Patagonia Arbor Grande pack – Retro Styling with a Twist

Patagonia Arbor backpacks – Retro looks

There are several backpacks in the Arbor line up.  From the Arbor Market 15Land Arbor Daypack 20Lto the Classic Pack 25L and even a Grande 32L.  Patagonia sent us over the Arbor Grande 28L to test out.  The first impression is that this is a basic backpack suitable for back to school.  In fact, it would be ideal for high school or college use.

The details make the difference

In true Patagonia style, there is much more to the backpack than it looks.  The polyester fabric is recycled and bluesign approved.  I love that Patagonia goes the extra distance to make a humanly made backpack of recycled materials.

Durability and style

The 600D recycled polyester is a thick and durable material. The colors are solution dyed and the fabric is coated in PU and DWR for weather protection.  This backpack may look like a regular book hauler, but there certainly is much more to it.

Organization

There are two sizeable and stretchy side pockets that swallow up water bottles with ease.  On the front, there is a zippered pocket to keep easy access items in.  There is a zippered top pocket as well. Perfect for keys and snacks. The main compartment is sizable – 28L.  Unclip the two buckles to gain access to it.  There is a sleeve for up to 15″ laptop.  I tested it with my current MacBook Pro 15″ and it fit just fine.

Even more organization

This is the coolest part of the backpack.  There is a zippered lower pocket that is ideal for keeping used clothing or shoes in.  This separation pocket is actually quite handy.  Think about it.  You could use the Arbor Grande as a daypack, then head to the gym and switch clothes.  After using the gym you can put your stinky clothes in the bottom pocket.  This could be very helpful for a lot of students or business people.

Final thoughts on the Patagonia Arbor Grande pack

This would make an ideal back to school gift for any student that needs to carry a full day worth of school supplies, laptop and gym clothes.  MSRP$129

See also –

Patagonia Steel Forge Denim Pant – Dyneema infused US Made Workpant