Issue #028 Review

The Lab: EVOC STAGE 12 Backpack Review

Our global test team has been pushing products to the very limit on the world’s toughest trails. In The Lab, durability is rewarded and weaknesses have nowhere to hide. This time, we tested the EVOC STAGE 12 backpack.

A good backpack is part and parcel of any rider’s cycling arsenal, and the EVOC STAGE 12 has now been with us through thick and thin for the past eighteen months. The STAGE 12 fits snugly onto the shoulders thanks to the BRACE LINK design, which renders it a good fit across a range of body types. While the flexible hip belt is really breathable and sits well, it’s pretty tricky to adjust and isn’t suited to on-the-fly alterations. Dial in the fit before you set off and the EVOC will sit securely throughout the wildest daylong adventures. However, sitting snugly has repercussions – namely that it gets a bit warm underneath it (but not as warm as underneath the EVOC protector versions).

Aside from that, there are a tons of valuable features including a separate compartment for a bladder, and useful tool pockets. The main pocket has ample space for essentials like a pump, spare tube, spare jersey, and rain jacket, and the cushioned pocket will keep your phone safe. As ever, the EVOC STAGE 12 boasts the typical high EVOC quality standards.


Strengths

  • Sits well
  • Quality manufacturing
  • Great pockets

Weaknesses

  • Warm back
  • hard to adjust the hip strap

Tester: Moritz
Length of testing: 18 months
More info: evocsports.com

Price: € 115
Weight: 941 g



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