Not so long ago, a backpack was considered an attribute of schoolchildren or sports youth. Today the situation has changed dramatically and on the catwalks we can see glamorous backpacks with which you can bring both to the office and a fashionable restaurant. But when choosing what to wear with a backpack, you should always remember that the line between the image of a schoolgirl and a stylish woman can be very thin. To always look your best, you need to follow some simple rules.

The principles that we are used to being guided by when choosing a bag will suit us when choosing a backpack. Fur accessories are suitable for winter. Plain backpacks go well with clothes decorated with a print, and vice versa, plain things will look good together with a printed accessory.

Differences in shapes and materials


Use of fur in a product


Choosing a stylish backpack for a girl should be based on the characteristics of her style. It would be a good idea to think about the functionality of the acquisition. For example, if this is an alternative to a bag, then it is best to choose a medium-sized accessory. IN different models You can find additional compartments and many small pockets designed for various small items. If the bag should look harmonious with a cocktail dress, then a small backpack made of any material (suede, leather, etc.) would be an ideal option.

Women's couture models


Male models from fashion shows

The most fashionable backpacks this season:


Leather backpack

When choosing what to wear with a leather backpack, you need to pay attention to its shape.

In business looks


It harmonizes perfectly with outfits of different styles:

WITH leather jackets and bombers


The Chanel brand presented exquisite leather models in the new season. They will look great with any style of clothing, even classic ones.

Chanel models

Floral print

These bright backpacks have become very popular in the new season. Models with small flowers will look harmonious with casual clothes romantic, youth and informal style. At the same time, it is important to remember the only condition - the absence of drawings on things. After all, this fashion accessory itself is quite catchy.
What can it be combined with:

  • skinny, classic coat and lace-up boots;
  • jeans and a fitted sweater, sneakers;
  • long dress and shoes with thin soles;
  • denim and a plain T-shirt in a light shade.

Floral print

Current images

Urban style

Beautiful backpacks for girls in urban style are very practical and comfortable. They will look great with any sports and casual clothing: trousers, jeans, sweaters, especially loose-fitting ones, denim overalls, T-shirts, etc.

In celebrity images


Star images


With what and how to wear such an accessory? These are just some successful examples:

With fur trim

Sports style

Such accessories are simply perfect for this style of clothing, regardless of shape and color. You can safely go with it to a workout or a walk in the nearest park, combining it with such wardrobe items as:

  • straight knitted skirt;
  • jeans of any model, sweatpants or classic trousers;
  • fitted jumper;
  • sneakers, sneakers and other sports shoes;
  • a quilted vest, or even a wide coat.

Romantic image

When going on a date, take a small pastel-colored backpack with you. Models in soft pink or purple shades will fit well into the image of a romantic person.

With long skirts


What to combine them with:

In romantic images

Seasons

What to wear with in the warm season

This summer women's accessory can be combined with:

  • chiffon or silk;
  • jeans and bright T-shirts;
  • tight trousers and a summer blouse;
  • wide T-shirts and short shorts;
  • light long dress;
  • miniskirt and denim vest.

With a dress


In this case, you need to carefully select shoes depending on the model of the shoulder bag:

What to wear with in the cold season

IN autumn-winter period you need to ensure that the accessories are combined with the selected outerwear.

Looks with one accessory


Therefore, for winter it is better to choose a fashionable backpack in classic style, photos of which are presented in large numbers on the Internet.

In autumn-winter looks


Here are just some examples of winning combinations with:

If you prefer urban-style models, then wear loose coats or knee-length down jackets with them.

With parkas and jackets


In looks with short fur coats


Looks with backpacks

Basic rules for wearing backpacks

The fashion for backpacks has returned to us today, so stylists offer their own rules for wearing this accessory so that any woman can look perfect:


For many people, shoulder bags are an indispensable item that they carry not only for a walk or sports training, but also to the office or on a date. Classic models suitable for youth, romantic, classic and other styles. The rest are best combined with casual or sporty outfits.

In order to fully appreciate the convenience and functionality of a backpack, you need to choose the right size. Buying a model that is too large or, conversely, too small will result in the load being distributed incorrectly, causing discomfort and pain. In this case, instead of enjoying a useful purchase, the buyer will receive completely opposite emotions. Let’s take a closer look at how to choose the right size backpack for a schoolchild and an adult, and what to focus on.

For a child

The spine in children is still developing, their posture is being formed, and parents should avoid anything that could negatively affect these processes. Small-sized backpacks are suitable for students in grades 1-4, in accordance with the children's still small stature. Older students need larger backpacks because the number of subjects studied and, accordingly, textbooks increases as they grow older.

In high school the volume teaching aids and notes reaches a critical mass, but this is no longer so important, since boys and girls aged 16-18 already have the complexion of adults. One way or another, regardless of age and height, backpacks should have a reinforced back and strong wide straps.

When choosing a backpack, we invite parents of preschoolers and primary and secondary school students to use the table of the relationship between the child’s height and the length of the back of the product.

And this table will help to correlate the age, height and weight of the child (boy and girl) with the height of the back of the backpack and its weight when empty and full.


For an adult

A common situation: the buyer tries to choose a larger backpack, even if they themselves cannot boast tall. The motive is simple - the larger the product, the more spacious it is; At the same time, many do not even think about how to choose a backpack according to their height. A wrong choice very soon leads to back pain and a host of other inconveniences.

The main rule in in this case states that the dimensions of the backpack must correspond to the physical parameters of the user. Then the item will look organic on its owner. Such physical data include height, weight, back length, hip circumference. This issue has been comprehensively studied by professionals, who have developed the following recommendations:

  • back length over 51 cm and hip circumference over 84 cm corresponds to size L;
  • body length 45-52 cm and hip circumference 75-85 cm corresponds to size M;
  • a body length of less than 45 cm and a hip circumference of 75 cm corresponds to size S;
  • those whose parameters are less than S or more than L should choose XS or XL, respectively.

How to take measurements correctly

The length of the backpack, as mentioned above, is selected in accordance with the length of the back. A sales assistant will help you measure it in the store, who will do this with a measuring tape or use a special device. The segment called the back length is located between the seventh cervical vertebra and waist. When measuring, you should not pull the centimeter, but rather, let it hang smoothly, following the curves of the spine.

Next, you need to measure the circumference of your hips, which is used to select the size of the waist belt. The right choice– a guarantee that the belt will fit perfectly on your hips and take on more than half the weight of the load. When tightened, the harness should fit comfortably (quite tightly) around your hips. In this case, approximately 10-12 cm should remain between the free ends, when tightened.


Taking into account the recommendations given, calculating the size of the backpack becomes easy. In fact, there are always nuances to this issue. Some products, although seemingly compact, are actually very spacious. Therefore, the purchase must be preceded by a comprehensive inspection of the product.

In offline stores, you can always contact the seller, who will help you take measurements and advise on specifics. If it is not possible to visit the store, or you have to buy online, it is better to ask someone close to you to measure the length of your back in advance, since it is not easy to do this yourself. For these purposes, you will need a tailor's meter, which can be found in every home.

What is the difference between men's and women's backpacks?

When considering the question of how to choose the size of a backpack, one cannot ignore such a point as the differences between men's and female models. Many users are confident that there is no fundamental difference between them. In a sense, this is true if we take into account only unisex style models that are in demand among urban youth. However, there is a difference between sports and touring models, and it is due to the following factors. Men have different body proportions than women. In particular, with the same height, the back length of the stronger sex is greater. Consequently, backpacks used for prolonged loads should differ in size.


A woman's figure with a thinner waist and wider hips than men's requires special backpack models. But there are also chests and narrower shoulders that need straps of a different configuration. All these points are taken into account by equipment manufacturers who produce products in full accordance with the “gender” purpose.

Summarizing what has been said, I would like to note once again that you must always choose a backpack according to size, regardless of who it is intended for. Posture, health and well-being depend on the correct choice.

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  • The most important day this year for all sellers not only in our country, but throughout the world is Black Friday. Black Friday, which will take place on November 23, is an excellent occasion not only to surprise with its price, but also to please with a new range. The fact that buyers have been waiting for so long.

    Therefore, our online store Grizzlyshop.ru presents a new collection of backpacks not only for adults, but also for the little ones. Those who are just starting first grade.

    A schoolchild cannot do without it, a student feels comfortable with it, it is convenient to take it to work, on a short trip or hike, in nature and for sports, it is ideal for carrying a laptop, plus sometimes it serves as a stylish accessory. All this is a high-quality city backpack. Let's look at how to choose a backpack for the city.

    Volume

    City backpacks are produced with a volume of 5-30 liters - choose based on the purpose of use and the degree of loading. It’s not good when your backpack bursts because you tried to contain something that cannot be contained. And when a lonely book dangles in the vastness of an immense backpack, it’s also not entirely comfortable.

    Back

    The back of the backpack can be made of fabric or with a special insert. In the first case, this is a city backpack for non- large quantity personal items. It’s convenient that it can be folded compactly, but your back will feel all the bulges of objects if you don’t put something soft under it. Such backpacks, like backpacks with a hard back, can serve as an excellent alternative to a bag or briefcase for everyday wear.

    A soft back with a special insert will help you not to feel discomfort from constantly carrying weighty things on your back. This can be a flat piece of foam sewn between several layers of fabric. But it is more effective when such inserts are embossed and covered with porous material - this will better distribute the load and also allow the back to breathe.

    Pay special attention to the design of the back if you need to choose a backpack for a schoolchild.

    Straps

    Just as with the back, the rule applies here: the greater the load, the wider the strap and the more necessary a soft insert made of foam material is (but it is important not to “overdo it” - straps that are too wide will fall off). Thin fabric straps are good for a backpack “cosmetic bag”, but not for a loaded backpack. Of course, in the question of how to choose a backpack for the city, this is not as significant as, say, when choosing an expedition backpack, but still.

    One more thing: have you noticed that straps come in different shapes and “locations”? It is optimal when the straps are sewn next to each other on top and have a slightly curved shape.

    If you are interested in how to choose a backpack for travel or sports, also pay attention to the presence of a chest strap that secures the position of the straps.

    Branches

    As a rule, a city backpack has one or two main compartments, inside of which there may be small zippered compartments and voluminous pockets. If you are at a loss as to which laptop backpack to choose, you don’t have to buy a specialized accessory from the same brand as the laptop. Modern city backpacks are increasingly equipped with a compartment for a laptop: a pocket made of solid or perforated fabric. When choosing a backpack for your device, pay attention to the diagonal (not everyone will fit 17 inches) and the presence of Velcro or other fasteners that will secure the computer.

    Additionally, each city backpack has built-in and hanging pockets. For sports and walking purposes, it’s nice if there are open side pockets with elastic, which are convenient for storing water. Plus, the necessary thing is side ties, with which you can reduce the volume of the backpack so that things don’t dangle unnecessarily. But if you choose a backpack for the city, with which, say, you will travel to public transport to study/work, you shouldn’t get carried away with additional pockets and laces - they will most likely get in your way during rush hour in a crowded subway car or bus.

    Material and accessories

    City backpacks are made from both synthetic and natural materials, including leather. When choosing a model, pay attention to the quality of the material and waterproofness (especially if you carry gadgets in your backpack).

    Here it is worth paying attention to the quality of the fittings. What good is waterproof material if the zippers get wet? Why high-quality material will be useful if the zipper comes apart, the Velcro doesn’t stick, or the metal of the fastener straps crumbles (yes, yes, this happens))). This is especially true for fashion backpacks, generously flavored with beautiful, but not always high-quality accessories.

    If we talk about how to choose a city backpack as an alternative to a handbag or men's briefcase, another selection criterion is the quality of the seams. A double seam, even stitches and strong threads, the ends of which are neatly hidden, are the ideal option. The main thing that is worth looking at is the absence of obvious defects and the way the straps are sewn at the top point. It is advisable that they be deeply built into the backpack.

    Models made of leather, leatherette or simple fabrics will harmoniously fit into fashionable bow, while having a positive effect on your back. Your spine will thank you if you replace your laptop bag with a backpack with a laptop compartment. A standard city backpack is a thing in which you can put your uniform for training, things for a short trip, books for school, and tools for work.

    • Anastasia 12/29/2015

      Reply Kirill:

      Correctly noted! But that's why different types urban backpacks - for some it’s light and beautiful without anatomical bells and whistles, and for others it’s voluminous and sporty, so that your back doesn’t get tired from a thousand and one books or long-term wear :)

       Answer

      • Stasya 01/04/2016

        Reply Anastasia:

        What if you want both? :-)
        I used to buy myself light, beautiful backpacks to put a book, wallet and bottle of water, but it always turns out that I go into the store with them, fill them with groceries, and eventually the zipper comes apart.
        Now I’m thinking about what to sacrifice - beauty or practicality (or manage to combine), so this article is very timely, I’ll study it.

    Do you want to diversify your style, add fresh notes to it, add originality and dynamism to your sets? Stylists offer fashionistas to make their looks more interesting and original by complementing them fashionable backpacks 2019-2020 in various styles.

    This is not the first season that interesting fashionable women's backpacks have been at the peak of popularity, changing and becoming even better, ideally complementing looks from sports style to elegant outfits. Fashionistas especially fell in love with fashionable and stylish backpacks in the 2019-2020 season, thanks to their practicality and convenience.

    Stylish backpacks are perfect choice for fashionistas who lead active image life. A trendy backpack will be indispensable for girls who love cycling, active walks, sports, and travel.

    Having acquired a fashionable and trendy backpack, you thus free your hands and can freely do business - it is very convenient and practical, which many ladies have already appreciated. Fashionable backpacks, moreover, can be more spacious than bags, allowing you to always have the necessary things with you.

    Many different and top models of backpacks allow you to choose a stylish backpack not only in a sports version, but also casual, business backpacks for the office and evening models of fashionable backpacks 2019-2020.

    You will be especially pleased with the design of fashionable backpacks for the 2019-2020 season, which are made in an interesting and very funny solution - from laconic and affordable backpacks to cute and funny models of top backpacks for girls.

    Beautiful backpacks made of leather, fur, and velvet will be especially relevant. Spectacular and intriguing backpacks are made of metallic leather for the season, decorated with sequins and metal decor in the form of clasps and studs.

    Fashionable backpacks with fringe will become a hit, which has been decorating trendy items for more than one season, and backpacks of 2019-2020 were no exception. You will find both light pastel shades of a backpack with fringe and classic ones - brown, black and white. Backpacks in small sizes will be fashionable - tiny backpacks, as well as standard backpacks.

    The designers proposed another idea for fashionable backpacks 2019-2020 - transformable backpacks that can be worn both as a backpack on the shoulders and as a handbag, which look equally excellent and irresistible.

    Such backpack options will be ideal for the office and even business sets with suits, skirts and trousers - a great idea to diversify the boring and strict business style in the 2019-2020 season.

    In addition to leather models of backpacks, textile models, quilted, complemented by weaving, appliqués, ornaments and prints in different interpretations, will be fashionable.

    The color palette of trendy backpacks for 2019-2020 is quite diverse: from classic shades to unusually spectacular color tandems. So, you can find stylish backpacks in the collections of the best couturiers in lilac, red, emerald, pink, blue, lemon shades, which are perfect for spring and summer.

    No less impressive are backpacks in black, white backpacks and brown ones, which allow you to complement stylish looks in darker colors.

    You can wear fashionable backpacks with almost everything women's wardrobe– dresses, skirts, suits, jeans and shorts. Fashionable backpacks go perfectly with coats, jackets and cardigans.

    We offer you the most fashionable images with backpacks: how to wear fashionable backpacks in the 2019-2020 season, what to combine with them, as well as which backpacks to choose to look fashionable and stylish, both on a walk, in the office and in the evening.

    Let's look at fashionable stylish backpacks for women that will be an excellent addition to your impeccable sets in various styles.

    Trending backpacks 2019-2020: mini backpacks

    Fashionable mini-sized backpacks will certainly be a real find for true lovers of exquisite and fashionable things. Such small backpacks are decorated with exquisite and charming decorative elements in the form of rhinestones, sequins, flowers, chains, etc.

    Beautiful small backpacks 2019-2020, as if specially created to complete laconic looks with dresses made of light flowing fabrics, weightless skirts and stylish shorts which are ideal in summer.

    Mini backpacks are an evening version of a women's backpack and an alternative to clutches and small shoulder bags, which look very elegant and graceful, allowing you to feel practical even in evening looks.

    Small backpacks will perfectly complement heels and wedges, Converse, ballerinas and slippers. In the 2019-2020 season, you can carry exquisite mini-backpacks like a bag - in your hand, as well as on your shoulder.

    Stunning fringed backpacks for the 2019-2020 season

    The fashionable element in the form of fringe is the hit of the season, which has captured the hearts of both designers and fashionistas, because you can find it everywhere - from swimsuits and dresses, ending with outerwear and accessories.

    With intriguing variations of fringed backpacks in the 2019-2020 season, fashion designers decided to please fashionistas who are looking for original and charming solutions for their looks.

    Beautiful fringe to match the backpack or another shade, complemented by an ornament, gives fashionable and trendy backpacks lightness and ease, creating a special charm in sets with fringed backpacks.

    Beautiful and fashionable backpacks 2019-2020 with flowers

    A real find for true ladies will be fashionable backpacks with applications in the form of flowers, which effectively decorate the most fashion models backpacks.

    Charming fashionable backpacks with flowers add a touch of romance to your look, ideal for cute and sophisticated girls. Floral elements can be located across the entire surface of the backpack, and can also decorate just its upper part.

    Fashionable backpacks with flowers will be appropriate in looks with jeans, trousers, shorts, sneakers or stilettos, which are chosen without any special color accents or prints, which will create the main emphasis on a fashionable backpack.

    Trendy backpacks 2019-2020: metallic shine and sequins

    The trends of fashion shows dictate to us motifs with glitter - from metal to sequins. In this regard, backpacks made of metallic leather, as well as partially or completely covered with shiny sequins, will be trendy.

    Fashionable shiny backpacks will certainly attract attention and will make your look irresistible and memorable.

    Remember, when choosing a trendy backpack in a brilliant design, the remaining elements of the look should be selected in a discreet and laconic design so that the image is harmonious and complete.

    The ideal solution would be fashionable backpacks made of metallic leather or with sequins in casual looks with its moderate chic and at the same time sophistication and laconicism.

    Stylish and fashionable backpacks 2019-2020: new items and trends in backpacks in different styles - photos

    We present to your review the best variations - fashionable backpacks 2019-2020 in different styles, as well as excellent looks with fashionable backpacks in the 2019-2020 season, shown below...

































    We choose our friends ourselves, but time leaves the best ones. With backpacks it’s about the same, but a little easier, since experience matters. I will share my many years of experience in this article.

    Longtime backpack fan

    Great interest in comfortable carry-on luggage in general and backpacks in particular appeared in 2007, when a permanent job like “digging from the fence until the evening” was replaced by freelancing and small business in its various manifestations. Implementation of the concept " always have your personal office with you“started with some discreet and flat HP backpack and an LG P300 laptop, aka “Zebra”.


    A similar model, but older

    This bundle pleased me with a large number of pockets and pockets - I managed to neatly put the external optical drive, drive, memory, flash drives, cables and other little things in their places. But the laptop's protection left much to be desired. The laptop was literally dangling in a large pocket made of thin fabric and without a lock, located inside the main compartment. No cushioning material in the bottom, no frame inserts, just a laptop bag.

    Although, the LG P300 is a rather small and plump device, and this offset the weak physical protection of the backpack (designed up to 17-inch models), since there was a decent distance between the outer walls and the gadget and it did not move from side to side. But when I decided to switch platforms to OS X in 2008 and upgraded to a 15-inch Unibody MacBook Pro, full height The question arose of replacing the backpack precisely because of the weak physical security of the laptop pocket. I became especially worried when, in the simplest situations, I touched the laptop against hard surfaces a couple of times.

    The choice fell on Logitech Kinetik, the analogues of which still do not exist. This backpack served faithfully for three years, as was written about. Then began the vigorous search for the perfect carry-on luggage. Over ten years I have tested a couple of dozen different backpacks and slings and gained a lot of experience in choosing this kind of accessories, which I will share below.

    Looking ahead, I will note that I have not yet found the ideal backpack for myself, and this is impossible in principle. After all, sooner or later even the most best thing You may get bored or your needs will change. Accordingly, the search process is endless, but exciting. And the more experience you have, the more interesting and suitable things you can find for the current realities of life.

    Before we begin, I would like to draw your attention to the links that will appear below. They lead to personal, very detailed reviews of carry-on luggage, which is given as an example of one or another important feature. With the help of this article, you can quickly determine your needs, and if you want to learn about some nuances in more detail, then click on the links.

    What types of backpacks are there?

    In short, small, medium, large, single-strap (aka slings) and classic with two straps. There are also specialized models with sections for photographic equipment, skateboard holders and other features. There are also modular options that can be clearly adapted to your needs. True, they look peculiar, since they take an example from military equipment, but indestructible, versatile and thought out to the smallest detail. Now let's look at all the points mentioned in more detail.

    Selecting a backpack size

    A reasonable size for a city backpack is up to 35 liters. Anything more is either for travel or for rare EDC maniacs who carry dozens of things with them every day for all occasions, even the zombie apocalypse.

    To make the topic easier to understand, we will divide the models into large, medium and small:

    • 30-35 liters;
    • 23-28 liters;
    • up to 20 liters respectively.

    Backpacks with a volume of 30-35 liters are the limit for use in the urban cycle, and they will be large. Such an accessory is justified if you often have to go on business trips lasting up to a week, and you don’t want to clutter your home with extra hand luggage.

    The exception is models with compression straps, which allow you to tighten the backpack if it is half empty. An example of this is Wenger Large Volume Daypack. A couple of movements and the 30-liter hog turns into a very flat (though quite wide) urban “double-strap”.

    One of my favorite backpacks, however, with its own nuances, such as the system of nested volumes and the absence of a frame (a kind of cool bag with a bunch of pockets). Read about everything in detail in the review:

    Its anti-example is the 34-liter OGIO Renegade RSS. Even if you put only a laptop, a charger, a water bottle, a tablet and an external drive in it, the backpack will protrude outward with a huge hump.

    On the other hand, it has a very well protected laptop compartment, has a frame and a really large number of pockets and compartments, all with reasonable placement. A chic accessory for a gadget lover and a truly convenient carry-on luggage for travel. I managed only with this backpack to go on a week-long business trip to two cities at once - to Moscow and to - dragging with me a laptop, a healthy camera, a tablet, a couple of smartphones, a change of clothes and other little things for the trip. Read more about this model here:

    Another large backpack that has served me well in the city cycle and on business trips is Thule Crossover 32L Backpack(). Among its features are very strong, literally indestructible branded nylon, a protected compartment for glasses and delicate equipment, and an external pocket for large items such as fleece. But we’ll talk about the features of this kind of accessories a little later; for now, let’s return to the sizes.

    Large backpacks in the vast majority of cases can easily accommodate a 17- or even 18-inch laptop, plus any reasonable amount of equipment for the road. There is still room for a bottle of water, a container of food, a set of laundry for 3-5 days and a change of clothes.

    The most versatile models are medium-sized with a volume of 23-28 liters. In personal practice, they have proven to be excellent both as a companion during short trips of a couple of days, and as a city backpack. I'm using it now, but it's quite unusual thing, which suited my personal needs well. True, when you change your laptop, you will also have to update your backpack, which I’ll talk about in the tricks section. Previously, he served faithfully for a couple of years Kata DR 467i, and it belongs to the same class of hand luggage.

    In terms of capacity for equipment, such accessories are comparable to large models, that is, a laptop, tablet, large SLR camera, all kinds of electronic small things, a bottle of water, a folding umbrella will fit, and there will also be room for a fleece if it suddenly gets hot and you need to hide it. But you can’t take a lot of clothes or replacement shoes with you, so this backpack won’t be suitable for business trips of more than 2-3 days.

    In addition, mid-range models often accommodate a maximum of 15-inch laptop. Although in most cases there is no need for more.

    Small and flat backpacks up to 20 liters They are convenient because you don’t have to take them off even on public transport. Judging by personal practice, they do not bother people. But don't expect to stuff a 17-20 liter baby with a lot of stuff.

    This kind of carry-on luggage is good for moving a laptop, tablet, wallet and some small items between home and office, but nothing more. Often you can’t even squeeze in a container of food, although a lot depends on the model.

    I personally prefer compact slings, the features of which I will discuss in the next section. As for the classic double-strap ones, from unusual models I used it with the built-in proprietary GRID-IT elastic band system. Incredibly flat, high quality and stylish accessory, into which you can stuff a lot of things... except for a container with food, there’s nowhere to squeeze even a bottle of water. Yes, and there were questions about the straps, I’ll talk about that below.

    The 19-liter model turned out to be a very pleasant and roomy model. When half-empty it looks a little inconspicuous, but it is very light, comfortable on the straps, there are external mesh compartments for water bottles and all sorts of small items, a protected compartment for glasses, pockets for a laptop and tablet.

    In volume they rarely exceed 20 liters, and due to their unusual shape in most cases, they can accommodate everything you might need in the urban wilds, from a laptop and small electronics to a large camera, a water bottle and a container of food. With the same Thule Crossover Sling mentioned above, I went on many business trips, where I carried a large mirrorless camera, a laptop and other useful things with me. One of the reasons is the ability to quickly slide the sling onto your chest and get the things you need without removing it:

    And then it arises important question! Which sling should I take - left-sided or right-sided? I began my acquaintance with left-handed models (the strap hangs on the left shoulder) and, according to the first one, I was guided only by them. It was because of this that at one time I acquired a left-handed one.

    By the way, modular paramilitary models from Maxpedition are chic and indestructible, but quite heavy, and with additional body kit they are also bulky. On the other hand, in the mentioned model, complemented by a Janus Extension Pocket built into the belt and a Coocoon Pouch pocket, it could carry an incredible amount of things. But I digress.

    Returning to the question of straps, I will give a simple answer - don’t bother with it! It doesn’t matter which shoulder the strap is on - the left or the right - and it doesn’t matter which way the sling turns when you throw it over your chest. You get used to the new option literally within an hour of using another model. I checked this on my own experience when I was able to get the coveted Thule Crossover Sling second generation(). Suddenly it turned out to be right-handed, which scared me a little, but, again, I got used to it in just an hour. Although even this handsome man did not stay with me for long. His place was taken Dakine HUB Sling 15L(also right-handed), which I’ve been using for almost a year now and don’t plan to change yet, but that’s a separate big story, and we continue the banquet.

    There is also such an interesting category as photo backpacks, but not professional monsters for three SLR cameras, a pair of howitzer-sized lenses and smaller caliber heels, and even a bunch of tripod straps. No, we are talking about the so-called Half Photo models like Crumpler Jackpack.

    Their trick is that only part of the space is allocated for photographic equipment, usually at the bottom. Half of the volume on top can be filled with other useful things. And in the photo department, in addition to the camera, chargers, external storage devices, containers with food and other things fit perfectly. Thanks to their shape and configuration, they allow you to make the most efficient use of the entire working volume, keeping things organized and giving quick access to the necessary equipment, be it a laptop or a camera. By the way, the above-mentioned Kata DR 467i is from the same series. Read in detail about all the features of this type of product in the review below:

    What's with the fabric?

    Most backpacks are made from nylon. A good, strong and unpretentious material, but a lot depends on its density, weaving and impregnation.

    Unnamed Chinese models for $10-20 are usually made of simply “nylon” without any frills. Often it is not very dense, with loose weaving ( thin fabric, which can be easily damaged by getting caught) and without protection from water. It won’t get wet instantly, but it’s better not to get caught in the rain with such a backpack. In general, the lion's share of the price of an accessory is its main fabric, plus accessories.

    Branded models from famous brands are created on the basis of more expensive versions of nylon with high density and, sometimes, with special impregnation.

    For example, there is cordura(CORDURA) from INVISTA - a very dense fabric with a special weave, water-repellent impregnation and Teflon coating. It was originally created for the military, but is now often used in civilian carry-on luggage. A powerful and virtually indestructible material (all Maxpedition products are made from it), but quite rough to the touch. Not for everybody.

    There is also the so-called ballistic nylon, created several decades ago by DuPont and also for the needs of the military. It is characterized by high density (1600D or more), good protection against water and is tear resistant. In the past, they even made bulletproof vests from it. An example of a backpack made of such fabric is this.

    An interesting type of nylon - ripstop. It is also highly tear resistant and waterproof, but unlike ballistic nylon it is quite thin and very light. This fabric is often used to make folding backpacks and bags, or inserts in places that experience high stress during use.

    A worthy alternative to nylon - polyester. The fabric has a very fine weave, has water-repellent properties, and practically does not tear or get dirty. I also confidently recommend backpacks based on this material. A striking example is OGIO Renegade RSS.

    In addition, it is worth mentioning nylon with thermoplastic polyurethane coating. It is completely waterproof, very strong, almost does not get dirty and is easy to clean from any dirt. The Spigen SGP New Coated Backpack and the favorite Dakine HUB Sling 15L are made from this material.

    Leather backpacks I don’t understand - the material is heavy, not practical, and the layout of such luggage by department is usually very simple, like a “bag”. But it has status.

    All sorts of exotic items made from thick cotton or waxed fabric are not for everyone. But usually such backpacks are not very practical either.

    Features and chips that you need to pay great attention to when choosing

    Let's talk about the important little things that make up the positive (or negative) experience of using a backpack.

    Straps

    This is a very individual point, which is why I highly recommend finding an opportunity to try it on before purchasing a backpack. For example, one of the reasons for selling Cocoon MCP3401 was the straps. I was ready to put up with its small volume and just for the sake of GRID-IT I would keep it in my personal collection and for use as my mood dictates.

    The straps themselves are good, soft, ventilated, with comfortable strap fasteners, but they did not lie on my shoulders at all. It skews to the left, then to the right - it’s uncomfortable and inconvenient, no matter how I adjust them and twist them.

    But when I put on the Wenger Large Volume Daypack, it lay on my shoulders like my own, gently hugging them and gently pressing me to my back. Same with the Thule Legend GoPro. No matter how I loaded these backpacks, my shoulders always felt comfortable, and the weight was practically not felt.

    In general, the moment is individual, but I formed it for myself a few rules quality straps, in addition to personal comfort, which can only be determined by directly testing the product:

    • Straps should be soft and ventilated(this can be a thin pillow or perforation). The softer they are, the higher the likelihood that they will fit well on your shoulders. Although the straps in the same Thule Legend GoPro are quite stiff, they clearly fit my shape.
    • There must be a chest strap. A very useful and underappreciated accessory that can significantly increase comfort when using a backpack, especially if it is heavy due to the large number of useful things inside. The chest strap relieves the shoulders a little and better secures the straps on them.
    • Reliable fasteners with the ability to quickly change the length of the belt. Previously, I tried to adjust the straps once and for all, but I quickly realized that in this case it was inconvenient to take the backpack on and off. I usually loosen the left strap as much as possible before I take off the accessory, and tighten it when I put it on. You don't have to twist your whole body in the process. It’s a problem if the clamps don’t hold the belt under the weight of a loaded backpack, but I’ve encountered this extremely rarely. However, check this point when purchasing, if possible. It is not necessary to load the backpack, just put it on and try to forcefully push the straps out with your hands.
    • Pockets on shoulder straps are usually useless, so ignore them. Yes - and good, no, well, okay. The problem is the bend on the shoulder - the pocket stretches and getting something out of it or putting it on the go becomes problematic.

    Back

    Everything is simple here - you definitely need ventilation, be it built-in pads made of special fabric or special grooves. If the back of the backpack is completely flat, then your back will be constantly wet.

    The exception is slings. They usually do not fit very tightly to the back and the back does not sweat.

    Accessories and other small items

    It is highly desirable that the lightning be protected from rain. This could be a small valve above it or a special design of the zipper itself. Waterproof models are usually inside out and very thin. They are rubberized. If you see a simple zipper without any frills, be careful - it leaks easily in a downpour.

    By the way, this is one of the rare disadvantages of the OGIO Renegade RSS backpack - its zippers are very strong, comfortable, large, but not at all protected from rain. And here is an example of a protected zipper in Crumpler Jackpack Half Photo:

    Pay attention to how the zippers work, how convenient it is to unfasten them (waterproof ones are usually quite tight - this is normal), and whether there are rope straps that make life much easier.

    Again, the difference between expensive products from well-known brands and nameless “Chinese” accessories is in the fittings. High-quality models often use Japanese YKK (one of the best), reliable plastic in fastex and fasteners, and sometimes aluminum (in some Thule models).

    Compression straps- also a useful addition, especially in large backpack models. They can also be used to secure the outside of a jacket if it is not needed at the moment (went to a warm supermarket, took off outerwear and freed his hands, fixing it on the backpack).

    External compartments for water bottles save a huge amount of internal space in backpacks. You need to drink all the time if you want to feel good. No external pocket, you will have to use the main compartment, from where it is not very convenient to get water, and it’s scary if it leaks. I also carry a compact umbrella in these departments; it happens that I hide all sorts of little things there, like paper napkins, folding string bag, etc.

    Pen important and necessary, any - thick, thin, as long as it exists. As practice shows, carrying a backpack by the strap is extremely inconvenient, even if you just need to move it from place to place.

    It is advisable that laptop pocket was designed as a separate space with its own zipper. As a last resort, you need a lock for this section so that the laptop inside does not dangle.

    Ideal size and format

    This question is individual for everyone, but I will share my ideal set at the moment.

    Every day in the city I use a compact 15-liter Dakine sling - it’s almost invisible, it holds everything I need, including a laptop, a water bottle, small electronics, and there’s room for a food container and an umbrella. And in general, the volume is enough to leave home early in the morning and return late in the evening full and satisfied, without bombing cafes and restaurants during the day.

    If you need to take a large camera and all your work equipment with you, or when you have a trip to another city for two days, then I use the Thule Legend GoPro. But, as mentioned above, it's time to change it.

    The fact is that the 13-inch MacBook Pro no longer fits into the hydropack compartment, where the MacBook 12 in a case fit perfectly. That is, you have to hide it in a case in the main compartment, which takes up a lot of useful space there. What I really like about it is the protected front compartment, which fits the Sony A7i perfectly and from which you can quickly remove it on the go. And in general, in terms of the layout of the pockets and access to them, it is excellent, but all good things come to an end sooner or later.

    I'm currently looking at Thule Paramount 24L Daypack and on eBags Professional Slim Laptop Backpack.

    But I'm sure you understand the main idea. It’s good to have a compact backpack for the urban cycle and a medium or large format model for special occasions and travel. I've been trying for a long time to find the perfect and universal carry-on luggage - it doesn't exist. The proposed scheme with two backpacks is very close to ideal. All that remains is for everyone to choose something suitable for their personal needs. The moment is difficult, but interesting. Ah, these sweet pangs of choice.