Matador ReFraction Packable Backpack | Not For Everyone

I had HIGH hopes for this pack when I saw it drop. It was very close to the bag I had living inside my head. But just like dreams.... they seldom come true. So lets take a look at the new Matador ReFraction Packable Backpack, and see why it is not for everyone.



#matadorequipment #realuserreview #packablebackpack

[zeak]

I think he was very helpful in helping the prospective consumer to make the most informed buying decision. I found his review very helpful for the prospective consumer to make the most informed decision to buy or not to buy. As a small man, I clicked “buy” from the sales site after watching this video. By the way, the purchase price in Japan was about $70.

[bani_niba]

I bought this bag several months ago. Like you, this bag matched my idea for the perfect day bag. But after using for a few days, I have to reconsider. The shoulder straps are perfectly fine for me. The issue for me is my usage case. My main need for a day bag is for holding layers of clothes for temperature changes - light jacket, hat, gloves, etc. I wish the front stretchy pocket was much bigger to able to hold some of those clothes items for quick access. It's annoying having to unzip and re-zip every time I enter/leave a building into the colder temps outside. Also, there aren't any attachment points on the front to add shock/bungie cord for external carry. I don't need two quick-access pockets for small items (top & front), just the top one would have been sufficient. I'm now considering the Aer Go Pack 2 - it has a large front-panel stash pocket.

[jonuiuc]

Ended up giving mine away, needed a bigger packable bag. Ended up with the Rennen Ripstop, doesn’t pack as small but it packs flat. It’s a little bigger and less expensive than the comparable aer go or bellboy lite options.

[RealMuperSan]

I have the prior generation Matador on grid packable backpack, and I have almost the exact same issues with the shoulder straps that you’re having on this one.

[Misterion]

Have you considered the Remote Equipment Charlie 25? Without the brain it is a 20L, which gets closer to one of your requirements. The WBPs are awesome, and while it doesn't have a front stretch pocket - with the brain off it is pretty quick access.

Enjoyed your review of the Matador bag.

[jeffgrantMEDIA]

Bag is sold! If there are any packs you would like to see reviewed, let me know.

[cbassplissken]

Dang. Was hoping this was it for Disney especially for the price. Those straps give me pause on the matador carryology collab trident. Really like the design of the trident but the comfort I’m worried about especially for the price. Comfort has to be good or it ruins every bag. Also noticed JB said the volume claims for that one was also dubious.

Snagged a cheap used lbt14v2 can’t wait for it to arrive to give it’s simplicity a shot.

[This-Stylish-Life]

Hey man, great video. Since you love the Beast28 so much, what do you think about the 18 for a Disney/packable bag? I’m in the exact same market as we’re headed to Disneyland in CA in Oct.

[RockThisOutNow]

Very repetitive review. I think we heard your points after 1-2 times. But maybe skip the next 5-6 and this review could be much shorter and to the point. Speaking of the point, I think you missed the point of this pack (which I own and think its fantastic). It’s PACKABLE. PACKABLE. PACKABLE. PACKABLE. PACKABLE. PACKABLE. PACKABLE. In the spirit of your review, I just thought I would repeat that 5-6 times in case anyone missed.

You compare this to a Goruck bag? Really? You serious? Ever try to pack a Goruck into itself? Didn’t think so because it’s not possible. This Matador is in a class with the Sea to Summit and Osprey packs. The PACKABLE ones! Try those on for size with their lack of structure where everything just flops around and you will beg to get this Matador back on. In short - in the PACKABLE class of packs this is really a top 2, with the other being the Freefly 16 - another Matador pack!

And if you want a bit more space Matador has like 3-4 more options in 2-4 liter larger increments. Right on their website. Just get one those for your next Disney trip. To me, it seems like this class of PACKABLE pack just isn’t for you!

[elsutlf]

Have you looked at the awaytravel everyday backpack? Its a new release seems like no one's talking about it.

[GameKingFaiz]

Any plans to test out the Aer Go Pack 2?

[stevestory]

What small dad bag kits were those you pulled out the yellow one. Also where did get the first aid kit bag

[enriquediaz]

Was/is your Beast 28 a v1 or v2? My v2’s water bottle pockets are thin/small :(

[jonholistik]

What was your disney bag? Looking for one now

[TheChivasRegal]

Seems way too small. Needs to be - 20/22L