£54.95 £59.95
When you’ve got too much stuff for your pockets but not quite enough to justify a daypack, grab this handy little block bag from Topo Designs. It’s the perfect in-between size, with a nice technical aesthetic that says ‘cross-body bag’ rather than ‘handbag’. The dual front pockets have internal mesh organisation for keeping smaller bits sorted, there's a zipped internal pocket for things you want secure, and the 3-litre main compartment swallows up keys, wallet, phone, sunnies – and whatever else might be kettling up your coat pockets. The adjustable webbing shoulder strap works crossbody or over one shoulder, and the whole thing's made from recycled nylon with heavyweight YKK zippers. Bonus points for being Fair Trade Certified and bluesign approved.
Topo Designs founders Jedd Rose and Mark Hansen cut their adventuring teeth among the high plains, deep canyons and iconic mountains of Colorado. Growing up, they favoured simple, functional and durable kit – the kind of stuff made by genuine hikers, climbers and mountaineers in basement workshops. But somewhere along the way, as the gear world ballooned into a multi-million-dollar industry, they felt like the kit they were being offered had lost its authentic connection to the real world of outdoor adventure.
In 2008, Jedd and Mark set up Topo Designs to return to those roots. They started out making packs on a single sewing machine in a Fort Collins basement, and rapidly built a reputation for uncomplicated but stylish gear with outdoor-inspired design and urban utility. Today, their products are some of the most durable, versatile and good-looking crossover packs in the business – built for trailheads, urban adventures and globe-trotting travels.
They're also not afraid to tackle some of the gear industry's thornier issues head-on. Topo Designs are meticulous about their sourcing and manufacturing – using recycled fabrics, reducing water and energy usage, and seeking out more environmentally friendly processes and treatments. Several product lines are still made in their home state of Colorado, while their international partner factories conform to the exacting standards set by the Fair Wear Foundation.