Hi Josh, so I have a Matthew by Millican. Very cool and quality metal fittings. No laptop pocket so definitely for those days when my brain is my own! Give’em a google you’d love them.
In case anybody is wondering: the chest strap is easily removable, just slide it all the way up and lift the little fabric which is overlapping, then you can simply slide it off. 👍🏻
I have the 2.0 of this pack, it's HUGE. I often get annoyed with the square back panel but for riding / commuting, it's unbeatable. I've carried wheels, furniture, huge boxes... everything can go either in or on this pack. And I crashed once and went over the bars and mashed the pack up totally, but it for sure saved me from breaking my neck. Chrome packs are unbeatable.
The longer I have this one the more I like it! I have been using it most as a camera bag, I have a large removable cube that has fit perfectly. Built like a tank too, I feel like it’ll last forever.
@@joshfenn oh that’s a cool idea! I’ve just bought the Yalta 3.0 because the side zip really appeals to me - I’m going to try squashing a camera cube in there and it should allow for easy access to it with the bag still on, beating the one big bear I have with the Bravo.
I love Chrome bags! Been using mine for two years now and it's held up well through rain, snow, dirt and friction. I've used it to transport my laptop for over half that time and the bag still perfectly retains its original shape.
I've bought it for Christmas and it's deffo the best backpack I've had construction and design wise. It just looks amazing. It doesn't sit perfectly on my back tho, and the shoulder straps should be longer (I'm 6ft tall). Other than that is excellent.
The Chrome Warsaw 2 has this neoprene back padding. It’s the most comfortable back area on a backpack I’ve ever experienced and I’ve tried a lot. It on some other Chrome packs as well.
Absolutely agree on the velcro. I hate it. Super loud in offices and planes. Just buckle or button or magnet close it! A bag this size also needs a clamshell opening from the back. Otherwise you're staring into a cavern
I don’t mind the cavern type of style actually, I’ve gotten used to it since it’s similar to my outdoor backpacking pack. Totally depends on your use case/needs though
Really good review, thanks for sharing. This would be a great bag, but yeah, the velcro is an absolute bummer. I wish bag manufacturers would steer away from velcro closures and use alternatives like hangers or even the old fashioned buttons. Perhaps even the big style zippers (please good ones of course). May be a bit more expensive, but less menacing, less intrusive and longer lasting (velcro is prone to attracting all kind of stuff, especially if you use the rucksacks or other bags a lot) - a button, even I could replace, but velcro with all the seams and the sewing is for my abilities way over my skills.
It’s become a favorite of mine for when I need the larger main open compartment, but I definitely agree about the Velcro on the laptop compartment, it is a bit unfortunate. Definitely out of my wheelhouse with sewing something different but that would be a great idea for someone with the skill set!
You are the perfect example of Vocal Fry but very nice review ;-) i have an old Bravo which has velcro for the biggest compartment instead of the clasp here. I see some improvements on this one, the back pockets, inside liner and comfy back side are a good idea, on mine only one side water bottle instead of two here. I cut the chest straps a long time ago ;-) would love to upgrade when mine will be too worn out…not today because its a really tough bag 👍🏻
Travel Therapist : Daily commuter to to work at the hospital by bike so I change my clothes to & from work. Rainy season coming up so I’m the market for a new rolltop backbag such as the one you reviewed in this video. I’ve got 4 different bags in mind at a price point between $150-300 because I’d really like to keep this back for the next 5-10 years + . So far my top four contenders are the Rain Rucksack, WANDRD PRVKE Pack, Alpin Mountain Co. Metro Pack, Minaal Bag. Since you’ve had this back for over a year now what’s your take on the best waterproof commuter bag. I’m definitely willing to knock out one of my top 4 for this one
I definitely love this one, even with all the bags in my collection from reviews it’s steadily in my rotation still. If it seems like a good fit I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. However, I haven’t tried it but always hear great things about the privke, I’m sure the other options are solid too. Best of luck on the decision!
I’d say it’s mostly designed for flatter items, but if you have a 1-2” (3-5cm) thick pouch that should still work well. There’s some 3D gusseting to allow for a bit of depth but not a significant amount.
Hi Josh! I just ordered this one - 3.0 black chrome bravo. Is this different from BLKCHRM 3.0? I just dont see the “22x nylon” description in the former. Btw i just suscribed to your channel! You are very articulate and takes reviews seriously in my opinion.
Thanks for the support, so glad you’re enjoying the videos! The blkchrm line uses a different fabric than the regular bravo but I believe the design is identical. Hope this helps!
Does this come in a non-BLCKCHRM material as well? The reason for asking is that I'm looking to purchase this, but the website doesn't mention the material in detail. Just says 'Nylon (coated)'.
I have, but i didn’t want to damage the bag. Since making this video I was able to yank them off another chrome bag I had with some force, it’d probably work for this one too but haven’t tried yet.
I'm in the process of looking for a neat backpack to carry all my EDC stuff, for commuting, gym, kids and dogs. I need one back with 35L and accessibility of the space. This bag is close enough, but not there yet. I would love to see a bottom/side entrance to the main compartment and I would replace the damn velcros with ITW Nexus clips (or whatever you call these in English). These two features would make this backpack a perfect one for me...
@@joshfenn I'm pretty much convinced I'll go with a Diamond Black Creek 35 and with a purpose of customizing it in the future. The only feature I realy miss on that backpack is external water holder...
Nice review! The combination of the black bag, your black shirt, and the black wall in the background made it a little difficult to see the details of the bag at times.
For sure! Rolltop bags are solid in the rain if secured properly and the xpac is probably the best option for wet conditions. Not sure if this bag is available anymore though
I couldn’t say for sure since I’m not that familiar with motorcycle helmets, but if I had to guess I think the helmet would be too big to fit unfortunately.
They claim full waterproof with the built in liner, from my experience I can back that up for any normal conditions. Probably can’t be submerged but in several years of Pacific Northwest rain it’s always been dry.
The size should work, but always check with the specific airline to be sure. I mostly travel domestic so I’m unfortunately inexperienced in this department. It shouldn’t be an issue but I know Asia can be really strict.
I would be concerned that any backpack may squish the food, but as far as backpacks go this would probably be a solid option since it’s just a big open compartment instead of a smaller bag with more layers/compartments.
It’s not a full waterproof seal, but most average rain conditions should do just fine with the water resistant material and the flap over the laptop area. I’m definitely comfortable with my laptop in the rain with this bag if that’s any consolation.
This backpack reminds me heavily of LBB Peloton (ua-cam.com/video/49Q06S0JUUU/v-deo.html) Not sure how I feel about the laptop pouch being on the front. I would be afraid to use the front straps to attach anything when having my machine in the bag. The removable tout bag is definitely interesting idea, wouldn't mind seeing used in other backpacks/bags..
Definitely looks similar! Really good point on the laptop placement while using the straps. Definitely a concern for me in a security aspect too. Thanks for the support on this one!
What's your EDC bag these days?
Manfrotto NX CSC. I almost never use my Peak 20L anymore.
Still using my Dapper Villains EDC Tote prototype.
Hi Josh, so I have a Matthew by Millican. Very cool and quality metal fittings. No laptop pocket so definitely for those days when my brain is my own! Give’em a google you’d love them.
It reminds me a lot my 4 years old bag, the LBB Peloton
Hey have you tried orbit gear? Its kinda like what chrome is trying to do know this backpack and their barrage line but on steroids.
In case anybody is wondering: the chest strap is easily removable, just slide it all the way up and lift the little fabric which is overlapping, then you can simply slide it off. 👍🏻
Definitely an oversight on my part when the video came out, thanks for sharing with everyone!
@@joshfenn Don‘t worry mate, just discovered it when checking out the bag. I actually bought it because of your review! 🙌🏻
Thanks Tom!
I have the 2.0 of this pack, it's HUGE. I often get annoyed with the square back panel but for riding / commuting, it's unbeatable. I've carried wheels, furniture, huge boxes... everything can go either in or on this pack. And I crashed once and went over the bars and mashed the pack up totally, but it for sure saved me from breaking my neck. Chrome packs are unbeatable.
The longer I have this one the more I like it! I have been using it most as a camera bag, I have a large removable cube that has fit perfectly. Built like a tank too, I feel like it’ll last forever.
@@joshfenn oh that’s a cool idea! I’ve just bought the Yalta 3.0 because the side zip really appeals to me - I’m going to try squashing a camera cube in there and it should allow for easy access to it with the bag still on, beating the one big bear I have with the Bravo.
I love Chrome bags! Been using mine for two years now and it's held up well through rain, snow, dirt and friction. I've used it to transport my laptop for over half that time and the bag still perfectly retains its original shape.
Glad to hear it’s held up well for you! The quality is absolutely excellent on this one.
I have multiple Chrome bags and always find myself “customizing” mine by removing certain straps and things. Thanks for the honesty.
Glad I’m not alone on doing this sort of stuff, haha. Thanks for the support on this one!
I've bought it for Christmas and it's deffo the best backpack I've had construction and design wise. It just looks amazing. It doesn't sit perfectly on my back tho, and the shoulder straps should be longer (I'm 6ft tall). Other than that is excellent.
Glad you’ve been liking the bag so far, hopefully the straps end up working out for you!
Oops , I’m 1m93 def not the bag for me then. Sadge
The Chrome Warsaw 2 has this neoprene back padding. It’s the most comfortable back area on a backpack I’ve ever experienced and I’ve tried a lot. It on some other Chrome packs as well.
I’ll have to make a note of that one, thanks for the heads up!
Absolutely agree on the velcro. I hate it. Super loud in offices and planes. Just buckle or button or magnet close it!
A bag this size also needs a clamshell opening from the back. Otherwise you're staring into a cavern
I don’t mind the cavern type of style actually, I’ve gotten used to it since it’s similar to my outdoor backpacking pack. Totally depends on your use case/needs though
Chrome bags are epic! I had one when I was a bike messenger back in the 90s it was burley af and had a dope seatbelt buckle quick release.
I’ve never owned one before, but I remember the buckle! Would have been really cool to see it on this one.
@@joshfenn The buckle was so awesome. But needed a wide pat under it so it didn't dig into the skin, not sure how that would work with a backpack.
Been looking for for a quality review of this bag for so long, thank you! I’m between this and the Yalta 3.0
Glad you enjoyed the review! Couldn’t find very many other videos when I checked either, glad this one could help 👍
Really good review, thanks for sharing.
This would be a great bag, but yeah, the velcro is an absolute bummer. I wish bag manufacturers would steer away from velcro closures and use alternatives like hangers or even the old fashioned buttons. Perhaps even the big style zippers (please good ones of course). May be a bit more expensive, but less menacing, less intrusive and longer lasting (velcro is prone to attracting all kind of stuff, especially if you use the rucksacks or other bags a lot) - a button, even I could replace, but velcro with all the seams and the sewing is for my abilities way over my skills.
It’s become a favorite of mine for when I need the larger main open compartment, but I definitely agree about the Velcro on the laptop compartment, it is a bit unfortunate. Definitely out of my wheelhouse with sewing something different but that would be a great idea for someone with the skill set!
You are the perfect example of Vocal Fry but very nice review ;-) i have an old Bravo which has velcro for the biggest compartment instead of the clasp here. I see some improvements on this one, the back pockets, inside liner and comfy back side are a good idea, on mine only one side water bottle instead of two here. I cut the chest straps a long time ago ;-) would love to upgrade when mine will be too worn out…not today because its a really tough bag 👍🏻
Yeah it’ll probably be years before it wears out enough to replace! Glad it’s still working well for you though
Travel Therapist : Daily commuter to to work at the hospital by bike so I change my clothes to & from work. Rainy season coming up so I’m the market for a new rolltop backbag such as the one you reviewed in this video. I’ve got 4 different bags in mind at a price point between $150-300 because I’d really like to keep this back for the next 5-10 years + . So far my top four contenders are the Rain Rucksack, WANDRD PRVKE Pack, Alpin Mountain Co. Metro Pack, Minaal Bag. Since you’ve had this back for over a year now what’s your take on the best waterproof commuter bag. I’m definitely willing to knock out one of my top 4 for this one
I definitely love this one, even with all the bags in my collection from reviews it’s steadily in my rotation still. If it seems like a good fit I’m sure you won’t be disappointed. However, I haven’t tried it but always hear great things about the privke, I’m sure the other options are solid too. Best of luck on the decision!
This bag is a no joke! BTW, Wolfy performed an artwork masterpiece on your hand :p
Hahaha I was wondering if anyone would catch that 😂 we had a play session that went a bit too far
You can easily remove the front straps! There is some stretch material on the top of each rail. Just slide it out ;-) I own this bag and it’s awesome.
How much forward does the front pocket extend? Would it fit medium size organizational pouches? Or is it rather flat for flat items only?
I’d say it’s mostly designed for flatter items, but if you have a 1-2” (3-5cm) thick pouch that should still work well. There’s some 3D gusseting to allow for a bit of depth but not a significant amount.
Hi Josh! I just ordered this one - 3.0 black chrome bravo. Is this different from BLKCHRM 3.0? I just dont see the “22x nylon” description in the former. Btw i just suscribed to your channel! You are very articulate and takes reviews seriously in my opinion.
Thanks for the support, so glad you’re enjoying the videos! The blkchrm line uses a different fabric than the regular bravo but I believe the design is identical. Hope this helps!
Does this come in a non-BLCKCHRM material as well? The reason for asking is that I'm looking to purchase this, but the website doesn't mention the material in detail. Just says 'Nylon (coated)'.
They used to but I’m pretty sure they’ve moved on to the bravo 4.0 now, 4.0 seems to be xpac only for options that I see though
Have you thought about cutting the chest straps off with scissors or a knife? I’ve had to do that before.
I have, but i didn’t want to damage the bag. Since making this video I was able to yank them off another chrome bag I had with some force, it’d probably work for this one too but haven’t tried yet.
I'm in the process of looking for a neat backpack to carry all my EDC stuff, for commuting, gym, kids and dogs. I need one back with 35L and accessibility of the space. This bag is close enough, but not there yet.
I would love to see a bottom/side entrance to the main compartment and I would replace the damn velcros with ITW Nexus clips (or whatever you call these in English). These two features would make this backpack a perfect one for me...
It’s rare to find a perfect backpack for someone’s needs, hopefully you can find something soon that works better for you!
@@joshfenn I'm pretty much convinced I'll go with a Diamond Black Creek 35 and with a purpose of customizing it in the future. The only feature I realy miss on that backpack is external water holder...
Nice review! The combination of the black bag, your black shirt, and the black wall in the background made it a little difficult to see the details of the bag at times.
Apologies for that! Always working on improving the production around here, your feedback is noted.
@@joshfenn handsome ass foo taking up all the spot light homie gotta throw a brown bag over your face to not distract us G 😤🔥🔥🔥 lil rosy cheeks
They just came out with a version 4 of this bag. Please do a review.
I’ll be sure to keep it in mind and see what I can do!
CAN WE GET A UPDATED VID ON THIS BAG DID IT HOLD UP ALL THESE YEARS ?? NOW THEY OFFER THE 4.0. IS IT JUST AS GOOD NOT SURE YET BEFORE I PURCHASE????
Probably won’t do another video but that bag has held up well! Still in the regular rotation for me years later, haven’t tried the newer model
nice review Josh!👍🏻
Thanks!
Is this bag actually good in the rain ? Looking for something I don’t have to worry about my laptop getting wet.
For sure! Rolltop bags are solid in the rain if secured properly and the xpac is probably the best option for wet conditions. Not sure if this bag is available anymore though
Thanks for the great review! Which camera cube bag are you using in the video at around 4:40? It seems to be working well with this model
It’s definitely a great fit! Its a waterproof cube I found on Amazon early in the year for backpacking, here is the link to it: amzn.to/2K7oqJd
Is the laptop sleeve padded? Would you trust your computer in there without a stand-alone protection sleeve?
I definitely have and do! This bag is still in regular rotation for me years later and I haven’t had any issues.
You sold me on it, I got it at a sale ~50% off, I hope I made the right call 😅
Glad to hear it! Years later I still use this bag pretty often.
Do you think a motorcycle helmet would fit under the 2 compression straps in the front?
I couldn’t say for sure since I’m not that familiar with motorcycle helmets, but if I had to guess I think the helmet would be too big to fit unfortunately.
is the backpack full waterproof? how far the water resistant can hold
They claim full waterproof with the built in liner, from my experience I can back that up for any normal conditions. Probably can’t be submerged but in several years of Pacific Northwest rain it’s always been dry.
can I bring this bag as a carry-on on international flights?
The size should work, but always check with the specific airline to be sure. I mostly travel domestic so I’m unfortunately inexperienced in this department. It shouldn’t be an issue but I know Asia can be really strict.
is this suitable for food delivery workers?
I would be concerned that any backpack may squish the food, but as far as backpacks go this would probably be a solid option since it’s just a big open compartment instead of a smaller bag with more layers/compartments.
it WOULD HELP IF WE COULD HAVE SAW SOME B ROLL OF THE BAG ON YOU. SO WE CAN SEE HOW BIG IT IS ON A PERSON ??
I try and make a point of doing this with my newer videos, this one is a bit larger on the spectrum
Great bag except that the laptop pocket isn't at all waterproof - not sure the logic on it, otherwise would have been the perfect bag.
It’s not a full waterproof seal, but most average rain conditions should do just fine with the water resistant material and the flap over the laptop area. I’m definitely comfortable with my laptop in the rain with this bag if that’s any consolation.
does not seem to exist anymore
Yeah I think they have the 4.0 now
Too dark
This backpack reminds me heavily of LBB Peloton (ua-cam.com/video/49Q06S0JUUU/v-deo.html)
Not sure how I feel about the laptop pouch being on the front. I would be afraid to use the front straps to attach anything when having my machine in the bag.
The removable tout bag is definitely interesting idea, wouldn't mind seeing used in other backpacks/bags..
Definitely looks similar! Really good point on the laptop placement while using the straps. Definitely a concern for me in a security aspect too. Thanks for the support on this one!
“The most unique”
As opposed to what? Something is one of a kind or it isn’t. There are no degrees of uniqueness, duh.
I’ve been busted by the grammar police 🚔🚔🚔🚔