Ogio Pace Pro Max Travel Bag Review: An In-Depth Look at the Pace 25 Backpack
Daypacks and travel bags come in various forms, catering to different needs and carrying capacities. Some are designed for minimal loads, while others can accommodate essentials for longer trips. The key is finding a travel bag that perfectly aligns with your gear requirements and intended use. While you might be searching for an “Ogio Pace Pro Max Travel Bag Review”, this article delves into the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack, a versatile option that strikes a balance between everyday carry convenience and weekend trip potential. This review is based on extensive testing, offering detailed insights into its features, materials, and overall performance, providing valuable context for those considering Ogio’s travel bag lineup.
Materials & Aesthetic of the Ogio Pace 25
The Ogio Pace 25 Backpack presents a design that avoids being overly large or conspicuously small, hitting what many might consider a just-right size. Its aesthetic has garnered mixed reactions, suggesting it appeals to a specific preference, though opinions vary.
Ogio Pace 25 Backpack in Detroit street scene
Available in limited colorways like Heather Grey and Black, the Pace 25 adopts a low-profile look that allows it to blend seamlessly into various environments. This might be a key feature for users who prefer subtle gear over statement pieces, a consideration that might also apply to other Ogio travel bag options like the Pace Pro Max. Branding is kept minimal, with the Ogio logo appearing subtly on the front pocket and a shoulder strap, often in a tone-on-tone finish that integrates well with the fabric, further enhancing its streamlined appearance.
Close-up view of Ogio Pace 25 Backpack material texture and logo
Constructed with an 840D Ballistic nylon body, the Pace 25 benefits from reinforcement in high-wear areas. The bottom and sides feature more robust 1680D Ballistic nylon, contributing to the bag’s overall durability. The fabric feels sturdy and capable of withstanding regular use, performing well during the review period. While not fully waterproof, it offers sufficient water resistance for light rain.
Detailed view of the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack zippers
The backpack is equipped with YKK zippers, a widely recognized standard for reliability in bags. These zippers, fitted with easy-to-grab nylon-webbing pulls, operated smoothly throughout testing. Hardware components are supplied by Duraflex, another common and generally dependable brand found in quality bags. While most hardware performed without issue, the sternum strap mechanism presented a minor point of friction during initial adjustment.
External Components and Comfort
Beyond the basic construction, the external components of the Ogio Pace 25 contribute significantly to its comfort and functionality as a travel daypack. The harness system, while having minor points for improvement, was found to be generally comfortable and breathable during testing.
Ogio Pace 25 Backpack fit notes on two different individuals
The shoulder straps feature ample padding and a mesh lining designed for comfort and ventilation. Their contoured shape at the top helps them sit well on the shoulders. A sturdy attachment point on one strap is a useful addition for clipping accessories. However, the absence of elastic keepers means that excess strap webbing can dangle when the straps are fully extended, a minor aesthetic point relevant to the overall look of an Ogio travel bag like the Pace 25 or similar models.
View of Ogio Pace 25 Backpack shoulder straps and sternum strap adjustment
The sternum strap, securely attached, requires some manual effort to adjust vertically due to its threading mechanism. Once set, however, frequent readjustment isn’t typically necessary. A notable positive is the effective elastic keeper on the sternum strap, which neatly manages excess webbing, avoiding the common issue of dangling straps seen on some other packs.
The back panel mirrors the shoulder straps in providing a good level of padding and mesh for comfort and airflow. A luggage passthrough is integrated across the back, allowing the Pace 25 to be easily secured atop rolling luggage, enhancing its utility for travel. When not in use, the passthrough lies flat and adds a layer of extra padding.
Rear view of the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack back panel with luggage passthrough
A top handle is present for quick grabs. While padded, its stiffness makes it less comfortable for prolonged carrying compared to the shoulder straps, though it serves its purpose for lifting the bag.
A mesh water bottle pocket on the side is secured with a cinch. While functional for various bottle sizes, its grip was found to be less secure with both larger and smaller bottles during testing, resulting in instances of bottles slipping out. This suggests a potential need for internal bottle storage for better security, especially when carrying valuable electronics.
Internal Organization and Capacity
The interior of the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack is well-organized, featuring a variety of pockets and compartments designed to keep gear segmented and accessible, a hallmark expected in a well-designed travel bag, potentially comparable to features sought in an “Ogio Pace Pro Max Travel Bag Review”.
Ogio Pace 25 Backpack hidden security pocket
Starting with security features, a hidden pocket on the back panel provides a safe space for valuables like passports, resting securely against the wearer’s back. It’s best suited for flat items to maintain comfort.
Two tall pockets line the sides of the bag internally. These feature soft mesh pouches with elastic tops and gusseted fabric at the opening to prevent items from falling out. They are useful for segmenting smaller items.
Front pockets of the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack with organizational features
The front of the bag houses a medium-sized quick-grab pocket at the top, suitable for frequently accessed items like sunglasses or a wallet. Lacking internal organization, it functions as a simple dump pocket, though its fabric welt over the zipper adds water resistance and a clean look.
Below this is a larger pocket with more dedicated organization. It includes a zippered pocket for small items like cables, two liner pockets sized for a notebook or mouse, and an RFID-blocking pocket. This latter pocket offers added security for sensitive items like passports and cards, protecting against potential digital theft, a feature relevant to modern travel bags. A key leash with a sturdy plastic clip is also located here, providing a secure spot for keys, although personal preference may dictate keeping keys elsewhere for quicker access.
The main compartment opens in a horseshoe style, zipping down about halfway. The dark interior and limited opening can sometimes make locating items difficult.
Removable tech pouch inside the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack
A unique organizational feature is a removable zippered pouch attached via Velcro to the front flap. Made from a water-resistant, rubbery material, this pouch can function as a dedicated tech accessory organizer. It remains securely attached but can be removed for easier access to its contents or to improve visibility and access to the rest of the main compartment when needed.
Below this pouch are two smaller mesh pouches, similar to those in the side pockets, and a larger mesh pouch. These help in segmenting smaller items and bulkier cables. Packing the larger mesh pouch fully can slightly reduce overall capacity in the main compartment.
Interior of the Ogio Pace 25 main compartment, showing the headphone strap, sleeves, and open space.
An interesting nylon strap with a buckle inside the main compartment is designed to secure large headphones, keeping them separate from other gear. While useful for some, those using smaller audio devices like earbuds might find less use for this feature.
Underneath this strap are two sleeves, one deep and one shallow, suitable for flat items like notebooks or documents. Four pen sleeves are located next to the shallower sleeve for organizing writing instruments.
The remaining space in the main compartment offers generous capacity for larger items like clothing layers, an extra pair of shoes, or an umbrella. This space makes the Pace 25 suitable for weekend trips or carrying bulkier daily essentials. The use of packing cubes is an option for further organization within this open area.
Laptop and tablet compartments in the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack
Finally, the dedicated laptop compartment at the very back features a sleeve capable of holding laptops up to 17 inches. It includes a false bottom, providing protection when the bag is set down. A shallower, suspended sleeve in front offers a secure spot for a tablet, protecting tech from accidental drops.
Conclusion
While this has been a detailed “ogio pace pro max travel bag review” examining the Ogio Pace 25 Backpack, it’s clear the Pace 25 is a well-thought-out daypack that bridges the gap between daily commute and short travel needs. Its durable construction, comfortable harness system, and varied internal organization make it a capable companion for various uses. Although minor points exist regarding sternum strap adjustment and water bottle pocket security, the overall feature set, including dedicated tech protection and a useful removable pouch, positions it as a strong contender in the travel bag market. For those exploring Ogio’s range, including potentially seeking an “ogio pace pro max travel bag review”, understanding the capabilities of models like the Pace 25 provides valuable context on the brand’s approach to functionality and design.
