This is my 3rd backpack from Peak Design. I love them all and still use the other two. I also have an unhealthy obsession with backpacks and buy many from other manufacturers. First off... this is the best backpack I have ever bought... so happy with this purchase. I'm not sure the website photos do it justice, so here's what I like most about the Outdoor backpack:
1. it looks epic, especially in the dark red (eclipse) colour. Honestly, looks amazing. The colour is like a duotone effect; there are 2-3 different shades of crimson which work together to look amazing.
2. Functionality: being able to quickly access the entire pack (like the Peak Design travel bags) is really helpful, especially when I get to work, I can flip it open and grab what I need quickly.
3. All the fittings, handles, padding behind the laptop, etc, are small/thin/light but incredibly strong.
4. Waterproof: it doesn't rain a lot in Spain, but there is a lot of commuting by foot, so when it does, it's great to know my laptop and all my gear are safe.
5. Durability: all the fabrics feel super-premium and tough.
6. The opening mechanism to open the front of the pack is fantastic, once you know how it works, it makes for quick assessment and closure, but at the same time, it is hard for would-be thieves to get into the back (as it doesn't open as they would expect). There are a lot of pick-pockets in Spain, so this is a great feature. Note: someone left a 1-star review for this product based on this feature alone (the opening mechanism on the front). I think they need to retract that review, as it is objectively unfounded.
Just received my 25l from Kickstarter backing.About time we get an outdoor photo pack. The cloud color-way is beautiful. Lol at it getting dirty. It’s a really interesting material that seems like it will slough off everything. But if not basic care is the way to go with all outdoor stuff. The smedium fits perfectly and there is tons of room above it for other items. And pockets galore add extra space. And then the cord hooks add even more options. Shoulder straps are uber comfortable. Another perfectly engineered product from PD.
Took my 25L backpack out of its plastic for its maiden voyage this morning. Essentially packed it full of gear while asleep and un-caffeinated in the dark.
I’m in love. It has so many thoughtful features (many of which I’ve no doubt yet to discover and is so light and comfortable to carry (Nikon Z 600mm lens, Nikon z8 with 135mm mounted, x100vi, vertical pockets that fit small tech pouches perfectly, and the secure and deep side pockets for water bottle and/or tripod! And both a top opening and the zipped clamshell opening😍).
Lack of waist belt is a deal breaker for me, so being able to get one separately and just clip it in is brilliant. Oh and the built-in capture clip mounts.😁 Just sad the waist belt doesn’t fold back into the back padding like the 45L’s does in a clear nod to a pocket knife, which is a design stroke of genius. And my absolutely favorite feature—a combination of functionality, gee-whizness, and style I feel James Bond could fully get behind.
And the white! Trendy yet not annoyingly so. And speaking of James Bond, If they ever remake The Spy Who Loved Me, complete with the ski chase opening credits, it would be a natural supporting actor. And a lot more subtle, modern, and minimalist than the very dated Roger Moore, carrying a red pack against a yellow spandex unitard, “skiing” in front of a green screen.
Look forward to spending a lot more time getting acquainted. And finally giving away the many backpacks that were bought over the years and found to be lacking.
Just got this and the quality is stellar in typical PD fashion. It has ample pockets, the roll top is a great idea, and the back zip panel gives a straight shot to your gear. This pack is about to get put through its paces, and based on the materials used and solid feeling construction I have zero doubts it’ll hold up.
Literally, the best bag in my collection, it looks great, is comfortable (5”6 male), and versatile as hell. Have used it every day since it landed. Light weight sling bags and packing cubes just bring it together into a flexible system for me to use as an EDC when I’ve got gym and work. Perfect for me, who works remotely on different sites and travels across big cities and country towns. And then, it adapts when I need to carry more gear than usual as a parent or on a weekend outing on the trail. Best Kickstarter I’ve founded yet!
I've just received my Kickstarter 25L Eclipse Outdoor Backpack and I couldn't be more happy with it. Peak Design has once again overdelivered on quality and design. The build quality and finish are exceptional. I can't wait to start using it on a daily basis (I cycle to work, and hike on weekends). The design philosophy is different from their Everyday line of backpacks. It isn't made to be accessed from multiple angles, or sides, but it is designed to carry your gear on your back in the most ergonomic and comfortable fashion possible. If you have ever used a top loading backpack before, you'll be gobsmacked by how well this one performs. It is super light and comfortable on first wear. The straps are adjustable and super comfortable. Everything is easily adjustable. The back opening gives you access to all of your content in a similar fashion than the Travel line does. It fits a smedium camera cube, leaving room at the top for a xsmall cube volume equivalent. The use of the top opening (Ultracinch) takes a couple of times to get used to it, but becomes second nature right after. I love it. The side flex pockets are enormous and add extra capacity to your bag. This is the most flexible backpack I have every used. Combined with the extra straps and the ultralight packing cubes, you can custom design your backpack to fit your current needs. I can't wait to use it. Peak Design have reached a new level in form meets function. As usual, make sure to watch their videos, they are full of excellent tips. A++++