I'll be cycling around 20km each way to work, starting next week. I'm pretty sure I know what Neil would say but are there other good options out there? Being that I'm a girl... Maybe there's another one that would fit someone of my stature best? Or maybe Neil's type is adjustable enough that it works for all sizes. Suggestions most welcome! Also, best source for buying/ordering such things would be helpful.
I took this MEC-sold Deuter pack for a test-drive a few years ago. I really liked the "airstripes" which suspend the pack slightly above your back, leaving a little layer of cooling air. It also sits narrowly and straps very sensibly for cycling; no limb impediment. And it has the option of a hydration tube for longer, unsupported ride adventures.
In the end I figure it was too small for what I needed (family hiking etc.) but it would be totally fine for most solo commuting needs.
Last edited by Rolf on Tue May 31, 2016 4:06 pm, edited 1 time in total.
The EVOC backpack that I have comes in varying sizes dependent on body length. The capacity in the main part of the pack is pretty good (I can get tonnes of sandwiches in there), and there are lots of pockets to store things in on the outside too. They also come with a hydration bladder, have a detachable rain cover (included), and have a removable back protector.
The negative side is that it is a bit like me.............heavy.
Claire, Seeing as you're entering the world of work, as a self-proclaimed 'girl' you're gonna need a much bigger backpack than suggested in this post. A LOT bigger seeing as you'll have to carry your lunch, clothes, make up and all assorted accoutrements necessary to fulfill the requirements of workplace femaleness. (lucky Neil in comparison carries a ham sandwich, his nickers and a deodorant stick)
I would recommend a bike setup somewhat like this in the photo.
I have the 30 liter version and love it; you are welcome to borrow it and try it out to see if you like the organization, pockets and the useful bells and whistles. Read the MEC reviews to be convinced.
Allan's suggestion, while worthy, does not include a rain cover and I for one would not want to see a single cookie get damp!
I would also suggest buying locally with the added bonus of specialized and very experienced staff at Robinson's.Try on a few and pick the best fit & features and you won't be disappointed after many painful commutes. If you're a complete frugal nut like myself who is under an extreme self induced family budget there is a woman's fit 24L Deuter on sale at mec for $119 from $160. Midnight & Magenta through,
I have an Arcteryx Arro-22 for commuting and I sometimes bring it on Tripleshot rides. It's much more waterproof and a lot less bulky than the other bags I looked at.
Alan wrote:Claire, Seeing as you're entering the world of work, as a self-proclaimed 'girl' you're gonna need a much bigger backpack than suggested in this post. A LOT bigger seeing as you'll have to carry your lunch, clothes, make up and all assorted accoutrements necessary to fulfill the requirements of workplace femaleness. (lucky Neil in comparison carries a ham sandwich, his nickers and a deodorant stick)
I would recommend a bike setup somewhat like this in the photo.
Very cute, Alan, but you're clearly conflating me with a certain "Princess." I'm pretty sure my dainty slippers and nutrient-dense cookies take up far less room than Fozzie's sandwiches. Come to think of it, maybe I'll just go with a fanny pack...
For commuting I switched to sling packs (http://www.mec.ca/product/5032-790/mec- ... f=10+50607) and found them to be much more comfortable so long as you don't need to take a lot. I keep my shoes and pants at work and easily fit in a work shirt, socks, lunch, a few bike bits, some work papers, etc. Commute is 20km one way.
My previous backpack was a bit on the large size though so perhaps the big jump in comfort wouldn't have been as much if my backpack was more size appropriate.
but are there other good options out there? Being that I'm a girl... Maybe there's another one that would fit someone of my stature best? Or maybe Neil's type is adjustable enough that it works for all sizes. Suggestions most welcome! Also, best source for buying/ordering such things would be helpful.
