Why We Chose the Patagonia Black Hole Duffel 70: Tough, roomy, eco-friendly
Price: £120
Weight: 1440g
More info: eu.patagonia.com
When it comes to duffel bags, we look for a few simple things. First, it needs to be big enough and strong enough to carry all our gear – which might include a fair amount of hardware, like a climbing rack. Second, it needs to be tough enough to sling in a van without getting damaged or torn. Third, it should stop our stuff from getting soaking wet or broken in transit. Fourth, it should be easy to haul around. And finally, it should be easy to get into, so that when you’re at airline check-in and you realise your passport and boarding pass are buried somewhere in its cavernous depths, you don’t have to scrabble around for ages to find them.
“All the materials are still as tough and durable as ever though. The main body of the bag is 900-denier ripstop fabric”
The Patagonia Black Hole 55L delivers on all counts, and offers some useful additional features too. Added to that, it now comes with excellent eco credentials, thanks to the fact that it is made from Bluesign-approved and 100% recycled polyester fabric. The lining is also 100% recycled polyester lining, while the external webbing is made from 100% recycled nylon. Apparently, the production of the Black Hole collection will keep 10 million plastic bottles will be kept out of landfills. Bravo Patagonia.
All the materials are still as tough and durable as ever though. The main body of the bag is 900-denier ripstop fabric with a weather-resistant laminated surface and a DWR (durable water repellent) finish. So it’s going to be pretty difficult to shred it. Similarly, though the bag won’t survive a dunking, it should stand up to light or moderate rain with no drama.
Related: Patagonia Macro Puff Jacket
The 55L-litre capacity is roomy enough to swallow a lot of kit. The main compartment has a large opening with a U-shaped zip, so it’s easy to rummage around inside. The inside of the lid has two useful mesh pockets, and there is also a zipped side pocket for quick access to small items. A padded base also protects the contents. The rest of the bag does not have a particularly rigid structure, which keeps weight down and means it is easier to squash it into tight spaces, but bear in mind that it doesn’t offer a huge amount of protection for fragile items.
