Search
Search results for “Bike commuting”
Feature
Reviews
Week In Review ~ 25 May
…aptop or 3-liter hydration system, plus a price tag that won’t break the bank. Adventure-seeking with Alite Alite Designs are feeling the summer vibes if their new Rope Series collection is anything to go by. The Timber Hitch Backpack, High Tide Tote and Barrel Bike Bag are bursting with bright colors, tough construction (backed by Alite’s lifetime guarantee) and a let’s-get-out-there-and-have-some-fun attitude. The bike bag can also double as a m…
Week In Review ~ May 11
…rom the shops or meeting up with friends, transporting a bottle of wine by bike isn’t necessarily the easiest task. Do you go with a bag-carrying option, perhaps wrapping the bottle in a protective jersey or blanket before sticking it in a backpack and hoping both survive the journey? In all likelihood your bottle will probably be fine but what if you want to go bag-free? Do you opt for the perilous grip-one-handlebar-and-one-wine-bottle-and-pray-…
Week In Review ~ 4 May
…buoyancy. Tanner Goods keeps the creative wheels turning Whether you use a bike for work commutes or outdoor adventuring, Tanner Goods’ new collection of eye-catching bicycle bags will have you carrying your gear in style. The collection includes a saddle bag, a frame bag and a handlebar bag, each in a choice of three colors. The frame bag is large enough to accommodate the likes of a 13-inch MacBook Air, while the saddle bag and handlebar bag are…
Carrying on a Motorcycle :: Gendarmes and BMWs
…ame times and a similar culture). The day the truck was due to pick up the bike was the day the gendarmes swooped into the camping ground. Gulp! Maybe they thought we were seriously big operators and were planning to ship a whole truckload of hash? They declared that perhaps they should just escort the truck north, all the way to the border. So, it was off through the Atlas Mountains we went. Shortly after hitting the road, their real mission was…
Best Active Backpack Finalists – Second Annual Carry Awards
…through space. Whether it be military issue rucks, or slimline outdoor or bike packs that hug your spine while you weave through grids of stale traffic, these packs should haul diverse loads in comfortable ways. And in our nominees you’ll see a eclectic bunch. Each of them has a target activity that they excel in, but each is also versatile enough that you can use it for travel or just for day-to-day activities. This is a hard one…but have fun an…
Drive By :: Côte&Ciel Bowler Bag (Giveaway)
…suit The bag doesn’t suit highly active people who want to ride hard on a bike really fast. You can ride a bike with it if you’re reasonably upright but it doesn’t have stabilizing straps like a small messenger would. If you’re getting really active, there are definitely better bags. Also, if you need to lug huge loads all the time, you’ll probably want a backpack. Conclusion This is a work bag that suits professional women and is versatile enoug…
The Second Annual Carry Awards
…versatile carry that you can do lots with, these bags play outside on your bike, or even your hover-board (still waiting on that one!). Click here to peep last year’s award post. – Best Active Messenger: Play focused – whether for sports and activities, or just versatile carry that you can do lots with, these bags play outside on your bike, or while just kicking it in the park. Click here to peep last year’s award post. – Best Carry On: Travel foc…
Kickstarter Highlight :: Everyman Hideout Pack
…aneuvering it in awkward or tight spaces. Ready to go the distance With its clean and timeless aesthetics, practical organization, and convenient access the Everyman Hideout Pack is ready to go the distance whether you’re hauling it on outdoor trails or zipping down city streets on your bike. Keen to add it to your carry quiver? You can do so by checking out the Hideout Pack Kickstarter campaign. Note: this is a sponsored series, but only the best…
The CamelBak Pursuit Series :: A New Experience
…ience to them? This is where the CamelBak Pursuit Series comes in. Want to bike down a mountain? Great, Trek is on hand with bikes and some bonafide instructors. Or perhaps you’re looking for a more low-key hike in the woods? Not a problem because Granite Gear is leading a hike led by a thru-hiking legend. But then again it is the weekend so maybe you just want to kick back with a drink in hand? Cool because Tito’s Vodka is teaching you how to imb…
Kickstarter Highlight: Lasso Bag
…t. The bag also includes a 3D mesh back panel to help keep you cool during bike rides and warmer weather. Additionally, all the components are sourced within a 500 km radius to help reduce the backpack’s carbon footprint. The bag comes in a choice of felt and strap colors, allowing you to customize it to your particular preferences. It arrives flat-packed, and can be self-assembled in less than 10 minutes, with no bag maker knowledge required. Sty…
Our Favorite Labor Day Sales of 2017
…ough bags designed primarily for urban users. The brand has a big focus on bike-friendly gear, though their designs easily glide from pedal power to two-foot exploring when the need arises. Hook yourself some great deals with up to 50% off on messengers and backpacks in their sale. Samsonite One of the big names in luggage, Samsonite has been innovating and helping people travel better for over a century. Currently you can unpack some tempting dea…
Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2017 :: Recap Part I
…pended mesh back system. There’s lots of practical features like loops for bike lights, sunglasses attachment loop on the front strap for easy access during a ride, detachable rain cover, and 3M reflective elements. They are priced at $105 to $135. Eagle Creek The company that has kept my travel luggage organized for as long as I could remember has a few new interesting products for Spring 2018. Things start off with the Morphus International Carr…
The 8 Best All-Black EDC Backpacks Out Right Now!
…sthetics with tough construction that can handle demanding use on foot and bike alike. The 20L pack features a weatherproof, USA-made build with a lifetime warranty and offers a range of pockets for storing smaller daily essentials. Helinox [New]TERG Daypack Anotherday (US$ 220) Fancy striking urban looks and handy functionality in one versatile pack? The Helinox [New]TERG Daypack Anotherday delivers with its pared-back aesthetics, comfortable car…
Triple Aught Design Parallax Messenger Review :: Drive By
…a solid marriage between TAD’s tactically inspired style and some classic bike messenger undertones. Over the past few months I’ve had the Parallax Messenger on my back/at my side/over my shoulder (it’s versatile) throughout the city. This is how it carries. Who It Suits The Parallax Messenger is for someone needing a messenger bag that is tough as nails, yet subdued in its durability. As an example, I’ve been biking on dirt roads in the morning…
Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2017 :: Recap Part II
…ags were divided between four lines – heritage, urban mobility, travel and bike. Sharp colorways, super reflective material (for the bikers), and lots of accessory bags really impressed us. We can’t touch on every bag but we’ll mention a few that caught our eyes. Take the Mission Sling. It’s an 8L-10L sling/hip bag that was designed with music festival goers in mind. It’s got extra-large pockets and zippers if your vision is blurry and can easily…
Mission Workshop Helmsman Duffle :: Drive By
…e. It lacked some of the punch I expected from a MW product. It felt a little bit lifeless if I’m being honest. I will be the first to admit that I used it as a more traditional bag as I don’t have front panniers (porteur style bike rack) but it surprised me how superfluous the bag on the whole felt. Did it kick ass in the rain? You bet. Is it something that can take a beating? Sure. But is it something I’d pull out for a trip or around town? Sadl…
Sportique Presents: Best Everyday Backpacks under $150
…ns as both a pannier and a backpack, moving easily between cycling and off-bike use. Water-resistant up to an IP64 rating, the pack fits a 15″ laptop, with two exterior non-water-resistant pockets for quick-access items. M.R.K.T. Mateo Backpack (US$ 145) A handsome combination of form and function, the M.R.K.T. Mateo features a striking silhouette and a weather-resistant build. The self-standing design makes it easy to pack and retrieve items, and…
Week In Review ~ 31 July
…n for smaller items. Both messengers also include an integrated reflective bike light clip and an adjustable waist belt for a stable load on the go. Taking on the elements in style Filson bags are known for their durability and distinctive Rugged Twill and bridle leather aesthetics. But the brand are bringing something different to the table with their new range. The durability and smart designs are still there, but showcased in vegetable-tanned l…
Kickstarter Highlight: Code of Bell X-PAK PRO and X-PAK ONE
…can also be carried as a waist bag or as a handlebar bag with the optional Bike Pack Strap Kit. Durable protection come rain or shine An EDC bag needs to stand up to the rigours of daily use. But it should also protect your gear from the elements. The X-PAK PRO and X-PAK ONE do both, combining weatherproof X-Pac fabric, water-resistant 1680D ballistic nylon, weatherproof YKK zippers and rugged ITW buckles. No need to worry if you’re caught in the…
2 Years with the Arc’teryx Veilance Nomin 1.0
…t everywhere. From poorly planned day hikes, to grimy road trips, to rainy bike commutes, to business travel, to being tossed in the heli because I was one bag short for our gear, it stood up to whatever came my way. It may be a fashion bag, but it’s ready for absolutely anything. Q&A with Taka Kasuga — Veilance Design Director I swung by Arc’teryx’s North Vancouver Design Headquarters to speak with Taka Kasuga, the Design Director at Veilance. He…
5 Reasons To Wait for Thule’s New Hardside Luggage
…ne of the most diverse product offerings on the market, from car racks and bike trailers to everyday backpacks and camera bags. And while their luggage collection is extensive, they’ve never ventured into hardside cases…until now. And we’re excited! The Thule Revolve collection features four pieces including the Thule Revolve Global Carry-On 55cm/22″, the Thule Revolve Wide-body Carry-On 55cm/22″, the Thule Revolve Luggage 68cm/27″, and the Thule…
Best Specialist – The Sixth Annual Carry Awards
…practicality in a versatile design that works equally well off and on the bike. The rugged and water-resistant build features Pacsafe’s 360 eXomesh for slashproof protection. Other useful features include an interior RFID-blocking pocket, raincover, and a removable pouch for quick access to smaller items. Delivered in a slim and ergonomic design that’s comfy even during active use. _________________________________________________________ Fishpon…
Best Work Shoulder Bag – The Sixth Annual Carry Awards
…er items, all in a clean profile that keeps things chic in work and on the bike. _________________________________________________________ Ateliers Auguste Suffren Briefcase Slim and sophisticated in style, the Suffren Briefcase is an elegant choice for more minimalist carry setups. Crafted in Italy with full-grain vegetable-tanned leather, this suave piece will develop a distinct patina and only look better with time. The Suffren keeps essentials…
Best New Gear: April 2018
…of gravity allows for optimal weight distribution, which enables improved bike control and reduced muscle strain. The bag comes with a 2.5L Hydrapak reservoir, and can handle a variety of loads with an expandable panel and up to 8L of storage space. Convenient additional features include a soft-lined quick-access pocket for valuables, interior pockets for organization, and a sternum strap for stability and comfort on the move. Travel / Everyday B…
Kickstarter Highlight: Attitude Supply ATD1 Backpack
…ing on the shoulder straps and near the base, handy for attaching pouches, bike lights and more. Carry with the right attitude The ATD1 Backpack approaches life’s carry needs with a trusty mix of durability, adaptable access and considered organization. All in a pared-back style that flows from work to the weekend, and urban streets to outdoor trails. Versatile, tough and ready for whatever the day or night brings, the Attitude Supply ATD1 Backp…
A Tool Roll Worthy of Your EDC
…or in your home. Cyclists will also find it makes a great storage spot for bike tools and accessories, while designers and artists will have plenty of options for keeping their creative tools tidy on the go. The BOND Travel Gear Tool Roll really takes your EDC organization to the next level. All in a rugged and highly adaptable piece designed and built for demanding daily use. Even better? There’s no need to wait to enjoy its benefits. Get your ve…
9 Amazing Travel Pants for Long Flights and Beyond
…dent your wallet too much either. The Hardwear AP™ Pant moves easily from bike rides to bouldering to work settings, with a roll-up feature and reflective detailing for added functionality. There’s also a choice of pockets to stash smaller travel and EDC items. BEST AFFORDABLE LADIES TRAVEL PANT prAna Briann Pant (US$79) The prAna Briann Pant offers an appealing mix of style and performance to handle a variety of travel environments. The fitted,…
A Conversation with GORUCK Founder Jason McCarthy
…r and is now about 30 pounds. So I use that in the morning. Then I usually bike to work and it’s about four miles. So I’d love to say I ruck everywhere all the time. Not true. I live a little too far away for that. To do every day anyway. But when it’s product testing time, I do that a lot more. And then when I travel it’s my GR1. I have my laptop and I have a windbreaker. So that normal stuff. Nothing crazy. I don’t have some big broken-down AR15…
Best New Gear: October 2018
…tion for tough, simple and functional carry that works well on and off the bike. Now they’re taking things to the next level with the introduction of CATEGORY ONE, the brand’s high-performance division. A few existing pieces get the special treatment with premium editions, while new designs also step up for your carry consideration, including a Mini Messenger and a handlebar bag. The collection utilizes durable and lightweight VX42 XPAC sailcloth…
5 Key Elements :: Designing EVERGOODS Crossover Equipment
…tilized on the body, an inspiration from years spent using sling bags as a bike messenger in Chicago. Things like this aren’t easy to point to in a sales pitch, but it’s these kinds of design considerations that excite me about the work that Jack and I are doing. “We engineered the pocket arrangement and zipper orientations on both of these bags to work from an upright or sideways position. This side access not only works while the bags are sittin…