In 2014, commuter Sarah Giblin set about designing a revolutionary type of backpack more suitable for public transport. With the help of over 1000 backers from her Kickstarter campaign, the first prototype was produced. From there, she has gone on to release four different varieties of Riut bags (pronounced ‘riot’).
The Riut R10, released last year, is a 10l backpack suitable for a 15” laptop with lots of pockets for everything else. However, that is not the special thing about the Riut bags - what really sets them apart from the rest is that all of the access points to this bag lay flat against your back. Why hasn’t this been done before? When we have been away travelling, we have often been advised to wear our backpacks on our fronts to keep our belongings safe, especially in the big cities. However, the only time I have ever had something nicked from my person, it has been in my home city. It doesn’t really matter where you are - if someone that way inclined thinks they can get into your backpack without you noticing, they will try, and this what I love about the Riut. Search away, my thieving friend - you won’t find a single pocket accessible to you.
You may think that having all the pockets and zips against your back is uncomfortable, but the Riut has thought of that and provides lots of padding in all the right places. At the base of the R10 is a medium sized D pocket with an organiser inside, which can be accessed without removing the bag, making it ideal for your wallet, train tickets or your phone. Further up, there is a padded strap to allow you to attach the backpack to your suitcase handle. At the top of the bag is the zip access point: inside is the laptop compartment, two more thick padded organiser pockets and a good sized netted pocket, as well as some pen holders and little pockets lining the sides. Lastly there is one more pocket that sits at the back of your neck.
Don’t let the R10 size deceive you - this thing has more storage pockets than Mary Poppins’ bag. It is comfortable and ever so practical: a brilliant example of innovative design. RRP £89
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4.5 out of 5
Pros
Secure
Comfortable
Adjustable shoulder and sternum (width and height) straps
Lots of organised storage
Airline carry-on compatible
Holds 15” laptop
Waterproof
Suitcase attachment handle
Cons
Straps get in the way when you try to access the zips
Only available in navy or black
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