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Troubadour Orbis 2 Pocket Backpack Review: The Ultimate Commuter's Companion

Monday, July 24, 2023

 
Welcome to the world of sustainability and innovation with the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack. As part of Troubadour's Orbis Circular Collection, this backpack sets new standards in eco-friendly design, crafted entirely from super-durable recycled polyester, which is not only eco-friendly but also fully recyclable at the end of its life, creating zero waste. This is thanks to the mono-material design, which enables the entire bag to be recycled, contributing to a greener future.

The Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack prioritizes comfort and easy organization, making it an ideal choice for daily commutes and travel. With two main compartments, the front one boasts the largest volume capacity and multiple internal pockets, including a spacious zippered mesh pocket (18cm x 21cm), a medium-sized closed pocket (19cm x 19cm), two open pockets (19cm x 12cm), and a holder for bottles or coffee thermos (up to 28cm in diameter). 
 
The internal dimensions of the front compartment measure 40cm in height and 30cm in width, featuring hidden coil teeth zippers for added convenience.


The front compartment of the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack features two large metal YKK zippers that zip open nearly the full length of the backpack, equipped with metal D-ring leather pull tabs for effortless access. A clever addition to the dual zipper design is the integrated storm flap, providing an extra layer of water protection. 
 
However, it's important to highlight that the external zippers on the backpack are not waterproof, as they have a standard coil design exposing the zipper teeth, whereas a hidden coil teeth design would have been more desirable.


An intriguing feature of the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack is its discreet hidden pocket situated atop the back panel, providing quick and convenient access for phones or passports while on the move, measuring 11cm wide x 17cm high. The pocket doesn't have a fastening closure but cleverly utilizes the shoulders to keep its contents secure. 
 
The backpack's backside boasts adjustable S-shaped padded shoulder straps, a trolley sleeve, and a split back panel with thick padding and breathable mesh, ensuring optimal airflow and minimizing discomfort from a sweaty back. While the trolley sleeve is practical, it could have been even more versatile if equipped with a zipper or Velcro fastening, potentially transforming into an additional secret pocket.


Incorporated into the back panel is a dedicated rear compartment tailored for laptops up to 16 inches, offering a secure 45-degree opening through side fabric hinges. Additionally, the convenient trolley sleeve on the back allows easy attachment to luggage handles. 
 
The shoulder straps are enhanced with vegan leather accents vertically integrated in a daisy chain loop design, providing versatile attachment points while elevating the backpack's overall aesthetics. The shoulder straps measure 40cm long x 7cm wide x 1.5cm thick. the straps are made of thick closed cell foam


The padded grab handle, made of vegan leather and foam, ensures comfortable carrying even with heavy loads. Although the handle's length is sufficient at 13cm, the narrow opening of 2.5cm might pose challenges for those with thick gloves or larger hands. 
 
While side pockets for water bottles are absent, the spacious front pockets serve this purpose, accommodating a 500ml bottle or compact tripod. It's worth noting that one front pocket features a leather finish, while the other is fabric, both measuring 19cm high x 11cm wide.


Potential deal breakers
  • No chest strap
  • No side pockets
  • Non-waterproof zippers
  • Too large to fit inside a suitcase
  • A bit heavy - weighs 1.5kg

 

Selling points

  • Eco friendly design
  • 17.6 litre volume capacity
  • Lockable dual zippers
  • Sophisticated look and feel
  • Made of recycled polyester
  • Comfortable
  • Water resistant light colored liner
  • YKK metal zippers
  • daisy chain loops (4 loops per strap)
  • Ideal office backpack
  • Perfect for daily commutes
  • Multiple pockets for organization
  • Laptop compartment
  • Vegan leather accents
  • Hidden rear pocket
  • Breathable split back panel
  • Trolley sleeve
  • Padded vegan leather grab handle
  • S-shaped padded shoulder straps


When comparing the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack to the Troubadour Apex Backpack, both offer impressive features and practicality. The Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack excels in sustainability and eco-friendliness, being fully recyclable with its mono-material design. On the other hand, the Troubadour Apex Backpack impresses with its sleek, minimalist style, making it a perfect choice for professional environments and city work.


While the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack offers nine pockets for organization, the Troubadour Apex Backpack boasts three external zipper compartments and multiple internal storage areas, including a mesh zippered pocket and large internal zippered pocket.


Both backpacks provide laptop sleeves for secure device storage, with the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack accommodating laptops up to 16 inches, while the Troubadour Apex Backpack fits a 17-inch laptop.


Ultimately, the choice between the two backpacks depends on personal preferences and needs. The Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack appeals to environmentally-conscious individuals seeking sustainability and innovative design, while the Troubadour Apex Backpack suits professionals looking for a stylish and functional companion for their daily ventures. You can buy the Orbis 2-Pocket Backpack from Troubadour website. The smaller bag seen pictured, it's the Mujjo Tech Kit bag.

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