I tend to spend my days on two wheels, on two sticks or on two legs wading through a river chasing fish. I also tend to have to keep up with my kids while participating in the above mentioned activists. So, when I find gear I can use solo and with the whole family, I get pretty excited. Lucky for me, Rocky Mountain Underground’s Core Pack 15 does that perfectly.
RMU’s Core Pack 15 is a 15 liter multi-adventure pack. It features pockets for all the things – spare tubes, CO2 and pump, wallet/keys/phone, snacks – hydration (or laptop) compartment, fleece-lined glasses pocket, reinforced front panel for hike-a-bike sections, and enough space to fit extra layers, first aid kit and more.
MSRP: $159
Pros: After getting a few rides in, I quickly realized the Core Pack 15 packs a lot more bells and whistles than it leads you to believe. First and foremost, it is incredibly comfortable. I’ve tried a number of packs in the last few years and while some dig into my lower back and others rub my shoulders a weird, chafing way, this pack fit just right thanks to the breathable vest-style harness system. The shoulder straps are light, yet supportive and I appreciate the pure comfort of the hip belt, even with a heavier load.
While riding in the northeast with this pack, I was extremely grateful for the waterproof fabric. Constructed with 420d with a Carbonate + PU coating, the pack is water and abrasion resistant for long solo rides and family outings.
Finally, pockets, straps, some more pockets, and some more straps! This pack is equipped with all the pockets I needed – did someone say beer pocket?! – and fit securely to my body no matter how bumpy the ride.
Cons: If you’re looking for high-visibility gear, look elsewhere. While the reflective accents are a nice touch, the Core Pack 15 only comes in black, so bring additional flair to really stand out on road sections of your rides.
Where I took it: Family gravel rides, solo mountain biking rides, and I used it as my grab-and-go pack for short hikes.
