Review

The best MTB daypack you can buy

29.07.2016
by

VAUDE Moab 20

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100 % sustainable, environmentally friendly and fair are the key assets when it comes to Germany’s Tettnang-based VAUDE, but how do these commendable efforts benefit the backpacks? We’ve tested the VAUDE Moab 20 to find out, confident that its 20 litre volume will suffice for a good day-ride.

The internal organiser compartment is split into three but we’d have liked to see some sort of padding.
The internal organiser compartment is split into three but we’d have liked to see some sort of padding.
At the base of the VAUDE you’ll find the tool pocket, which is easy to access.
At the base of the VAUDE you’ll find the tool pocket, which is easy to access.
There’s a removable plate at the back for stability and to prevent any unwanted bulging.
There’s a removable plate at the back for stability and to prevent any unwanted bulging.
A flexible pocket on the hip belt for any on-the-fly camera shots or bars.
A flexible pocket on the hip belt for any on-the-fly camera shots or bars.

The main compartment is split into a back pocket for your reservoir and a small mesh pocket. There’s a front compartment with stow space for cards, a phone and a bar – this is all mega easy to reach when you loosen the helmet holder. Unlike most brands, the Moab houses tools in a super practical position at the bottom of the pack. There are two open mesh pockets on the side for quick access. On the right of the hip belt there’s a small pocket that’s ideal for a multi-tool or urgent energy refuel supply. The bag can be compressed if isn’t full by tensioning two straps, which will draw the bag closer to your body. The side straps can also be tightened to secure any protectors.

The back isn’t super well vented but it sits firm and doesn’t budge.
The back isn’t super well vented but it sits firm and doesn’t budge.
Multi-purpose tensioning straps on the side: compress the bag and secure your protectors.
Multi-purpose tensioning straps on the side: compress the bag and secure your protectors.

The Moab features a padded back, ergonomic shoulder straps and a removable plate inside that stabilizes the back and prevents any unwanted bulges. The hip belt pressed uncomfortably onto our hipbones on longer rides. At the first hint of rain, it’s super quick to unfold the integrated rain cover and pull it over the backpack – a serious must-have for any day-pack.

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Once fixed securely and tightly, the VAUDE Moab 20 is unfazed and ready to shred. VAUDE have gone for contact over air-conditioning, meaning that you’ll get the best possible downhill performance. A less sweaty back or a securer backpack: downhillers will know which one to value.

A reliable camel for a day ride, the VAUDE Moab 20 is a generously sized backpack. For smaller riders we’d recommend the 16 litre model, as the 20 litre model has a longer torso. Value for money is fair – especially when you consider the sustainability principles to which VAUDE adhere.

Weight: 1,139 g
Volume: 20 l
Price: € 120
More info: vaude.com

+ Great value for money
+ Generous and comfortable
– Hip straps uncomfortable
– Thin material used in the interior

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Table of Contents
  1. Intro: The best MTB daypack you can buy
  2. So what denotes a good backpack?
  3. EVOC STAGE 18L: The best MTB daypack
  4. Deuter Compact EXP 16: The alternative
  5. Ergon BA3 Evo
  6. VAUDE Moab 20
  7. SCOTT Trail Rocket FR 18
  8. CamelBak H.A.W.G NV
  9. USWE AIRBONE 15
  10. Conclusion

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