Antler have launched a new line of luggage, targeted towards the active side of the travel market, including everything from backpacks to mega decker trolley cases. On test here is the baby of the range, the Tundra backpack.
First impressions of the Tundra leave me wondering how it can possibly compete, with such a lack of technical features surely it can't be useful for anything other than the odd trip to the swimming pool with the kids? Surely the lack of lumbar and chest straps render the pack useless for activities which require considerable movement such as cycling or walking?
Using the pack, however you start to get the sense that Antler know how to make bags and the knowledge and attention to detail derived from years of focussing purely on this pursuit starts to shine through.
The Tundra hugs your back as well as any of the more technical packs we've tested and the shoulder straps feel secure even when you take the intensity of your activity up a notch.
The back panel is heavily padded and has a mesh covering to help dissipate heat. The bag is light for its size at only 800 g and the compartment and pocket design is refreshingly simple with just one cavernous compartment complete with articulated sides, and a few front, internal, and side pockets.
The main compartment opens fully along the front area of the bag which allows great access to those bits at the bottom of the bag that you would normally be forced to rummage blindly for.
The useful laptop carry pouch inside the main compartment is heavily padded and, crucially, stops short of the bottom of the bag, helping to prevent knocks and bags.
The two zipped, articulated, side pockets are the perfect size for flasks and drinks bottles and a handy keyring with buckle allows you to quickly clip and unclip your keys to the bag when you don't want them jangling around in your pocket.
The Tundra comes with a good quality combination lock and has a three year guarantee although the quality of construction seems excellent so we can't foresee it needing to be used.
The pack is slightly let down by dull and boring looks but, that aside, Antler have really hit the nail on the head with the Tundra, blending practicality with simplicity to create a bag that can be put to many uses.
