Fjällräven is a big player in the backpack world. Does the Skule Top Daypack live up to the brand’s stellar reputation? Paul McGuinness finds out.
Our review: a solid, hard-wearing and roomy pack with the build quality you might expect from this brand
Buy from Amazon (£105.00), SportsShoes (£101.69)
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First impressions
As you might expect from Fjällräven, this is a solid, well-built pack that oozes quality. Its unfussy stylishness is synonymous with the brand. This top-loader is uncluttered by compartments and pockets – whether you see that as a bonus or a negative is down to what you’re looking for in a daypack.
Comfort
This pack was first tested loaded to bursting point on a long cycle ride on a warm day and yet it often felt like it wasn’t even there. Firm but lightweight padded shoulder straps and a padded rear (both with air mesh) make it an easy and comfortable carry. There are thin chest and waist straps for extra support, both of which are unobtrusive to the point that we didn’t even see it had a waist strap before initial testing!
Adjustable side straps on the outside are useful for keeping the pack compact when it’s not fully loaded.
What’s the storage like?
If you like to compartmentalise your luggage, the Skule Top 26 may not be your bag. Inside, there’s a short, lightly padded laptop pouch (shorter than a laptop, in fact), and a dangling zip pocket about the size of a mobile phone, and that’s it. What this does mean is that the rest of your 26 litres of storage is free to load up however you like.
On the outside, there’s a reasonably generous zip pocket in the lid, and decent-sized, stretchy water bottle pockets on either side. To finish off, elasticated cord mesh on the front allows you to attach extras.
What’s it made of?
There’s no denying this is a stylish piece of luggage, made from water-repellent 600D Oxford fabric in recycled polyester. We tested it in navy, but it also comes in black and two shades of green.
Durability?
Fjällräven proudly boasts that durability is one of the Skule range’s biggest strengths, and it certainly seems very sturdy. On test, ours got chucked and kicked around, but came back looking like new.
Good value?
This isn’t a budget backpack, which is reflected in the build quality. If you want a hard-wearing, stylish pack to last you years, you get what you pay for, and the Skule Top 26 delivers on all fronts.
Best suited for:
The relative lack of pockets and compartments might make this less of an appealing backpack for a regular commute, but its roominess and durability make it ideal for pretty much any outdoor pursuit.
Facts at a glance: Fjällräven Skule Top 26 Daypack
- RRP: £105.00
- Volume: 26 litre
- Colours: black, navy, patina green, deep forest
- Weight: 750g
For longer expeditions, check out our review of the best hiking backpacks.