While the durability is, without a doubt, lower than any of Aer's non-packable backpacks, it is unlikely that you would feel any tangible loss in quality. It is fair to think that other aspects like durability and organization should have been sacrificed. The key benefit of the Go Pack 2 is the weight and packability. Since the change in fabric accounts for most of the weight savings, Aer kept with their top-tier duraflex hardware and YKK zippers. While it goes without saying that the fabric will not be as durable as 1000D Cordura, you can expect the exchange of denier count for weight to be well worth it. While most of Aer's bags use Cordura ballistic nylon or X-Pac, the lightweight 210D Cordura crinkle nylon was chosen for this series of lightweight packs. They have one here in the bottom right of the front.Īnother tag can be found in the main compartment. The material also makes the threading stand out, in a good way.Īer's products are always minimalistic, but they always include their brand tag. With a consistently black color palette, it looks stealthy and subtle, but not without the crinkly material drawing some intrigue. The bag is cinched strategically to give it a shape that doesn't look too rigid. Water bottle pockets on each side of this pocket give it just the right form. The front of the pack is symmetrical and neat, with its front pocket summited by a clip right in the middle of the bag. The Aer Go Pack is the same, being the smallest size I would consider as an everyday carry. Packable bags like the TOM BIHN Daylight Pack has straddled the line well, offering a compact pack without making me look ridiculous. It doesn't have quite the same premium look as X-Pac or ballistic nylon.Īt 6 ft, I look like I am carrying a child's pack if a backpack looks too compact. This is mostly due to the crinkle Cordura. Since materials have to change for a packable bag, the signature Aer sleekness was not immediate. But, I was a little taken aback when I unboxed the Go Pack 2. If you ask me to pick the backpack brand with the best design, I'd say it is a tie between Black Ember and Aer. It's apparent in the material and designs that Aer sticks to the same formula, but a packable backpack like this will force them out of their comfort zone.Ĭan they prove themselves like they always do? TL:DR: Yes, they can. While Aer has proven themselves in the first two categories, I have yet to experience Aer in the third. These are designed to be packed into your travel backpacks.Įxamples are the TOM BIHN Daylight Backpack and Matador Freerain 24.

These try to micmic everyday backpacks with lighter but less durable materials.

These are usually 20L to 30L+ and is something you wear most of the year.Įxamples are the TOM BIHN Synik, Aer City Pack Pro, or Black Ember Citadel Minimal. These usually come in 35 L and up and built with the toughest materials.Įxamples are the TOM BIHN Techonaut and Tortuga Outbreaker. There are three main categories of backpacks. I may earn a small commission when you buy through the links in this article at no extra cost to you. This website is made possible by readers.

Aer fit pack 2 x pac review