r/ManyBaggers • u/TheBagdadReport • Dec 31 '25
2025 Bagdad Report Backpack Awards
1st Annual Bagdaddio Awards
I want to start out by saying this has been a fun and exciting year for me. Reviewing backpacks and other gear is enjoyable for me. I look forward to 2026 as I look to expand to my you tube channel. I also really enjoy all the different views and opinions. The carry nerd world is the best. I have met some awesome people and I can’t wait to keep this thing going. These awards are clearly my opinions. Many people will disagree, but that’s what makes this so much fun! I also can’t review every single bag out there, so my list is based on my own personal use. Enjoy, and I’d love to hear some feedback and your thoughts! Happy New Year!
Dad Bag of the Year - Evergoods MPL22 Kludde
What a collab! The Kludde is my go to. It is my dad bag, my grab and go bag. I carry it with me EVERY DAY. I have my edc pack for work, but my Kludde is in my truck for my everything else bag. I have the MPL22 in Kludde Gravel Gray and in Artic. I also got an original one in exploration yellow. I love the huge water bottle pockets on each side. Plenty of room for “dad” beverages. I like the layout with 2 front pockets. I also love the fact that they didn’t try to overbuild the laptop set up. This absolutely can be used as an edc, but this serves best as a grab and go everything else bag. Carryology and Evergoods knocked this one out of the park! This is my all time favorite bag at the moment, and it will take something astronomical to overtake it as best damn dad bag on the planet!
Most Comfortable Backpack - Fyro Tenax 22
I would like to say this was close but Fyro took the game to the next level. Others considered here are the runner up, Able Carry Max EDC, and the Aer CPP2. What Aaron and the Fyro team has done to create the lightest, most comfortable, and functional backpack is nothing short of amazing. If you have not tried the Fyro yet and you value comfort, I urge you to give it a shot.
EDC Backpack of the Year - TIE - Aer City Pack Pro 2 / Evergoods CTB20
This one was really tough for me. This one is about as even as it gets. I probably use the CTB a little more because the layout, but these two bags are absolutely incredible. The CTB20 also feels bigger than 20L. I have this pack in the the olive green 420d nylon as well as the x-pac/coyote version. I use them both. The x-pac is gorgeous, but the 420d is a durable beast. That green is pretty badass as well. Also considered is the Fyro T-22 x-pac. It’s a great size with the best comfort on the planet. I just need a little more quick access. The hatch, although very innovative, did not function well for me.
Sling of the Year - Rework Toshi Sling V.2 Series - 5L & 6L
Whatever size fits you best, these slings are winners. I have become a rework fanboy. I loved v.1 and I love v.2. I have all 3 of these and all 3 have a specific use. If I had to choose one, I’m going to go with the 6L. They are very close in size, but the 6L comes with the padded strap. It’s not necessary, but it is truly comfortable, and it’s adjustable. This was the main thing I did not like about the Able Carry Core sling. Not being able to adjust the pad is aggravating. I have a complete review of the sling on here. This is probably the one product I have nothing negative to say anything about. I just wish they didn’t switch the strap from v1. Much more traction on that one.
Pocket Reliever of the Year - Rework Toshi Sling 2.5L
This is exactly what the name says, pocket reliever. It’s a smaller version of my favorite sling. I can’t say enough about the functionality of the Rework Toshi layout. It may not be perfect for everyone, but it is perfect for me. There were a few to consider here. I did not get my Citta Sling in time to compete for this award, but I love the layout and material of that one. And the Bellroy Venture Ready Sling 2.5L is always going to be on this list. With that one though, I love my Baida ripstop nylon version. I believe they stopped selling this fabric. I haven’t seen them restock it anyway. I love that fabric.
Travel Bag of the Year - Minimul M38
I love what Seung is doing with Minimul. I like how he thinks outside the box and takes some risks. The yellow color is bold and I like it. I also like the tech compartment. It’s different. I like seeing new ideas. This bag is very comfortable. I also considered the one I use the most which is the CTB26. But I wanted this award to be a 30L+ bag. I was hoping I would have the Levo from Fyro in time for this but I did not. Also, I have to be completely honest, I am not a huge travel backpack guy. If I am flying, I have me rolling carry on and my backpack. If I’m traveling by car, I’ll pack out the travel backpack, but I still have my normal backpack that I carry around.
Best Dual Purpose Bag of the Year - Evergoods CAS 2L
This bag is truly great at 2 things. It’s a sling and a fanny pack. It is amazing at both. I have this in the 840d nylon as well as the Kludde version in ultra. This is probably my most used bag. If I’m not wearing it, it’s in my backpack in case I just want to go sling or fanny mode. As a dad with active kids, fanny mode is my mode of choice!
Eye Candy Award- Able Carry Max EDC
Everything about this bag screams luxury and quality. I have the desert brown “golden” color. It is absolutely beautiful. I wish this bag had a better quick access pocket layout, but other than that, this pack is gorgeous and incredibly comfortable. This is one of my all time favorites.
Best Small Backpack of the Year - Go Ruck Bullet DC 18L Robic
For me, this category is anything w0L and below. I’m going to be honest, I don’t carry small ass backpacks. I think it looks silly ona dude carrying a tiny backpack. But this mofo, is anything but tiny. I think this DC 18L bullet carries more like a 22L bag. I sear, you can fit so much in this pack. The Robic material makes this bag even more badass. I tried it in x-pac and it was terrible. I sent it back. The Go Ruck straps on x-pac are amateur hour at its finest. They f’ing suck. Back to the good. This Robic bag of awesomeness is one that I find myself using much more than I thought I would.
Ladies Choice - Rework Toshi Pack 20L
My wife loves the shit out of this backpack. She uses it as her EDC. It is just too small for my frame, but the pocket layout is pretty awesome. I wish they would make one of these in a 24L.
Brand of the Year - Evergoods
What can I say? These guys just do shit right. Kevin Dee and the guys are putting out quality gear that just works. I have more Evergoods bags than any other brand, and I actually use them. It’s not just bags though, the CAP 1, 2, and .5 are must haves in everyday carry. Hell I use them in my grab and go dad bag as well. Their 420d and 840d nylons are the best in the backpack world. The bottle pockets are undisputed champions of the world! And let’s not forget the best collab of the year with the Kludde collection. Best collab ever in my opinion.
Newcomer of the Year - Fyro
Fyro is doing some badass shit over there. Aaron has really taken a huge step forward with making Fyro a name brand that has some staying power. The Tenax 22, the Levo travel bag, the Citta slings, and the packing cubes made their presence known this year. And now Aaron is talking about adding even more to their product line. Possible new day bag, tech pouch, large sling, etc. That is so impressive by a young brand. Let’s not forget, they just rewrote the book on backpack comfort! I cannot say enough about how comfortable their bags are. One more thing, their customer service if f’ing incredible! For a small operation, Aaron and Denise respond within hours. Customer service is important to me and they have started out with some kick ass service!
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u/juicebox03 Dec 31 '25
I like my CTB, but the straps on Evergoods are meh.
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u/Left_ctrl Dec 31 '25
I need to accept that they don't work for me and sell my CTB. I've had it for two years and it absolutely wrecks my upper back.
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u/bonsai1214 Dec 31 '25
I read the title and thought you were testing bags in Iraq.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
Lmao! It really is a play on words. I meant for it to have a little cheesy dad humor;)
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u/WhatsUpWolfman Dec 31 '25
Awesome post thanks! Where’d you get those EG patches?
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u/TheBagdadReport Dec 31 '25
Alpinhound on Etsy. He has his own site now. His name is Greggor. Tell him I sent you. He’s awesome!
https://alpinhound.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopxzwq2msB9t1r_x8EzRH0_vxIgQS2vBvtLhn7uEjwoDtj48sUw
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u/WhatsUpWolfman Jan 02 '26
Awesome thank you! Loved the write up- I’m also a dad with 4/6 here. I have the CTB26 but love that Kuddle and the lighter weight vs my waxed canvas option. Thanks for the link :)
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 02 '26
You bet! He can make the patches any color you want. He is really quick too. Tell him Chad with Bagdad report sent you over and he’ll prolly give you at least a 10% discount.
The CTB20&26 are my edc, my travel bag, and the Kludde is my grab and go dad bag. I didn’t even try to be an Evergoods fanboy. Their bags just work. The layouts, the quality, and the comfort just check all my boxes. Your kids are at that fun age! You def need that dad bag! Haha
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u/Interesting_Tower485 Dec 31 '25
Agree, I love the Kludde but mine's not well used yet. But man is this thing designed and built so nicely - got the grey and (also?) added a max patch. Right there with you on ctb 20 OD and for me it's the TP3S ultra that I have instead of the CPP2. All great. Travel for me is the matador globerider 35 .. it's outstanding. Will have to re-read your post for other comments. Great write-up.
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u/TheBagdadReport Dec 31 '25
Thank you, I really appreciate that! So, I wasn’t able to get my hands on the globerider. From everything I have heard, it would have made the list.
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u/CherryPlay Dec 31 '25
Nice packs. I just scooped the dsptch ruck pack in ecopak and it’s awesome
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u/mkriso Dec 31 '25
Thanks for the review. I share the same comment on MPL22, owning one in black magic. I also found that the top handle works well as a luggage passthrough. Another great grab and go backpack for me this year is the Alpaka Bravo Backpack in the 9th anniversary edition. My third choice for a more professional style backpack is Pioneer Panda pack V2. The forest green colour looks in my opinion awesome. For shoulder / messenger style bag by choice for this year is AON Chio X, although I am awaiting arrival of the newest release - AON Forma 1.0X, but this one I will test next year. For tech pouches not many changes for this year - the most used were the Bellroy Tech kit and pencil case in the carryology collab.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
That is also some good choices! I bet that Pioneer in green looks badass! You have a photo?
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u/Bix615 Dec 31 '25
Good write up/reviews. As someone who has carried numerous Evergoods bags over the past 6 years, it feels like 2025 is the year they (Kevin) lost the plot. My CPL24 will always be on my GOAT list, but I’m giving my remaining bags to my family members. My oldest daughter has already claimed my CHZ26 for a trip to Kenya.
The Tom Bihn Synapse 25 in their new Spectron material has moved into the drivers seat for my daily grab and go bag.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
Yeah, I can def see how it has gotten stale for some people. Tom Bihn is a brand that I absolutely cannot get into. All those pockets just remind me of one of those Swiss gear or ogio bags. To each their own though:)
My CTB and Kludde will be buried with me! Haha
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u/theoncomingstormWh0 Jan 05 '26
Do you ever carry a laptop in your Synapse? It’s on my short list but I have read iffy performance with it and laptops. I’m hesitant to spend more for the Synik as I’ve blown my annual budget on “me” spending.
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u/Bix615 Jan 05 '26
I specifically bought this for travel without a laptop as I use my CPL24 for any laptop needs.
I’m actually using the Synapse on my first trip as we speak. Just got off a cruise ship and spending a couple of days in Miami…so I did bring my laptop on this trip. I preface that with the fact I also have the Away Kit frame sheet (highly recommended) in the bag. I decided to just throw the laptop in the bag naked between two packing cubes with day use clothes for the beach. It worked, but not an ideal everyday scenario. All that said, on the days I’ve just used it for grab n go on this trip, it’s been ideal. The straps and harness are so much more comfortable than I thought they would be. I dig this bag.
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u/travelingpostgrad Dec 31 '25
Nice recap! It was a great year to be a bag aficionado. I agree, Fyro has been an interesting story and I can't wait to get my Ciatta's in hand to see how they perform. They T22 was an excellent bag, and traveled well for 1-2 night one bag trips for me, but it overlapoped with my CTB20, and it and my CTB26 are just my go to. But I agree, very comfortable bag, loved the tech sleeve - I just didn't love the look of the hatch.
Looking forward to the evolution that 2026 brings. Left foot, Right foot - keep moving forward!
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u/Past_Basket4567 Dec 31 '25
I have the kludde sling and loving it, but that mpl22 kludde is just a top wishlist for sure!
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
I have it in gray and Artic. As many packs that I have, I cannot get away from it. It’s pricey, but I promise, it is worth every penny!
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u/Left_ctrl Dec 31 '25
Debating between the Rework, CPP2, and Able Carry for a new EDC as I'm walking to a co-working space most days and my 15L pack isn't big enough for my daily loadout.
You say the rework is too small for your frame - how big are you, exactly. I'm 6'5" and 250ish so I feel like it might also be too small for me. But then again you love EG and my CTB 26 just doesn't work on my back so who knows?
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
Yes, rework would look silly on you. I’m 5’9” 215lbs, and it looks silly on me. I wouldn’t wear it. I was begging Jia with Rework to make a 24L. Hopefully they will. With you being much taller than me,the only 20L bag that would look good on your frame would be the CTB20 or possibly the Sympl Commuter pack witch they also make in a 24L. Awesome bag!
The Able Carry would look best on your frame. That bag is fine as shit too. And it is the best made with the best interior! The CPP2 is the better designed layout. And it stands great! The Able Carry, not so much. For you, I think it really comes down to how much quick access do you want and how much organization you want the pack to have.
Comfort is no problem with either. Both are in my top 4/5 most comfortable bag all time. Able Carry wins out for me, but it’s close.
Also on the CPP2, the webbing for the straps is only 3/4” wide, which looks kind of silly in my opinion. I tripped Aer for this on my review. Really my only knock, but it’s a big one. This allows the straps to twist up A LOT when putting the bag on and off. EVERY other bag I have used has a 1” wide webbing strap. 🤷♂️ Able Carry’s strap webbing is f’ing incredible. The best built on any pack I’ve ever tested.
I have both. If you want my honest take, I’m going Able Carry max edc all day. Hope this helps my friend! Happy New Year!
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u/Left_ctrl Jan 01 '26
The fact that the Rework manages to cram two padded, suspended laptop sleeves in it appeals to me as I carry a 14in MacBook Pro and a portable monitor with me to a coworking space most days.
But I already felt like 20L was too small. Evergoods just doesn’t work for me - I have a CTB26 and while I love the bag the harness wreaks havoc on my shoulders.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
The CPP2 has more space in the laptop compartment to accommodate your monitor. Able carry is one sleeve, but they have the pockets to put your mouse and charger right there. I love that feature.
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u/theoncomingstormWh0 Jan 05 '26
Man your comments help a lot. I’m about our height and torn between these two but it seems the max edc is just a bit better.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 05 '26
I am happy to help any way I can. You cannot go wrong with either one. They are both in the top 5 edc backpacks in the world right now. The Max EDC feels more like a 24L than 26 and the CPP2 feels closer to 22L. It really is splitting hairs. I’m happy to answer any specific questions you have to help you with your decision.
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u/theoncomingstormWh0 Jan 05 '26
I am curious why the Aer is your top EDC vs the Max EDC?
Also do you have any concerns of the Aer zipper delaminating with use? It’s a small thing but would bug me and I know it. 😂
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 05 '26
I think the CPP2 is designed a little better for edc. I feel the max edc can crossover better. To clarify a little better, when I am thinking edc, I am thinking of what I am carrying to work every day. The term “edc” can mean different things to different people. The layouts of the CPP2 and the CTB20 to me, are designed a little better for work organization. Sorry if that was a little confusing:)
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u/theoncomingstormWh0 Jan 05 '26
I think I get your meaning.
Sounds like the CPP2 fits your EDC of work, which will be more than half of what I’d need it for. The Max EDC sounds like a EDC for more situations outside of work.
My edc is often with a laptop for work but also dealing with a crazy high energy kid so my edc is yours with extra lol
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 05 '26
lol! I know what you mean. I have two but they are 8 and 9 now, but I still have to carry crap for them. I think you should go with which one you think looks the best. The comfort in both are AMAZING!
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u/AmexPlatty Dec 31 '25
Where did you get that patch for the evergoods bag?
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
From Alpinhound on Etsy. His name is Greggor. He actually has his own site now to avoid Etsy fees. Tell him I sent you and he will give you 10% off. Link to site below. He is awesome. Can also do customs to look however you want.
https://alpinhound.com/?srsltid=AfmBOopxzwq2msB9t1r_x8EzRH0_vxIgQS2vBvtLhn7uEjwoDtj48sUw
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u/Tru707 Jan 02 '26
I love my Fyro T-22 I wish I had the xpac verision because all my other bags outside bellroy are Xpac but the T-22 is amazing comfortable, pretty good compartment, I use the side zips as my quick access when it comes to keys and wallets, with my basic EDCs battery bank, flashlight, pen, notepad, hand warmers, and sometimes my cellphone. I do have the city pack 2 which is extremely nice, but the fryo quickly took its spot.
Ima have to find a way to get the able carry max, my lady my flip a lid when she see another bag entering in the family lol.
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 03 '26
Haha! I know the feeling! My wife is the same way. Every time you get a bag, make sure she gets a surprise too. Trust me, it works! lol
Yeah the T-22 x-pac version is incredible. They picked a great x-pac too. It is less crinkly sounding than any other bag I have had. If you find a version out there, you should pick it up!
If you are a bag collector, the Able Carry max edc is a must! It’s one of my favs for sure!
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u/alexcalva Dec 31 '25
Great post! Agree on the Kludde MPL22 being amazing, I have that same one in grey too. What do you usually carry in your grab and go dad bag?
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 02 '26
That varies on what I’m doing or where I’m going. The ball park, the basketball gym, etc. I always have extra battery, cap1, over ear headphones, change of clothes or hoodie, and my medicine. Then whatever the kids need to be carried around. Kiddos are 8&9.
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u/trianglesandtweed Dec 31 '25
I’m pretty set on the cpp2 but torn between the base and the ultra. Mostly a travel bag not edc since I like a briefcase for in office days
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u/TheBagdadReport Dec 31 '25
That is a tough one. If it were me, I’d lean ultra. Literally cannot go wrong with either.
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u/libertytrigger Dec 31 '25
Thanks! How can we find your YT channel?
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u/TheBagdadReport Jan 01 '26
It’s not live yet. I am hoping within the next month. Work has been crazy and I think between my son and daughter, we have 7 practices, cheer, or dance stuff a week! I will be sure to keep everyone posted. I want to have a little humor in it as well. 😉
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u/M00SEK Dec 31 '25
Nice write up!
The MPL22 is everything I want in a bag... except for the inability to stand. Does this get annoying at all? Or is it a non issue for you?
Due to that I went with the CB22 and absolutely love it. I dont miss the water bottle pockets as much as I thought, but also having 2 kids, I see the value of having them lol.