Best Travel Luggage of 2024

Best Travel Clothing of 2024

Best Travel Accessories of 2024 

Brand of the Year 2024

Hall of Fame 2024

Best Outdoor Bag of 2024

Best Work Shoulder Bag of 2024

The post Carry Awards XI Winners | Part 2 appeared first on Carryology.

Best Everyday (EDC) Backpack of 2024

Best Slings of 2024

Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L

Chrome Sabin Sling

Grams 28 154 City Pack

Packolab Samurai

Porter Tanker Envelope

Arc’Teryx Granville Sling

Black Ember Grip Sling

Best Messenger Bag of 2024

Best Work Backpack of 2024

Best Camera Bag of 2024

Best Carry-On Backpacks of 2024

Best EDC (Everyday Carry) of 2024

The post Carry Awards XI Winners | Part 1 appeared first on Carryology.

A critical companion for your backpack, jacket pocket, or desk drawer. Upgraded for the Carryology community, this flask is a perfect sipping companion.

Introducing the MiiR x Carryology Aero Flask.

Timeless Essential

The whiskey flask is an enduring emblem of style, utility, and rebellion. Compact and discreet, it transcends eras, serving as both a practical tool and iconic bit of kit. Often gifted as a rite of passage or cherished as a personal keepsake.

Its appeal lies in its simplicity—a sleek container that carries just enough of a favored spirit to warm the heart or steady the nerves.

Best-in-Class

After the success of our MiiR x Carryology water bottles, we’re excited to bring the next phase of our partnership to fruition. Flasks are a fantastic addition to any person’s quiver. Whether used for a libation on the slopes, a shared victory swig at the summit of a hike, or even a minimalist water bottle, flasks should be a part of your kit!

Similarly to the Wide Mouth bottles, the quality of both design and manufacturing immediately drew us to the Aero Flask as the next product in our Essentials partnership. Built with a robust stainless steel (which avoids flavor transfer) and finished with a matte black powder coat, this is an understated companion. 

Also added is our signature Auxikko grip print to enhance the personality and performance of the Aero. At 8oz, it’s enough for a shared tipple or a personal cocktail depending on where the mood takes you.

The Aero Flask brings form and function together in a way that’s as effortless as it is practical. The ergonomic aerofoil shape keeps it comfortable in hand, while also making it easy to squeeze into smaller spots in your carry. Its wide-mouth, stay-open hatchback cap means refills are a breeze – no fumbling, no frustration. Plus, the cap is tethered, so it’s always right where you need it. 

Whether you’re chasing sunsets in the backcountry or unwinding in your backyard with a well-earned aperitif, this flask goes with the flow. Your go-to for adventures and laid-back evenings alike.

Planet First

Not only do they make exceptional products, but MiiR are exceptional people. Since inception it has been their goal to give back and be generous. MiiR donates profits from every sale towards nonprofit partners and by giving grants to projects that are making a difference, particularly when it comes to water safety. Through product donations, event sponsorships, and grant programs, MiiR really lives up to their “Design Forward. Generosity Driven” moniker. 

But this isn’t just some blanket statement; each MiiR product comes with a Give Code^tm printed on the base, where you can see which projects your purchase supports!

Oh, and did we mention that they are B Corp Certified, Evergreen Certified, and members of Climate Neutral and Climate Action Corps? MiiR put their money where their mouth is.

Specs and Features

Aero Flask

5.73” Height 

3.23” Width

0.4lbs Weight

Hardshell Powder Coat Finish

Carryology Auxikko Grip Print

MiiR x Carryology Aero Flask

Note, this is an Essential and will be restocked. So if you miss out and would like to pre-order, check the product page for email notifications! 

Carry on!

The entire MiiR x Carryology Essentials Collection is available for shipping to USA, Canada, Mexico, Australia and the UK

The post MiiR x Carryology Aero Flask appeared first on Carryology.

Dive into the pen world, and you’ll immediately notice a pattern: Tactile Turn pens come highly recommended by experts and enthusiasts alike. Will Hodges, the founder of Tactile Turn, has made waves, positioning the brand at the very top of the industry, renowned for quality, design, aesthetics, and a continual evolution that dials each piece to perfection. This reputation for creating truly special writing instruments has earned Tactile Turn a loyal following, making it a natural choice for our first Essentials writing tool.

The Pen

The bolt action pen is the gold standard in everyday carry (EDC) for its balance of durability, utility, and satisfying mechanism—all qualities that make it essential for serious EDC enthusiasts. Tactile Turn’s Bolt Action Pen, in particular, stands out as the leader in the field. Its machined precision and signature texture provide a superb writing experience, while the bolt action mechanism delivers a smooth, satisfying click that makes each use intentional, rewarding, and addictive. Built from high-grade materials like titanium, it’s designed to withstand daily rigors and becomes a trusted tool for life.

Beyond its timeless modern look and engineering, the Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen’s reputation in the EDC community is a testament to its reliability and thoughtful design. The pen’s mechanism is crafted to prevent accidental clicks and extend the lifespan of both the pen and its refills—an essential feature for those who rely on their tools daily. Its popularity reflects not just its utility but also its versatility, suitable for anything from quick notes to detailed sketches. The Bolt Action Pen is more than a writing instrument; it’s an enduring piece of EDC gear that brings unmatched craftsmanship and utility.

But, in true Carryology style, we’ve turned it up a few notches to spark joy in our community at large.

Auxikko Clip

With this being an EDC pen, the goal was to keep it classy and timeless, with subtle personality. We wanted a piece that feels equally at home in a suit jacket as it does in the pocket of worksite jeans. Will suggested a new type of etching they’d been exploring, and our Auxikko pattern was born. This intricate 3D etching adds story and sophistication to the pen, elevating it to a work of art that must be seen to be believed.

Knurling Grip

Not all grips are created equal, and if you’ve handled as many pens as we have over the years, you know what we mean. A pen may be perfectly balanced and beautiful, but it’s the hand feel and control that truly elevate the experience. So, we asked Will to try something rarely done with Tactile Turn—a fine knurling, a complex process that presses into the material with precision to create a subtle, textured grip. The result is a hand feel that’s an absolute pleasure, with refined control that enhances every use.

Titanium, All Day

The entire pen is meticulously crafted from Grade 5 and Grade 9 titanium. Understated, refined, and incredibly tough, it’s designed to withstand the test of time.

Cerakote Bolt

After seeing Cerakote accents on other Tactile Turn Bolt Action pens, we knew we had to add a splash of color and personality. Our signature orange contrasts beautifully with the titanium body, giving it a unique Carryology touch.

We believe the design of the Carryology x Tactile Turn Bolt Action Pen strikes a balance of elegance and toughness. From the outset, our goal was to create a piece that looked sleek yet felt robust—something that could be tossed into a backpack, clipped to a pocket, or thrown into a bag without a second thought. With aerospace-grade materials, this pen is both durable and lightweight, offering a satisfying feel in hand and reliability in any environment.

This is a timeless piece, designed to serve you for a lifetime. If you’re looking for a daily driver, desk piece, or perfect gift for someone special, this pen is essential. 

SPECS

Weight:

Dimensions:

Tactile Turn x Carryology Essentials Pen

Shipping to – CLARIFY WITH TACTILE TURN

Note, this is an Essential and will be restocked. So if you miss out and would like to pre-order, check the product page for email notifications! 

Carry on!

The post Tactile Turn x Carryology Essentials Slim Bolt Action Pen appeared first on Carryology.

< SCORE YOURS >

The MiiR Camp Cup is a modern nod to the rugged outdoor mugs we all know and love, but with a level of refinement and quality that takes it far beyond your average camp mug. Constructed from medical-grade stainless steel, it offers exceptional durability while resisting wear and tear that often plagues outdoor gear. The double-wall vacuum insulation means this cup will keep your coffee piping hot or your cocktails refreshingly cold, whether you’re by the fire or on the go. The powder-coated finish provides a tactile grip, making it easy to hold—even when hands are cold. And our fan favourite Japanese inspired geometric Seigaiha wave makes a comeback. Adding a sleek, modern aesthetic to the cup. And, true to MiiR’s thoughtful approach to design, the press-fit lid prevents spills without being overcomplicated.

But the MiiR Camp Cup goes further, delivering a sense of purpose with every sip. Each purchase is tied to MiiR’s Product to Project model, meaning you’re not just buying a cup—you’re contributing to clean water, health, and environmental projects globally. Each cup even includes a Give Code, allowing you to trace its impact online, a thoughtful touch that adds depth to the experience. It’s a beautiful, functional piece of gear with a story behind it—an ideal gift for those who appreciate practical, well-designed products with a genuine commitment to positive change.

Celebrate Day 5 of MiiR’s 12 Days of Drops with a cup that adds warmth to every sip. Don’t miss out on this special edition—get yours while they last!

The post Limited Edition MiiR x Carryology Camp Cup appeared first on Carryology.

The Prize Pack

One lucky winner will score all of the following pieces:

• 1 Overland Weekender Bag
• 1 Waxed Canvas Cruiser Jacket
• 2 Stock Tees
• 1 pair Double Knee Journeyman Pants

Overland Weekender Bag

Weekend getaways and Autumn go hand in hand. Want a bag that evokes dreams of adventures off the beaten path, with handsome styling and the durability to actually make those dreams a reality? Meet the Overland Weekender Bag. Made with 38oz oil-waxed cotton canvas from our favourite Scottish mill Halley Stevensons, the Overland weekender also boasts full-grain leather detailing, and solid brass hardware. This burly hauler fuses timeless beauty and hardwearing durability in one.

The two-way zipper offers easy access, with an interior zippered pocket on hand to store small valuables. Add in a high-vis orange lining to easily discern the contents, and you’re ready to roam when adventure calls. This will quickly become one of your most trusted companions.

Cruiser Jacket – Alaskan Waxed Canvas

A waxed canvas jacket is a classic wardrobe staple and the Cruiser Jacket is one you’ll be reaching for many years from now. Crafted with 14.75oz Alaskan waxed cotton canvas, the jacket offers protection from the elements with minimal break-in time, delivering ruggedly suave style that’s ideal for cooler weather. Complementing the waxed canvas is a cozy custom Klamath Flannel pattern blanket lining, while a two-way front zipper closure and front placket with snap buttons provide added weather protection. Add in four exterior pockets and three interior pockets and you’ve got plenty of options for carrying small EDC essentials too. Plus with added details such as a gusseted cuff closure with two snap buttons and gusseted shoulders for enhanced freedom of movement, this jacket delivers comfort and iconic style in one.

Stock Tee

Finding a t-shirt that’s simultaneously heavy and soft can be a challenge. But the folks at Iron & Resin stepped up to that challenge with the Stock Tee. It’s made in California using 6oz 100% Supima Ringspun Cotton (also grown in California) and is garment-dyed and washed for an awesome vintage look. But not stopping there, the tee also features a silicon wash to make it extra-soft and comfy from the very first wear. And as an added nice touch, you also get a handy chest pocket to stash small EDC close at hand.

Double Knee Journeyman Pant

From the workshop to dinner out, the Double Knee Journeyman Pant delivers a versatile design that can be dressed up or down depending on your needs. It’s made with 11.8oz 100% cotton canvas and offers a roomy fit for comfort and ease of movement. Thoughtful details include double-layered front thigh-to-knee panels, right and left utility pockets, hammer loops, and custom rivets on all the pockets and critical stress points, ensuring this pant is ready to work hard but is comfy enough to kick back and relax in your downtime too.

How To Enter

Entry to the giveaway is super simple: just provide your email address on this page before Monday, November 11 2024. Once the winner is chosen, they will be notified by email and have 24 hours to confirm their shipping, size, and color preference information.

Do note, this giveaway is in collaboration with several partners including:

• Heddels
• Cool Material
• Stridewise
• Carl Murawski
• Iron & Resin

All entrants will be signed up for all of the partners’ newsletters, which you can unsubscribe from at any time after the giveaway closes. Good luck!

The post Win the Ultimate Heritage Kit with this Iron & Resin Giveaway appeared first on Carryology.

In 2020, they earned our Brand of the Year Award, recognizing brands that go beyond just product. They’ve also collected several other Carry Awards and numerous accolades from publications around the globe (I’d love to see their trophy room, ha!).

So, collaborating with them for a Carryology Essentials upgrade? It’s not just exciting—it’s an honor. There’s something truly special about taking something that already works and making it even better (and more badass), together.

The World’s Best Camera and Phone Accessories, Upgraded

To begin work with Peak Design, we had to start at the very beginning: their category-leading camera accessories. After multiple visits to Peak Design’s HQ and meetings over Coors Pony bottles at trade shows, we realized the best source of inspiration was you—the end user. Based on your feedback, the number one request was to improve Peak Design’s already great straps, specifically by adding slash resistance. People often carry expensive gear—sometimes upwards of $20,000—around their necks. While Peak Design has never received a report of one of their straps being slashed, they’re committed to maintaining that flawless record, ha! And this collaboration is proof of that.

A User-Inspired Product

Driven by this user feedback, we set out to make this a true Carryology Essential—something that will restock for a limited time, giving more people the chance to experience it. Improving what’s already exceptional isn’t easy. Peak Design’s straps are already top-notch, and we’ve been using them since they first launched. Personally, I’ve swapped out all my other straps for a dozen Peak Design straps in different styles and colors, depending on what I’m shooting. For this collab, we focused on three main goals: 1) Improved slash resistance, 2) Blackout webbing, and 3) Minimal but playful branding. We included all four of Peak Design’s legendary straps: Slide, Slide Lite, Leash, and Cuff.

To enhance slash resistance, we used UHMWPE (Ultra High Molecular Weight Polyethylene), the strongest fiber (strength-to-weight) on earth. Peak Design already incorporates UHMWPE in their Anchor Links, but integrating it into the straps meant developing a custom nylon/UHMWPE blend. After extensive testing, we achieved the perfect balance of strength and comfort, significantly boosting slash resistance, as verified through machete tests at Peak Design’s HQ with high-speed cameras.

These straps were also tested in extreme conditions—at -67°F, at 145°F, across five continents, in jungles, deserts, oceans, and cities. Even after 12 months of rigorous testing, the prototypes still looked brand new.

Stronger Straps

The UHMWPE blend resulted in a rich charcoal black webbing with a subtle sheen that sets it apart from their standard solution-dyed black straps. For the branding, we opted for minimal debossed logos on Hypalon adjustment trims. The anodized aircraft-grade aluminum accents offer a tasteful pop of orange, giving the straps a distinct yet understated look.

As a final touch, all four straps come with Peak Design’s black-on-black Anchor Links, completing the sleek, “murdered-out” aesthetic.

(Not) Optional Extras

While the four-strap collection is incredible on its own, we wanted to offer a more comprehensive capsule for all users. So, we added two of our community’s favorite Peak Design products: the Capture Clip and the Mobile Tripod.

Capture Clip

Peak Design’s Capture Clip has redefined how photographers and adventurers carry their gear, offering a simple yet revolutionary solution for quick access and secure storage. By allowing users to mount their camera directly to their belt or backpack strap, the Capture Clip eliminates the need for bulky bags or straps. This innovative system ensures that your camera is always within reach while staying secure, making it perfect for fast-paced environments or rugged outdoor adventures. For this Essential, we used hard-coat anodized aluminum in blaze orange and added our signature Auxikko pattern on the back for some serious pop.

Mobile Tripod

Peak Design’s Mobile Tripod is a game-changer in portable photography gear, offering unmatched convenience and performance. Designed to fold down to just a few millimeters thick, this tripod is compact yet sturdy, making it ideal for capturing stable shots without the bulk of traditional gear. Its minimalist design is perfect for mobile photographers and content creators who need a reliable, lightweight option they can carry anywhere. What sets it apart is its versatility—whether you’re shooting in portrait or landscape mode, the tripod adjusts quickly while maintaining rock-solid stability. To make this ours, we added our laser-engraved Auxikko pattern and an anodized orange ball head—because, well… it looks awesome!

Introducing the Peak Design x Carryology Essentials Collection

• Slide CE Edition
• Slide Lite CE Edition
• Leash CE Edition
• Cuff CE Edition
• Capture Clip CE Edition
• Mobile Tripod CE Edition

The post Peak Design x Carryology Essentials Collection appeared first on Carryology.

With four timeless colorways, the Dragon 2.0 is made for the EDC, yet versatile enough for outdoor adventures and light travel. It’s refined in size, equipped with a redesigned modular Stick-It for flexible carry, and features exclusive morale patch art, hand-drawn by the legendary Dan Matsuda.

Dragon Reanimation 

When both our teams came together to discuss “what next?,” we unanimously agreed to evolve the Dragon, one of our favorite collaborations of all time. User feedback showed an opportunity to make this beast soar even higher. 

This journey began with the Scape Goat pack, evolving into the Japan-only BEAMS edition Scape Artist (read the full lineage story here), which led to the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 1.0 collaboration. Respecting this lineage, we went beyond new colorways. We returned to the design studio, wiped the slate clean, redesigned, refined, and improved the product for a better user experience.

Our first step? It starts with a window-seat view of Montana’s blue-tinted Bridger Mountains as our plane descends into Bozeman through a flurry of wind and snow.

Hours later, our team, myself, Mike Knispel, and Laurence, entered Mystery Ranch’s design war room, where we were greeted by the all-star team, Alex Rich, Tim Sakai, and Dana Gleason Jr. Moments later, we pulled up stools to the cutting table. 

Dragon Scales

The Dragon’s DNA draws from Mystery Ranch’s military and hunting lines, with a heavy dash of EDC and travel sprinkled in. For this version, using mission-tested fabric was crucial. The Dragon 1.0 was made with Dimension Polyant VX50 Multicam Black and Dyneema, a colorway bold and wild with serious expression. 

The Dragon 2.0 would be more versatile, having the ability to cross into more environments and scenarios, merging the best of Cordura and X-Pac with Dimension Polyant’s X50 Tactical fabric—500D mil-spec Cordura nylon laminated with 400D aramid X-Ply for strength and a waterproof polyester film backing. 

Three colorways use this fabric – Black, Coyote and Olive. These colorways hold meaning, and are a colorful nod to the original Scape Artist released in the same three colors (in 500D Cordura). 

And, to add some freshness, we added a White colorway in UVX40—a highly abrasion-resistant, lightweight, waterproof material. Made from 60% Ultra-PE and 40% polyethylene, UVX40 features post-consumer recycled black X-Ply and a polyester film backing.

Together, they represent four different adventure biomes: Urban (Black), Desert (Coyote), Alpine (White), and Forest (Olive), and we took this pack all over the world to test each one.

Wide Mouth

Like the Scape Goat, Scape Artist, and Dragon 1.0, Dragon 2.0 features a wide-mouth Universal Zip for quick access. It can act as a top loader or fully unzip like a panel loader. And it’s one of our very favorite backpack access systems.  

Nimble Beast

Dragon 1.0 was one of the best adventure packs we’ve designed, but for EDC, it was just too much bag. Dragon 2.0 is repatterned to a sweet spot of 26 liters, ideal for EDC and light travel. I personally used a prototype for one-bag travel on a 12-day international trip.

Futura Harness 

In our opinion, Mystery Ranch’s Futura Harness is one of the best suspension systems for comfort, stability, and load-bearing across activities. This system allows adjustability between all types of heights and all types of body types. Having this legendary system as a card to pull to improve the value of this pack is dream level. 

As with our previous collaborations, we insisted on including it in Dragon 2.0, adding tremendous value to the pack.

On-and-Off Expansion

We’ve always loved the Stick-It. The Dragon 1.0 was the first collaboration to feature a stowable version. For Dragon 2.0, we took notes from the original Stick-It design, adding loops and G-Hook Gatekeepers for full removal. Plus, we added three rows of MOLLE/PALS webbing and a Velcro loop panel for extra morale patches. Now, you can carry additional gear – from shell jackets to large oddly-shaped objects – on the fly.

Top Quick-Access Lid

Slightly repatterned but with all the utility as the last version, the top lid offers ample storage for EDC items, lined with soft stretch mesh to protect delicate gear like glasses. It also includes a key leash and a large Velcro loop panel on the exterior for morale patches.

Dan Matsuda Artwork

For this collaboration, we tapped Dan Matsuda again, who created the artwork for the iconic Unicorn 2.0. 

Both art pieces in this second wave of collaborations were created by Dan. Now, if you’re not familiar with this legend, we did a deep dive on why he’s amazing and he’s worked on many projects with us (Example 1, Example 2, Example 3, and many more).

Patch Symbolism

Dragons and unicorns. Icons of myth, rooted in the storytelling traditions of East and West. These mythical creatures embody more than fantasy; they’re carriers of symbolism. In the first Unicorn patch design, four distinct symbols emerged, standing in contrast to the Dragon patch. Yin and yang. Here’s the full breakdown of the symbolism.

The Unicorn 1.0 and Dragon 1.0 patches were conceived as companions, designed to be showcased side by side as a diptych, facing one another.

The newest iterations, U2.0 and D2.0, follow suit, featuring warriors astride their mythical mounts, poised in a moment of tension or harmony—an eternal interplay of opposition and balance.

Minimalist Hipbelt

Dragon 1.0 had a fully-featured hipbelt, but at EDC size, we opted for a simple, removable 1.5″ webbing belt, keeping things light and functional.

MOLLE/PALS (and Lasers)

Instead of more MOLLE/PALS webbing, the interior rear wall of the Dragon 2.0 features laser-cut channels for a cleaner, more modern look, and lighter weight. Eight full rows of precise MOLLE/PALS spaces allow for modular customization.

V-Buckle

We included Fidlock’s V-Buckle sternum strap for easy, one-handed clipping and unclipping. Plus, the Mystery Ranch logo is laser-engraved, adding an extra branding hit. 

Redesigned Bottle Pocket

Dragon 1.0 featured large, basket-like pockets. Deep and awesome in use, but they did blow out the clean outer lines of the pack. 

We wanted 2.0 to be clean and nimble, so those pockets had to go. Now, they’re fully redesigned and made from the same durable pack fabric, with an internal sleeve of stretch. They disappear into the lines of the pack when you don’t need them, but expand to swallow up a full-size bottle when you do need them.

Hi-Vis Interior

Instead of a full orange liner, we decided to run a combo color of black and orange. More subtle but still upping the internal visibility (because that shit matters, ya know?). 

The white colorway, however, has contrasting black fabric for that sweet Stormtrooper vibe.

Secret Pockets

The dual hidden zippered pockets on D1.0 were much-loved and useful for travel or EDC, great for securing small items that need to be kept safe when you’re roaming around questionable places. 

Redesigned, they’re more easily accessed and awesome, and remain extremely discreet and tucked away.  

Internal Pocketing

Great organization always matters. And the balance of usable space and useful pocketing here is a point of perfection. 

This pack is kitted out with high-sitting zippered mesh pockets for easy access and keeping things out of crush zones, lower stretch mesh pockets for larger items, and a lower large zippered pocket on the front panel for notepads or tech. 

Hydration With Locking Gate

The Dragon has a laptop compartment that doubles as a hydration bladder pocket, with sealed hydration hose passthroughs, both left and right sides, for mountain adventures when you want to ditch the urban life and get outdoors. 

Quick-Access Laptop + Tablet

The hydration compartment also doubles as a fully padded and suspended laptop pocket. On the front side of the laptop pocket, there’s a dedicated drop pocket for a tablet. And just like Dragon 1.0, to keep access to your laptop quick and easy (especially at the airport when TSA taps you on the shoulder), there’s a dedicated rear/side zip on the back panel for grab and go. Nice little bonus? The rear wall is also made from loop fabric, so you can add additional morale patches here.

YKK Water Resistance

All exterior pockets utilize YKK tested and proven #10 AquaGuard zippers, to ensure a long life of quality and reliability, while maintaining weatherproofness against the elements. And for everything else inside, the tough and mighty standard coil YKK zippers.

Easy-to-Grab, No-Click Pullers

All the exterior zipper pullers are made from paracord with heat shrink-wrapped ends. Easy to grab when wet or with gloves or whatever other situations life throws at you. Plus, they’re silent (no jingle jangle) and have a clean, classic look.

Hypalon

All lash points and loops utilize durable Hypalon. Grippy for gloved, wet, or cold hands. These can be used as an attachment point for a Heroclip or carabiner. Or, use them simply as their most basic function, as a counter pull to make using the access zippers smooth and effortless. 

Clean Webbing

And finally, for this one, we added elastic webbing keepers to the sternum strap and base of the backpack straps to keep the aesthetics clean and catch-free.

The post Exclusive Release | Mystery Ranch x Carryology The Dragon 2.0 appeared first on Carryology.

Dragon 2.0 comes in four timeless colorways, features a more EDC-friendly size while maintaining light travel capability, includes a redesigned modular Stick-It, and boasts morale patch artwork hand-drawn by the renowned Dan Matsuda.

Dragon Reanimation 

When both our teams came together to discuss “what next?,” we unanimously agreed to evolve the Dragon, one of our favorite collaborations of all time. User feedback showed an opportunity to make this beast soar even higher. 

This journey began with the Scape Goat pack, evolving into the Japan-only BEAMS edition Scape Artist (read the full lineage story here), which led to the Mystery Ranch x Carryology Dragon 1.0 collaboration. Respecting this lineage, we went beyond new colorways. We returned to the design studio, wiped the slate clean, redesigned, refined, and improved the product for a better user experience.

Our first step? It starts with a window-seat view of Montana’s blue-tinted Bridger Mountains as our plane descends into Bozeman through a flurry of wind and snow.

Hours later, our team, myself, Mike Knispel, and Laurence, entered Mystery Ranch’s design war room, where we were greeted by the all-star team, Alex Rich, Tim Sakai, and Dana Gleason Jr. Moments later, we pulled up stools to the cutting table. 

Dragon Scales

The Dragon’s DNA draws from Mystery Ranch’s military and hunting lines, with a heavy dash of EDC and travel sprinkled in. For this version, using mission-tested fabric was crucial. The Dragon 1.0 was made with Dimension Polyant VX50 Multicam Black and Dyneema, a colorway bold and wild with serious expression. 

The Dragon 2.0 would be more versatile, having the ability to cross into more environments and scenarios, merging the best of Cordura and X-Pac with Dimension Polyant’s X50 Tactical fabric—500D mil-spec Cordura nylon laminated with 400D aramid X-Ply for strength and a waterproof polyester film backing. 

Three colorways use this fabric – Black, Coyote and Olive. These colorways hold meaning, and are a colorful nod to the original Scape Artist released in the same three colors (in 500D Cordura). 

And, to add some freshness, we added a White colorway in UVX40—a highly abrasion-resistant, lightweight, waterproof material. Made from 60% Ultra-PE and 40% polyethylene, UVX40 features post-consumer recycled black X-Ply and a polyester film backing.

Together, they represent four different adventure biomes: Urban (Black), Desert (Coyote), Alpine (White), and Forest (Olive), and we took this pack all over the world to test each one.

Wide Mouth

Like the Scape Goat, Scape Artist, and Dragon 1.0, Dragon 2.0 features a wide-mouth Universal Zip for quick access. It can act as a top loader or fully unzip like a panel loader. And it’s one of our very favorite backpack access systems.  

Nimble Beast

Dragon 1.0 was one of the best adventure packs we’ve designed, but for EDC, it was just too much bag. Dragon 2.0 is repatterned to a sweet spot of 26 liters, ideal for EDC and light travel. I personally used a prototype for one-bag travel on a 12-day international trip.

Futura Harness 

In our opinion, Mystery Ranch’s Futura Harness is one of the best suspension systems for comfort, stability, and load-bearing across activities. This system allows adjustability between all types of heights and all types of body types. Having this legendary system as a card to pull to improve the value of this pack is dream level. 

As with our previous collaborations, we insisted on including it in Dragon 2.0, adding tremendous value to the pack.

On-and-Off Expansion

We’ve always loved the Stick-It. The Dragon 1.0 was the first collaboration to feature a stowable version. For Dragon 2.0, we took notes from the original Stick-It design, adding loops and G-Hook Gatekeepers for full removal. Plus, we added three rows of MOLLE/PALS webbing and a Velcro loop panel for extra morale patches. Now, you can carry additional gear – from shell jackets to large oddly-shaped objects – on the fly.

Top Quick-Access Lid

Slightly repatterned but with all the utility as the last version, the top lid offers ample storage for EDC items, lined with soft stretch mesh to protect delicate gear like glasses. It also includes a key leash and a large Velcro loop panel on the exterior for morale patches.

Dan Matsuda Artwork

For this collaboration, we tapped Dan Matsuda again, who created the artwork for the iconic Unicorn 2.0. 

Both art pieces in this second wave of collaborations were created by Dan. Now, if you’re not familiar with this legend, we did a deep dive on why he’s amazing and he’s worked on many projects with us (Example 1, Example 2, Example 3, and many more).

Patch Symbolism

Dragons and unicorns. Icons of myth, rooted in the storytelling traditions of East and West. These mythical creatures embody more than fantasy; they’re carriers of symbolism. In the first Unicorn patch design, four distinct symbols emerged, standing in contrast to the Dragon patch. Yin and yang. Here’s the full breakdown of the symbolism.

The Unicorn 1.0 and Dragon 1.0 patches were conceived as companions, designed to be showcased side by side as a diptych, facing one another.

The newest iterations, U2.0 and D2.0, follow suit, featuring warriors astride their mythical mounts, poised in a moment of tension or harmony—an eternal interplay of opposition and balance.

Minimalist Hipbelt

Dragon 1.0 had a fully-featured hipbelt, but at EDC size, we opted for a simple, removable 1.5″ webbing belt, keeping things light and functional.

MOLLE/PALS (and Lasers)

Instead of more MOLLE/PALS webbing, the interior rear wall of the Dragon 2.0 features laser-cut channels for a cleaner, more modern look, and lighter weight. Eight full rows of precise MOLLE/PALS spaces allow for modular customization.

V-Buckle

We included Fidlock’s V-Buckle sternum strap for easy, one-handed clipping and unclipping. Plus, the Mystery Ranch logo is laser-engraved, adding an extra branding hit. 

Redesigned Bottle Pocket

Dragon 1.0 featured large, basket-like pockets. Deep and awesome in use, but they did blow out the clean outer lines of the pack. 

We wanted 2.0 to be clean and nimble, so those pockets had to go. Now, they’re fully redesigned and made from the same durable pack fabric, with an internal sleeve of stretch. They disappear into the lines of the pack when you don’t need them, but expand to swallow up a full-size bottle when you do need them.

Hi-Vis Interior

Instead of a full orange liner, we decided to run a combo color of black and orange. More subtle but still upping the internal visibility (because that shit matters, ya know?). 

The white colorway, however, has contrasting black fabric for that sweet Stormtrooper vibe.

Secret Pockets

The dual hidden zippered pockets on D1.0 were much-loved and useful for travel or EDC, great for securing small items that need to be kept safe when you’re roaming around questionable places. 

Redesigned, they’re more easily accessed and awesome, and remain extremely discreet and tucked away.  

Internal Pocketing

Great organization always matters. And the balance of usable space and useful pocketing here is a point of perfection. 

This pack is kitted out with high-sitting zippered mesh pockets for easy access and keeping things out of crush zones, lower stretch mesh pockets for larger items, and a lower large zippered pocket on the front panel for notepads or tech. 

Hydration With Locking Gate

The Dragon has a laptop compartment that doubles as a hydration bladder pocket, with sealed hydration hose passthroughs, both left and right sides, for mountain adventures when you want to ditch the urban life and get outdoors. 

Quick-Access Laptop + Tablet

The hydration compartment also doubles as a fully padded and suspended laptop pocket. On the front side of the laptop pocket, there’s a dedicated drop pocket for a tablet. And just like Dragon 1.0, to keep access to your laptop quick and easy (especially at the airport when TSA taps you on the shoulder), there’s a dedicated rear/side zip on the back panel for grab and go. Nice little bonus? The rear wall is also made from loop fabric, so you can add additional morale patches here.

YKK Water Resistance

All exterior pockets utilize YKK tested and proven #10 AquaGuard zippers, to ensure a long life of quality and reliability, while maintaining weatherproofness against the elements. And for everything else inside, the tough and mighty standard coil YKK zippers.

Easy-to-Grab, No-Click Pullers

All the exterior zipper pullers are made from paracord with heat shrink-wrapped ends. Easy to grab when wet or with gloves or whatever other situations life throws at you. Plus, they’re silent (no jingle jangle) and have a clean, classic look.

Hypalon

All lash points and loops utilize durable Hypalon. Grippy for gloved, wet, or cold hands. These can be used as an attachment point for a Heroclip or carabiner. Or, use them simply as their most basic function, as a counter pull to make using the access zippers smooth and effortless. 

Clean Webbing

And finally, for this one, we added elastic webbing keepers to the sternum strap and base of the backpack straps to keep the aesthetics clean and catch-free.

The post Mystery Ranch x Carryology | The Dragon 2.0 Rises appeared first on Carryology.

The Griffin II collection isn’t just an exercise in nostalgia; it’s a statement about where luxe and utility can intersect in the modern world. 

Three styles built to move: the iconic CTB26, the CAP1 you’ve been waiting for, and an ode to an icon – the Civic Bookbag 22L. 

Ready for the journey? Let’s go!

THE GENIUS OF EVERGOODS

EVERGOODS is more than just a brand—they’re a force in the Carry Universe, pushing boundaries of design, and leading the way in EDC/Travel crossover goods. 

From their Bozeman workshop, Jack and Kevin have crafted a reputation for delivering some of the most utilitarian, tough, and versatile gear out there. Despite being a small operation, EVERGOODS consistently punches above its weight, turning out products that have won multiple Carry Awards and gained a loyal global following. Their designs don’t chase trends; they build for the long haul, with each product carefully iterated, tested, and refined.

When we collaborate with EVERGOODS, we’re working with the best. Whether it’s reimagining iconic designs or developing new gear from the ground up, they approach every project with the same level of intensity and attention to detail. There’s an unmistakable spirit behind their work— and we just had to combine focus again. 

TIMELESSNESS OF WAXED CANVAS

Waxed canvas, one of the oldest materials still in use, has its roots in the gritty world of seafaring men. In the mid-19th century, Scottish sailors, grappling with the challenge of wet sails that, though effective, weighed them down, discovered a breakthrough. By treating their sailcloth with linseed oil, they created a fabric that shed water on the surface while staying dry underneath. This innovation didn’t just waterproof their sails; it led to the birth of the fisherman’s slicker, a precursor to modern rainwear. The linseed oil, though practical, had one flaw: it yellowed with age, a trait that defined the iconic yellow of traditional slickers.

By the 1930s, the game changed. Linseed oil was swapped for paraffin wax, which infused the canvas, making it more breathable and flexible while solving the yellowing problem. This new waxed canvas quickly became a staple, first for British WWII soldiers who donned it for its unmatched ruggedness and water resistance. Post-war, it found its way into everyday use, from heavy-duty rainwear to rugged gear for motorcyclists. Today, waxed canvas continues to thrive, proving that even as trends come and go, some classics remain untouchable.

A CUSTOM GRIFFIN’S PELT

Finding the best waxed canvas on the planet and taking it up a notch—that was our mission. After testing samples from Europe, Asia, and the USA, it was clear: Halley Stevensons in Dundee, Scotland, was the gold standard. With over 150 years of expertise, their factory, built in 1864, is a marvel of old-world craftsmanship and cutting-edge technology. Their secretive, high-tech processes are the stuff of legends, from custom dyeing to pressurized wax application.

We chose their top-tier P400 fabric, a heavy-duty cotton designed for high-abuse gear, but we wanted more. So, we pushed for an even tougher, more water-resistant coating. Halley Stevensons delivered with Wax C4X.

The P400 Wax C4X has a crystalline wax finish, sharper, harder, more durable than anything else out there. Tested against the elements and ready for whatever you throw its way.

 This exclusive fabric, custom-made for our collaboration, is not only resilient but feels incredible in hand. 

TAN 

When choosing our colorways, we wanted to balance our selections. One color for everyone, an undoubtedly classic choice. And that was tan. A color that immediately evokes the past. 

DISRUPTIVE PATTERN MATERIAL

And secondly, a color for expression. For those who want to stand out (while blending in). A pattern choice that nods to streetwear and fashion. And that had to be camouflage. In this case, a modern pattern play on DPM (Disruptive Pattern Material) taken from ’90s armed forces of the Netherlands. 

But Disruptive Pattern Material (DPM) originally came from Britain and made its debut in the late 1960s, transforming camouflage with a bold blend of black, green, brown, and beige. It wasn’t just another pattern—it was a game-changer. Designed to vanish into northern European woodlands, DPM became the go-to for British troops in the gritty environments of Northern Ireland and the Falklands, and later spread to other parts of the world. 

Now, DPM has transitioned into a cultural icon. Brands like Barbour and Fred Perry have taken this once-military staple and turned it into a statement of British style. You see DPM on the streets now, a symbol of enduring toughness and timeless appeal. It’s a pattern that went from battlefield innovation to streetwear legend, proving that some designs are so good they defy the passage of time.

CIVIC TRAVEL BAG 26

One of the greatest crossover bags in existence. We took our boundary-pushing CTB26 and merged it with a material forged from centuries of craftsmanship. Two colors, each steeped in history, each made from a custom wax-finished shell that’s stiff to the touch but tough in the field. 

Then we added leather zipper pullers, made by the 100-year-old Berger Co., giving the bag the kind of authenticity you can’t fake.

The inside? Hot orange. Bold, bright, with the kind of energy that pulls you in. The 420D HT Nylon lining in hot orange doesn’t just look good—it’s functional, helping you find your gear fast. A nod to the past with a mind for the future.

ELEVATED SIDE POCKETS

We wanted those CTB26 side pockets to blend old-world style with new-school utility. The answer? A gusseted pattern that expands when you need it and stays sleek when you don’t, thanks to hidden magnets. It’s clean. It’s clever. And it’s built to hold a 1L Nalgene like it was made for it—because it was.

TIMELESS LEATHER

Leather pulls, crafted by American hands with over 100 years of expertise behind them. We went back to Berger Co. for the second chapter of the Griffin collection. This isn’t just leather; it’s legacy.

MATSUDA PATCH

Every piece in the Griffin Collection carries a mark of distinction: a limited-edition leather patch, custom-designed by the legend, and long-running Carryology collaborator, Dan Matsuda. 

AN ODE TO AN ICON – THE BOOKBAG

To move the Griffin Collection forward, we looked back. The Civic Book Bag 22L, or CBB22, is a classic, reinvented. A bag built for daily life but grounded in history. With P400 Wax C4X, we gave it a heritage texture. With EVERGOODS’ signature harness, we gave it all-day comfort. The leather bottom? Pure protection and structure, so it holds its own no matter where you take it.

CBB FRONT ADMIN POCKET

The front admin pocket is engineered with independent volume—meaning it expands to hold a CAP1, jacket, or notebook without taking up room in the main compartment. 

Inside are two drop-in pockets for your phone or passport, and a pen or knife slot. Even the key leash is an exercise in precision.

PANEL LOADER

Old-school bookbags? Dark pits. The CBB22? Full-panel access. Pack it tight, or pack it light—you’ll get in and out with ease. The internal laptop sleeve is padded and suspended, keeping your gear safe, while the opaque security pocket ensures your valuables stay hidden but close.

QAP

Quick access pocket for your shades or small essentials. Top yoke design. Independent volume. Everything where it needs to be, without the hassle.

CAP1

A pouch with roots. The Griffin CAP1 takes our trusted compact pouch and elevates it with heritage fabric from Halley Stevensons. Built tough with P400 Wax C4X in three colors and finished with the hot orange lining that ties the entire collection together. It’s the past meeting the future in the palm of your hand.

ANALOG CLOSURE

Inspired by the analog era, the CAP1’s closure system echoes the simplicity of old letter boxes and envelopes: string + button. It’s tactile, satisfying, and perfectly in tune with the Griffin’s heritage vibe. Expand it when you need, keep it flat when you don’t—its 1L volume adapts to whatever load you’re carrying.

GRIFFIN PREPARING TO FLY

Welcome to the Griffin II Collection, where the echoes of history mingle with the sharp edge of modern design. We’ve taken the finest heritage materials and infused them with EVERGOODS’ relentless spirit, crafting three pieces that transcend the ordinary: the CTB26, the CAP1, and the new Civic Bookbag 22L. It’s a collection that blends the old with the new, capturing the raw essence of what makes everyday carry both a necessity and an art form.

Each item in this collection tells a story—crafted from the legendary P400 Wax C4X fabric by Halley Stevensons, every stitch and seam speaks to a tradition of rugged elegance. With leather pulls from Berger Co. and side pockets that expand and contract with a silent grace, the Griffin II Collection stands as a tribute to craftsmanship and resilience.

 It’s not just gear; it’s a testament to the persistence of the past and the promise of the future. For those who seek more than mere function, this collection offers a glimpse into the soul of carry.

DROP DETAILS

Launching: 

September 12th, 10am EST 

Visit Carryology.com at this exact time to open the ‘Exclusive Release’ article and get access to the drop. 

Shipping globally

CTB26 FEATURE LIST

CBB FEATURE LIST

CAP1

The post EVERGOODS x Carryology Griffin II | Exclusive Release appeared first on Carryology.