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San Util Design Whirlpool Hip Pack Review
Handmade in Colorado and designed to balance stability, comfort, and simplicity, the new roll-top San Util Design Whirlpool Hip Pack is now available in four versions intended to suit everything from day riding to expedition bikepacking. Our friend Josh Hicks has been wearing the top-end Bikepacker version for a few weeks, and you can find his review here…
Words and photos by Josh Hicks
Released this morning, the San Util Design Whirlpool Hip Pack is a roll-top hip pack with a variable 3.5L to 6L volume and a 100% recycled fabric construction. Winter Park, Colorado-based maker Adam Nicholson dreamed up four versions of the Whirlpool to accommodate a broad range of pedal-powered pursuits from day riding to racing to loaded bikepacking. It’s the fourth hip pack model he’s released in the three years he’s been making bags, and it reflects the countless hours he’s put into refining his craft during that time.
In Adam’s words, “In short, I wanted to make a bag that I wanted to use. A utilitarian mountaineering-style hip bag for riding. I aimed to develop a system to make it as simple as possible for folks who didn’t want any frills yet make it customizable for those who prefer more organization. I’ve always had ideas for improving the gear I use, and I decided to do something about it.”
I’ve been riding with the deluxe Bikepacker model over the last few weeks, and right out of the box, I was impressed with the attention to detail in its construction. From initial design to execution, this pack is exceptionally well thought out, and its feature set aligns nicely with my desire for a no-nonsense hip pack to wear everywhere. I’m able to easily carry a ready-to-go CO2 cartridge, my favorite knife for spoon carving while taking breaks, a multi-tool, a camera battery, a small zippered bag of tools, a power bank, and a long-sleeve hoodie inside with the roll-top latched.
I opted for the Cobra buckle at the waist for maximum security and strength, and it has delivered on both fronts. There’s a slotted hole for the bladder hose to exit and latch onto the front of the belt, slip pockets on each hip for snacks, nylon loops to attach a tracking device on the front, and even room on the bottom of the bag to carry gear externally. Inside, there are three stitched pockets to separate items along with the bladder bag, which has a sewn-in clip to keep tension on the bag as you empty it along the ride.
Having a few specific pockets helps me to know exactly where to reach when I need something while on the trail, and I’m drawn to the overstuffed design to store a jacket during the daily rain showers we’ve been experiencing here in Colorado. Further, the lower back padding on the Whirlpool is super comfortable, and most importantly, the bladder didn’t feel nearly as heavy or awkward as I feared it might. Instead, the weight felt centered and low, keeping the pack upright. It’s my first time using a magnetic closure on a roll-top bag, and I haven’t had any issues so far. There isn’t any play while it’s closed, and even when tightening the roll-top strap down, it never came open.
Based on my initial impressions, the Bikepacker model is a great option for anything from overnighters to multi-day adventures and beyond. The amount of water this pack can comfortably carry alone makes it worth it to me. One major benefit is freeing up more room in a frame bag for food and supplies since the water weight isn’t a deal breaker on the lower back. My Whirlpool will be a go-to piece of gear on my upcoming adventures, and its simple design makes for a straightforward and worry-free experience. Fill up the bladder, toss in the items you want, stuff in an extra layer for good measure, and head out the door.
San Util is releasing The Whirlpool in three colors to start: Golden Daze, Ranger Green, and Black. They’re all made from recycled EPX200 and RBC fabrics. The Medium-XL (32-44 waist) sizes are available to purchase as of today, and the XS-SM (26-34 waist) sizes will be available on July 1st. Side-release, FIDLOCK, and Cobra buckles are available.
The pared-down Base model is a standard roll-top hip pack. It’s priced at $135 and weighs 335 grams. The Race model adds a 1.5L bladder and removable sleeve. It costs $175 and weighs 488 grams. The Alpine model features two external bottle holsters, costs $180, and weighs in at 422 grams. Lastly, the Bikepacker model, as tested, boasts two bottle holsters, a 1.5L bladder, and a utility cord for the daisy chain. It’ll set buyers back $220, and it tips the scales at 577 grams.
Pros
- Generous water capacity
- Overstuffed design maximizes capacity
- Variety of customizations and models
Cons
- Secure phone-specific pocket would be handy
- Bikepacker model is expensive when the costs of all features are tallied
Learn more about all four versions of the Whirlpool over at SanUtilDesign.com.
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