Patagonia Black Hole 25L Backpack, Black

The good - great design, always a head turner and a conversation starter. Material feels solid. The waterproofing hasn't been fully tested but it can definitely survive a drizzle.The bad - for what it is, it has very little internal pockets especially being advertised suitable for the outdoors. The hole for the water bladder hose is oddly placed in the middle, and it *will* rest on your neck instead of following the bag's frame. When fully loaded, my upper back gets sore pretty quickly vs my Deuter Futura 32L.To be honest, I'm still on the fence on this one. So far I like having this bag more than my dislikes for it, when used as a day bag. But if you're looking for a bag for short hikes/walks, perhaps look elsewhere first.

A Top Pocket Like Magician's Hat

I swear I've never had a pack designed like this. Functional and extremely durable. Using it for business as well as pleasure, it needed to be very durable and have a lot of pockets. The durability is awesome, but I wasn't sure if the Blackhole Pack fabric was going to be too clunky and chunky, it absolutely is not. It didn't have a lot of pockets for stashing business essentials, so I was hesitant, but I have found that the top pocket has been the biggest surprise of all. It is bottomless and easily assessable right on top. It's seemingly bottomless, like some kind of magic trick! I can't understand how you did it really. I keep all my travel doodads and necessaries, keys, passport, tissues, chargers, cords, gloves, hats, all the important go-to's in this top ... MoreI swear I've never had a pack designed like this. Functional and extremely durable. Using it for business as well as pleasure, it needed to be very durable and have a lot of pockets. The durability is awesome, but I wasn't sure if the Blackhole Pack fabric was going to be too clunky and chunky, it absolutely is not. It didn't have a lot of pockets for stashing business essentials, so I was hesitant, but I have found that the top pocket has been the biggest surprise of all. It is bottomless and easily assessable right on top. It's seemingly bottomless, like some kind of magic trick! I can't understand how you did it really. I keep all my travel doodads and necessaries, keys, passport, tissues, chargers, cords, gloves, hats, all the important go-to's in this top pocket so I never have to open the main compartment, and I have never found the bottom of it. It's an optical illusion of some kind! Everything goes in the top pocket and the pack remains sleek and compressible. If you own one, you'll know exactly what I'm talking about. And the fabric is chunky, but I really like it. It is extremely durable like steel plate but not as rigid as it looks, it is much more pliable and easy to scrunch into small places than it looks. The only problem I guess is for Patagonia. it's most likely the last daypack I'll ever need.

An excellent everyday or traveling companion

This backpack will be your best friend. It does it all, and it does it capably and confidently. It's light and versatile enough to function capably as an everyday bag, and isn't too big when not packed full. When fully packed, though, it'll hold everything you think you need and more; you could conceivably travel for weeks with only this bag. The materials and quality are exceptional; it feels like it'll last decades. It is of course somewhat organizationally lacking, but the pockets it does have are generally good enough for most uses. The brain pocket alone is the size of a purse, which is extremely helpful.The laptop compartment works really well to hold your laptop and tablet without taking too much storage space, and it's nice to be able to slip them in and ... MoreThis backpack will be your best friend. It does it all, and it does it capably and confidently. It's light and versatile enough to function capably as an everyday bag, and isn't too big when not packed full. When fully packed, though, it'll hold everything you think you need and more; you could conceivably travel for weeks with only this bag. The materials and quality are exceptional; it feels like it'll last decades. It is of course somewhat organizationally lacking, but the pockets it does have are generally good enough for most uses. The brain pocket alone is the size of a purse, which is extremely helpful.The laptop compartment works really well to hold your laptop and tablet without taking too much storage space, and it's nice to be able to slip them in and out without worrying about moving stuff around inside. However, the laptop sleeve is a tight fit for my 15" laptop, and especially if my tablet is also in the compartment, it can be a bit tough to zip it closed; the compartment would benefit from being just a touch wider. Also you wouldn't easily be able to take your laptop out while wearing the bag, which may be annoying if you've got to get to it quickly, but generally it's not a problem. The TSA-approved design seems to have a decent success rate in US airports, but internationally you'll probably still have to take out your laptop and tablet. The front handle is surprisingly useful, and also is good for holding your bag on a suitcase handle when traveling. The water bottle pockets are cavernous and super elastic, and can handle pretty much anything you throw at them; long-term durability, however, may be an issue.The only major issues are the lack of a waist strap and the quality of the back panel. The absence of a waist strap is confounding; for a bag this size it would be extremely helpful, especially when hiking or running to catch a train, and wouldn't add much weight or space. The foam back panel is not raised much at all, and because there is no rigid frame, it smushes against your back and can get very sweaty very quickly. Both of these are extremely simple but significant issues, and hopefully they can be fixed in future designs. The addition of a rigid frame would be nice, as the bag is very large and soft, but it'd probably add size and weight and if you have a laptop in the compartment, it basically works as a frame anyway. It is convenient how wide the top compartment opens, but it would be nice if the zipper went all the way to the bottom of the bag, at least on one size, for full side access. Regardless, it's still easy enough to access the bag without taking everything out as it is. The daisy chains on the strap are another very nice touch, though the chest strap is just a bit too long.Even with these issues, this backpack really excels at doing what it has to do. Its beauty is in its simplicity, and if you just want to carry a lot of stuff without worrying about the durability of your bag, this is the one for you.

Awesome bike commuter bag with versatility, not waterproof

The Black Hole 32L backpack is pretty awesome but not fully waterproof. I needed a waterproof backpack for bike commuting that had more than one big roll-top compartment. I had another backpack that wasn't waterproof so I had to have a rain cover, and it was too small to fit my lunch bag and change of clothing in it. I decided to give this bag a try after researching the Ortleib rolltop bike commuter bags and realizing I wanted more compartments than the rolltop bags offer.The Black Hole is aptly named because of its large well-construction it creates a lot of space. It is made with thin, lightweight materials that are durable. I was concerned about the weight since it has so many pockets and features but it is quite light. The side water bottle pockets are ... MoreThe Black Hole 32L backpack is pretty awesome but not fully waterproof. I needed a waterproof backpack for bike commuting that had more than one big roll-top compartment. I had another backpack that wasn't waterproof so I had to have a rain cover, and it was too small to fit my lunch bag and change of clothing in it. I decided to give this bag a try after researching the Ortleib rolltop bike commuter bags and realizing I wanted more compartments than the rolltop bags offer.The Black Hole is aptly named because of its large well-construction it creates a lot of space. It is made with thin, lightweight materials that are durable. I was concerned about the weight since it has so many pockets and features but it is quite light. The side water bottle pockets are versatile and stretch to accommodate rain jackets, large water bottles, or whatever else I need to stuff in them in a pinch. The flip-top lid is the perfect design for me because I put materials that have a bit of weight (bike light, work badge, etc.) to them in there. My last backpack had a flip-over design with a pocket that was inconvenient when weighted. The top compartment is spacious and the zip-around-the-top design distributes the weight and doesn't flip the whole bag over when I open the bag up to access the main compartment. There is also a front slim compartment where I can put heavy items that drop to the bottom of the bag. Lastly, the laptop's full zip compartment along the back of the bag is very convenient and as others have mentioned, I don't have to force my laptop into the bag when it is full.Two things to consider. This bag is very water-resistant, not waterproof. I live in Portland where it rains A LOT so this is a bummer. Also, the 32L is a bit too big. I think the 25L with the great design would have been big enough for me.

Fantastic Travel Pack But Could Be Perfect

This is one of many Black Hole bags I own and use on a regular basis. This pack is one of my favorites for international travel when used with my 70L rolling Black Hole duffel bag. Plenty of space and incredibly versatile, but there is a simple addition that could be made to make this bag absolutely perfect for this pairing, the addition of a trolley sleeve.The backpack already has two different materials on the pack panel, one is a padded mesh to aid in breathability when worn, and the other is a rip stop fabric meant to help the back panel hold its shape and not deform under load. The rip stop is sewn on all four side, however Patagonia could leave a portion of the top and bottom open to create a trolley sleeve. Minimal production changes creating a more ... MoreThis is one of many Black Hole bags I own and use on a regular basis. This pack is one of my favorites for international travel when used with my 70L rolling Black Hole duffel bag. Plenty of space and incredibly versatile, but there is a simple addition that could be made to make this bag absolutely perfect for this pairing, the addition of a trolley sleeve.The backpack already has two different materials on the pack panel, one is a padded mesh to aid in breathability when worn, and the other is a rip stop fabric meant to help the back panel hold its shape and not deform under load. The rip stop is sewn on all four side, however Patagonia could leave a portion of the top and bottom open to create a trolley sleeve. Minimal production changes creating a more versatile design.Adding the sleeve would make attaching the backpack to the handle of the rolling duffel bag, or any luggage with an extendable handle much more convenient.Great product. Great company.

Great everyday pack for wet climates!

By far one of the best packs I've owned. It's spacious, very weather resistant, and very, very durable. Even though it's seen some crazy monsoonal rain (while keeping my stuff as dry as could reasonable be expected for such weather), it looks nearly the same as the day I got it, and I haven't noticed any wear on the pack whatsoever (despite nearly daily use in a pretty awful climate).I also love the loops on the outer shell, which are perfect for attaching rear bike lights for a little extra peace of mind, or for just hooking on whatever else you feel like. For bike commuting, or as a carry-on/personal item for a flight, it checks all the boxes, and has a nice sleek design to it as well.My only 'gripe' with this pack is that the zippers do allow moisture in, since ... MoreBy far one of the best packs I've owned. It's spacious, very weather resistant, and very, very durable. Even though it's seen some crazy monsoonal rain (while keeping my stuff as dry as could reasonable be expected for such weather), it looks nearly the same as the day I got it, and I haven't noticed any wear on the pack whatsoever (despite nearly daily use in a pretty awful climate).I also love the loops on the outer shell, which are perfect for attaching rear bike lights for a little extra peace of mind, or for just hooking on whatever else you feel like. For bike commuting, or as a carry-on/personal item for a flight, it checks all the boxes, and has a nice sleek design to it as well.My only 'gripe' with this pack is that the zippers do allow moisture in, since they aren't the typical waterproof seam-seal type of design you see on GTX jackets and other things. Still, for the price point, its not really a big deal and there are obviously many other products in Patagonia's stock that meet that criteria. I've been able to easily mitigate this issue by simply using a dry-bag (or even a big zip loc) to store anything sensitive and add an extra layer of security.All in all, it's a great pack that's definitely worth the price. If they absolutely had to redesign it, putting a better seal on the zippers and/or adding a "storm flap" to help keep water out would help (or simply add an interior roll-top 'dry-bag' to mitigate the need for that).

LOVE Patagonia, your products, and mission!

This is the best backpack I've ever owned, and I routinely rotate through several, depending on work / recreation / travel ...The top compartment is genius - especially when traveling via plane or train, and stowed on floor between legs, allowing easy access to necessary items.Zippers don't slip.The main compartment lives up to its name, and swallows up a surprising amount.Handles in just the right spots.Super comfortable shoulder straps.Very padded, safe storage (and easy access) of laptop, iPad, etc.And great front compartment for notebooks, books, maps, etc.TWO bottle / whatever holders, one on each side.Super stylish design, highly portable. Perfect for city and hikes.Suggestion for improvement: Rain flaps to cover zippers!After finding it sold out ... MoreThis is the best backpack I've ever owned, and I routinely rotate through several, depending on work / recreation / travel ...The top compartment is genius - especially when traveling via plane or train, and stowed on floor between legs, allowing easy access to necessary items.Zippers don't slip.The main compartment lives up to its name, and swallows up a surprising amount.Handles in just the right spots.Super comfortable shoulder straps.Very padded, safe storage (and easy access) of laptop, iPad, etc.And great front compartment for notebooks, books, maps, etc.TWO bottle / whatever holders, one on each side.Super stylish design, highly portable. Perfect for city and hikes.Suggestion for improvement: Rain flaps to cover zippers!After finding it sold out online, I called around, and found ONE in the Meatpacking District shop in NYC, which held it for me until I could pick up. Super friendly and smooth transaction.Paying a premium for such quality is made even better, thanks to Yvon and the company's mission. Great brand and team.

Patagonia Black Hole 32L: perfect commuter and day bag

After almost four years of use for train commuting 2-3 times weekly (only for a year before the pandemic), family outings and vacations (about 10 trips), and some business travel, I've concluded that the Patagonia Blackhole 32L backpack is an almost perfect commuter backpack and, because other reviews are terrific, I'm just going to make some observations that I hope are helpful. The material looks shiny and you'd think it hard, but it actually has a suppleness and yet seems really tough, is water resistant (material itself and not a coating that will come off over time), and wipes off easily. I wanted a flat-backed backpack because I didn't want my computer to be bent over my arched back, especially when on a bike, and I've previously cracked a screen on my laptop ... MoreAfter almost four years of use for train commuting 2-3 times weekly (only for a year before the pandemic), family outings and vacations (about 10 trips), and some business travel, I've concluded that the Patagonia Blackhole 32L backpack is an almost perfect commuter backpack and, because other reviews are terrific, I'm just going to make some observations that I hope are helpful. The material looks shiny and you'd think it hard, but it actually has a suppleness and yet seems really tough, is water resistant (material itself and not a coating that will come off over time), and wipes off easily. I wanted a flat-backed backpack because I didn't want my computer to be bent over my arched back, especially when on a bike, and I've previously cracked a screen on my laptop when I over stuffed a backpack cinched it down. The laptop pocket is easy to access, but only one side is padded and, in the same compartment, the tablet pocket is really useful and I like that I can lay my backpack across my lap when commuting and can easily and discreetly slip my tablet in and out. There a handle at the top, but there's also a really handy grab handle on the front face of the backpack (like when you slide it under the seat in front of you, you can easily find it and grab it). The front face also has a loop ladder and this a must for me as I use it to lash gear (like when my kids shed their coats and hear). Although it's 32L, it looks deceptively slimmer and seems almost svelte given it's capacity. On the other hand, when I really need to stuff it, it can take a load and I'm always surprised how much it can swallow. The vertical zip map pocket on the front is really useful and, because it's a side access, vertical-zip only, it's flat and discreet. Bottom is tough and has held up beautifullyThis isn't a technical backpack, but I've used it for travel to a destination and then taken it hiking, and it has worked well (and great that it has a sternum strap, which was another must). My bag is black, but the interior is a nice, light gray, so you get a bit more light and can see deeper into the bag. Looks nice for business-casual look, or in the field, and my daughter has the smaller 25L in bright orange (discontinued) that she uses as her hunting backpack.

Space Age Pack

Good quality, wouldn't mind a few more zipper pouches, but does the trick for a basic lightweight go to bag for your essential needs. Stylish for sure. Still fresh & hasn't been truly tested all winter into summer 2023 to see if it can take a beating in the elements, namely, extreme heat and moisture. Thinking it will. Definitely recommend for a basic all around backpack that will suit your needs whether its work, a light hike, or events / activities. Straps comfy. Only gripe is the thin strings attached to the zippers are pretty weak, not like the standard heavy duty tabs you have on other makes / brands to open and close with. That was corrected with some clip ons that I ordered to make it work more efficiently. Overall, a winner.

The best back for school

The Patagonia Black Hole Backpack is the best backpack for schoolAfter using The Patagonia Black Hole Backpack for over a month now for school I have concluded that this backpack is the best backpack for school and here's why. This backpack is everything you would ever want in a school backpack and more. It's the perfect size for a school backpack and I am easily able to fit everything I need for school with extra room. This backpack also comes with every compartment and pocket you would need in a school back. The backpack is also very high quality and is sure to last a very long time. This is why the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack is the best backpack for school.One reason why it is the best backpack for school is because of the size of the backpack. This backpack ... MoreThe Patagonia Black Hole Backpack is the best backpack for schoolAfter using The Patagonia Black Hole Backpack for over a month now for school I have concluded that this backpack is the best backpack for school and here's why. This backpack is everything you would ever want in a school backpack and more. It's the perfect size for a school backpack and I am easily able to fit everything I need for school with extra room. This backpack also comes with every compartment and pocket you would need in a school back. The backpack is also very high quality and is sure to last a very long time. This is why the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack is the best backpack for school.One reason why it is the best backpack for school is because of the size of the backpack. This backpack has an insane amount of space to carry anything you could possibly need in your school backpack. In my bag I carry a computer, four textbooks, two binders, my phone charger, computer charger, headphones, extra masks, 10-15 pencils and pens, and a water bottle and I still have room in my bag for two to three more books. I think it is safe to say that you will not run out of any space with this bag. This is why the Patagonia Black Hole Backpack is the best backpack for school.Another reason why the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the best pack for school is because each compartment in the back pack and the perfect sizing of each one. The patagonia black hole back has two side pockets that can carry anything from water bottles, to headphones, to chargers. The backpack also has a special compartment in the back of the bag for a computer which can also fit 1-2 thin books. Then there is a small compartment at the top of the bags perfect for storing smaller items such as chargers, headphones, phones, masks, pens, pencils, or a wallet. Then there is the large compartment that carries up to six or seven large textbooks and other binders of books. This is why the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the best pack for school.Another reason why this backpack is a great backpack is because of the quality of the back pack. Not only is the bag high quality but its made of recycled materials such as plastic that was taken from the ocean. The majority of this bag is made out of high quality recycled polyester and was made and manufactured in Taiwan and Cambodia. The recycled materials are mostly made out of recycled plastic bottles which reduces CO2 emissions by 59 percent. This is why the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the best pack for school.These are all the reasons why the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the best pack for school. From the high quality materials, to the perfect size compartments for everything you would need for school you are sure to never run out of space for things you need for school. In conclusion the next time you are looking for a back to school backpack the Patagonia Black Hole backpack is the one you should get.