Wasn't expecting this review, there were very few reviews on this when I bought mine. I think its exclusively outlet sale now so no returns. I really enjoy using this bag. The only cons for me are the lack of clamshell access and the straps do get a little uncomfortable when the load is heavy like 15 pounds. I really like the rolltop designs and I chose this one because of the magnetic latch. Gives a little extra enjoyment, the G-hook rolltops are too simple and boring.
@@Nomads.Nation Would you say the discomfort at the shoulders is a major issue ? I would be interested in the bag for both travelling alongside a suitcase and EDC so I'd wear it basically everyday ':)
@@Theboredsheep can't say for sure as every body type is different, but it's def not my personal fav for comfort. Good news is if you are based in the US/Canada and you don't like it you can sell it on the Nomads Nation Marketplace!
Great review! I’m so glad you reviewed this one. I have the Shift v2, and I agree with your pros and cons, except for 1 caveat, I really don’t think this bag is a true 35L. It feels closer to a 30L to me, which seems to be Alpaka’s sizing. I found their travel backpack to be a little smaller than 32L as well. Could you please review the Mystery Ranch Catalyst 26L? I’m curious to see how that packs out with all the extra organization in the main compartment.
I’m ditching the Wandrd PRVKE for this bc I found I don’t use the side access/camera cube. I like the Wandrd materials but think it looks overly technical and the Alpaca more refined. Tech organization pockets look more useful on the Shift too.
I was wondering if you would notice the discomfort at the traps area and you did! I had similar feelings with their Elements Pro and had to return otherwise an awesome backpack. Also, agree with you about accessing the main compartment from the back. IMO, they should have been moving it to the front pocket.
It's very similar to the riutbag x35, which is amazing. Since the opening is against your back it's completely theft proof, except for the front pocket on this one I suppose. That roll top would be a game changer though! I often bring my bag on the front of my bicycle and the rolltop would make getting things out super easy! Anyways, great review!
This guy has no idea what he's talking about. This main compartment is not wierd it's beautifful. I l-l-l-love it! And I got a Shift backpack. 3 month of joy ond comfort. The front pocket is indeed a bit tight though. But I never used it for something that needs to be in a quick access. I'm absolutely satisfied with this backpack. As for hub system: I considered buying 1 for the keys, but it seems like it's bulky, so I don't know. Still deciding. I also have Go Sling Mini v2 with magnetic keychain from the front pocket. I like it more. It's slim and maybe I could 3d print a kind of cradle for that keychain that could be attached to that loops in backpack.
As a V1 owner, Alpaka had some interesting features in the V1 design (such as the bottom compartment, wallet compartment at the back, self-standing design and key attachment on the shoulder strap). Unfortunately, these features were not adapted to the V2, which is disappointing.
Nice bag, but still unsure about the fit. Mostly comfy and accessible. Bike u-locks fit really nice in the bottle side pockets. Hated the sternum strap as it came loose all the time, immediately changed it. Especially bad when on a bike. The bag is comfy when packed within reason. If packed too heavy, it kills your shoulders. Organisation is really nice. Can get my wallet, phone, sunglasses etc out quickly if I need. Makes transitioning from work to gym to bike to foodstore really easy.
Okay i see you Alpaka! Great review as always A. Question, would you ever be able to throw in Airline Accessbility measurements to bag recommendations? I know you are abroad and there is so many airlines with different restrictions, but Shimoda will add a “Will fit in MOST underseat compartments” and what not. Could be a value add to some folks! Keep doing great man
Thanks dude! It’s an interesting idea but I feel like there’s so much variation (especially considering our international audience) that I don’t know how accurate I could be with a ‘data point’ like that. Maybe I can search for a resource that gives me the average dimensions per region, if you have anything you know of please send it my way!
I dont hate it. X-pac fabric with the blood orange interior is always TOP! It holds alot! I do think that the back laptop compartment can be a struggle if the main compartment is overloaded 🔥. But, i would own it. Sadly i missed out on this fabric. Thanks for the amazing review 🔥🔥🔥
If they made that back access full clamshell, maybe a side access to the main compartment. And a more accessible quick access, or side pocket .... V3 will be interesting if they do it
Why don't you ever recommend the modern dayfare v2 bag, I think you said that it was your favorite work bag? Did something change with it because I love mine because 18->24 liters is the perfect size. Also You should review bags for swimmers (tyr, speedo, arena...) and see which ones are actually good bags or just overpriced because they are a name brand in the sport (speedo imo) and have a monopoly. Generally we like around 35-45 liters per bag
I recommend it all the time! But for our alternatives we try to keep it as similar to the bag we are reviewing as possible. This is a 35L travel bag, and the Modern Dayfarer is a 18L EDC... very different use-cases
This remind me of Attitude Supply 1 and w 2. Having a rolltop backpack is great due to its expandability and self compress when roll down. Plus since it is roll top, means is very hard for water to get inside like the drybag design. Btw do a comparison video if u have The ATD supply backpack. Tq
Hi Aaron! Do you know anything about the Airback travel backpack? I find it super sus that it's advertised so heavilt but that you also cannot find any reviews online about it!