Apera Tech Pack Review

Last Updated on May 15, 2014 by Heather Hart, ACSM EP-C

Months ago (yes, months, I really put this one to the test) I received an email from Apera asking if I’d be interested in testing one of their athletic gear bags. Now as regular gear junkies, we have a lot of bags; backpacks, duffel, hydration packs, you name it  So many that they’ve fallen in line behind hoodies under “you must get rid of one before you obtain a new one” rule Geoff has created in this house.  But regardless of having so many bags, I haven’t found one that suits most of my needs.  In fact, most days I found myself bringing not one, but two bags to the gym to fit all of my crap stuff.  So, in hopes that the claims that Apera bags fit a large amount of stuff was true, I went ahead and requested the Tech Pack for review.

In white, because I clearly briefly forgot the amount of time I spend in the mud. (But it was pretty…)

Apera Tech Pack

So what’s the deal with Apera bags?

What Apera says:

“Apera bags don’t stink. Literally. Groundbreaking antimicrobial product protection, inside and out, resists bacterial odor. Our innovative vented compartments allow your bag to breathe, while clever wipeable linings make for easy cleaning. How’s that for a refreshing approach to your bag? And Apera’s intelligent storage make our bags extremely functional. Your shoes, electronics, and wet or dry gear are kept separate and organized. And the amount of stuff you can carry is unbelievable.  Truly, Apera bags inspire your healthy, active lifestyle.”

What I say:

Thank you, Apera, for making a bag that holds all of my crap stuff.  The antimicrobial/wipeable stuff? Added bonus.

In short, I carry A LOT of STUFF around on any given day.  To work I typically bring a change of clothes (as I workout), toiletries, my planner, client files, clipboard, random technology (Camera? iPod? Hand held bio electrical impedance analysis?) snacks, supplements, shoes, and probably more shoes.  Just to name some of it.     Heading to a race?  Double the amount of stuff  (and likely the amount of dirty, sweaty, smelly, muddy stuff).

I emptied it all on the floor for your viewing pleasure.

I’m not really exactly sure how to review a backpack beyond “it fits all of my stuff” (which is my number one requirement).  But here are some other notable comments:

– More pockets than I can describe.  Months later, I still randomly find new ones.   Most notably convenient is a separate pocket for my laptop, and separate pocket for each individual shoe.

– Removable, washable pouch (seen in the lower right hand corner of the picture below).  Sweaty clothes go into it, and can go straight into the washing machine with it.  I’m not currently in triathlon mode (who am I kidding, when am I ever?) but I imagine this pouch would be most excellent post-pool workout.

– Incredibly comfortable as a backpack, with great quick release and locking buckles on the straps.  Before we moved, I often walked to work (about a mile away) wearing this pack and had zero issues with fit or comfort. 

The Apera Tech Pack retails for $124. (slightly less expensive through Amazon -> Apera Tech Pack )   For the majority of us, that is a significant investment, no doubt about it.   This , however, is a classic case of “you get what you pay for”.  I have used this bag every single day since mid February for both work, travel, and as my race day bag (I wish you could see the mud in the above pictures).  There have been no tears, snags, or wear.  If at any point this status changes, I’ll update this review.   For now, however, I am thoroughly impressed with this bag, and would indeed recommend it.  

Interested in checking out Apera bags?

Currently, Apera is offering 40% OFF the entire Blue line of bags.  Any style of Blue bag will be 40% OFF.  Also, all of the Duffel Packs, any color, are 40% OFF too.

Further, Apera is holding a giveaway every month: sign up for their email newsletter at the bottom of their website, www.aperabags.com, for your chance to win.

 *disclaimer* Apera provided me with a Tech Pack for review at no charge, however all opinions are my own.