20 April Week in Review: Tactical Totes, Duffel Showdowns, and Chic Wallets

We’re spanning the carry categories with this Week In Review. Keeping things varied, we’re checking out a stylish wallet for the office or leisure use, two very different duffels, a versatile daypack, and a tactical twist on a matching tote and dopp kit…

The duffel with a difference

As is probably clear from the image above, the MEC Scully 30 Duffel isn’t your typical duffel. Beneath the flap is a roll-top closure that helps to keep water at bay. If you don’t need this feature, the roll-top can be tucked away and the duffel can be used as a normal duffel would. There is an option of top, side and end handles or alternatively shoulder straps that can be stored out of the way when not in use. Other features include a purge valve that enables you to remove excess air from the bag to make it as compact as possible, as well as an interior mesh pocket on the top flap. Potential drawbacks? The duffel is water-resistant but not waterproof so if jumping off cliffs into waterfalls with duffel in tow is in the cards, look elsewhere. As duffels go, it’s not necessarily going to be winning any style contests either. Still, if you like your duffels for their practicality and versatility and don’t require sleek looks or waterproofness, the MEC Scully 30 is definitely worth considering – plus at $65 it’s not going to break the bank, which is always a bonus.

Classy coin carry

Style and deceptively simple design go hand in hand with the ZIP wallet from Japanese leather goods brand Roberu. Available in a choice of six leather colors, the wallet has an internal divider that forms three compartments within the wallet, enabling you to store coins, bills and cards separately while keeping a slim profile. If you like your cards super-organized or you don’t like to fold your bills, this wallet won’t be your first choice. However, if you frequently use coins and are happy to sacrifice multiple organization options for quick and easy access with medium organization, this wallet may be just the thing you’re after. The unisex style adds to the versatility and the chic looks make it a suitable option for work or play.

Traversing the urban jungle

Heimplanet’s Monolith Daypack offers 22 liters of space for your EDC essentials, with a dedicated padded laptop section and dual carry options. The bag can be carried as a backpack or messenger. The shoulder straps can be stowed away when not in use and the two belts on the front of the daypack enable you to carry bulky items that won’t fit in the pack. These belts can also be concealed if desired. Additional items can be attached via the exterior MOLLE webbing (there are optional pouch accessories if you want to create further volume). Though the front belts can be concealed, there’s still an urban tactical vibe to the pack which, depending on your work, might not cut it in the office (or alternatively might just not be your style). You can have it in any color – as long as it’s black (which granted is a favored color choice for many and definitely the most versatile color option but it won’t tone down the tactical look). Still, if the looks don’t detract from your EDC carry needs and you like a pack that offers some flexibility in terms of exterior attachments and carry options, this pack may find its way into your collection.

Camo carry

Providing a city-chic take on the tactical look is Jack Spade’s Swedish M90 Cordura Dipped Coal Bag and Travel Kit. Both items have Waxwear trim and reinforced bottoms available in a choice of orange or black. The shoulder strap of the Coal Bag is removable, while the Travel Kit includes a waterproof lining and inner ID label. These carry items are certainly eye-catching but this striking style doesn’t come with an inconsiderable price tag – $295 for the Coal Bag and $165 for the Travel Kit.

Putting the Red Oxx Safari-Beano’s PR4 duffel through its paces

If you’re in the market for a duffel but want something with a very different look and feel to the MEC Scully 30, our road test of the Red Oxx Safari-Beano’s PR4 duffel provides an informative read that can help you decide whether to add this duffel to your consideration list or not. You can check it out here.