deep space for any extra stuff you want to stash in there.

Comfortable, compact carry for commuting and travel

The Keysmart Urban 21 Commuter Pack is ideal for those that are on the move. The compact size is great for maneuvering through crowded spaces and will fit under airline seats. That’s all made even better by the carry system, which takes a lot of queues from cycling-style bags. You’ve got all of your usual strapping and adjustments to dial in the perfect fit:

A sternum strap keeps things stable; there’s no hip strap, but I don’t think you need one on a bag of this size. Another Fidlock buckle is used for the sternum strap. That hex-patterned back panel padding is ridiculously comfortable and breathable, minimizing the dreaded back sweat.

There’s a pass-through slot on the lower back panel for sliding over your luggage handle, which is always an appreciated feature:

The pack also has a rigid rear panel behind the padding. This means that the bag maintains a consistent shape against your back, and you don’t get poked with odd-shaped items. Check out the pictures below to see how the bag naturally rides in the perfect spot and stays tight against my frame.

This might be the most comfortable pack I’ve ever used. Seriously. I could haul this sucker through airports and train stations all day long.

And even more features!

And we’re not even done with features. There are a few more Easter Eggs to share.

I mentioned the Tile pocket. The hard shell compartment also has a pocket custom-made to store your Keysmart. What’s a Keysmart? Think of it like a multitool that organizes all of your keys. It’s also wired with Tile technology to connect to your smartphone for easy location of your Keysmart, your bag, or your phone if that goes missing. Read more about it here.

You’ll also find two additional hidden security pockets on this bag. One is hidden behind the top back panel, with a zipper that is specifically designed to be hard to locate. I’d use this for travel documents if I am on the road:

The other secret pocket is on the base of the bag. This has a tether in it for an optional rain cover, but also serves as a place to stash whatever you like:

Finally Keysmart offers several accessories that are made specifically for this bag including the chest strap, a water bottle, a rain cover, a pocket organizer, a grid organizer, and a portable charger. You can buy these options in bundles along with the bag, or purchase individual accessories separately.

Some notes on performance

This bag has quickly become one of my favorite bags for the daily commute. The combination of features and organization is just tough to beat in such a compact & professional looking package. It’s perfect for hauling all of your tech, beverage tumblers, and assorted gear to and from the office. I really can’t think of a single feature that it’s missing.

The hardshell case is one of the highlights of the bag, but it also creates some minor user challenges. Those zips are super tight to ensure security and a watertight seal, so sometimes they take some work to open. That hardshell case also takes away a bit of space from the main compartment, so you have to work around it to pack the bag or to get stuff out. It’s a tradeoff given the compact nature of the bag but can make getting into the depths of the spaces tricky. You’ll find plenty of room in there for extras (like a packed lunch or coffee gear) with careful packing.

That hardshell case placement also necessitated dropping the key leash to the bottom of the main compartment, which isn’t particularly convenient. I’d prefer to see it in the pocket on the front of the bag for easy access during daily use. But if you’re traveling, you’ll appreciate it. You can hang your keys there and forget about them until you return to your car, knowing that they are securely stored.

Speaking of security, I do love the little extras like hidden compartments, RFID-blocking materials, and a design that generally makes it hard for wandering hands to get into your bag. It may mean some extra work to get to things at my destination, but there are really only two areas (the two front pockets) that are at high risk.

What I like

  • 2 water bottle holders
  • Multiple secure locations for valuables
  • Supremely comfortable carry
  • Top-notch construction
  • Perfect size for the daily commute or as a travel carry-on
  • Excellent travel-friendly features

What needs to be improved

  • Placement of the hardshell case makes for a tight squeeze in the main compartment
  • Key leash placement isn’t ideal
  • The open front pocket isn’t made for weather; the optional rain cover accessory is a worthwhile investment

Final thoughts

To my knowledge, this is Keysmart’s first foray into carry products, and they’re not fooling around. The Urban 21 Commuter Backpack is an all-around champ for the daily commute with just about every feature you could want or ask for. Road warriors will love this bag even more for the extra travel-friendly features and security enhancements. The compact size and ridiculously comfortable carry setup make for a bag that’s easy to live with all day long. While the retail price is north of $200 I think that Keysmart has done their homework in designing a bag that has the quality, usability, and feature set that makes it a solid long-term investment.

I did not test them for this review, but I also think the accessories are worth a look. They’re all reasonably priced and designed to fit in the bag using existing attachment points. I’d definitely buy the rain cover, and consider either the pocket organizer or grid organizer as an extra admin panel if I had a lot of additional bits to carry about. You can check them out on the Urban 21 product page.

All in all, this bag has taken the top spot as my favorite daily driver. I’ll keep you updated as I continue to use it!

Price: $239.99. Accessories start at $14.99, and can be purchased individually or in packages along with the bag.
Where to buy: Buy it at the Keysmart web site, or on Amazon.
Source: The sample of this product was provided by Keysmart.

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Keysmart Urban 21 Commuter Backpack review originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on February 2, 2019 at 9:00 am.

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GORUCK Rucker backpack now available in 15L, 20L, 25L

NEWS – GORUCK, builders of bullet-proof gear and better Americans, has recently expanded their Rucker line of rucksacks (AKA backpacks).  Adding to their previous 20L size, after a long hiatus they have re-introduced their larger 25L size and a brand-new, smaller 15L size.  Made from 1000D Cordura and manufactured in the USA to Special Forces standards, the Rucker is designed and built for not only GORUCK Challenge fitness events (based on Special Forces training), but also as a fitness training tool (all Rucker sizes have a bottom handle, a hydration bladder tube port, and a special pocket inside to secure a GORUCK Ruck Plate), for hiking, travel, daily carry and just about anything you can throw at them.  The Rucker line also features side handles, side MOLLE webbing and hip belt compatibility based on the size (see chart above).  The 15L, 20L and 25L Ruckers are available in various colors for $265 each and as with all of GORUCK’s gear, are covered by their SCARS Lifetime Guarantee.  Ruck up and march over to GORUCK.com for more info or to order.

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GORUCK Rucker backpack now available in 15L, 20L, 25L originally appeared on The Gadgeteer on January 25, 2019 at 8:00 am.

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