Now here's a bit of history for you. In Inca times, Chasquis were sort of like human carrier pigeons. Super-fit runners who carried messages for vast distances around their Peruvian homeland, using a relay system and an extensive network of trails and rope bridges. When you know that, you realise that the Chasqui 13-litre sling is Cotopaxi's take on that cycle courier classic, the messenger bag. It's designed to be compact and comfortable, with a single padded shoulder strap and a clever D-ring setup that lets you wear it on either shoulder. The main compartment has an easy-access wrap-around zip, with a smaller pocket on the front and a secret-squirrel security pocket in the back panel. You've also got a daisy-chain strip so you can bolt on extra bits, plus multiple grab handles on the outside. Built in a mix of durable recycled polyester and nylon with a waterproof TPU coating on the front, it's a versatile companion for cyclists and other modern-day Chasquis
Padded shoulder strap with dual-sided D-rings that allow it to be worn on either shoulder
Load-lifter strap
Wrap-around zip for dual side-entry access
Top-access front pocket for smaller items
Narrow, dual-sided daisy chain for attaching extra gear
Multiple grab handles
Back panel secure pocket
Front is made from 840D recycled nylon with TPU coating
Main body is made from 630D recycled nylon & 150D recycled polyester
13L Capacity
Volume: 13L
Dimensions: 46 x 25 x 13 cm
Weight: 510 g
Front: 840D recycled nylon with TPU coating
Main Body: 630D recycled nylon
Ripstop: 150D recycled polyester
Recycled Materials -this sling is made from recycled nylon and recycled polyester
Supports Eco Initiatives - After measuring emissions, Cotopaxi work with CarbonFund and BEF to purchase and offset their carbon emissions
Eco Certifications - Cotopaxi is a certified B-Corporation, and hold the highest regard and respect for their employees, communities, and the environment
Cotopaxi’s tagline is ‘gear for good’, and before you roll your eyes at yet another outdoor brand making lofty claims about their eco credentials, these guys really do walk the walk. They’re certified climate neutral, with rigorous ethical manufacturing standards and even a grants scheme that supports organisations fighting global poverty.
They also prioritise the use of recycled and reclaimed materials, which includes some imaginative upcycling – like their ‘Del Día’ range made from repurposed fabrics. Other product lines make use of leftover fabrics discarded by other manufacturers. As well as reducing landfill waste, this also means that the vibrant patchwork-style colourways of many Cotopaxi garments and packs are totally unique.
And that’s the thing about Cotopaxi. Their kit doesn’t just tick the good-guy boxes, it also looks great too – with a retro-inspired aesthetic that channels the best bits of the 80s. Whether it’s a daypack, a bum bag, a windbreaker or a zip-up fleece, their range is built to last and stacked with well-thought-out features for conscientious adventure travellers.