First Impressions of URTH Arkose 20L Backpack
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack aims to blend everyday carry convenience with rugged durability, a combination I’m always on the lookout for in my outdoor and tactical gear pursuits. URTH, a company known for its commitment to sustainability, presents a backpack constructed from recycled nylon and boasting 14 storage zones. My initial excitement stemmed from the promise of organization and weather resistance in a compact, eco-conscious package.
I needed a versatile backpack that could handle my daily commute, weekend hikes, and occasional photography outings. My current bag, while spacious, lacks the dedicated organization and weather protection needed for unpredictable conditions. The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack appeared to offer a solution, promising a balanced approach to storage, accessibility, and environmental responsibility.
Upon unboxing, the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack immediately impressed me with its sleek design and understated aesthetic. The recycled nylon felt substantial and well-constructed, exhibiting a noticeable step-up in quality compared to some of its competitors. The weight, at 4 lbs, felt appropriate for a pack of this size and feature set, suggesting a balance between durability and comfort.
Compared to my North Face Borealis and a similar Osprey daypack, the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack stood out due to its dedicated camera insert compatibility (though sold separately). I picked this pack hoping it would integrate seamlessly with my existing camera equipment, something the others did not readily offer. My first impression was cautiously optimistic; the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack seemed to deliver on its promise of a well-organized, durable, and thoughtfully designed everyday carry solution, blending functionality and sustainability.
Real-World Testing: Putting URTH Arkose 20L Backpack to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack was a weekend hiking trip in the nearby Appalachian Mountains. I subjected the pack to varied terrain, including rocky trails, dense foliage, and a brief but intense rain shower. I wanted to see how it handled a moderate load, including water bottles, snacks, a first-aid kit, and my camera gear (using a third-party insert similar in size to the URTH one).
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack performed admirably in these conditions. The weatherproof recycled nylon proved effective at repelling the rain, keeping my gear dry. The bag’s compact size and relatively low profile allowed me to navigate narrow trails with ease, minimizing snagging on branches and other obstacles. No real learning curve existed.
There were no immediate issues, and the bag felt comfortable against my back, even with a fully loaded camera insert. One pleasant surprise was the ease of accessing the lower compartment for frequently used items, a feature that proved particularly useful for quickly grabbing snacks without having to unpack the entire bag.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, including daily commutes, weekend hikes, and several photography outings, the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack has proven to be a reliable and durable companion. It shows minimal signs of wear and tear, despite the rigorous testing it has undergone. The recycled nylon has held up well to abrasion and exposure to the elements.
The seams and zippers remain intact, and the internal organization system has maintained its structure, preventing gear from shifting around excessively. Cleaning the pack is simple; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime. Compared to my previous daily carry, this pack provides better organization and equal durability.
In comparison to other packs I’ve used, the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack outperforms most in terms of its balance between organization, durability, and environmental responsibility. It has exceeded my initial expectations, and I’m generally very happy with this backpack.
Breaking Down the Features of URTH Arkose 20L Backpack
Specifications
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack boasts several key specifications that contribute to its overall performance. The pack volume is 20 liters, providing ample space for everyday essentials and light outdoor gear. The weight is 4 lbs, offering a good balance between durability and portability.
The body material is durable recycled nylon, emphasizing URTH’s commitment to sustainability and providing weather resistance. Its dimensions are 20 inches in length, 12 inches in width, and 7 inches in height, resulting in a compact profile. The pack application is geared towards everyday carry, making it suitable for urban and outdoor environments.
These specifications matter because they dictate the backpack’s versatility and practicality. The recycled nylon construction not only reduces environmental impact but also provides the necessary durability for long-term use. The 20-liter capacity is adequate for daily essentials, while the 4 lb weight ensures that the bag remains comfortable even when fully loaded.
Performance & Functionality
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack excels in its organizational capabilities, thanks to its 14 storage zones. The padded laptop and tablet pockets provide secure storage for electronics, while the stylus pen insert keeps writing instruments readily accessible. The dedicated pockets for small valuables offer peace of mind when carrying essential items like keys, wallets, and phones.
The front zipped lower compartment is a standout feature, providing easy access to larger items such as shoes, clothing, or a lunch box. It also perfectly fits URTH’s optional Small Camera Insert, transforming the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack into a capable camera bag. The pack’s primary weakness is its top-loading design.
The pack meets expectations, as I have yet to be disappointed.
Design & Ergonomics
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack is thoughtfully designed with both functionality and aesthetics in mind. The recycled nylon material feels substantial and durable, while the overall construction is robust and well-executed. The 4 lb weight is manageable, and the pack feels comfortable against the back, even when carrying a full load.
The ergonomic design of the shoulder straps and back panel contributes to its overall comfort, while the streamlined profile minimizes snagging and interference during movement. The pack features a user-friendly design. There is virtually no learning curve.
Durability & Maintenance
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack is built to last, thanks to its durable recycled nylon construction and reinforced seams. The materials are resistant to abrasion, tearing, and exposure to the elements, ensuring long-term reliability. Cleaning and maintaining the pack is simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most dirt and grime, and the zippers and buckles are designed for smooth operation and long-term durability.
Accessories and Customization Options
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack comes with external tripod straps, allowing users to securely attach tripods or other bulky items to the pack’s exterior. The most notable accessory is the URTH Small Camera Insert, sold separately. This insert transforms the pack into a capable camera bag.
While the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack is designed to be compatible with the URTH Small Camera Insert, it also accommodates similar-sized camera inserts from other brands. This flexibility allows users to customize the pack to suit their specific photography needs.
Pros and Cons of URTH Arkose 20L Backpack
Pros
- Exceptional organization with 14 storage zones. Offers dedicated compartments for laptops, tablets, pens, and valuables.
- Durable weatherproof recycled nylon. Provides excellent protection from the elements and ensures long-term reliability.
- Versatile lower compartment. Can accommodate larger items or transform the bag into a camera bag with the optional insert.
- Comfortable ergonomic design. Ensures a comfortable fit, even when carrying a full load.
- Sustainable materials and construction. Appeals to environmentally conscious consumers.
Cons
- Top-loading design. Can make accessing items at the bottom of the bag slightly inconvenient.
- Camera insert sold separately. Adds to the overall cost for photographers seeking a dedicated camera bag solution.
Who Should Buy URTH Arkose 20L Backpack?
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack is perfect for urban commuters, students, and photographers seeking a well-organized, durable, and weather-resistant everyday carry solution. Casual hikers and travelers who value versatility and sustainability will also appreciate its features. Anyone who wants a single bag that will work well as a camera bag or as a basic EDC will appreciate this bag.
This product isn’t ideal for backpackers needing to carry large amounts of gear. Serious outdoor enthusiasts requiring high levels of weather protection may also want to look elsewhere. The URTH Small Camera Insert is a must-have accessory for photographers.
Conclusion on URTH Arkose 20L Backpack
The URTH Arkose 20L Backpack is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed everyday carry solution that balances organization, durability, and environmental responsibility. Its 14 storage zones, weatherproof recycled nylon construction, and versatile lower compartment make it a standout choice for urban commuters, students, and photographers alike. While the top-loading design and separate camera insert may not appeal to everyone, the overall value proposition is compelling.
The price of $169.00 is justified, given the quality of materials, construction, and features offered. I would personally recommend the URTH Arkose 20L Backpack to anyone seeking a reliable and versatile everyday carry solution that aligns with their values. This is an exceptional backpack that I can fully recommend, and I suggest you go buy one.