Kickstarter Highlight: EVERGOODS MQD24 and CTB40 Crossover Backpacks

Crowdfunding is fast becoming the world’s go-to platform for new releases. But do you ever find it hard to cut through the noise and pin down the ones worth your hard-earned? Well, that’s where this sponsored series comes in. We’re vetting carry Kickstarters for you, digging up the facts, and shedding light on the ones we think are worth a closer look.

This week’s selection: EVERGOODS and their MQD24 and CTB40 Crossover Backpacks.

Crossing the urban/outdoor divide

When EVERGOODS stepped into the carry ring they didn’t hold back, coming out swinging with crossover bags that agilely adapt to urban and outdoor carry needs. Now they’re back with two new offerings, ready to rethink what travel carry and everyday versatility can be. Meet the EVERGOODS Mountain Quick Draw 24L and Civic Transit Bag 40L crossover backpacks.

Classic style with innovative modern functionality – the MQD24

EVERGOODS appreciates the classics but likes to throw in a modern twist, and they do just that with the MQD24. Inspired by classic alpine packs but built for modern everyday use, this pack stands out with its versatile form and innovative fast access. The unique Quick Draw Lid construction enables fast opening and closing in a single action. The custom cam action cord lock provides low resistance to closing and high resistance to unwanted opening, letting you carry securely while still having ready access to gear.

And if you want to quickly reach items near the bottom of the pack, no problem. The side zipper lets you quickly do so. The lid also adapts to a variety of loads, handy for carrying bulkier items such as helmets if required.

The pack’s center handle lets you easily move the bag and access gear without setting the bag down, while a top grab handle and side handle further add to the flexible portability. Speaking of portability, the pack’s contoured shoulder straps and harness are designed to provide a comfy fit all day long, with a removable chest strap and removable waist belt on hand if you want extra stability on the go.

So how about keeping your gear tidy? The MQD24 provides adaptable options including an interior sleeve for a 3L hydration bladder or 13″ laptop (with right and left hydration ports available). Externally you’ll find daisy chains, a quick-access top pocket, and a front stretch pocket.

Of course, to roam freely this pack needs to be tough enough to embrace a variety of environments without weighing you down. And this one is, featuring an abrasion-resistant and water-resistant 420D HT Nylon 6,6 fabric construction that offers a great strength to weight ratio.

Suitcase packability meets backpack flexibility – the CTB40

Clamshell suitcases make a lot of sense when it comes to travel packing. The wide opening lets you easily pack items and get to specific gear without having to rummage and undo your neat packing job. But they aren’t the easiest luggage options to get from A to B, especially when steps and uneven terrain is involved. But backpacks really shine in this area, letting you navigate smooth and rough terrain alike, through crowds, and up and down stairs and steps. So EVERGOODS designed the CTB40 to provide the best of both worlds. Its full clamshell opening provides convenient access throughout the main compartment. Plus they’ve added a nifty feature with their unique Flex-Fold compression. This compression system offers multiple benefits, accommodating larger items such as helmets, keeping gear contained yet accessible when leaving the bag open, providing padding on all sides to help protect the contents, as well as ensuring a clean zipper line for easy closure.

To complement the convenient clamshell access, the bag offers convenient and comfortable carry with an ergonomic harness, contoured shoulder straps, and a removable sternum strap. Great for zipping through airport terminals or taking cobbled streets or unpaved trails in your stride.

Additionally, the CTB40 includes top and side carry handles to easily maneuver it in tight spaces or transport it over shorter distances. And with its sleek, low-profile design you can easily store this carry-on compatible bag in overhead bins, vehicle trunks, and more with a minimum of fuss. Plus with its durable and weather-resistant 500D HT Nylon 6,6 construction, you don’t need to worry about putting it through its paces.

The handy access and portability are on point, but EVERGOODS ensures the little details are solid too. Elastic keepers are on hand for strap management, while 7075 aluminum side stays help maintain the bag’s shape. Tech remains secure yet at the ready in an asymmetric laptop compartment that enables ergonomic laptop carry.

The external top quick-access pocket is a useful stash spot for travel and EDC essentials. And the CTB40 is even hydration bladder compatible so you can stay easily refreshed on the move.

Thoughtful versatility for active daily and travel needs

The MQD24 and CTB40 offer highly considered designs to complement active carry needs, whether you’re out and about in town, hitting the trails, or set to explore further afield. Innovative features, burly builds and ergonomic portability will see you reliably through years of demanding use. No worry. No fuss. Just trusty companions that will get the carry job done. And you can get a piece of the action over at EVERGOODS’ Kickstarter campaign which runs until 13 August 2018.

Note: this is a sponsored series, but only the best candidates are given this feature placement.

Above are the facts, but there’s always a little risk when backing a crowdfunder, so keep that in mind before you decide to back/purchase.