I've started discord
With outdoor brands from Europe, North America, Asia and around the world, Japan is a very blessed environment for mountain tools lovers, even looking at the world. It is also true that in Japan, there are countless outdoor brands that unfortunately end up being buried before they reach many people's hands.
It is one of these hidden good brands, and I have been personally fond of this site since I first started this site, THULE . THULE was originally the world's leading brand for automotive carriers and travel bags , but it was in 2015 that it entered the outdoor backpack. the time of his debut , I couldn't help but feel a new breeze with its high functionality and innovative design.
we will review the Topio 30 , a lightweight and comfortable backpack for hiking, released by THULE last year I would like you to read this if you've seen it in a store, but it was a manufacturer that I didn't know very well so I somehow shun it." Please let us know your review right away.
table of contents
- The main features of the Thule Topio 30
- Detailed review
- Comfort: Tension mesh (back ventilation) rear panel with a comfortable fit
- Stability: The back adjustment mechanism and high center of gravity form overcome the weaknesses of the tension mesh type
- Weight: Despite being so generous, it is "light"
- Storage and functionality: Abundant storage and attachments that you wouldn't expect from a lightweight model
- Summary: Don't underestimate it as an unknown brand. Recommended for beginners, as it lowers the threshold from camping and strolling to hiking.
The main features of the Thule Topio 30
The Thule Topio is a multi-purpose backpack in two sizes, 30 liters and 40 liters, perfect for day hiking and light-wearing hiking. The back panel is lightweight yet breathable and comfortable to the skin, and the back panel is made of a framed tension mesh structure that can be adjusted to adjust the length of the back, providing a comfortable fit for a wide range of body types, both men and women. The harness shape along the body lines and high center of gravity form allow for stable action that reduces strain on the body. The storage surface is also equipped with convenient side zippers for easy access to main storage, as well as convenient storage spaces such as the front, top, sides, hip belt, and other convenient storage spaces that allow you to put in and take out without lowering the pack. The side zipper pocket also comes with the included rain cover. It also has a wealth of external attachments that you wouldn't expect from its clean appearance, such as gear loops and straps that can store trekking poles, and inconspicuous lashing points, making it suitable for serious hiking. This is an all-around hiking and trekking backpack that allows you to easily advance along the trails all year round.
Favorite points
- lightweight
- The back panel with tension mesh construction that provides outstanding breathability and comfort
- High center of gravity form with high load stability
- Micro-adjust suspension system with adjustable rear length
- Easy-to-access main storage, plenty of pockets and attachments
- A sophisticated modern look
Interesting points
- The hip shoulder belt has low rigidity, making it difficult to maintain comfort under large loads
- I wish there was a pocket on the shoulder area
Main Specifications and ratings
| Item name | Thule Topio 30 |
|---|---|
| capacity | 30L |
| Actual measured weight | 1.1 kg |
| material |
|
| Models for women | Common model for men and women |
| size | 29 x 24 x 59 cm |
| Rear panel |
|
| Hydration sleeve | 〇 |
| Main Access |
|
| Rain cover | 〇 |
| Pocket attachment |
|
| Outdoor Gearzine Rating | |
| Comfort | ★★★★★ |
| Stability | ★★★★☆ |
| Storageability | ★★★★☆ |
| Functionality (ease of use) | ★★★★☆ |
| Durability | ★★★☆☆ |
| weight | ★★★☆☆ |
| Hiking satisfaction | ★★★★★ |
Detailed review
Comfort: Tension mesh (back ventilation) rear panel with a comfortable fit
What makes this backpack appeal stand out simply because it has a modern look that doesn't look like a traditional "mountain climbing backpack" and its exquisite comfort.
The refined texture of the heather black and the clean look with buckles and straps that are not too noticeable gives a soothing impression that you'll wonder, "Is this a mountain climbing backpack?" This pack will help you complete your journey to far away towns and explore the local nature. By the way, it is not only suitable for design, but also for this 420d nylon oxford fabric (environmentally friendly 1500mm C-0 DWR coated), which is sufficient for its durability and weather resistance.
On the other hand, the overall feel of carrying is focused on the basics, while highlighting the unique differences in detail.
First of all, the backpack uses the tension mesh type (photo below) using the tension of the curved frame and mesh fabric. This itself has been widely used by various manufacturers over the past few years, and is not uncommon.
This type of rear panel is generally made of elastic, tight mesh, and gives it a gentle touch and flat, providing a moderate fit. the Topio is slightly rough and is stretched all over the back, giving it an exquisite balance of lightness, feel, fit, and breathability. The joints from the back to the waist are also smooth, making it hard to feel uncomfortable when carrying them on your back. It maintains luxury, perfect for beginners to mountain climbing.
When carried, there is a gap between the back and the pack for air to pass through, reducing the discomfort caused by stuffiness on the back, which can easily cause a lot of sweating (photo below). When hiking, you can't avoid sweating from your whole body even in the hot summer, as well as in winter if you walk thoroughly. In such cases, keeping your back, which tends to accumulate sweat, cool and dry, can avoid dangerous discomfort such as cold sweat.
In addition, the shoulder straps are designed to reduce weight and breathability in detail, such as highly breathable mesh fabric and EVA foam made from a hollow core material (photo below). However, although it is highly breathable and comfortable, the harness's rigidity decreases, so if you try to pack too much weight and walk around, you may be concerned about the weakness of the product being bitten towards you (of course, there is no problem with using it in light activities).
Stability: The back adjustment mechanism and high center of gravity form overcome the weaknesses of the tension mesh type
The tension mesh-shaped back certainly provides a better fit and breathability, making it seem comfortable to carry, but at the same time there are pitfalls. This means that due to the structure, the center of gravity tends to be pulled backwards (away from the body).
Topio also firmly incorporates these structural weaknesses and takes measures to address them. These are two mechanisms that will increase load stability, which we will look at in the future.
One is a harness structure that follows the body shape and contours of the body. It is equipped with the Micro-adjust Suspension System, a rear length adjustment mechanism that is rare for backpacks with small capacity and tension mesh structures, allowing for a significant length of 10cm. It fits perfectly on a wide range of heights and figures, not just for men and women, and provides a stable, easy-to-wear feel (photo below).
The other is the shape of the backpack itself. It is basically a cylindrical shape, but the bottom area of the pack is slightly narrower and doesn't fit very much at the bottom, while the top (especially at the shoulder) has a larger volume, allowing more luggage to be stored. This prevented the center of gravity from a distance from the body, making it easier to position the center of gravity more stable than the upper back and near the shoulders.
Also, if there are fewer luggage, you can tighten the bottom strap on the outside to allow even fewer luggage to move towards the top.
The top allows you to store more luggage, with a high center of gravity design
A shoulder stabilizer that pulls the backpack firmly towards your body minimizes shaking of the pack.
Weight: Despite being so generous, it is "light"
So far, we have seen the skillful structure of the tension mesh that keeps the comfortable carrying experience on your back, but does not sacrifice load stability, but Topio 's greatness doesn't end here. What's more surprising about this backpack is that despite its rich comfort, it is lighter than average. The 1,100 gram weight of the Topio 30 the Gregory Zul 30 (M/L size 1,420 grams) with tension mesh and the slightly larger Osprey Stratos 34 (1,430 grams).
Storage and functionality: Abundant storage and attachments that you wouldn't expect from a lightweight model
The quality is still in good condition in terms of packing and usability, and comes with a variety of options for organizing and storing gear.
The main storage is a panel loading type with a zipper that opens wide to the sides (40-liter type is a rain cover type). It can be quickly put in and taken out, and easily accessed to the center and bottom, making it a reasonable shape for this size (top left of the photo below).
At the top there is a top zip pocket for storing small items such as maps, wallets, energy bars, and keys (top right of the photo below). The opening is a bit difficult to open, but other than that, it's convenient. Incidentally, hydration sleeves and tube holes are also located near this area.
There is also a zip pocket on the side where small items can be stored (bottom left of the photo below), and the included rain cover is pre-installed here. The left and right hip belts are large enough to accommodate your smartphone (bottom right of the photo below).
The "Shove-it Pocket™" on the front has a large, elastic pocket that can be easily pushed in even if it's a literal large luggage (top left of the photo below). It is convenient for storing additional winter clothing, rain gear, and other items that you want to access quickly. The stretch mesh pockets on both sides are facing diagonally, so you can put and take drinks in while standing (top right of the photo below). Attachment loops are also securely placed on the bottom and sides to secure trekking poles and other items (left and right of the photo below).
Incidentally, the compression straps on the sides come with velcro to secure the pole, and they can be removed and repositioned immediately to avoid getting in the way of opening and closing the main storage zipper, providing an option to avoid any hassle. I really think that the politeness of this kind of thing is the difference between Class A and many others.
There was a fixed loop for passing carabiners and bungee cords through this bottom position (photo below) that you wouldn't find unless you search closely. When you try to get away from being a beginner and use it in a slightly more detailed way, the practicality of this type of thing will be greatly different between those with and without.
The carry handle at the front, which also serves as a small accent, is useful for travel and other occasions (right of the photo below).
Summary: Don't underestimate it as an unknown brand. Recommended for beginners, as it lowers the threshold from camping and strolling to hiking.
Thule Topio backpacks are not only known, but in reality, they are not only basic construction, but also full of Scandinavian simplicity and functional beauty, smart, stylish, safe and environmentally friendly, and are unique and highly complete with ingenuity that has been built up in detail. Gregory Zul 30 and Osprey Stratos 34 , which have the same concept , but also has the weapon of being lighter.
Lightweight, comfortable to carry, and highly breathable backpacks cover a wide range of areas, from hiking to more serious mountain climbing, and with minimal and compact equipment, you can even take a one-night hike. Additionally, the 40-liter model is a little too big for a day trip, but it can also be used for more serious climbing for a few days. Overall, this is a highly recommended item for beginners who are learning about the appeal of outdoor activities through camping and nature strolling, and are beginning to want to try something a little more challenging.
