Best New Gear :: June 2017

We like to keep things fresh at Carry HQ. And sometimes that means changing things up a bit. So we’ve bid a fond farewell to our Week In Review – welcoming in a new series: Best New Gear. A monthly series that delivers a concentrated dose of carry goodness. How does it work? We shoot new releases of note out into our social channels, and listen to what resonates with you guys, posting only the very best new gear here, so it can be celebrated and ogled over. 

So without further ado, dig into the Best New Gear of June 2017.

–

bagjack Morph Pack

Your carry needs change, so why shouldn’t your bag change too? The bagjack Morph Pack does just that, with a flexible capacity that can expand from 17L to 23L to suit different loads. The lightweight pack weighs 1.3 kg (2.87 lbs) and offers a full-length front zipper that provides handy access to contents throughout the bag. An inner divider and padded laptop sleeve help keep gear tidy, while the water-repellent fabric and zipper keep the elements at bay. Additional gear can be secured to the exterior webbing for quick access, and AustriAlpin Cobra buckles round off the rugged handmade construction.

Ketalon Tør Pen

The Ketalon Tør Pen merges tactical aesthetics with practical everyday functionality. Constructed with lightweight aircraft-grade aluminium and a steel bolt action, the pen is lightweight and compact enough to carry daily in a pocket without weighing you down. The ergonomic, anti-slip design can be used with small or large hands and even while wearing gloves. The pen is compatible with Parker-style/G2 refills and is available through Ketalon’s Kickstarter campaign.

Arc’teryx V Series Rolling Duffel

Arc’teryx’s dedication to innovation and taking a different approach is evident in the V Series of weatherproof rolling duffels. The duffels are designed to allow travelers to carry more gear while reducing luggage weight. The series includes the V80 and V110 (80L and 110L respectively), both of which feature a tough external frame that doesn’t eat into the usable interior space of the duffels. Additional benefits of the external frame include easy access to all the hardware for repairs if needed, the elimination of wear and tear through an interior frame rubbing the material, as well as the ability to conveniently carry or lash down the bags from any side. A U-shape opening enables easy packing and retrieval of gear, and the duffels lay flat when unloaded for convenient storage. The V80 Rolling Duffel weighs 3380 grams (7.5 lbs), while the V110 Rolling Duffel weighs 3500 grams (7.7 lbs), with the series set for a Spring 2018 release.

SDR Traveller M1 Messenger

The SDR Traveller M1 Messenger is designed to serve as a low-key, tough bag for urban adventures. Crafted by hand in California, the bag is made with lightweight, weatherproof and durable Expedition Grade Dyneema® composite fabric. Light padding on the base and back helps protect gear while increasing user comfort, with a choice of configurations to suit left and right-handed users. There’s also a range of pockets for organization, along with a padded tech sleeve for a 13″ laptop.

Triple Aught Design Spectre Carry System

Sometimes one bag will get the job done. But at other times you need a system. A system like Triple Aught Design’s versatile Spectre Carry System. The system encompasses a range of pieces that can be used separately or together, making it highly adaptable to a variety of needs. The system includes the Spectre Backpacks in 22L, 34L and 46L options to cater to day use or multi-day trips. Complementing the packs are a choice of accessories including the Spectre Core Harness, Spectre Chest Rig and Spectre Hydration Carrier, each of which can also be used together or separately. For even further flexibility, the Hydration Carrier can be secured to the packs for extra volume, as can the Chest Rig for convenient quick-access storage. Check out the video above for more details and to see the system in action.

RMU Core Pack

With a wealth of outdoor adventures on offer, an adaptable pack is a great companion to tag along on the ride. Currently in pre-production, the RMU Core Pack is designed to suit a range of outdoor travel activities. The 35L pack is carry-on compatible and features a choice of interior organization options, along with a removable waterproof sleeve for keeping electronics safe on the go. The pack’s helmet holder comes in handy for activities such as climbing or for storing bulkier items externally. And with the bag’s wide opening you don’t need to rummage around in order to access gear easily.

Trakke Storr Hand-Luggage Backpack

Nailing suave style, useful organization, and convenient access in a travel bag is no easy task. But Trakke’s Storr Hand-Luggage Backpack delivers, with first-class construction and practical design for a host of travel needs. The pack is crafted by hand with weatherproof British-made waxed cotton that will stand up to demanding use. Designed for carry-on use, the 30L bag includes stowable backpack straps and top and side carry handles for easy portability. An exterior 15″ laptop sleeve keeps tech at the ready for going through airport security, while the front diagonal zip pocket is useful for a tablet or quick-access items. Open up the clamshell-style main compartment and you’ll find three further pockets inside for organization. And at 1.4 kg, the Storr won’t take up a lot of your baggage weight allowance, so you can squeeze in that last-minute souvenir on your way home.

Datum Trecknos Roll Top and Trecknos Deuce Expandable Pack

Previously only available in Japan, Datum packs have been darn tricky to get hold of. Until now. The Trecknos Roll Top and Trecknos Deuce Expandable Pack can both be picked up through Huckberry, and offer a handsome combination of good looks, durable construction and functional design. The bags are handmade in the USA using 500D Cordura Nylon and a water-resistant Hypalon lining. And for added peace of mind, they come with a lifetime warranty too. The tough yet stylish Trecknos Roll Top includes side access to the main compartment and is a versatile 26L pack for work or play. The 12L Trecknos Deuce Expandable Pack has a nifty trick up its sleeve with a convertible design that can expand from a sling bag to a backpack to suit a variety of loads and carry preferences.

Tom Bihn The Stowaway

Looking to travel light or with restricted space? Want a compact bag that fits under an airline seat? Meet The Stowaway from Tom Bihn. This handy travel companion is suitable for use as a personal item, and can also be paired with a larger carry-on bag if you want to keep the essentials within easy reach. The bag can unzip to reveal backpack straps, or alternatively carry it as a briefcase or shoulder bag for a more professional look. A choice of three compartments and front and back pockets provide useful storage for gear such as a change of clothes, tech devices, and small EDC and travel essentials. And the lifetime guarantee means you don’t need to worry about getting your roam on with this tough passenger.