I’m always on the hunt for a good backpack that can fill the role of everyday carry and go-bag without screaming tactical in any way. I prefer a pack that can blend in with an urban environment, large city, or college campus. I also look for qualities such as being highly water resistant or even waterproof, heavy duty zippers, and mesh water bottle pockets that will actually fit a water bottle.
I’ve used various packs over the course of time such as Deuter, Mountain Smith, Osprey and most recent GORUCK. They are all great packs in their own right, but not perfect. Out of all those packs I’d have to say the GORUCK GR-1 has been the best. My only criticism is the ‘tactical’ appearance, although minimal. The tactical look is starting to be more common place these days, but that’s just not my style for urban ops.
I’ve had my eye on the Patagonia Black Hole for a while now. Patagonia makes high quality outdoor gear for all outdoor activities and seasons. Brandon Webb also owns and uses a Patagonia Black Hole as an everyday carry bag and go-bag. I like the bucket style pack that opens from the top exposing a single large interior area to stuff your gear (I don’t like a lot of pockets). The Patagonia Black Hole offers just that.
Specifications:
Gear Capacity – 25 liters
Number of Exterior Pockets – 4
Laptop Compartment – Yes
Fits Laptop Size – 15 inches
Carry-On Size – Yes
Material(s) – 450-denier polyester ripstop with a TPU-film laminate
Dimensions – 21 x 11 x 6.5 inches
Weight – 1lb. 8oz.
(featured image courtesy of patagonia.com)
