Tom Bihn Synapse 25 Review | Innovative Minimal One Bag Travel Backpack With Accessories

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  • Опубликовано: 9 янв 2025

Комментарии • 133

  • @PackHacker
    @PackHacker  6 лет назад +17

    How annoying are dangling straps on a backpack to you?

    • @GlobalAdventurer
      @GlobalAdventurer 6 лет назад +3

      The backpacks that usually have the most dangling straps are real backpacker packs like original top loading ospreys, which I own. They get on my last nerve 😁
      But, my Tom Bihn synapse is 👍. Tom, Thank you very much for the review🙆

    • @Antiflagcanuck
      @Antiflagcanuck 6 лет назад +5

      Tom Bihn addresses this actually, if you buy the tri-glide from them there's a video to slide it to remove dangling strap

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      @@Antiflagcanuck - cool! Bummer it's not integrated though
      - Tom

    • @Antiflagcanuck
      @Antiflagcanuck 6 лет назад

      Pack Hacker ruclips.net/video/Ynedk112cAw/видео.html

    • @Antiflagcanuck
      @Antiflagcanuck 6 лет назад +2

      Pack Hacker fair enough, I used the system in the RUclips video below plus bought some strap clips on Amazon for the chest strap to get rid of all dangles. It's my favorite weekend bag for flying. Please do a video on the aeronaut series, my favorite long term travel bag, did 10 days in Japan with it

  • @RamonLBarrosIII
    @RamonLBarrosIII 6 лет назад +5

    My go to everyday carry backpack for the last two years and 7 months and still strong and going. Love the backpack. My Medium cafe bag also going strong.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Awesome to hear, Ramon!
      -Hannah

  • @olimyles8098
    @olimyles8098 6 лет назад +6

    I bought this bag, partly because I think its unique yet utilitarian design looks really cool.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      It's definitely got a unique look going on Oli - not a ton out there like it.
      - Tom

  • @cdgerston
    @cdgerston 6 лет назад +6

    I've used a couple different iterations of the Synapse 25, overall my favorite pack of all time (though I sometimes stray to other packs). It's versatility is definitely it's strength (and I don't mind the look).
    The best use for me is as a daily carry AND camera pack: to do this I got a simple camera insert that just fits the front bottom pocket. It carries a mirrorless camera and 2-3 lenses easily. The rest of the pack is then free for excellent daily carry options. I've tried a lot of camera-oriented packs that try to also include some daily carry...none of them are close to what the Synapse can do. Love that pack.

    • @robww5921
      @robww5921 6 лет назад +1

      Curt Gerston awesome idea! I thought going to say the side pockets but They aren’t big enough. What’s the camera insert you use?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Great to hear it's working out for you in a versatile manner, Curt! 👍
      -Hannah

    • @cdgerston
      @cdgerston 6 лет назад +1

      @@robww5921 I ordered one through Etsy...I don't remember the vendor anymore, but I was able to give them the exact measurements for that pocket on the Synapse. Etsy is great that way.

  • @Antiflagcanuck
    @Antiflagcanuck 6 лет назад +9

    Fun fact, that water bottle pocket is perfectly sized for an iPad mini, and the stretch pocket in the main compartment is great for flipflops

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Fun fact indeed! Love that little pocket and the versatility that comes along with it.
      - Tom

  • @christineh2623
    @christineh2623 6 лет назад +5

    also not totally in love with the aesthetic, so purchased the solid black (so the zippers aren’t so in-yer-face) then added hot pink reflective paracord zipper pulls, which i find extremely helpful because these zippers are hefty and take some use to loosen up. Now have three of these! LOVE LOVE LOVE this pack for work (non tech), travel and fun. don’t use this for hiking, though, as i prefer a suspended frame backpack with better ventilation. Very comfortable wear, great organization , and Tom Bihn has other awesome travel bags (check out the Aero 30 for travel and The Truck/Pop Tote for shopping)!
    Thanks for the great review!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Awesome - thanks for sharing C Host!
      - Tom

  • @victoriadiaz6356
    @victoriadiaz6356 6 лет назад +4

    Nice review. I’m a HUGE Tom Bihn fan and have several of their bags and organizer pouches including the Synapse 19 which is the best all around backpack that I own.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Great to hear it's treating you well, Victoria!
      -Hannah

  • @KerenWang
    @KerenWang 6 лет назад +51

    My synapse is how I imagine having an ugly child is like. You love him, you think he is the smartest, but deep down you know he ain't getting all the ladies.

  • @MrBelongings
    @MrBelongings 6 лет назад +2

    I find if you put a rectangle sized packing cube sidewise. So it's short end is facing up,my s19 is pretty well utilized. It stretches tthe bag from left to right (making it less round and egg shaped) and leaves you a good amount of space up top

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Great to know, MrBelongings! 👍
      -Hannah

  • @Pseudochick01
    @Pseudochick01 6 лет назад +9

    Take a look how Chase Reeves on youtube is getting his laptop in the pack. He actualy put it into the sleeve, so he can get a lot more space in the main pocket.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      Thanks Mélanie! Chase does a great job at reviewing this pack. Typically, we like packs that keep laptops & heavy items closer to our back but the internal front compartment can certainly be used in that way.
      - Tom

    • @Pseudochick01
      @Pseudochick01 6 лет назад

      Pack Hacker 😊

    • @thatspiritualhumane
      @thatspiritualhumane 5 лет назад +4

      @@PackHacker Guys, why don't u invite Chase on a collab video on the best backpacks currently on the market..!

  • @maysdogus
    @maysdogus 6 лет назад +2

    Good review Tom! I must be one of the few that thinks this is the best looking pack out there, lol. Some interesting thoughts in the video. I actually removed the frame sheet on my GE version right away. I found it extremely uncomfortable. I sorta test-packed it for a trip with the sheet in and I couldn't get everything to fit right and be comfortable. Perhaps I'm just so used to going without it with my EDC pack (the regular synapse 25 version) for the last 2+ years. I don't use the internal sleeve for anything, so I can't really comment on that. Don't believe it's ever gotten in the way though. The cache works great for me too and at airports. Also hoping you guys snag that new Guide Pack Shadow Edition, or whatever it's called. Looks pretty sweet.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Thanks, Chris! Not hearing a ton of love on the look of it, but it's great to hear you're digging it! Great to hear the cache is working out for you too, definitely a unique feature. Let us know if you get your hands on the Guide Pack Shadow Edition. 👍
      -Hannah

  • @amicussantana2296
    @amicussantana2296 5 лет назад +2

    The osprey comet is a great alternative, 25 liters ,great grab handle and function

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      We'll take a look - thanks for the suggestion! 👍
      - Rebecca

  • @TheXtofer
    @TheXtofer 6 лет назад +2

    If you are gonna spend $200 for this bag then I recommend saving up for the frame(which I have not done yet). Without the frame this backpack is so uncomfortable as an everyday carry walking commute backpack. It has lots of great space but I can feel everything rub against my spine.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      Thanks for sharing your experience with us, xto. The frame sheet is a great addition. 👍
      -Hannah

  • @kme06d
    @kme06d 6 лет назад +3

    Any chance of reviewing the Tom Bihn Aeronaut? I just picked up the 45 liter version myself and it's great. Would love to know what you guys think of it.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      We haven't gotten our hands on this one yet! Sounds like something we'll have to check out more!
      -Hannah

  • @jenniferharris7633
    @jenniferharris7633 5 лет назад +3

    Would you please review the Tom Bihn Aeronaut 45?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Solid idea - we don't have this one in the review pipeline at the moment, but we'll consider it!
      - Tom

  • @adrockr2
    @adrockr2 2 года назад

    Do you, or will you have a comparison video for packs that have a center water bottle compartment? I can't find many packs with this feature and it's exactly what I need for a larger flask.

  • @AyuK-jm1qo
    @AyuK-jm1qo 4 месяца назад

    Which backpack do you recommend? I want something not heavier than 1kg, with enough space but also with organisational pockets. I have patagonia refugio 30l. I like the bottle holders and that its lightweight, but there is no organization.

  • @michaelc7139
    @michaelc7139 Год назад

    Hello. Good review! Last month I bought a Synapse 25 and either they undid many of the features you covered - grab handle and shoulder straps specifically - or I got a 5 year old bag. Have you seen one recently? Look like the one here, or older? Thanks.

  • @dougquesnel5613
    @dougquesnel5613 6 лет назад +2

    I wonder what your thoughts / comparison would be with the Brain Bag

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      We'd love to check that one - maybe soon :)
      - Tom

  • @christopherpunsalan
    @christopherpunsalan 6 лет назад +1

    I was just literally searching for your review of this bag :)

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Glad we have it up for you!
      - Tom

  • @kingasia
    @kingasia 6 лет назад +2

    I thought this denier was way better than 1680. 1680 is the standard one that frays all the time. I thought lower number the finer it is meaning it ends up being more durable. Am I wrong here??

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад +1

      Hey Mike! Denier is a little tricky, and the numbers don't always equate to durability. 1680D is a thicker yarn that typically comes in a ballistic weave (similar to a basket weave). Depending on the quality of nylon used and production method/quality, 1680 can certainly fray, as can any fabric.
      Here's what we have on Denier from our backpack guide:
      "The formal definition of Denier is the mass (in grams) per 9,000 meters of thread-so lightweight fabrics (like silk) have a very low denier, while heavier fabrics have a higher denier. When it comes to backpacks, a higher denier is not necessarily better. In general, a higher denier will be more durable, (depending on the fabric & weave) but also heavier. While denier can tell you the weight and thickness of a material, the type of weave and manufacturing involved will ultimately tell you more about the strength and durability."
      packhacker.com/guide/best-travel-backpack/
      Hope this helps & let me know if I can be of any more help!
      - Tom

    • @kingasia
      @kingasia 6 лет назад +2

      Thanks for the info! Sounds confusing and not clear cut. So much to ponder.

    • @toad8427
      @toad8427 4 месяца назад

      @@kingasia ponder!!!

  • @pcproff
    @pcproff 6 лет назад +1

    Ok you have sold me on the goruk after watching this.

  • @jesseallen4184
    @jesseallen4184 3 года назад

    Just wondering if anyone can comment on the comfort of the shoulder straps, compared to a 5.11 Rush 12, Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 21 or an Osprey Quasar? While these four above mentioned bags are super comfy, they don’t meet my edc needs. I currently edc a Maxpedition Riftpoint that meets all my edc needs except for comfort. The shoulder straps are thin and not very comfortable and the back panel doesn’t sit well on my back.
    I’m in Australia and Tom Bihn international shipping isn’t cheap so I’m looking at $300-$400 AUD to get a Synapse delivered.

  • @dalegodfrey2110
    @dalegodfrey2110 6 лет назад

    Love your reviews and style of presentation. Looking for that perfect backpack that would handle a small/med size padded camera insert and and walking sticks for hiking. Would the Synapse 25 meet those needs? I like their selection of colors & materials. If not, what other brand would you recommend? Thanks in advance for your input. Happy Holidays!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Hi Dale-depending on the size of your walking sticks you may be able to attach them to the loop near the bottom middle of the pack. We don't use walking sticks often but this might workout! The padded camera cube should be no problem fitting inside. We recommend also checking out the Patagonia Arbor Classic Pack ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/patagonia/arbor-classic-pack/ ), Lowe Alpine ND20 ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/lowe-alpine/aeon-22-nd20/ ) or the Osprey Farpoint ( packhacker.com/travel-gear/osprey/farpoint-40/ ). Hope this helps!
      -Hannah

  • @ladyinblack1964
    @ladyinblack1964 2 года назад

    What's that thing that looks like a ping pong ball on a tether inside the backpack?

  • @84productionsGagan
    @84productionsGagan 5 лет назад +1

    Which water bottle did you use in this video?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад +1

      Hey Gagen! That's the YETI Rambler 18oz Bottle packhacker.com/travel-gear/yeti/rambler-18-oz-bottle/ 👍
      - Rebecca

  • @ericjam
    @ericjam 2 года назад

    What color is presented here? It looks like nebulous gray but leans toward cloud sometimes.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  2 года назад

      It looks like it’s Nebulous! We got it a few years ago, and Tom Bihn has a ton of colorway options 😃
      -Eric

  • @robww5921
    @robww5921 6 лет назад +1

    Love you reviews as always. Really thorough. Although might be me but I thought you were going to give this a much worse rating than you did. Could maybe do with going into the positives a bit more on this one....

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Thanks for the feedack Rob! We have a specific way we rate products with 10 weighted categories. Everything is documented here: packhacker.com/about/rating-system/
      - Tom

  • @Jazzmusiek
    @Jazzmusiek 5 лет назад +3

    Your critique on the laptop compartment is a bit frustrating. You have two options for a laptop compartment. One in the back (which is how you tested it) and one in the front (which is the flappy bit that ‘kept getting in the way’). By slipping the laptop in the front, it’s easier to move the laptop in and out of the pack. Also, by putting the laptop in the front, it’s easier to pack the main compartment for packing cubes.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад +1

      Hey Jasmaine - we hear you, thanks for sharing your experience with us. We get what you're saying about putting the laptop in the front compartment because you don't have to deal with the laptop sleeve mechanism but for us, it's not the tightest fit, however, we're glad you've been able to make it work for you! We also recommend checking out the Tom Bihn Synik packhacker.com/travel-gear/tom-bihn/synik-30/ as they've made some changes to make it easier to get your laptop out. 😊👍
      - Rebecca

  • @alexanderroberts3424
    @alexanderroberts3424 6 лет назад

    Hey Tom, doesn't the Tortuga Homebase use Liteskin, not Dyneema? ;)

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Hey Alexander-it is indeed LS21 Liteskin fabric!
      -Hannah

  • @Tikemorris78
    @Tikemorris78 5 лет назад +1

    For someone who cares about materials so much you should verify your terms. The interior is polyethylene - the most common polymer on the planet. Polyethelyne is not a thing.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Thanks for your feedback, Mike. 👍
      - Rebecca

  • @Drew-nv1op
    @Drew-nv1op 6 лет назад +7

    poly-ethy-lene, not poly-thay-lene ;-) Keep up the great work!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Noted Drew - thank you! Old habits die hard ;-)
      - Tom

    • @Drew-nv1op
      @Drew-nv1op 6 лет назад +1

      @@PackHacker No worries. Sorry to be _that guy._

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      @@Drew-nv1op - Hah - I appreciate it. Your response was framed up respectfully, plus, we go for accuracy 😉
      - Tom

  • @spellerlittlewing
    @spellerlittlewing 3 года назад

    I agree to many pockets I like more minimalist less pockets

  • @brumels1570
    @brumels1570 Месяц назад

    I need to carry a case full of canned drinks or a gallon of water. It looks like the main compartment is too small for that.

  • @Xjr5rjX
    @Xjr5rjX 6 лет назад

    Is this bag really better than a Swiss gear Pegasus?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      We haven't gotten our hands on a SwissGear Pegasus yet, Xjr5jX. The Tom Bihn Synapse is definitely a solid pack though!
      -Hannah

    • @Xjr5rjX
      @Xjr5rjX 6 лет назад

      @@PackHacker I just ordered a swissgear carbon 2. Looks like the Pegasus, but cooler. I'd love to see you guys compare it to some of your favorite laptop/tech bags.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      @@Xjr5rjX We'll check it out!
      -Hannah

  • @saab_9
    @saab_9 5 лет назад +1

    is it waterproof ?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Hey SAA B_ - this pack is not waterproof. Hope this helps, let us know if you have any more questions! 😊
      - Rebecca

  • @bfourney
    @bfourney 5 лет назад +1

    I feel like the black or blue halcyon fabric would look way better and be more your style. Still kinda frumpy but much better. The ballistic nylon fabrics are just kinda ok to meh.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us blondre3000 - the black and blue versions look pretty solid! What's your current go-to pack? We'd love to hear what works for you too! 😊
      - Rebecca

    • @bfourney
      @bfourney 5 лет назад +1

      The more I use the synapse the more I love it, haven’t really found anything else that’s as light, well built, and comfortable as TB bags. Currently have a synapse 19 and Western Flyer, tried the synapse 25 “guide edition” but didn’t like the materials and extra weight so I sent it back and might still get a regular halcyon synapse 25.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      That's awesome to hear! We're so glad the Synapse 19 is working out well for you. Let us know if you decide to pick up the Halcyon Synapse 25! 👍🙌
      - Rebecca

  • @julessantana9416
    @julessantana9416 6 лет назад

    I first saw this on Chase Reeves channel and despite its frequent praise, I still found it’s not my style, but given your review style, I had to watch this one. Also, guys if you don’t have noti’s on, turn them on. Packhacker guys are one of the best at gear review . Love that you guys are looking into these popular models tho, and Pack Hacker reviews are thorough as always. I may gift this out after watching the review as it’s super functional, but as you said, the aesthetic just isn’t fitting some some hyper-minimalists, like myself, who stick to Go Ruck, Matador, and Sea to summit products. This looks more “middle school tech” than “ business professional traveler.” Keep up the great work, Tom, and packhacker group. I love the videos and learn so much from you guys!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Thanks Jules! It's great comments like this that give me & the team all the more reason to keep going 🙂
      - Tom

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  4 года назад

      Hey Jules! We'd love to reach out to you, if you could email me on rebecca@packhacker.com or let me know the best way to get in touch with you that would be great. Hopefully speak soon!
      Best, Rebecca

  • @jonmnelson
    @jonmnelson 5 лет назад +5

    If I took a shot every time you said “iteration” ... 🤢 Seriously, nice review!

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Glad you're digging the review, Jon! 👍
      - Rebecca

  • @linzbridge4495
    @linzbridge4495 6 лет назад

    I love Tom bihn as a company but I'm not sure I dig the look of their bags.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      We've heard a lot of mixed feelings about their aesthetics, however, it's definitely a solid pack if you find it to your liking!
      -Hannah

  • @M0ebius
    @M0ebius 6 лет назад

    Excellent bag that unfortunately is the opposite of my aesthetics.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Aesthetic choice is so personal M0ebius! It's opposite of my taste as well, but I do dig the colorway we have & the black colorway as well.
      - Tom

  • @morgan6563
    @morgan6563 6 лет назад +1

    Definitely not a huge fan of the look of this pack at all, which is a bit of a deal breaker for me! Maybe the black version of this bad is less ugly?

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  6 лет назад

      Hey Morgan, we've been hearing mixed opinions on the look. Check out the black and let us know what you think!
      -Hannah

  • @GatorAidMedical
    @GatorAidMedical 5 лет назад +1

    The same gripes on every review regarding dangly straps is kinda annoying

  • @MrJamesDavidLarson
    @MrJamesDavidLarson 5 лет назад +3

    why am i watching this i already own one lol
    oh yeah cause it’s a killer bag. it’s ugly but that’s actually a bonus when you’re traveling.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад +1

      😂- it's a solid pack with a somewhat cult-following. We dig it. As for the ugly advantage, are you speaking in terms of security / less likely to be stolen?
      - Tom

    • @MrJamesDavidLarson
      @MrJamesDavidLarson 5 лет назад +1

      Pack Hacker yeah exactly. i personally don’t want the flashiest bag that draws attention. but besides that the organization is top notch and very helpful in a lot of circumstances. the 25L is like a cave, i can keep throwing stuff in there and it’s rarely gotten so full i can’t add more. the bottom pocket is perfect at keeping a wet umbrella separated from the rest of the pack and like another commenter here i’m gonna be looking at using it as a camera bag too which it’s also perfectly suited for. anyway, when i was searching for reviews last year before i bought there weren’t that many good reviews on youtube about it. i think yours is the best i’ve seen, so keep going with this. and please review all the tom bihn stuff cause i might have accidentally joined the cult now 

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      @@MrJamesDavidLarson - hah! Good info here James 🙂 - we plan on reviewing more Tom Bihn stuff in the future as well. We just featured their Minimalist Wallet in our Digital Nomad Packing List video & hope to get our hands on more soon
      - Tom

  • @user-tu5tm6kn6k
    @user-tu5tm6kn6k 5 лет назад +2

    Functional, but what a truly super ugly bag.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад +1

      What's your go-to pack, Ben? We'd love to hear what works for you too! 😊
      - Rebecca

    • @user-tu5tm6kn6k
      @user-tu5tm6kn6k 5 лет назад +1

      @@PackHacker I've been using Aer Tech bag for my edc. Minimal and sleek.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Thanks for sharing Ben, we're glad you've found a pack that works well for you! 👍
      - Rebecca

    • @RovexHD
      @RovexHD 5 лет назад

      Ben Fauzi
      Why always grey or black ?

  • @carbonoxx
    @carbonoxx 2 года назад

    no side water bottle no go for me, the center water bottle is bulky and risk of getting wet the entire backpack

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  2 года назад

      That’s a good insight! You’d better ensure your bottle doesn’t leak!
      -Eric

  • @ChinmayH
    @ChinmayH 5 лет назад

    Those zippers look super ugly, overall does not look worth the price.

    • @PackHacker
      @PackHacker  5 лет назад

      Thanks for sharing your thoughts with us Chinmay! 👍
      - Rebecca