Oak25’s reflective backpack keeps you visible in the dark
5.1.2024
Translation: Jessica Johnson-Ferguson
If you’re a cyclist, you’ll know that being seen in traffic at dusk and in the dark is extremely important. However, I never warmed to the idea of wearing a high-vis vest. That’s why I tested the Oak25 rolltop backpack, which is designed to make cycling commuters visible.
I love exercising. Being able to sneak a wee workout into my everyday life is even better. On the way to work, for example. Covering the first 20 kilometres by bike and the rest by train. This combination means I’ve already got some morning exercise in before even reaching the office. Plus I can leave the car at home. To me, that’s a win-win situation.
But, and there’s always a but, I find it quite stressful to be on my bike during rush hour when it’s dark out. I want to be visible, but am not always sure my red rear light can guarantee that.
This has led me to start a search for better visibility. Sure, I’ve heard of high-vis vests. However, I almost always have a backpack on, so it doesn’t seem like the most practical option. Putting a vest on over a backpack must be really uncomfortable. And wearing it underneath my backpack kind of defeats its purpose.
That’s why the Oak25 Commute L immediately appealed to me when I first laid eyes on it at the Outdoor by ISPO trade fair in Munich. A large part of its surface is reflective. You no longer have to choose between a high-vis vest and a backpack, but have two in one. In other words: the Commute L makes your back light up.
A backpack for cycling commuters
Able to fit 27 litres, this rolltop backpack is the most spacious model by Oak25. Thanks to the rolltop, it can be expanded to 32 litres if needed. I use it to carry my laptop and other electronic accessories, a water bottle, clean clothes and shoes for the office, a towel, shower gel and whatever else I need. Depending on the weather, I also pop in a set of dry cycling clothes for the way back. I really dislike wearing the same outfit that’s still damp from my morning cycle. And with its volume of 27 litres, there’s plenty of extra space.
While the reflective surface was the strongest argument for me to buy this backpack, I also appreciate its sturdy, water-repellent surface. After all, I want my change of clothes to still be dry when I get home. Not to mention worrying about my laptop in case of a sudden downpour.
Simple organisation
The inside of the backpack is a no-frills affair. There’s a large inner section with a separate laptop compartment that can also be accessed from the outside via a zipper on the back. That’s it. The zippered laptop compartment’s very handy if you just want to quickly get out your computer on the train without having to rummage through all the other stuff.
Source: Siri Schubert
At the front of the backpack, under the reflective surface, there’s a fairly spacious extra pocket that isn’t connected to the inner compartment. It offers enough space for your wallet, mobile phone or anything else you want to keep close at hand. My 11-inch iPad also just about fits inside.
Comfortable for short distances
It goes without saying that my commute isn’t super comfortable when I’m shlepping half my closet plus a laptop. If I wanted more comfort, I’d have opted for a bike with panniers. But I’m not embarking on a half-day bike tour, I just want to get to the station in the morning and back again in the evening. For this purpose, the Commute L is definitely comfortable enough.
Source: Siri Schubert
Although a ventilation channel down the centre would’ve been useful, overall airflow is sufficient thanks to the cross grooves. At least in typical autumn and winter temperatures. Thanks to the height and width-adjustable chest strap that closes with a magnetic clip and the reinforced shoulder straps, the backpack is easy to adjust and a snug fit.
Verdict: safety clothing item fit for everyday use
What sets the Oak25 Commute L backpack apart is its reflective surface that provides you with extra safety when you’re travelling on your bike.
Source: Siri Schubert
The backpack also features a few other advantages. It’s water-repellent and sturdy and provides enough space for many other things you might want to have with you. Thanks to its rolltop design, you can make it larger or smaller depending on how much space you need. What I also like is that the rucksack is functional without making you look like you’ve just come back from an extreme mountain tour and ended up in the streets of Zurich.
Header image: Siri Schubert
Siri Schubert
Senior Editor
Siri.Schubert@digitecgalaxus.chResearch diver, outdoor guide and SUP instructor – I love being in, on and around water. Lakes, rivers and the ocean are my playgrounds. For a change of perspective, I look at the world from above while trail running or flying drones.
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