I'm an incredibly indecisive shopper. I will look through every inch of a product, how it will look on with gear in it, how comfortable it seems, and more before I decide to buy. Your video made this process incredibly easy and I went right on to purchase the bag. They've gotta hire you as an official spokesperson!
Decided to look at some reviews on this Sling and clicked on yours first, no need to see anymore reviews, YOU sold it to me. Great review, many thanks :)
I was originally going to buy one used, but the differences you showed in the update just made me purchase the new version in canyon hike saffron. Looking forward to it! This was super helpful, thanks for sharing!
I so appreciate this video. I had bought the old version earlier this year for Disney travel. I have 3 kids but between ponchos, sunscreen and water bottle it was tight to put anything else. I will definitely be checking out the new one as the front pocket is HUGE compared to the old version.
Great review. I need a second ATOM sling bag for camera gear, so I just ordered a new one. Judging by the images online, it should be the new version. Thanks for pointing out the differences. The extra space will be a big help.
When you show the opening is wider on the new version, I'm just not seeing it. It almost looks smaller like the zipper doesn't go as far as the older one - maybe it's the angle or something. I wish they kept all the zippers and compartments colored orange. It make finding items easier too. I managed to find this bag in this color brand new and ordered it. I can't wait to get it!
Helpful video! Though I understand the benefits you laid out, the original gray color and tighter fit does make it look a tad more elegant for me, without the crumbly look of new one at front, if you wish to use this in non-hiking scenarios. Comparisons Much Appreciated
Thank you! I just bought my Atom bag as it had good Google reviews on having a comfortable strap. I was needing a purse or bag I could use to carry belongings to appointments. I bought it because of the strap reviews as well as I have specific needs for it to sling a certain direction. Only I didn't know much about the features and your video explained them all perfectly. I'm very happy and excited to use my first Patagonia atom sling bag. And your right about colors selling out quick. I had no idea until after purchase but I bought the last one in the cabin gold colors on the website.
Yeah got one a year ago. Thankfully it was the newer version. I love it. Looked at the Osprey equivalent which also looks cool… think this is better. I only got it over the Osprey because all my other bags are Osprey and wanted something different. Cool video man. Thank you.
Weird question! I can’t try one on locally, could you let me know if it’s ‘asymmetrical’ in the way that I can sling it over either shoulder? The site says it is, but I can’t really find a definitive answer online. Thanks! Great video by the way.
I just got one of these, a few people jave question whether iPad Pro 11 with Magic Keyboard will fit, it doesnt really fit in the back of the divider, which was annoying, but then I tried the front and it fits easily in there with room to spare
Great video... I'm gonna buy one for my trip to Europe...I heard they have problems with pickpockets...I can keep my passport, money, etc in the front pocket... Thanks for sharing 👍
Nice review, thank you! Quick question, when you have it decently loaded, do you ever feel it pulls the strap some and rubs your neck? Also have you ever compared it to their Black hole 8L sling? Thanks!
Got the newer version, the lack of zipper on the inside big pocket kind of sucks I would imagine putting smaller items in there and having it divided securely would be a plus but no it lacks that. The divider does it job when separating wallets, passports, phones basically anything not big enough to flip over into the other side. I guess the bigger pocket on the strap justifies it but I use it for my iPhone 13 pro and it can get tight especially when forcing bigger lip balms in there.
This is a pretty cool looking bag. Personally I decided to go with the Nike Sportswear Essentials sling. I like the look and overall design of that bag more. That said I did very nearly get this bag, it is quite nice looking.
@@Miguel-th3wx Hey, Miquel! Well going by what I'm seeing here, I think the Nike may have more room. However, this bag does seem more 'sling friendly' with the side pocket providing access to core of the bag. The Nike bag I have is, more or less, like a traditional backpack though it does have a side zipper for a small tablet (and it's padded which is nice). Personally I placed my tablet in pouch located the main compartment and used the side zipper compartment for stuff I may need quick access too such as my wallet and phone. That way I can get to those things without taking off the bag. But yeah I think there's more options with the Nike bag though, if I'm being honest, I ultimately went back to my Bellroy 9L bag. The Nike bag is amazing but the padded strap was pretty uncomfortable. But that's because I'm a big guy thus have a thicker neck. Haha! But yeah I'd suggest the Nike bag over this one if you were looking for more of a backpack sling. For me I think the standard sling design is more for me (Bellroy/Aer/Alpeka). As a matter of fact I just purchased the AER Day Sling Max which I think might be my go-to sling due to the crazy amount of pouches and pockets in the main compartment.
@@genefactor007, I just got the Venture 9l and like yourself, I also have a big neck (😢) and long torso. I prefer the the same types of sling you mentioned, less colors/loud and slimmer profile but compartments and well done organizational pockets that can expand or contract. Do you have the newer Bellroy slings or the earlier versions? The reason I asked was because I ended up choosing the Venture 9l over the AER Max because of the dual zipper access and that the main compartment, when opened, doesn’t flop down. This is important for me as I use mirrorless cameras and lenses and don’t want to be clumsy one day and have it slide out as that’s an expensive learning exercise. The Atom seems like a more casual EDC sling that is great for city and personal travel usage. I’m in a corporate setting so the AER or Bellroy slings work better for my use cases, but the Atom seems more useful for city or personal travel Not sure about using the sling left shoulder though as I always use it on the right shoulder. May need time to get used to it, or not.
Does the new model not have the key holder? I also have the old one so I'm very interested but another valid option is the tomtoc sling which is not very expensive either. I do miss in my model that the front pocket is so small
Well, I've bought the new version thanks to your review - overall, this atom sling is incredible for EDC, but still has some major flaws though... 1. No anti-thief protection at all = no hidden zippered pocket for a wallet or cardholder and passport inside the main compartment (and this is the must for a city dweller!) as well as no some additional prevention from easy zippers opening when the sling is on your back ((( 2. This cushioned separation for a tablet in the main compartment is still far from ideal - while in the previous version it left about half of the tablet open to a scratches and impacts from inside but provided secure hold, in the new version instead it protects better from scratches and impacts while completely insecure from the tablet could just easily slip out of the sling and fall on the floor when you open the sling in the vertical position = why didn't they just make the cushion from the previous release more deep to protect tablet better and hold it tighter preventing slipping out so easily?! ((( 3. No additional holders for a water bottle = its so risky to put the bottle inside just next to a tablet, cause water could be leaking and would spoil your gadget... ((( I'd prefer external waterbottle mesh pocket or it could be internal at least - just to prevent bottle from moving freely with some guarantee its neck would stay at least pointing up to mitigate the leaking probability. With this in mind - still one of the best sling on the market though!
Great insight Yuri! I agree with all your key points. Funny thing is between the new and the older version. I've found myself using the older version more because of the slimmer profile. The new version wears big and poofy. Especially when it's not filled up with stuff. I may comeback to give my final verdict video and announce my preference for the older style.
Agreed. I went ahead and made the purchase despite having the same concerns. Sort of bummed there's not at least a zipper compartment on the back. I love the aesthetics and I'll be using it primarily for day hikes. Pacsafe, specialize in anti-theft slings and waist packs. They can be a bit pricey.
One thing you'd do is not wearing the thing on your back and you can easily do that without a fancy anti theft mechanism. Unlike a backpack a sling moves to the front pretty easy and comfortably. I'd agree with the second argument but the third one, no because it's not meant to and you can grab a bottle with a carabiner (which can also work as a anti theft system)
I just bought this today and I'm returning it. They made the main zipper at least an inch shorter than the previous version, which makes it difficult to use. With my ipad inside (which barely fit, btw), I can't open the bag enough to put items inside. The previous version looks better, but are difficult to find.
@@AlexNapierHolland I have a 9.7” iPad Air in a Smart Cover and found the old version of the Atom. It fits in the old version but not the new version. No chance of your iPad setup fitting.
An iPad 9th generation 10.2" won't fit in the zipper mouth, too narrow. A Samsung 10.1" A7 will fit. I no longer have an older 9.7" iPad to try fitting. The biggest change is that the second compartment actually has some real thickness. By rough estimate, 2/3 of the thickness goes to the main compartment and 1/3 for the compartment with the narrower zipper slot. It just went up to $65.
I'm an incredibly indecisive shopper. I will look through every inch of a product, how it will look on with gear in it, how comfortable it seems, and more before I decide to buy. Your video made this process incredibly easy and I went right on to purchase the bag. They've gotta hire you as an official spokesperson!
Thanks Payton 😊
I'm a similarly indecisive shopper! I appreciate these videos so much.
Same here.
Decided to look at some reviews on this Sling and clicked on yours first, no need to see anymore reviews, YOU sold it to me. Great review, many thanks :)
Thank you for showing what it looks wearing it in front. So many reviewers seem to forget that's how some people want to wear theirs.
Just pulled the trigger on this based on your in depth review……good stuff, subbed 👍
Thanks Richard!!
I was originally going to buy one used, but the differences you showed in the update just made me purchase the new version in canyon hike saffron. Looking forward to it! This was super helpful, thanks for sharing!
Recently got this as a hiking bag. I love it and now use it all the time . It would be really nice if they had more colors
I so appreciate this video. I had bought the old version earlier this year for Disney travel. I have 3 kids but between ponchos, sunscreen and water bottle it was tight to put anything else. I will definitely be checking out the new one as the front pocket is HUGE compared to the old version.
Great review. I need a second ATOM sling bag for camera gear, so I just ordered a new one. Judging by the images online, it should be the new version. Thanks for pointing out the differences. The extra space will be a big help.
When you show the opening is wider on the new version, I'm just not seeing it. It almost looks smaller like the zipper doesn't go as far as the older one - maybe it's the angle or something. I wish they kept all the zippers and compartments colored orange. It make finding items easier too. I managed to find this bag in this color brand new and ordered it. I can't wait to get it!
Helpful video! Though I understand the benefits you laid out, the original gray color and tighter fit does make it look a tad more elegant for me, without the crumbly look of new one at front, if you wish to use this in non-hiking scenarios. Comparisons Much Appreciated
Your review sold it for me. Thanks.
Thank you! I just bought my Atom bag as it had good Google reviews on having a comfortable strap. I was needing a purse or bag I could use to carry belongings to appointments. I bought it because of the strap reviews as well as I have specific needs for it to sling a certain direction. Only I didn't know much about the features and your video explained them all perfectly. I'm very happy and excited to use my first Patagonia atom sling bag.
And your right about colors selling out quick. I had no idea until after purchase but I bought the last one in the cabin gold colors on the website.
Refreshing review on how detailed it is. Subbed.
Yeah got one a year ago. Thankfully it was the newer version. I love it. Looked at the Osprey equivalent which also looks cool… think this is better. I only got it over the Osprey because all my other bags are Osprey and wanted something different. Cool video man. Thank you.
Thank you for this review you sold me on it! Now it’s time to choose a color!
so glad I watched this! So very helpful! I also like another commenter, bought new from REI.
Great review! Thank you. My question is does it stay in place on your back or does it work it’s way to the front when you’re moving about? Thanks!
Weird question! I can’t try one on locally, could you let me know if it’s ‘asymmetrical’ in the way that I can sling it over either shoulder? The site says it is, but I can’t really find a definitive answer online.
Thanks! Great video by the way.
Great review! Thanks for posting this. I'll be ordering one tonight.
I just got one of these, a few people jave question whether iPad Pro 11 with Magic Keyboard will fit, it doesnt really fit in the back of the divider, which was annoying, but then I tried the front and it fits easily in there with room to spare
Hey there great review based on your experience with the new version would you be able to use this as a diaper bag or is it too small? Thank you
Love your review. What color is the newer one. Very much like to have one after watching your review but can't find anywhere.
Tidepool Blue color
@@olaf2046 Thanks.
Great review, thanks, just bought the new version, awaiting arrival!!!
Great video with great comparison!! Appreciate the details you covered!
Great video... I'm gonna buy one for my trip to Europe...I heard they have problems with pickpockets...I can keep my passport, money, etc in the front pocket... Thanks for sharing 👍
Pretty excellent review, going to grab that new one
Great review/overview. Thanks for sharing.
I feel like the new bag has a smaller zipper opening to the main pack area.
Nice review, thank you! Quick question, when you have it decently loaded, do you ever feel it pulls the strap some and rubs your neck? Also have you ever compared it to their Black hole 8L sling? Thanks!
Better late than never, but here is a video comparison: ruclips.net/video/wKx_Pdvdizk/видео.html
Very well done comparison video. Thank you.
was looking at this bag vs the borealis sling as well as other companies
Got the newer version, the lack of zipper on the inside big pocket kind of sucks I would imagine putting smaller items in there and having it divided securely would be a plus but no it lacks that. The divider does it job when separating wallets, passports, phones basically anything not big enough to flip over into the other side. I guess the bigger pocket on the strap justifies it but I use it for my iPhone 13 pro and it can get tight especially when forcing bigger lip balms in there.
This is a pretty cool looking bag. Personally I decided to go with the Nike Sportswear Essentials sling. I like the look and overall design of that bag more. That said I did very nearly get this bag, it is quite nice looking.
Does the Nike one have more Space? Im still deciding between these two, have the Patagonia in hand but not the nike one
@@Miguel-th3wx Hey, Miquel! Well going by what I'm seeing here, I think the Nike may have more room. However, this bag does seem more 'sling friendly' with the side pocket providing access to core of the bag. The Nike bag I have is, more or less, like a traditional backpack though it does have a side zipper for a small tablet (and it's padded which is nice). Personally I placed my tablet in pouch located the main compartment and used the side zipper compartment for stuff I may need quick access too such as my wallet and phone. That way I can get to those things without taking off the bag.
But yeah I think there's more options with the Nike bag though, if I'm being honest, I ultimately went back to my Bellroy 9L bag. The Nike bag is amazing but the padded strap was pretty uncomfortable. But that's because I'm a big guy thus have a thicker neck. Haha! But yeah I'd suggest the Nike bag over this one if you were looking for more of a backpack sling. For me I think the standard sling design is more for me (Bellroy/Aer/Alpeka). As a matter of fact I just purchased the AER Day Sling Max which I think might be my go-to sling due to the crazy amount of pouches and pockets in the main compartment.
@@genefactor007,
I just got the Venture 9l and like yourself, I also have a big neck (😢) and long torso. I prefer the the same types of sling you mentioned, less colors/loud and slimmer profile but compartments and well done organizational pockets that can expand or contract.
Do you have the newer Bellroy slings or the earlier versions? The reason I asked was because I ended up choosing the Venture 9l over the AER Max because of the dual zipper access and that the main compartment, when opened, doesn’t flop down. This is important for me as I use mirrorless cameras and lenses and don’t want to be clumsy one day and have it slide out as that’s an expensive learning exercise.
The Atom seems like a more casual EDC sling that is great for city and personal travel usage. I’m in a corporate setting so the AER or Bellroy slings work better for my use cases, but the Atom seems more useful for city or personal travel
Not sure about using the sling left shoulder though as I always use it on the right shoulder. May need time to get used to it, or not.
Exceptional review! Well done!
Will an Iphone 14pro fit in that strap pocket? (Not the Max, the standard size). I know it would not fit on the original version.
Can the newer version fit more modern phones? The ultras etc..
very nice video! good to watch such a detailed review ! thanks!
Excellent review! I am going to buy one.
I bought it! $10 off for the first buyer.
Does the new model not have the key holder? I also have the old one so I'm very interested but another valid option is the tomtoc sling which is not very expensive either. I do miss in my model that the front pocket is so small
Yes it does. Sorry if I missed that.
This new model is more similar to the older ones in size and design
Perfect review.
Thanks! Could I fit an iPad Pro 11-inch with the Magic Keyboard in this?
Great review - thanks!
Love the review!
This is great!! Thanks!
wow, i'm a little late lol. had my atom 8L for 4ish years now, time to upgrade
Well, I've bought the new version thanks to your review - overall, this atom sling is incredible for EDC, but still has some major flaws though...
1. No anti-thief protection at all = no hidden zippered pocket for a wallet or cardholder and passport inside the main compartment (and this is the must for a city dweller!) as well as no some additional prevention from easy zippers opening when the sling is on your back (((
2. This cushioned separation for a tablet in the main compartment is still far from ideal - while in the previous version it left about half of the tablet open to a scratches and impacts from inside but provided secure hold, in the new version instead it protects better from scratches and impacts while completely insecure from the tablet could just easily slip out of the sling and fall on the floor when you open the sling in the vertical position = why didn't they just make the cushion from the previous release more deep to protect tablet better and hold it tighter preventing slipping out so easily?! (((
3. No additional holders for a water bottle = its so risky to put the bottle inside just next to a tablet, cause water could be leaking and would spoil your gadget... (((
I'd prefer external waterbottle mesh pocket or it could be internal at least - just to prevent bottle from moving freely with some guarantee its neck would stay at least pointing up to mitigate the leaking probability.
With this in mind - still one of the best sling on the market though!
Great insight Yuri! I agree with all your key points. Funny thing is between the new and the older version. I've found myself using the older version more because of the slimmer profile. The new version wears big and poofy. Especially when it's not filled up with stuff. I may comeback to give my final verdict video and announce my preference for the older style.
Agreed. I went ahead and made the purchase despite having the same concerns. Sort of bummed there's not at least a zipper compartment on the back. I love the aesthetics and I'll be using it primarily for day hikes. Pacsafe, specialize in anti-theft slings and waist packs. They can be a bit pricey.
Having the snap in the front is an anti-theft feature. Can't be snatched from the rear.
One thing you'd do is not wearing the thing on your back and you can easily do that without a fancy anti theft mechanism. Unlike a backpack a sling moves to the front pretty easy and comfortably.
I'd agree with the second argument but the third one, no because it's not meant to and you can grab a bottle with a carabiner (which can also work as a anti theft system)
compression straps and carabiner attached to handle strap thingy will help secure water bottle
I just bought this today and I'm returning it. They made the main zipper at least an inch shorter than the previous version, which makes it difficult to use. With my ipad inside (which barely fit, btw), I can't open the bag enough to put items inside. The previous version looks better, but are difficult to find.
Which size iPad do you have? I want to fit an 11-inch iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard in.
@@AlexNapierHolland I have a 9.7” iPad Air in a Smart Cover and found the old version of the Atom. It fits in the old version but not the new version. No chance of your iPad setup fitting.
@@kevinr- Thanks for writing this comment Kevin
Thank you, I need a sling bag for bringing my ipad to campus. I like this bag a lot but I think that’s a no go.
You said the main compartment on the new atom is much bigger than the old - untrue! It’s actually noticeably smaller, and much worse for it!
great video !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I would cut the compression straps off the new one and I think it would be perfect
They tuck and hide inside
I’m right there with you and I like both
thanks man very usefull
Thank you
new style!
could I fit a galaxy tab S7+ in the new version? It's a 12.4" screen, measures 7.5" x 11"
Will the 2022 edition fit a galaxy tab s8+?
An iPad 9th generation 10.2" won't fit in the zipper mouth, too narrow. A Samsung 10.1" A7 will fit. I no longer have an older 9.7" iPad to try fitting. The biggest change is that the second compartment actually has some real thickness. By rough estimate, 2/3 of the thickness goes to the main compartment and 1/3 for the compartment with the narrower zipper slot. It just went up to $65.
How is the new updated version different from the old one?
Watch the video. Lol
would it be possible to fit a 13 inch macbook
Yes. It would.
No it won’t. I can barely fit my 11 inch iPad Pro into it with folio keyboard.
A MacBook would not fit
@@joshi3joshi but is that the brand-new Atom 8 - or the old model?
I'm torn between this Patagonia Atom Sling and the Osprey Daylite Sling.
The Patagucci Sling is a better deal
@@olaf2046 Patagucci lmao nice one
The new is better.