Did an Unexpected Brand Accidentally Design the Ideal Travel Duffel?

The classic duffle — also sometimes called a weekender — is one of the most timeless bag styles around. They’re relatively no-fuss, easy to understand and make effective use of and are incredibly versatile.

That said, once they’re loaded up with gear, duffles do tend to become a bit heavy, which can lead to strain, especially during travel — an already strenuous activity.

An unexpected brand has introduced an innovation that could significantly help mitigate that admittedly significant downside.

Positioned as a gym bag, the Under Armour UA No Weigh Backpack Duffle might sneakily be one of the best travel and EDC pack releases of this year.

Under Armour

Got it in the bag

Even if you ignore the innovations Under Armour has imbued this bag with, it’s still a really solid pack. The bag’s base capacity is 41.5 liters, but it can expand up to 51. That optional extra ~10 liters can be crucial, especially when it comes to packing for travel.

The bag also benefits from a lightweight, durable exterior crafted from a combination of polyester, polyurethane and elastane. Furthermore, it boasts the brand’s UA Storm tech, meaning it’s water-resistant and will keep your belongings safe from inclement weather.

Under Armour

Interestingly, this duffle also features an externally accessible, padded laptop sleeve, suitable for computers up to 16 inches in size. This feature is uncommon among duffle bags, further underscoring the pack’s suitability for EDC and travel contexts.

The bag also gets an external pocket with a coated zipper that’s perfect for anything you need quick access to, be that your phone, EDC gear, travel documents or otherwise. But it’s the backpack harness system that really sets this bag apart.

Under Armour

Sneaky superpowers

So, this isn’t a straightforward duffle bag, at least not when it comes to its hauling options. Yes, it is formatted like a traditional duffle with a spacious main compartment. But, alongside its removable shoulder strap, it’s other carry options are more in line with another style: a backpack.

The No Weigh Backpack Duffle can be easily transformed into a backpack format with the inclusion of a pair of removable straps. Yet, that’s not really all that special on its own. However, the tech UA developed and infused into the straps really makes a difference.

Under Armour

Per the brand, the “UA Suspension Straps evenly distribute weight and absorb shock to keep the bag in place and help lessen the load.” That means, especially when the bag is pushed to its capacity limits, the wearer will feel less strain and fatigue.

But it isn’t just that. The bag also features another innovative design element called the Leveled Strap System, which helps ensure the shoulder straps are always even for balanced weight distribution. As if that’s not enough, they also feature webbing loops for additional gear attachments, a mainstay borrowed from tactical packs.

Under Armour

Available now

The Under Armour UA No Weigh Backpack Duffle is now available on the brand’s site in two colorways for $185.

Under Armour

Under Armour UA No Weigh Backpack Duffle

• $185 at Under Armour

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