Craft Cadence Backpack Preview

Paul Horta-Hopkins

We take a quick look at the Craft Cadence Backpack in this preview.

Step forward the Craft Cadence Backpack. If you’re a commuter then this new pack might interest you. Craft has produced a striking waterproof pack that can keep your clothes and a laptop safe and dry. We have one on review, so take a quick look and we’ll let you know how we get on with it.

The Craft Cadence Backpack

Commuting to work for many makes a lot of sense. No sitting in traffic jams, or on trains going nowhere. No getting up close and personal on sweaty tube trains. You’re doing your bit for the planet, getting a bit of exercise and you know what time you’ll get home. Ok, you’ll occasionally have to deal with rain, always less that people think though in my experience. And for those days, if you’re using a backpack to carry your stuff, you want a pack that will keep your gear dry. No one wants to start the day with wet pants!

Craft say the Cadence is the cycling backpack with the commuter in mind. This is an updated version of the original, if you want to see what changes have been made check out their blog.

Inside the Cadence is cavernous

The Craft Cadence comes in two colours, we went for the Hi-Viz yellow, perfect for commuting. You can go for stealth black, but anything that helps you stand out on the commute is a bonus. The design of the pack is reminiscent to me of a pannier. I think it’s a combination of the roll-top closure and its’ simple, clean lines.

The Cadence has just one large compartment, with a smaller pocket on the front. The main compartment is IPX5 certified waterproof, with a removable sack with a padded laptop bag inside. The bag is made from a heavy-duty, rubberised fabric, that feels like it will take a lot of damage. It also looks easy to clean, with that smooth surface and plain finish.

The roll-top closure has velcro tabs, backed up with buckled straps, that will allow you to attach spare clothing or a helmet. That big opening means it should be easy to chuck all your kit in, and if you use the removable sack you can separate clean and dirty clothing. The sack also has a mesh lined pocket for your bits and bobs.

The straps are adjustable

The shoulder straps are adjustable and attach to the top of the padded back pads. The pads sit either side of your spine, allowing for some air-flow, minimising sweaty-back! Chest and waist belts help distribute and secure the pack on your back.

As well a being really bright yellow, there are various reflective tabs and a loop for a rear light. Again, anything that gets you seen is good.

Is it me, or is this bag smiling?

As I said, I’ll be trying the Craft Cadence out over the coming weeks and will let you know how I get on.

Craft