You might not know it (because I never told you) but I am obsessed with finding the perfect bag. I spend my time scouring the internet looking for information, reviews, anecdotes, myths and whatever I can about particular bags that have caught my fancy. The two biggest issues I have encountered on my quest, thus far, are the seemingly infinite number of backpack, messenger bag, satchel, fanny-pack and potato sack models that are being produced each day and the limited amount of information available about any of them.

Those two issues in particular are thorns in my side because I am unable to buy copious numbers of bags to test them myself. (My name is [REDACTED], and I am a feeble, limited and weak human being.) So, what does a cheapskate, like myself, do when they either a) don't have the money to buy a new bag, and/or b) there's no one who's taken the time to detail their experiences with said bag? The answer is wait. Then manically scour the internet. Then wait. Finally, after a year of carrying my possessions in a bindle, get frustrated enough to start playing fast and loose with my credit card.

This post is the culmination of a year and a half of waiting and frustration.

First, things first: I bought a Poler Rucksack, in "furry camo" if you insist. Add roughly $20 for shipping because I'm a sucker and I live in America's hat. It took a couple weeks to get here, and now it's sitting on the floor of my apartment.

The backpack came lovingly crammed into a USPS box alongside a cute little quote, a sticker sheet and a single-use hand warmer. I know it's not much in terms of extra "swag" but it's the thought that counts and I appreciate little gestures. The hanging tag is made out of steel and might work as a bottle opener in a pinch—which seems to be always.

On to the bag itself. The bag is made of 1000D Cordura, which is just plain tough. I mean that in two ways, first, it feels like it will outlast my sorry looking dermis, and second, it is not the most pliable fabrics I've laid hands on. The folks at Poler have said this about their new bag design (all-caps is all their doing):

OUR SECOND GENERATION OF BAGS HAVE BEEN UPGRADED AND ARE TOUGHER AND MUCH MORE WATERPROOF

Like I said above, I'd believe it.

The bag itself has a single large pocket (21.6L in volume), a small top pocket (2.4L in volume), and two removable side pockets (2.3L in volume each). Despite the old school hiking backpack feel, this is most certainly a day pack. There are two fairly basic straps, with no sternum or hip belts to aid in support. So, while you could load up your bag with bricks, because surely the construction could support it, you probably are better off not doing it. I repeat do not do that.

Unfortunately, I have yet to spend enough time with this bag to write a proper review. (I was too excited not to share some images!) I will work on it over the next few months, but I can't promise anything sooner, although I will accept any questions you may have until that time.