My old Addidas backpack finally gave out on me and I’m in need of a nice backpack for cyclo commuting to work. I need to carry some office attire and towel a couple days a week and I’d like to have room for my workout wear and all my workout gadgets to carry neatly in pockets if possible. I’d also like a bright safety color like an orange, red or yellow.
Does anyone have any recommendations for a good backpack?
Tell me what you use and provide links if possible so I can look at its features.
I use a messenger bag by Rickshaw Bagworks. I got the large and it holds a change of clothes, belt, lunch, wallet, phone, etc., as well as a mini pump, tube, and other occasionals. With room for more. On days I don’t ride in but work out over lunch, it easily holds workout clothes and my size-13 running shoes.
It’s cooler on my back than a backpack and quite secure if you use the chest strap. It is also impervious to weather. I’ve ridden repeatedly in downpours and nothing has gotten wet. They have several high visibility options. www.rickshawbags.com
I recently got last years model of the Osprey Raptor 10 s/m (http://www.amazon.com/Osprey-034910-520-Raptor-10-Daypack/dp/B002N4W5EA) for commuting and running to the gym. Not sure if you are looking for a hydration pack which this is; however, the reserve is easy to remove for extra space.
I like the pack. It has lots of compartments for stashing and keeping stuff organized. It also fits well and stays in place. I generally pack a change of cloths, towel and flip flops in mine - in addition to the wallet, keys, etc.
Given your requirements, you may want to look at some of the larger Osprey models (14 and 18)
Deuter makes some really nice packs for commuting!!
Rixen & Kaul Klickfix rucksack, with a seatpost mount.
No more sweaty backs.
I just bought a Merrell backpack to attempt this when our ofice relocates. I have to carry an iPad, iPhone, and 15"macbook, back & forth, so needed something that could handle that, protect them, and allow for a change of clothes/lunch. Its definitely more comfortable than my old northface.
http://www.rei.com/product/847310/merrell-westervelt-slim-daypack
I use my Thule Crossover (25L) for ~45 miles each day of commuting, and it’s given me no problems so far. The thing can fit a serious amount of stuff (25L is pretty big), doesn’t make you look like a hipster, and it’s awesome looking. Plus, it seems to be decently waterproof (although I wouldn’t take it out in a thunderstorm or anything).
I used this while going to school:
www.rei.com/product/837027/osprey-flapjack-daypack
Its bright, waterproof and has some compartments. I got a lot of compliments on it.
i love my osprey momentum 26
http://www.ospreypacks.com/en/group/commute_1/momentum_series
it has a sleeve for your laptop, a large compartment for your clothing (with a zipper to expand it to an even larger compartment), storage on the shoulder straps for phone, mp3 player (has a slot for headphones), and a key ring for your keys.
It also has a waterproof cover that is tucked into the bottom of the bag in its own zippered compartment. If it is raining, you unzip that pouch and the waterproof cover can be pulled over the bag so your stuff inside stays dry.
I’ve been using this one from Keen http://www.keenfootwear.com/us/en/product/bags/unisex/lifestyle/keizer%20universal/black# and it works pretty well as a commuter bag
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Partly depends on how/where you ride.
If you are willing to ride in rain, it’s absolutely crucial to have a waterproof (not just resistant) backpack, but it’ll add heat and weight.
My favorite commuter backpack has been my BanjoBros medium size backpack. Looks sweet, has great reflectors, and can withstand a full downpour (even though I don’t ride in rain.) The medium size is quite large - I would call it a large or even x-large by almost any other standard. Bulletproof material - mine shows zero signs of wear.
It does get hot on the back though and is heavier than lightweight packs, so is a lot more sweaty if it’s hot out. Great for winter, spring.
A second vote for Deuter. I have the Race EXP Air and use it for bike commuting. I especially like the back construction. Only a thin mesh-like material touches your back, with the backpack itself being held at a little distance. Lots of circulation, which I find really comfortable.
Cheers,
malte
I ended up getting a Camelbak H.A.W.G. NV for under $100 shipped. I pulled the water bladder out while I’m commuting but will use it when the wife and I go on some weekend touring. I was a little concerned it would be too small when it arrived at my door, but its been able to handle everything I’ve needed up to this point.
check out Mission Workshop - made in usa , lifetime warranty… great guys