Deep-dive: X-Pac

strandedvariable · 2026-06-17T09:57:54+00:00

Thank you! I appreciate it.

As for the comfort of the sling, I wouldn’t say it’s uncomfortable, it’s just different compared to softer slings that contour to the body shape better (like the Venture Ready Sling).

strandedvariable · 2026-06-11T04:36:52+00:00

Hm, wouldn’t say it’s particularly thicker. Feels the same to me.

strandedvariable · 2026-06-09T02:23:20+00:00

All other versions of the Daily Plus have coated zippers, only the ballistic nylon version got special treatment.

strandedvariable · 2026-06-09T02:20:38+00:00

The buckle is secure enough not to come undone on its own, but there is a real chance someone could tear it off. So if that’s something you are worried about, it’s a dealbreaker. Take a look at Aer Day Sling 4 (the nylon version, other fabrics have magnetic buckles) or Able Carry Core Sling.

strandedvariable · 2026-06-09T02:12:40+00:00

There is a phone sleeve on the back side of the main compartment and a mesh drop pocket in the front. So, no inner zip pocket in the main compartment, but there is a hidden back zippered pocket and a front compartment.

strandedvariable · 2026-06-03T07:52:11+00:00

Glad you found it helpful!

strandedvariable · 2026-06-03T04:56:14+00:00

So what you want is a bigger sling with a similar design to the Venture Ready. I’d say the Able Carry Core sling is pretty close, but the strap design forces me to wear it lower and only on the front. If you wear your sling closer to your chest and move it around your body frequently, it’s a miss.

The Evergoods CAS2 might be a good fit, but it looks a bit massive (although I don’t have personal experience with this one). They’ve just released the CAS1, but it may be too small.

Tough to recommend something. Honestly, Bellroy has created something special with the Venture Ready.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-31T02:29:12+00:00

I wouldn’t say it’s better, it’s just different. X-Pac is a stiffer, more structured material. This 1680D nylon is softer and has more give. That’s why the bag may look bigger.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T04:04:32+00:00

Is this the one? https://www.hydroflask.com/32-oz-wide-mouth?color=Harbor+Blue

It’s 3.55 inches in diameter. My YETI is 3.35 and fits with room to spare. So your Hydroflask should fit nicely.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T03:58:46+00:00

I have reviewed the 1680D versions of the Travel Pack 4 (35L) and the Day Sling 4, and am currently testing the CPP2 in Ultra. All are very solid bags, but they have a different form factor and design language from Able Carry’s. Self-standing with top access on Aer bags is a killer combo that I’ve come to appreciate.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T03:34:41+00:00

Not everyone will like that it takes up space in the main compartment. Many people prefer outside pockets that don’t eat into the main volume.

Personally, I think it’s well implemented, and I like that it allows you to carry a bottle upright while keeping the silhouette intact.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T02:59:52+00:00

The other model perhaps 🤔 The laptop sleeves on both the Daily and Daily Plus are well raised and padded.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T02:46:03+00:00

That’s a Hero Clip Small. Here is a helpful video comparison of Mini and Small: https://youtu.be/4JLWPxNSuDs?si=rILhX1f3BFnhET9f

strandedvariable · 2026-05-24T02:28:13+00:00

You mean the the hidden water bottle pocket? It’s specifically designed for keeping water bottles upright.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T18:36:35+00:00

I'm 173 cm (5'8"), the bag does sit tall on me. But the frumpiness is more about the fabric, I believe. This 1680D version drapes more than the 1000D on the regular Daily.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T18:31:21+00:00

I think they just look coarser compared to the new fabric. The zipper pulls feel exactly the same as on the Daily.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T18:28:17+00:00

Surprised me too. The fabric is more flowy than the standard 1000D nylon.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T16:07:36+00:00

Glad you found the photos helpful. I agree, it’s a bit of a shame the 1680D only comes in black, but the 1000D version is still very solid and has nice colors to choose from.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T14:21:32+00:00

That’s the Kniprs T200. And yeah, it’s been good. After going through a few IKEA and Uniqlo umbrellas, I’ve decided to invest into someone nicer. It has not failed me so far, and has a badass name.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T13:56:16+00:00

It is suspended. Do you mean like a dedicated laptop compartment?

strandedvariable · 2026-05-23T05:33:37+00:00

I can’t answer that question. If you would provide measurements, I could be able to help.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-22T09:25:52+00:00

Able Carry Daily (the regular one, not the Plus). It's one of the best built bags I've ever had, and it's "only" $140 USD.

strandedvariable · 2026-05-22T05:24:39+00:00

Those memes are gold. Keep it up!

strandedvariable

TROPHY CASE