This week TAD (Triple Aught Design) sent us their new Fastpack EDC for evaluation. After a couple of days carrying the redesigned pack, I’ve made some early observations which I’ll share in case some of you are considering the investment.
Triple Aught Design Fastpack EDC 2015 Edition
I’ll start by saying this. Overall, Triple Aught Design has improved enough aspects of the Fastpack EDC that I would recommend upgrading if you have one of the older versions. Also, it may be time to buy into the hype if you don’t have a Fastpack in your collection. I don’t feel as strongly about the new Litespeed but they nailed the dismount on this one. Even the Russian judge would probably give them a solid 8.5 score.
Why you say? I thought you’d never ask. In my opinion, TAD made two major improvements. First, they greatly improved the harness and the back panel. Here is a picture of an older Gen EDC alongside the GoRuck GR1…
The Older Generation Fastpack EDC (foreground)
And here’s the new EDC…
As you can see, the new straps have more padding and structure than those on the previous Gen. Once I strapped myself into the EDC and adjusted everything, it had a rock solid locked-in feel. Maybe not to the degree of say… the Futura yoke on the Mystery Ranch 3DAP… but it’s definitely on that end of the scale. The pack also carries higher on the back – similar to a GoRuck GR1. Whether you like that or not is a matter of preference.
The other big change is they opened up the access to the main compartment. The old pack was a three-quarter panel opening…
The new main compartment panel lays nearly flat.
Triple Aught Design Fastpack EDC 2015 with CP-1
With the new Fastpack EDC, it’s easier to get to the contents of the zippered pockets – especially if you also add the Control Panel accessory (CP-1).
Was there anything not to like? As I mentioned in my First Look article after the announcement, I didn’t care for the inclusion of the roll-top laptop compartment. After trying it, I’m still not a fan but not for the reason I anticipated. Getting in and out is not as convenient as a YKK Aquaguard zipper would have been but the bigger issue is the compartment’s lining. Unfortunately, the bottom is not sewn in and it wants to come out along with the device every time you remove it. You then have to stuff it back into the compartment. It didn’t take long before that was REALLY getting annoying. A regrettable design flaw that is certainly not a show stopper but worth considering if you routinely carry a laptop or tablet.
Later this winter, I’ll do a full review of the Triple Aught Design Fastpack EDC 2015 Edition. Stay tuned.
The post Gear Diary: TAD Fastpack EDC 2015 First Impressions appeared first on .