The Element backpack has already become a fan favorite and user favorite in just a few days and weeks. We are very pleased about this, as the Element backpack represents one of the most important development steps in our company history. Ergonomics and practical features are by no means enough to summarize or explain this product. That's why, in this detailed post, we provide honest and direct answers to all the questions that have arisen about the Element backpack from interested parties and buyers in the past. Perhaps this will help you make your own decision:
¿? I'm not sure if the Element backpack is too small/too big for me!
☞ The Element backpack is based on the volume of our backpack 2.0 and explorer+ in terms of storage space. Thanks to its new design, it looks more compact on the outside and is as light as possible on the back, but still offers plenty of storage space inside for even extensive equipment. The ergonomic system also works reliably for body heights from approx. 160cm to over 190cm and transfers the weight of the load comfortably to the hips. The hip belt can of course be removed if required.
¿? I am interested in the explorer or have been recommended it. Is it no longer available?
☞ The explorer & explorer+ were our first synthetic fiber models for outdoor use and have won over many customers. We wanted to develop them further in order to resolve points of criticism and improve every aspect. Unfortunately, this was not possible in the partnership at the time. However, in order to be able to offer better functions, high-end materials and ergonomic features for the future, we developed the Element Line and the compagnon CarryLite Ergo carrying system ourselves. We share the necessary high-end production partners for our Element Line with brands such as norønna, patagonia and arc'teryx. Here we find not only the quality but also the know-how to perfectly manufacture such an amazing product. Ultimately, we believe that anyone who liked the explorer will love the Element backpack.
¿? How can I be sure that I am wearing/trying on the Element backpack correctly?
☞ Especially with highly developed ergonomic carrying systems, the correct fit to your body is of the utmost importance. Even an enormously functional design cannot work ideally if it is poorly adapted to the wearer. We are therefore happy to give you the following tips for (trial) wearing and adjusting to your anatomy: Before putting on the Element backpack for the first time, you should adjust the shoulder straps to the maximum length and put it on. Now adjust the hip belt first. Make sure that the hip belt is positioned comfortably on your pelvic bones and tightened tightly without constricting you. Only then should the shoulder straps be loosely adjusted to your measurements. When you are standing upright, the shoulder straps should maintain body contact but not press your shoulders down. It is important to loosely adjust the length of the shoulder straps. Finally, you should place the chest strap inside the upper half of your chest and adjust it to a length that positions the shoulder straps comfortably on your shoulders. Now your Element backpack is adjusted to you and can be loaded.
¿? I know compagnon for leather products. Why is the Element Line now available without any leather?
☞ We love our leather collection and many owners, some even from the very beginning in 2013, love it just as much. But even though compagnon leather is robust, natural and highly water-repellent, we wanted to go one step further for the demanding alpine/hiking/outdoor sector. We wanted a vegan alternative that would not only save weight but also offer the highest level of protection for equipment and durability. XPac offers us all that and more.
¿? What kind of material is XPac and why does it look so unusual?
☞ Our classic backpacks have always been made largely from traditional Scottish canvas. There is a fitting parallel here with the Element Line, whose outer skin is also a sailing material. However, it is based on the latest innovations and is used by the world's top sailing teams as a racing sail. Developed by the world market leader DP in Kempen near Düsseldorf, XPac offers a number of advantages: XPac is a very light but high-strength and robust laminate. The multi-layer structure ensures that XPac cannot be physically penetrated by water. This means that we can dispense with coatings that are often harmful to the environment and the waterproofness does not wear off. Thanks to the XPly, the reinforced X-structure inside the laminate, the fabric is extremely strong and can withstand enormous loads, especially in outdoor use. Even stubborn dirt can hardly stick to the surface and can usually be simply wiped off. If you are now wondering why this incredible material is not generally used for outdoor products: Unfortunately, this performance comes at a price that exceeds common fabrics by a factor of 5-10. But your satisfaction and our vision are worth it.
¿? Will the Element Line be available in other colors in the future?
☞ We are not currently planning any additional colors. The unique high-tech outer material X-Pac is generally only produced in a few colors, so adding more colors would be extremely time-consuming and extremely expensive. Therefore, we are leaving the color range at the currently available and super versatile options Volcano Black (beautifully subtle) and Desert Brown (classy and yet not too conspicuous).
¿? Is the Element backpack waterproof and why does it come with a rain cover?
☞ Waterproof bags must not let any liquid into the interior, even under water. Of course, this does not even apply to the Element Line. The XPac material of our Elements is completely waterproof in itself, but of course this does not apply to the entire bag. The YKK Aquaguard zippers as well as the other materials are extremely water-repellent and can easily keep out almost any precipitation. The cover, which is included with the Element backpack and Element Sling 15, is designed to provide additional safety and protection in heavy rain lasting several hours and also to help keep your Element clean and make cleaning easier, especially in muddy/dirty conditions. If the cover is completely soiled with mud after a trip, it can also be cleaned in seconds with a high-pressure cleaner if necessary.
¿? There is a Velcro fastener at the top of the roll-top area that closes tightly. Can I avoid the Velcro noise if necessary?
☞ Of course you can. Even though the roll-top strap reliably closes a carefully folded roll-top, we wanted to offer the additional security of an extra barrier. But the Velcro fastener naturally has a silencer function. When open, it can be folded down and fixed, so you can access the roll-top area silently.
¿? How is the roll-top area separated from the main storage compartment?
☞ With the Element backpack, you can use both storage areas separately at any time or open the divider with a zipper and load large items through it. This divider is very flexible and can also provide some space from above and below when closed. The divider can effectively separate a damp rain jacket from the equipment, but of course does not offer sufficient security for leaking drinks bottles. There are practical bottle holders on the left and right of the Element backpack for this purpose.
Do you have another question about the Element backpack that we haven't answered here? Then take a look at our video tutorial on the Element backpack or simply send us an email with your question. We will be happy to help you there. If you have any questions about the Element Sling 11 or Sling 15, take a look at our detailed posts about these models on our blog. Best wishes and have fun with your compagnon Element backpack!
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