Review: Patagonia Ironwood Pack 20L

Patagonia

Ironwood Pack 20L
patagonia.com

The Ironwood Pack from Patagonia has the simple and classic design of every backpack you have ever owned. What sets this pack apart from every other one out there is its sturdy construction and superior padded Human Curve shoulder straps that make it feel like I’m not hauling many pounds of gear on my back. Patagonia uses recycled polyester fabric that keeps the pack light and durable enough for the mountains or professional use. Not only is the body made of 100-percent post-consumer material, it is treated with a polyurethane coating and a durable water-repellent finish, and the lining offers the same treatment to ensure that gear stays dry. The inside offers a raised 15-inch padded sleeve with an adjustable buckle to keep your laptop in place. While the main compartment is huge, the secondary “stash” pocket is big enough to store all of the smaller necessities. The Ironwood Pack is available in nine different colorways that look good regardless if you’re running to class or down a dusty trail. The last few packs I’ve had were rough and slow (either from the start or after a month), but the zipper on the Ironwood is one of the smoothest I have ever used—it even sounds clean. Some of my favorite features on this pack are the five exterior lash points, top-mounted, reinforced haul handle and lower accessory loop. The lash points are perfect for clipping carabineers to, or running paracords through for water bottles, or any gear you need to get to on the fly or larger items that wouldn’t fit in the main compartment. I have a feeling that this bag will last me many years of professional commuting and recreation. –Granato