Comparison Thule Paramount 29L 29 L vs Granite Gear Brule 34 34 L

The application for which the backpack was originally designed.

Of course, this parameter is only a general recommendation, and not a strict rule: for example, if you wish, you can use a tactical or sports backpack as a city backpack, a hiking backpack as a hunting backpack, etc. At the same time, most of them are also suitable as a backpack for hand luggage, not to mention backpacks for tourism (cabin). However, specialization determines not only the capacity and other basic characteristics, but also the specific design features of the equipment; so it is best to choose the product that best suits the intended application. Moreover, some models initially allow several destinations — for example, there are backpacks that are positioned both as sports and as “ for outdoor activities ”.

Specific uses may be as follows:

— Urban. Distinctive features of urban backpacks are a relatively small volume (up to 40 liters, with rare exceptions), as well as a discreet style and a minimum number of additional pockets. In addition, "purely urban" backpacks usually do not have a drinking system outlet (see "Design"), although this function can be found in models of a combined purpose (for example, urban / sports). Anyway, products...of this type, in accordance with the name, are designed mainly for everyday movement around the city; in addition, they can come in handy on a relatively short trip with a small amount of things.

— Leisure. Backpacks designed for lovers of an active lifestyle; in fact — a cross between the tourist and sports described below. The volume of such a backpack is at least 10 liters and can reach 80 liters or even more; however, in general, "active" models are more compact and less spacious than tourist ones. Another distinguishing feature is the abundance of pockets and fasteners (of course, a specific set of such equipment should be specified separately). Thanks to all this, such products are well suited for long-distance hiking, for cycling, and for traveling by transport. And many of them can also be used as urban backpacks. So if among urban models there was no suitable option, you can try to look for it among backpacks for outdoor activities.

— Sports. Backpacks designed for use directly during sports. Some of these products are initially positioned as equipment for a specific sport — for example, running. One of the main features of sports models is the elongated, streamlined shape, which provides maximum mobility and optimal weight distribution, as well as reduces air resistance during fast movement. Another mandatory feature is the introduction of a drinking system that allows you to drink on the go (for more details, see "Design") In addition, the volume of sports backpacks is very small — up to 15 liters; models larger than 15 liters usually have a combined purpose, such as "active recreation / sports". And some products of this type are generally intended only for drinking systems and have a volume of only 1.5 – 2 liters.

— Hiking. The term "trekking" is also used. The main purpose of this type of backpacks are long trips over rough terrain. Such products have a design designed for convenience during long-term carrying, and an abundance of additional pockets (see below) for easy distribution of things. In addition, many tourist backpacks have an increased degree of protection against moisture and other adverse climatic factors. The volume can be different, from 10 – 12 liters in children's products to 120 – 140 liters in expeditionary models.

For tourism (cabin). Backpacks for travelers in the cabin size form factor, most often fitting into the allowed dimensions of hand luggage for carrying on board aircraft. They are usually used in addition to a large suitcase or instead of it (if there are not so many things). Travel backpacks usually have a large main compartment with a 180° opening, a laptop compartment, often equipped with a side handle, a suitcase attachment and, in some cases, a combination lock.

— Tactical and hunting/fishing. A category that actually combines two types of backpacks: actually tactical models designed for war games or even real combat operations, and products for a more "peaceful" purpose, designed for hunting and fishing. Both species have common features, which made it possible to combine them into one type: firstly, discreet dark coloring, often with a camouflage pattern; secondly, the abundance of additional pockets, clips, fasteners and other accessories. And you can distinguish one variety from another by the following points. So, if the product provides for the MOLLE \ PALS system (see "Design") — we have a clearly tactical model. In addition, tactical backpacks use military-style camouflage — "woodland", "desert", "flecktarn", "pixel", etc.; and in hunting camouflage, the main elements of the pattern are leaves, blades of grass and twigs. It is also worth mentioning that there are highly specialized models — for example, purely fishing ones, with special compartments for gear and even built-in folding chairs for the convenience of sitting on the shore. Summing up, we note that before buying a model from this category, it's ok to clarify its specific specialization.

— Bicycle bag. Specialized backpacks designed for cycling. Colloquially, they are called "cycling pants": the lower part of the backpack is divided into two halves, resembling trouser legs, and when used, the bike bag is attached to the boot of a bicycle so that these halves hang down on both sides of the rear wheel. "Pants" can be made folding, when they are folded, the product turns into an ordinary city bag or backpack. However, most bike bags are specifically designed to be carried on a bike rack and have no other uses.

The working volume of a backpack determines the maximum amount of cargo that can be carried in it. Note that not all manufacturers indicate this parameter in the same way: in one case it can only be the volume of the main compartment, in the other — the total capacity, taking into account all compartments and pockets. If the exact value is important for you, you should separately specify this parameter for each model of interest.

The optimal volume of a backpack is directly related to its intended purpose and features of use. For example, for an urban model designed for documents and textbooks, most often 10 liters is enough, and for trips lasting several days, about 60-70 liters, or even more, may be needed. In general, when choosing the optimal volume for a hiking backpack, it is best to turn to reference literature, or for advice from experienced “hikers”.

Note that the volume of the backpack can often be adjusted. One of the options is side ties (see "Design") to change the thickness. And in some versions, it may also be possible to change the volume due to a special folding insert made of fabric — if necessary, it can be expanded and the height of the backpack can be increased. The names of such models often contain two numbers, for example 35:45 — they indicate the volume in the folded and unfolded form, respectively. In our catalog for these options, the maximum volume is indicated, in the unfolded position.

— Anatomical. The most common type of back in today's backpacks. In accordance with the name, the shape and design of such a backrest is designed taking into account the anatomy of the human body; thanks to this, the load is optimally distributed on the user's back, which allows you to carry significant weight without much inconvenience and harm to health (of course, if the backpack is properly selected and configured). The specific features of such backpacks can be different, but most often the back has protrusions and curves, which give it the necessary properties.

— Easel. This type of backrest is a one-piece structure in the form of a frame with straps (usually metal), on which the actual soft bag for things is attached. Easel backs are less comfortable than anatomical ones, so they are relatively rare, mainly in two categories of backpacks. The first is hiking models (see "In the direction") of large capacity, from 60 liters and above; in them, the soft bag is often made removable, which allows, if necessary, to hang another load on the frame that is suitable in size and weight. The second variety is backpacks for fishermen, where the frame is actually a folding chair (see "Equipment").

— Hard back. The presence of a rigid frame in the design of the backpack. Note that this feature should not be confused with the easel back: a rigid frame usually means...one or more metal plates built into the anatomical back. The main function of such plates is to optimize the load when the backpack is unevenly filled or when carrying hard objects of an “uncomfortable” shape. Without hard inserts, the contents of the backpack could press on certain points of the back, creating discomfort, and the plates evenly distribute all the pressure on the back. At the same time, in many models it is possible to remove the frame — for example, to reduce the weight of the backpack.

— Back ventilation. This feature suggests that the back has a special design that improves air circulation between the backpack and the user's back. This, in turn, improves thermoregulation and reduces sweating. Such properties are usually achieved through the use of porous breathable materials, as well as a special relief shape of the back itself. Note that this feature will be useful not only in hot, but also in cool weather.

— Adjustment of a back on height. The ability to adjust the back of the backpack in height is found only in models equipped with a waist belt (see "Cables and belts"). The essence of this adjustment is that, thanks to a special fastening, the main straps can be moved up or down, changing the distance between these straps and the waist belt. This gives additional features for adjusting the backpack to the height and physique of a particular user.

— Chest strap. Attachment in the form of a strap with a clasp that connects the main straps of the backpack at the level of the user's chest. When fastened, such a strap keeps the straps at the same distance from each other and does not allow them to “scatter”. This provides additional convenience in the distribution of weight, as well as a secure fit on the body: it is almost impossible to remove the backpack without unfastening the strap. To adjust to a specific user, the chest strap is often made adjustable.

— Adjustment of the chest strap. The ability to adjust the height at which the chest strap of the backpack is located. This function allows you to choose the optimal location of the screed, taking into account the height and physique of the user; while the range of adjustment is usually quite extensive. However in some models (especially inexpensive ones), adjustable ties can spontaneously move when accidentally touched, knocking down the height settings; however, this shortcoming is usually not critical.

— Top straps. Tie-down straps located at the top of the backpack. They are mainly intended for fixing the upper valve, as well as for adjusting the volume of the upper part of the backpack, similarly to the side straps described below (moreover, such adjustment can also be provided in models that do not have a valve).

— Side straps. Tie straps located on the sides of the backpack — usually one on each side, however, in large tall models, there may be two on the side. The main function of such straps is to “compact” the backpack if it is not completely filled: by tightening the side ties, you can reduce the thickness of the backpack so that the contents are tightly fixed and not dangling inside. In addition, the side tie is convenient to use in combination with the bottle pocket for carrying long items, such as an umbrella or a mat: the lower part of such an item fits into the pocket, and the upper part can be fixed with a tie.

— Front straps. If the purpose of the ties described above is primarily to adjust the volume, then in the case of front ties they can be described as an additional fastening for placing things. They are two horizontal "belts" at the top and bottom of the backpack, under which you can fasten outerwear (similar to the principle with an elastic cord), a mat or other voluminous things, such as a snowboard. However, for the latter, these ties are not specialized and storage of the board in them is less convenient than in personal mounts. Naturally, the screed also fulfills its main function — it tightens the walls of the backpack, making its shape more “slender” and compact.

— Bottom straps. Tie-down straps located on the underside of the product. They allow you to adjust the volume of the lower part of the backpack (or the lower pocket), provide additional support and fixation of the contents, and in some models they can also be used as a fastener for carrying various items “on an external sling”: for example, you can put ties into stretched to the maximum size karemat and tighten the straps, securely securing the outer load.

— Waist belt. An additional device in the form of a belt, which, when fastened, covers the user's body in the area of the belt. The specific design of this part may vary. So, in relatively small backpacks, it is just a strap made of nylon or other similar material, and in large volumetric models, two wide and thick “petals” are provided that are adjacent to the user’s sides and are interconnected by a small strap with a clasp. Anyway, the main function of the waist belt is to redistribute the load: it allows you to transfer the load from the shoulders to the pelvic area, which is especially convenient when carrying heavy loads. In addition, such a device provides additional reliability of fixing the backpack on the body.

- Sealed. This feature means that the backpack can be hermetically sealed, preventing water from getting inside (not to be confused with the included rain cover). In addition, such models are usually made of waterproof materials. Such properties can be indispensable in conditions of high humidity - for example, when rafting down a mountain river, when splashes constantly fall on things in the boat.

— Rolltop closing method. A special method of closing the backpack, allowing you to adjust its height and actual volume depending on the degree of fullness. The Rolltop backpack has the appearance of a bag with a soft upper part, which, when closed, rolls into a characteristic roll and is secured with a special fastener. This design, when closed, closes the backpack very tightly and reliably (almost hermetically), and when open it provides a wide neck, making it easier to access the contents of the bag; and there are much fewer fasteners in such backpacks than in traditional ones, which significantly simplifies use and reduces cost. At the same time, for a number of reasons, this design is considered suitable mainly for urban models; in other types of backpacks it is much less common.

— Top valve. Initially, the top flap is a piece of fabric that covers the top of a closed backpack and provides additional protection (mainly from ba...d weather). However, in modern backpacks this part is often equipped with its own pockets and actually represents an additional slot; in some models, such a slot is even removable and can be used as a separate handbag.

— Side opening. Possibility of access to the contents of the backpack through a clasp or flap on the side. This feature is especially relevant for roomy models that have a large height: you do not have to disassemble all the contents lying on top to get to the things at the bottom of the backpack.

— Bottom opening. The presence of a fastener at the bottom of the backpack, which provides access to its contents from below. The purpose of this function is similar to the side opening (see on top): to facilitate access to things located at the bottom of the backpack. It is especially useful for high-volume models, although it can also be useful for a relatively small product for urban or sports purposes. There is also a slightly different design option: the lower clasp opens not into the main slot, but into a small slot separated by a partition (the partition can be made opening, or even removable, which allows you to combine the lower slot with the main one).

— Front opening. Another additional way to access the contents of the backpack is through the clasp on its front side (opposite the back). Much the same as the side opening described on top, but the opening on the front can be made larger, making it easier to both access contents and load bulky items.

— Full opening. The possibility of full opening provides convenient access to the entire contents of the backpack. In practice, it is usually implemented using special designs of locks and zippers that run along the entire perimeter of the product. The backpack opens like a book, allowing you to quickly and easily access the items you need without removing all the contents. At the same time, this design solution makes it easier to organize the packing of things when packing them into a backpack.

— Output of the drinking system. Possibility of installing a sports drinking system in a backpack. This system consists of a soft synthetic container for water, with a capacity of up to several liters, and a tube with a valve. Accordingly, to install it, the backpack must have a slot for the container, a hole for the tube to exit, and a device for fixing it from the outside. The tube is usually secured to the backpack strap within easy reach; thanks to this, you can take a sip of water at any time without stopping or being distracted by opening/closing your backpack, which is especially useful on long hiking or cycling trips. The drinking system itself is usually not included in the package, but there are exceptions (see “Hydrator included”).

— Possibility of folding. The ability to compactly pack a backpack - for example, in a special case or tube. A useful feature if you need to travel with an empty backpack: transporting it packed in this case is often more convenient than carrying it on your shoulders without a load. The possibility of folding is found mainly in sports models (see “Purpose”).

— Change in volume. Possibility to increase/decrease the volume of the backpack. Most often, this function is provided by unfastening the zipper along the perimeter of the model itself (in fact, the volume of the main slot increases according to the principle, as is done in suitcases), there are exceptions with the location of the zipper at the bottom or front. Do not confuse changes in volume with screeds. In this case, changing the volume physically increases the size of the backpack by releasing hidden (folded or zipped) parts of the main or additional slot.

— Single-strap. Backpacks that have one strap and are designed to be worn over the shoulder. Single-strap products are found both among youth urban models and in specialized categories of backpacks, in particular tactical ones (see “In the direction”). This design not only provides the backpack with an original appearance, but also provides some very practical advantages. Thus, a single-strap backpack can be easily moved on the stomach - for example, to get something out of it, or for convenience in public transport. Also, such a product is more convenient when shooting with a rest on the shoulder than a classic backpack (of course, if you rest the weapon on a shoulder that is not covered by a strap). And for additional convenience, the design may include a side belt. On the other hand, single-strap backpacks do not distribute weight as evenly as classic backpacks and are not well suited for carrying heavy loads; therefore their volume is usually small.

— Attachment to a suitcase. The presence of a special belt that allows you to attach the backpack to the handle of the suitcase, thereby facilitating transportation.

— Elastic cord. Elastic cord attached to the front of the backpack in special loops. The main function of this part is to carry large items that do not fit in a backpack or that need quick access. For example, using a cord, you can fix a mat, bike helmet, jacket, etc. In addition, this function can be useful for more specific tasks — for example, drying washed clothes on the go. And in some models, the cord also works as an addition to the ties: by tightening it, you can seal the backpack that is not completely filled, reducing its size and not allowing the contents to hang out inside.

— Mount for skis. A special mount that allows you to securely fasten skis to a backpack. If you are going to use a backpack in winter, it may make sense to pay attention to the presence of this item of equipment.

— Mount for the board. A special mount that allows you to securely fasten a snowboard or skateboard to your backpack. The specific specialization should be clarified separately, however, anyway, this feature greatly simplifies the transportation of the "board" — it does not need to be carried in the hands, while the fixation is very reliable. Usually, the mount can be adjusted to the size of a particular board.

...— Helmet mount. Special fastening for a protective helmet. Most often, such a mount refers to the LidLock system, designed for bicycle and other similar helmets that have holes in the shell. The main element of LidLock is a plastic plate on an elastic strap: such a plate is threaded into the hole of the helmet “sideways”, and then installed across the hole and, due to the elasticity of the strap, keeps the helmet on the backpack.

— Loops for equipment. Loops designed to secure special equipment, for example, "ice" — ice axes or walking sticks. Most often located on the sides of the backpack and can be adjusted in size.

— Folding chair. An original function characteristic of easel-type backpacks, designed primarily for hunting and fishing. The frame of such backpacks is used for its intended purpose during transportation, and at stops you can remove the bag and unfold it, turning it into a seating device.

— USB interface. Standard USB connector located on the outside of the product. Allows you to charge smartphones, tablets and other gadgets without unpacking your backpack — the main thing is that you have the appropriate cable at hand. Of course, for such charging, you will need a power bank or other source of energy connected to the USB port from the inside; such a source is usually not included in the delivery set.

— Mini-Jack connector (3.5 mm). A standard 3.5 mm mini-jack audio jack is located on the outside of the backpack, in some models right on one of the straps. From the inside, you can connect a smartphone, media player or other similar signal source to this connector, and headphones or portable speakers from the outside. Thus, this function allows you to listen to music without getting into your backpack once again and without taking the signal source out; this is especially convenient if a large gadget such as a tablet or laptop plays the role of a playback device.

— Raincoat included. A raincoat is a waterproof cover made of thin fabric worn on a backpack as additional protection against moisture during rain or snow. It is worth noting that most backpacks are initially made of water-repellent materials that can withstand precipitation to a certain extent. Therefore, it is especially worth looking for a model with a rain cover in the kit if there is a chance during a hike to get caught in heavy rain or stay in a damp atmosphere (fog, drizzle) for a long time.

— Reflective elements. Additional inserts on the outside of the backpack, made of a special reflective material. Such elements are located at least on the straps and on the front of the product, but can also be provided from the sides. Their main function is to make a person more visible on the road at night. So, in the dipped headlights, the driver notices a pedestrian in ordinary clothes for 20-50 m (depending on the colour of the clothes), and if there are reflectors, this distance increases to 100 m or more. Thus, reflective backpacks greatly increase safety on the road; and in some countries the wearing of reflectors is even mandatory for pedestrians at night.

The material from which the main part of the bag in the backpack is made. Note that modern manufacturers use a large number of materials, and the variety of their names and characteristics may well be confusing. So, for example, both high-quality Cordura and low cost Nylon 600D with very modest characteristics are based on nylon ; one and the same material can be classified by one manufacturer as nylon, another as polyamide, etc. Therefore, in practice, if this issue is critical for you, you can do this: find the exact name of the material used in the backpack (for example, on the manufacturer’s website) and, based on this data, find out its characteristics (up to the reviews of real users).

A few general points for choosing a backpack, taking into account materials:

• The denser varieties of the same material are usually stronger, more reliable and less permeable, but weigh more and cost more. Therefore, it is worth considering what loads you will have to carry and in what conditions - it does not always make sense to pursue maximum thickness and strength.
• Water repellency is often a double-edged sword. The fact is that such materials get wet really badly - but they dry just as badly. And therefore, paradoxically, for long hikes in wet conditions, “wetted” fabrics may turn out to be more convenient: the contents, of course, will have to be carefully packed from dampness, but the backpack i...tself will dry quickly during parking.
• UV resistance is useful in any case, but it is especially important when hiking in the mountains, where UV levels are by definition high. This is due not only to the appearance - low-quality material can even lose strength.
• When choosing a backpack for hunting (see "In direction"), it is advisable to pay attention not only to strength, water resistance, etc., but also to "noiselessness" - many varieties of synthetics make a noticeable noise during friction, which in no way contributes to the successful tracking of prey .

The material from which the bottom of the backpack is made. This parameter is in many ways similar to the material of the backpack itself, see "Material" for more details. Separately, it is worth noting that in this case, resistance to pollution and ease of cleaning can also be critical — after all, it is the bottom of the backpack that usually comes into contact with the ground.

The maximum diagonal of a laptop that can fit in the corresponding compartment of the backpack. Note that the average (standard) diagonal for modern laptops is 15.6", and most backpacks have a 15" laptop compartment. However, there are also more voluminous models that can accommodate a 17.3" or even 18.4" laptop. At the same time, compact models are also presented: there are backpacks with a compartment for a laptop 14", 13" and even smaller.

Note that the lack of a laptop compartment in itself does not prevent using a backpack to carry a laptop, however, in this case, the maximum allowable size of the device will have to be specified according to the dimensions of the backpack.