I love Varusteleka, and Savotta. Varusteleka in particular has become one of my go-to's for good prices and great quality. I also love their philosophy behind their business, which entails trying to do better for the environment while still providing top notch gear.
The con of the straps for carry. Is also a pro. 1 set of straps will fit all three of your duffels. So that becomes cheaper 15$ per pack. Strength and Honour
Thank you for this review, I ordered my Jääkäri M after watching your review few years ago, and that backpack made me a Savotta fan for life.Just ordered a 50 L Keikka to go with it and my Jääkäri S.
I have the 30 and 50 and do absolutely love them. They are super robust, I don't think I will ever need to replace them. The velcro inside the lid for mesh pocket organizers is a great touch. The bags are also stiff enough that they stay up on their own which makes packing a whole lot easier! The 30l makes for a perfect on-board piece, especially in black as it's less conspicuous. As for the backpack harness, it makes the whole system super practical, and you just need one as it fits all of the bags. I carried the 50l with about 25kg of stuff in it for several kilometers. It certainly is not made to be a proper trekking rucksack, but I have also owned backpacks that were far less comfortable to carry with the same load. The attachment system of the harness is totally bombproof and super simple, but with frozen fingers I find it to be a bit fiddly at times. Not a big con though. They are not waterproof but even with a decent rain your stuff will not get soaking wet. Same goes for putting the bag on the wet floor. The coated fabric is basically waterproof, but stitches and zippers are not. Not a negative at all imo as the drybags I have are perfect incubators for mould if you leave them closed even for just a day or two in some climates with moist gear inside. No problem with the price whatsoever. It's not a disposable piece that you'll be replacing every few years. Good gear costs and generally you will also take better care of the expensive items. Not that the Keikkas couldn't take all the abuse you put them through, and then some. Will definitely be getting the 80L too when the situation calls for it
@@georgehernandez1502 what are inches? 🤣 Yes, it should be able to accommodate it. I have my setup with 400mm barrel and folding stock fit in there diagonally above the shooting mat
I have had that 80l model for a few mounths and loving it as much as all othet savotta gears. Nice to see that finnish products getting appreciation Outside of Finland.
Hey Luke. That was a great review. I have a Northface 80liter duffle with shoulder straps incl. On sale for $80 CND. Like you say buy once cry once. I used it for 2 years going to and living out of in camp. 55lbs airport, on the back and gone. Good quality. Now you've shown me my new range bag/ over nighter. I'm really liking the small bag. And I have great faith in your reviews. LIVE LIFE LARGE, it's shorter than you think.
You really can't go wrong getting Savotta. Sure, they cost more than something "similar", but once you start using Savotta and compare it to those "similar" ones, you'll understand the difference 👌
The 5.11 RUSH LBD series of duffel bags seems better - more functional and more varied options - e.g. detachable backpack shoulder straps while savotta has none included (sold seperately) plus its steel d rings can have a tendency to rust... Savotta is more expensive in comparison but for what?
I have a couple Savotta Jakaari frame packs. Head and shoulders above anything else I’ve ever had. I have full faith in these duffels. The hook and loop organizers are super useful too.
Awesome bags will check them out. I believe Lars from 'Survival Russia' uses them. In a recent video of his he dragged the largest bag through the snow like a sled! For the price of them, I wouldn't do it lol, but just shows you the robustness of Savotta products! Thanks for sharing
I purchased the RP 80 and have never had a more comfortable pack. Your reviews of the pack were spot on. It looks like my next purchase is going to be these bags. I like not having to replace brokedown gear every couple of years. Sovatta builds great gear!. Thanks again to both of you.
Can we agree that “military grade” does not necessarily mean high quality? I spent 8 years in the Marine Corps, and let me tell you from experience, the military spends a ton of money on the lowest bid product, throws away practically everything on a whim and definitely doesn’t care that much about overall quality, they will just keep issuing another piece when something fails rather than go for true quality.
100% accurate. You can tell this young lad never served, or he would stop rabbiting on about ‘military grade’ (a meaningless phrase) when extolling the ‘incredible’ products he promotes.
Military Grade in this case means it takes a beating... i dont know about foreign standard of military grade, but in Finland it means Durability for life...
Another option: The Base Camp Duffel from North Face: Far Less expensive, expedition proven, more water-resistant fabric, more sizes, more colors, come standard with backpack straps, lighter weight. Cons: Probably less durable but are more durable than me. Round, but they can be stacked. The Small and XS small don't come with handles (backpack straps only). Handles and backpack straps start on the medium and go up to the XL (132 Litre). This is not typical North Face stuff. It's a legacy product from back in the day that they still make well.
The 1000D cordura material is really amazingly durable. I have used a Savotta backbag made of the same stuff basically daily for *7 years*, and I could almost get away with hanging it on the rack in a shop next to brand new ones. In anything but very heavy use, this gear will essentially last the lifetime of the user.
Best survival bags Savotta made by Finns, Best survival knives Terava knives made by Finns too. Simple and tough, is all you need! PS They also used to make, the BEST and most rugged mobile phones...Nokia..made by Finns lol I love that country, they have given us, the best gear!
One thing I noticed in the video but you didn't mention is the inside looks to be waterproof. Thats a huge selling point, especially for people who will be setting their stuff on the ground. Could you please let me know if this is the case?
The 1000D cordura is water repellant and PU coated, so the material is in essence waterproof. The zippers, stitchings and seams are where water can seep in. And my assumption is that that is also one reason to leave out the PALS webbing here, to make the bag more water reisitant. (Not that you’d really need PALS here, nor would it serve full purpose.)
Luke, thanks for the review. The external velcro pouch unfortunately means these will be no good for air travel, given it can not be secured. Otherwise interesting but as you say a bit expensive, especially the additional cost for the backpack set up. Cheers.
@5:10 I’ve actually seen similar wraparound handle design on a Miltec BW duffle bag. Of course, the rest of the bag is not up to the par of Keikka, but for a 30% of the price, pretty nice for most civilian everyday use.
Other stuff from Finland: Suunto dive computer... And complete...compass, depth and pressure gauge combined...( For diving of course) yes, i do have them.
I bought the 80L bag recently for a trip I was taking. I tend to use a backpack when traveling, yes even when flying. Other like their wheeled luggage but I always preferred the backpack that I could strap to my back and have both hands free and it was also good when needing to walk any distance over uneven ground, you are not always in an airport. The one thing about traveling with a backpack is the small top entrance, so seeing the Savotta bag with the large opening yet could be carried like a back pack had me intrigued. When the bag worked great. I carried it like a back pack and when I went to check the bag I removed the straps and packed them away and once I reached my destination it was easy to take them out again and attach them so I could strap it on my back again. Once at my hotel it was nice to be able to set the bag down and open up the top and have access to pretty much everything inside without having to take everything out. It is not cheap but considering how much a good back pack and a good set of luggage costs, this will replace both although I am not sure I would want to carry really heavy loads over too long of a distance as there is no waist belt to help better distribute the weight for carrying.
My experience exactly with the 80L. Had a chance to take it abroad just when I got it, even though I originally got it mostly to haul around skiing gear, as it fits everything, including boots and helmet. Got different sizes of Savotta roll top mesh sacks too, so I coud keep most of my stuff in the bag, and just pick out what necessary into the closets at the hotel. And since the lid opens fully, it was easy to see and operate with what's inside. Liked the usability so much, that I got the 50L too, to replace my backpack for weekend travels. Much faster to pack, and no need to think so much in which order you pack the stuff.
Bought a great rectangular duffle, at least as big as that largest one you show...$25 at Army Surplus. Has shoulder straps to carry like a back pack if desired.
Ive never been disappointed with anything Ive bought from Varusteleka!! Wish they were local... They also have the Sarma line of bags at a lower price point if you dont want the high end stuff.
Perfect, exactly what I need (2-80L), Varusteleka unfortunately is OOS for the green. I'll wait. I have a Maxpedition Fleigerduffel that has many of the same features and is a well made product, but the Savotta ooze quality and are bigger, I love my fleigerduffel but the 80L Savotta are a must have. I haven't bought anything from Varusteleka that isn't firt quality gear, thanks for the great review
Luke is there something else out there for p cheaper price that you would recommend and your picture of you and Susie would that be coming up soon let us know please
I have one of the NF bags, and you're right about them. Plus, they pack down pretty flat which is convenient if I'm bringing one on a trip in case I need extra storage. Edit: I'll leave what I wrote below, but I just noticed that Varusteleka's description says explicitly that there's a polyurethane coating on the inside of the nylon. Elsewhere, another commenter observed that the stitching and zippers aren't waterproof, but it should be enough to minimize the effect of rain. I can't speak directly to these Savotta bags, but since he didn't mention any weather-proofing, I'd assume they're as resistant as heavyweight Cordura nylon. That said, I do know that Varusteleka sells a fabric wax for waterproofing things. They only mention use on natural/blended fabrics, so I'm not sure how it would work with nylon, but it might be an option. www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-fabric-wax/59438 www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-to-wax-your-own-clothing-and-gear/ (DIY recipe)
This is an informative and good video as I have never seen or used this brand of gear before. It's good to learn about another high quality company so thank you for sharing your experiences. However, I'm not sure questioning Kifaru's quality or using their name as click bait in your title is the best way to go especially since you mention that you have not used their bags - 8:22. Now I'm not saying they are the same quality because I don't have both and cannot make that call, but, I think the only thing you can properly compare is the price since you have not tested them directly. Also, from what I remember Kifaru uses all USA high-quality materials, made in the USA (Berry Compliant) and offers a limited lifetime warranty with fantastic customer service! Thanks again and keep up the reviews.
Those duffle bags are amazing! I love all three sizes. They're well worth the price for how awesome the quality is. You get what you pay for, and I'd rather invest in these great bags. I do like the optional shoulder harness system. Thanks for the review.
Luke👍👍 Savotta: great gear, expensive, limited sourcing. Nice review, thorough and in depth. Too bad no USA dealers, although $10 shipping is doable. Thanks. Enjoy!
Tag says made in Estonia. Are these bags designed by Savotta and the factory is in Estonia or is Savotta purchasing these from the designer/manufacturer in Estonia?
@@joonaskajastila7358 Good link. Site says Savotta designs their product. That makes me feel better about feedback in case of quality issues. I do not like companies that purchase products, markets them, but has no design responsibilities. "Oh, we'll tell the company we buy these from to fix it." Yeah, right. I have purchased many products, other than camping gear, that the quality was poor and the supposed updated replacement was just as bad. On the same theme, Fiskars now owns Gerber knives. I don't want to make an assumption, but I believe, by your name, you are at least Scandinavian, at best, Finnish. I have always bought Gerber, but haven't bought any Gerber products since Fiskars bought them. I understand Fiskars has a good reputation, but reputations can be managed by publicity. If you have any experience with Fiskars, what is your opinion of Fiskars?
@@markfrost8745 Yup, I'm a Finn. Savotta makes gear for the Finnish Defence Forces and they use the same materials and craftmanship in their own products as well. I own the Jääkäri L -backpack and also their sleeping mat (which I've also used during my 12 month military conscription service and multiple reservist trainings since). Don't really have anything bad to say about their products and have been thinking about getting a keikka bag as well. Fiskars is (I think) one of the oldest, if not the oldest company in Finland, so they have a good reputation here. They've acquired a lot of companies and brands (usually quality brands) in the last 20 years and honestly I have a bit of mixed feelings about them. On one hand, some of their stuff is still top notch, while some aren't (or haven't been after they've shifted the manufacturing elsewhere from the original factory). They also received some heat ~10 years ago for using a chinese manufacturer who apparently had questionable work practices. Personally, I'd still buy their own brand stuff that's made here in Finland and in general check where the stuff is made pre/post a specific brand acquisition. I have a bunch of Fiskars garden tools and they're pretty solid.
I have no doubt that these are extremely high quality. But they are very expensive, a slightly cheaper alternative is the 5.11 Rush LBD series of bags.
Have to agree, with the price the shoulder straps should just come with the bags. Also, would like to have additional colors-less tactical & to not absorb too much heat.
If you have not, check BAD, Best American Duffle. Awesome construction and warranty. I have had two for 20+ years, and they are still in great shape. For the capacity and quality, price is low. I think you will find them very competitive with Savotta or any other duffle company.
Thanks for the video. Just saw it yesterday. I didn't know there was a difference between polyester and the Savotta materials. I've recently gotten the bug for bags, and gotten some used good condition Osprey, Sea to Summit , Eagle Creek and Columbia duffel bags , but looks like I'll have to do more research, since I obviously don't know what I don't know! Ps: As an aside, it's bad that shoulder straps aren't included. Every other "civilian" brand includes them, in one form or another. Pps: one of the few good things to come from the lockdowns was people selling off bags since they couldn't travel. Got some sweeeeeet deals, if I may brag for a moment 😀
good lookin sturdy bits of kit, but pricey AF and a bit gimicky with the velcro for patches.... Finnish but made in Estonia....... mind you my Fiat was made in Turkey
Savotta has manufacturing facilities in Finland and Estonia. Estonian defence forces are a big customer for them. The bags can be made in either country. Depends on the batch which you get.
These seem like very nice duffel bags, but the backpack straps made me wonder how they actually compare to a Molle 2 rucksack. It seems that the largest of these is about equivalent to a rucksack (w/o and sustainment pouches or anything adding to capacity) as far as capacity goes. Seems like the price (new) is fairly similar. So is it, ultimately, a question of form factor (this is more rectangular prism, while the rucksack is more backpack-y) and the availability of used (and therefore obtainable at a much lower price)? Does anyone know of any pros/cons of one vs the other besides those basics?
Nice bags. I have some not quite as durable from Cabelas pre-Basspro but at a fraction of the price that perform adequately.
3 года назад
Nice bags Ordered the 80L version it will complement my Ironstorm from Maxpedition (lots of improvements since kit bags (Kit Shoulder Duffle Bag) or other duffle bags we had in 80's ^^)
Hey bubba, I work on power lines for a living and travel quite often during the work week, my question to you is do you think the 50L bag would be big enough to hold a weeks with off cloth plus clothes for after? Or should I just go with the 80L
What's the difference between hook and loop and Velcro? I always assumed it was the same thing but you used both terms in this video which makes me think there might be a difference...
I don't believe there is. It's just they're both such common terms it's easy to use them interchangeably. I know from the Varusteleka gear I've bought that what they describe as hook-and-loop is indistinguishable from Velcro.
Sir, if someone has already asked this then I am sorry, but out of curiosity do these bags compete with the Force Protection Gear bags that you have reviewed? I have to admit, these bags do look fantastic, but I have an opportunity to get some of the fpg bags...just wondering..
Seems like a nice product. But also one that i have no use for. I think that target group of customers for this product outside of army is pretty small. The price corresponds to this.
Hi Luke exceptional review buddy, I have the 80 l and the jakkiari large, best bags out there in a long time, quick question if you were to choose between the keikka or the big stone from rugid which one would it be and why, hope you get to read this and look forward to your response. Been watching your videos for about a year now and love the content you and Suzie create it's a breath off fresh air and really in depth and non biased reviews, thanks again for all that you do lots of love from sunny Scotland 😉. Cameron.
Savotta has manufacturing facilities in Finland and Estonia. All their tents and frames for their external frame backpacks are made in Finland. Stitched fabric products are made in either Finland or Estonia depending on the batch.
Love your videos always watch before bed, just one question when u camping in snow etc dont u worry about wolves always wanted to know? Keep up great videos from England 🏴😌😌😌😌
A big Thank you Finland!
A great company that supports the brave Ukrainian soldiers fighting the evil Russian forces 👍😊
I love Varusteleka, and Savotta. Varusteleka in particular has become one of my go-to's for good prices and great quality. I also love their philosophy behind their business, which entails trying to do better for the environment while still providing top notch gear.
dito
Thanks Luke for this. We Finns use Savotta backpacks and many other gear made by them as the quality is what we insist
The con of the straps for carry. Is also a pro.
1 set of straps will fit all three of your duffels. So that becomes cheaper 15$ per pack.
Strength and Honour
Reminds me of the duffle bags we had in the Army. Paying for quality is never a bad thing in my opinion.
Thank you for this review, I ordered my Jääkäri M after watching your review few years ago, and that backpack made me a Savotta fan for life.Just ordered a 50 L Keikka to go with it and my Jääkäri S.
I have the 30 and 50 and do absolutely love them. They are super robust, I don't think I will ever need to replace them. The velcro inside the lid for mesh pocket organizers is a great touch. The bags are also stiff enough that they stay up on their own which makes packing a whole lot easier! The 30l makes for a perfect on-board piece, especially in black as it's less conspicuous.
As for the backpack harness, it makes the whole system super practical, and you just need one as it fits all of the bags. I carried the 50l with about 25kg of stuff in it for several kilometers. It certainly is not made to be a proper trekking rucksack, but I have also owned backpacks that were far less comfortable to carry with the same load.
The attachment system of the harness is totally bombproof and super simple, but with frozen fingers I find it to be a bit fiddly at times. Not a big con though.
They are not waterproof but even with a decent rain your stuff will not get soaking wet. Same goes for putting the bag on the wet floor. The coated fabric is basically waterproof, but stitches and zippers are not. Not a negative at all imo as the drybags I have are perfect incubators for mould if you leave them closed even for just a day or two in some climates with moist gear inside.
No problem with the price whatsoever. It's not a disposable piece that you'll be replacing every few years. Good gear costs and generally you will also take better care of the expensive items. Not that the Keikkas couldn't take all the abuse you put them through, and then some.
Will definitely be getting the 80L too when the situation calls for it
Do you think the 50L will be able to fit a 16” at-15 separated from its lower?
@@georgehernandez1502 what are inches? 🤣
Yes, it should be able to accommodate it. I have my setup with 400mm barrel and folding stock fit in there diagonally above the shooting mat
Can a pair of combat boots, running shoes, set of uniform, toiletries, running shorts and singlet and 1.5L bottle fit in the small bag?
The description alone says alot for these bags. They look awesome
I have had that 80l model for a few mounths and loving it as much as all othet savotta gears. Nice to see that finnish products getting appreciation Outside of Finland.
That 30L is screaming to become my new range bag
Thanks for the review. I have just ordered the 80l. After seeing this, I think I need the set now 😂😂😂
Hey Luke. That was a great review. I have a Northface 80liter duffle with shoulder straps incl. On sale for $80 CND. Like you say buy once cry once. I used it for 2 years going to and living out of in camp. 55lbs airport, on the back and gone. Good quality. Now you've shown me my new range bag/ over nighter. I'm really liking the small bag. And I have great faith in your reviews. LIVE LIFE LARGE, it's shorter than you think.
just got their small backpack. The quality is unbelievable, i will be purchasing much more from this company well worth the money for the quality!
You really can't go wrong getting Savotta. Sure, they cost more than something "similar", but once you start using Savotta and compare it to those "similar" ones, you'll understand the difference 👌
The 5.11 RUSH LBD series of duffel bags seems better - more functional and more varied options - e.g. detachable backpack shoulder straps while savotta has none included (sold seperately) plus its steel d rings can have a tendency to rust... Savotta is more expensive in comparison but for what?
I have a couple Savotta Jakaari frame packs. Head and shoulders above anything else I’ve ever had. I have full faith in these duffels. The hook and loop organizers are super useful too.
Awesome bags will check them out. I believe Lars from 'Survival Russia' uses them. In a recent video of his he dragged the largest bag through the snow like a sled! For the price of them, I wouldn't do it lol, but just shows you the robustness of Savotta products! Thanks for sharing
Seems Very Awesome. GREAT Review Luke Thank You❤
Good morning brother from Syracuse NY and thank you for sharing your thoughts and adventures
Shoot... Luke i’ve been following you for years. You dont seem to age a bit! Keep doing what youre doing 😎
Great video. I own the 30L and i can confirm that this bag is the real deal!
I purchased the RP 80 and have never had a more comfortable pack. Your reviews of the pack were spot on. It looks like my next purchase is going to be these bags. I like not having to replace brokedown gear every couple of years. Sovatta builds great gear!. Thanks again to both of you.
The 80L here in Australia is $519, man we get absolutely ripped off down here. At current conversion rate USD$247 would be AUD$335.
Great review Luke, thanks 👍
Can we agree that “military grade” does not necessarily mean high quality? I spent 8 years in the Marine Corps, and let me tell you from experience, the military spends a ton of money on the lowest bid product, throws away practically everything on a whim and definitely doesn’t care that much about overall quality, they will just keep issuing another piece when something fails rather than go for true quality.
100% accurate.
You can tell this young lad never served, or he would stop rabbiting on about ‘military grade’ (a meaningless phrase) when extolling the ‘incredible’ products he promotes.
@@rogerharris3951 some military gear is awesome stuff, some is absolutely crap.
It does in Finland
Military Grade in this case means it takes a beating... i dont know about foreign standard of military grade, but in Finland it means Durability for life...
Just because the US likes to use crappy gear that doesnt mean all of us should. Some prefer gear made to last.
Show what they do for you with your setups. How you pack each and what you put, what each pack is designated as holding, etc.
The hook and loop is also handy for securing on the back of a motorcycle
Another option: The Base Camp Duffel from North Face: Far Less expensive, expedition proven, more water-resistant fabric, more sizes, more colors, come standard with backpack straps, lighter weight. Cons: Probably less durable but are more durable than me. Round, but they can be stacked. The Small and XS small don't come with handles (backpack straps only). Handles and backpack straps start on the medium and go up to the XL (132 Litre). This is not typical North Face stuff. It's a legacy product from back in the day that they still make well.
I agree, they are TPE 1000D and are often on huge seasonal sales as they issue new colors/camos/schemes every year.
Question: do the zippers have holes to lock/zip tie them together for airport travel?
The 1000D cordura material is really amazingly durable. I have used a Savotta backbag made of the same stuff basically daily for *7 years*, and I could almost get away with hanging it on the rack in a shop next to brand new ones. In anything but very heavy use, this gear will essentially last the lifetime of the user.
Best survival bags Savotta made by Finns, Best survival knives Terava knives made by Finns too. Simple and tough, is all you need! PS They also used to make, the BEST and most rugged mobile phones...Nokia..made by Finns lol I love that country, they have given us, the best gear!
It's typical Finnish mentality! If you are going to do something, do it properly!
One thing I noticed in the video but you didn't mention is the inside looks to be waterproof. Thats a huge selling point, especially for people who will be setting their stuff on the ground. Could you please let me know if this is the case?
The 1000D cordura is water repellant and PU coated, so the material is in essence waterproof. The zippers, stitchings and seams are where water can seep in. And my assumption is that that is also one reason to leave out the PALS webbing here, to make the bag more water reisitant. (Not that you’d really need PALS here, nor would it serve full purpose.)
Luke, thanks for the review.
The external velcro pouch unfortunately means these will be no good for air travel, given it can not be secured.
Otherwise interesting but as you say a bit expensive, especially the additional cost for the backpack set up.
Cheers.
@5:10 I’ve actually seen similar wraparound handle design on a Miltec BW duffle bag. Of course, the rest of the bag is not up to the par of Keikka, but for a 30% of the price, pretty nice for most civilian everyday use.
Other stuff from Finland: Suunto dive computer... And complete...compass, depth and pressure gauge combined...( For diving of course) yes, i do have them.
Thank you Luke, from Maryville, TN! Very informative!
I bought the 80L bag recently for a trip I was taking. I tend to use a backpack when traveling, yes even when flying. Other like their wheeled luggage but I always preferred the backpack that I could strap to my back and have both hands free and it was also good when needing to walk any distance over uneven ground, you are not always in an airport. The one thing about traveling with a backpack is the small top entrance, so seeing the Savotta bag with the large opening yet could be carried like a back pack had me intrigued. When the bag worked great. I carried it like a back pack and when I went to check the bag I removed the straps and packed them away and once I reached my destination it was easy to take them out again and attach them so I could strap it on my back again. Once at my hotel it was nice to be able to set the bag down and open up the top and have access to pretty much everything inside without having to take everything out. It is not cheap but considering how much a good back pack and a good set of luggage costs, this will replace both although I am not sure I would want to carry really heavy loads over too long of a distance as there is no waist belt to help better distribute the weight for carrying.
My experience exactly with the 80L. Had a chance to take it abroad just when I got it, even though I originally got it mostly to haul around skiing gear, as it fits everything, including boots and helmet.
Got different sizes of Savotta roll top mesh sacks too, so I coud keep most of my stuff in the bag, and just pick out what necessary into the closets at the hotel. And since the lid opens fully, it was easy to see and operate with what's inside.
Liked the usability so much, that I got the 50L too, to replace my backpack for weekend travels. Much faster to pack, and no need to think so much in which order you pack the stuff.
Awesome! I was looking for something like that but couldn't find ones good enough. Now I know a company to look at!
What size pack did you strap on your back
Big Bucks....Great review
Frost River also does the one piece straps like that on their duffels
Bought a great rectangular duffle, at least as big as that largest one you show...$25 at Army Surplus.
Has shoulder straps to carry like a back pack if desired.
Love mine. Got one each size and color.
Ive never been disappointed with anything Ive bought from Varusteleka!! Wish they were local... They also have the Sarma line of bags at a lower price point if you dont want the high end stuff.
Luke, the one you wear as a backpack in the video, is it the 30 or 50 ltr? Thanks for the review 👍🏻 best Lars
Perfect, exactly what I need (2-80L), Varusteleka unfortunately is OOS for the green. I'll wait.
I have a Maxpedition Fleigerduffel that has many of the same features and is a well made product, but the Savotta ooze quality and are bigger, I love my fleigerduffel but the 80L Savotta are a must have.
I haven't bought anything from Varusteleka that isn't firt quality gear, thanks for the great review
Did you say they were waterproof? That would be a great benefit if they were!
Water resistant for sure. If you need waterproof just get a drybag and stuff your stuff in it before.
Luke is there something else out there for p cheaper price that you would recommend and your picture of you and Susie would that be coming up soon let us know please
Hows the weather proofing? I like my North Face duffle because of the rubberized material to make them weather resistant
I have one of the NF bags, and you're right about them. Plus, they pack down pretty flat which is convenient if I'm bringing one on a trip in case I need extra storage.
Edit: I'll leave what I wrote below, but I just noticed that Varusteleka's description says explicitly that there's a polyurethane coating on the inside of the nylon. Elsewhere, another commenter observed that the stitching and zippers aren't waterproof, but it should be enough to minimize the effect of rain.
I can't speak directly to these Savotta bags, but since he didn't mention any weather-proofing, I'd assume they're as resistant as heavyweight Cordura nylon. That said, I do know that Varusteleka sells a fabric wax for waterproofing things. They only mention use on natural/blended fabrics, so I'm not sure how it would work with nylon, but it might be an option.
www.varusteleka.com/en/product/sarma-fabric-wax/59438
www.artofmanliness.com/articles/how-to-wax-your-own-clothing-and-gear/ (DIY recipe)
Great post, great review.
What about those waterproof gear bags you have? I’ll have to go back and see what they are.
I'm still working on the review of those; coming up soon.
- Luke
Big Stone by RUGID. Those bags look sweet. I appreciate your honest reviews. Thank you. I’d love another stealth overnight video.
Thank you for sharing
This is an informative and good video as I have never seen or used this brand of gear before. It's good to learn about another high quality company so thank you for sharing your experiences.
However, I'm not sure questioning Kifaru's quality or using their name as click bait in your title is the best way to go especially since you mention that you have not used their bags - 8:22. Now I'm not saying they are the same quality because I don't have both and cannot make that call, but, I think the only thing you can properly compare is the price since you have not tested them directly. Also, from what I remember Kifaru uses all USA high-quality materials, made in the USA (Berry Compliant) and offers a limited lifetime warranty with fantastic customer service!
Thanks again and keep up the reviews.
Just for the sake of saying so, weight for weight, polyester fabrics are stronger AND more uv resistant than nylons.
Very clean review.
-Will
Those duffle bags are amazing! I love all three sizes. They're well worth the price for how awesome the quality is. You get what you pay for, and I'd rather invest in these great bags. I do like the optional shoulder harness system. Thanks for the review.
Luke👍👍 Savotta: great gear, expensive, limited sourcing. Nice review, thorough and in depth. Too bad no USA dealers, although $10 shipping is doable. Thanks. Enjoy!
These are bags your great grandkids will be able to keep using
Tag says made in Estonia. Are these bags designed by Savotta and the factory is in Estonia or is Savotta purchasing these from the designer/manufacturer in Estonia?
Savotta has production facilities in Finland and in Estonia. finn-savotta.fi/en/company/
@@joonaskajastila7358 Good link. Site says Savotta designs their product. That makes me feel better about feedback in case of quality issues. I do not like companies that purchase products, markets them, but has no design responsibilities. "Oh, we'll tell the company we buy these from to fix it." Yeah, right. I have purchased many products, other than camping gear, that the quality was poor and the supposed updated replacement was just as bad.
On the same theme, Fiskars now owns Gerber knives. I don't want to make an assumption, but I believe, by your name, you are at least Scandinavian, at best, Finnish.
I have always bought Gerber, but haven't bought any Gerber products since Fiskars bought them. I understand Fiskars has a good reputation, but reputations can be managed by publicity. If you have any experience with Fiskars, what is your opinion of Fiskars?
@@markfrost8745 Yup, I'm a Finn. Savotta makes gear for the Finnish Defence Forces and they use the same materials and craftmanship in their own products as well. I own the Jääkäri L -backpack and also their sleeping mat (which I've also used during my 12 month military conscription service and multiple reservist trainings since). Don't really have anything bad to say about their products and have been thinking about getting a keikka bag as well. Fiskars is (I think) one of the oldest, if not the oldest company in Finland, so they have a good reputation here. They've acquired a lot of companies and brands (usually quality brands) in the last 20 years and honestly I have a bit of mixed feelings about them. On one hand, some of their stuff is still top notch, while some aren't (or haven't been after they've shifted the manufacturing elsewhere from the original factory). They also received some heat ~10 years ago for using a chinese manufacturer who apparently had questionable work practices. Personally, I'd still buy their own brand stuff that's made here in Finland and in general check where the stuff is made pre/post a specific brand acquisition. I have a bunch of Fiskars garden tools and they're pretty solid.
Materials from Finland, assembled in Estonia
I have no doubt that these are extremely high quality. But they are very expensive, a slightly cheaper alternative is the 5.11 Rush LBD series of bags.
would the 50L be big enough for a belt setup plate carrier and some other odd and in gear pouchs etc? or would going 80L be better?
How do they compare to force protector gear?
Have to agree, with the price the shoulder straps should just come with the bags. Also, would like to have additional colors-less tactical & to not absorb too much heat.
If you have not, check BAD, Best American Duffle. Awesome construction and warranty. I have had two for 20+ years, and they are still in great shape. For the capacity and quality, price is low. I think you will find them very competitive with Savotta or any other duffle company.
Thanks for the video. Just saw it yesterday. I didn't know there was a difference between polyester and the Savotta materials. I've recently gotten the bug for bags, and gotten some used good condition Osprey, Sea to Summit , Eagle Creek and Columbia duffel bags , but looks like I'll have to do more research, since I obviously don't know what I don't know!
Ps: As an aside, it's bad that shoulder straps aren't included. Every other "civilian" brand includes them, in one form or another.
Pps: one of the few good things to come from the lockdowns was people selling off bags since they couldn't travel. Got some sweeeeeet deals, if I may brag for a moment 😀
Can a pair of combat boots, running shoes, set of uniform, toiletries, running shorts and singlet and 1.5L bottle fit in the small bag?
Whoa...the stitching on those interiors @ 02:36; Practically flawless.
I wished they came in with a water proof version, love the video!
Love it!!
good lookin sturdy bits of kit, but pricey AF and a bit gimicky with the velcro for patches.... Finnish but made in Estonia....... mind you my Fiat was made in Turkey
turkish car factories do actually have a very good reputation for quality production
Savotta has manufacturing facilities in Finland and Estonia. Estonian defence forces are a big customer for them. The bags can be made in either country. Depends on the batch which you get.
Great product Great design 👍
The best of the best...
These seem like very nice duffel bags, but the backpack straps made me wonder how they actually compare to a Molle 2 rucksack. It seems that the largest of these is about equivalent to a rucksack (w/o and sustainment pouches or anything adding to capacity) as far as capacity goes. Seems like the price (new) is fairly similar. So is it, ultimately, a question of form factor (this is more rectangular prism, while the rucksack is more backpack-y) and the availability of used (and therefore obtainable at a much lower price)? Does anyone know of any pros/cons of one vs the other besides those basics?
I have there medium 20 liter backpack and it is just great!
Love these bags, take my money!
Nice bags. I have some not quite as durable from Cabelas pre-Basspro but at a fraction of the price that perform adequately.
Nice bags
Ordered the 80L version
it will complement my Ironstorm from Maxpedition
(lots of improvements since kit bags (Kit Shoulder Duffle Bag) or other duffle bags we had in 80's ^^)
Thanks for your review ! How does it goes with rain ? This bags are waterproof or water resistant ?
Hey bubba, I work on power lines for a living and travel quite often during the work week, my question to you is do you think the 50L bag would be big enough to hold a weeks with off cloth plus clothes for after? Or should I just go with the 80L
I've been using Eagle creek lately. Love them
What's the difference between hook and loop and Velcro? I always assumed it was the same thing but you used both terms in this video which makes me think there might be a difference...
I don't believe there is. It's just they're both such common terms it's easy to use them interchangeably. I know from the Varusteleka gear I've bought that what they describe as hook-and-loop is indistinguishable from Velcro.
Sold. I am going to buy black 50L.
Sir, if someone has already asked this then I am sorry, but out of curiosity do these bags compete with the Force Protection Gear bags that you have reviewed? I have to admit, these bags do look fantastic, but I have an opportunity to get some of the fpg bags...just wondering..
Nice video :) Savotta is an awesome brand. I have the jaakari Xl and the keikka it's just awesome stuff ❤️ I love it.
Great gear. I bought a 5.11 HaulOut Bag as my tactical grocery bag and love that. HikerJ did a review of them and they're part of his overland system.
Nice , and looks like that 30L would meet Airlines " carry on " bag limitations :D ... bg
Wheres the liquor .com , hahaha. Bootleggers bags :) Maybe some stimus cash can enrich Savotta. Buy once, buy once! Crying dont help much :) ty Luke
Nice bags.
Hi do you ship to Canada Province of Quebec ? Thanks
Seems like a nice product. But also one that i have no use for. I think that target group of customers for this product outside of army is pretty small. The price corresponds to this.
What jacket is that?
Hi Luke exceptional review buddy, I have the 80 l and the jakkiari large, best bags out there in a long time, quick question if you were to choose between the keikka or the big stone from rugid which one would it be and why, hope you get to read this and look forward to your response. Been watching your videos for about a year now and love the content you and Suzie create it's a breath off fresh air and really in depth and non biased reviews, thanks again for all that you do lots of love from sunny Scotland 😉.
Cameron.
Are these replacing your LiteFighter deployment bag?
How does this compare to 5.11 and sandpiper or the condor?
Price is only a ‘CON’ if the product quality & features does ‘justify’ the ‘high cost’. ‘Get what you paid for...’ nuff said.
Very nice gear. Thank you for the review.
From Finland....but are they made in Finland? Just wondering.?
Savotta has manufacturing facilities in Finland and Estonia. All their tents and frames for their external frame backpacks are made in Finland. Stitched fabric products are made in either Finland or Estonia depending on the batch.
Lars at Survival Russia also likes them.
Love your videos always watch before bed, just one question when u camping in snow etc dont u worry about wolves always wanted to know? Keep up great videos from England 🏴😌😌😌😌
Would be nice if you could use an ordinary LBE rather than custom carry straps.
Take the hit with the cash, own it forever