With the HIP BELT double, FIDLOCK goal to mix massive cupboard space, consolation and waterproof safety. We put the hip belt by means of its paces on trails, roads, eMTBs and gravel bikes. Deliver on the water!
A jersey bag, a storage compartment within the body, a software mount – there at the moment are loads of options for carrying your necessities in your after-work rides. However for longer rides or unpredictable climate, you usually want extra cupboard space. First thought? A backpack! Second, third and fourth ideas? Too large, too heavy, too excessive. Sounds acquainted? Then a hip bag is perhaps for you. With the HIP BELT double + bottle 450, FIDLOCK, recognized for his or her magnetic fastening programs, have added a hip bag/bottle mixture to their vary. The goal is to supply a sturdy, comfy and waterproof various to backpacks. The benefits are apparent: a hip bag sits decrease than a backpack, additionally retaining the centre of gravity decrease. This design additionally permits for higher air flow of the again, making it extra comfy, particularly in the summertime. It’s also simpler to entry your issues whereas on the transfer than with a backpack. Nevertheless, there are just a few disadvantages. These embrace much less cupboard space, the burden being distributed over a smaller space and the dearth of a again protector, which some backpacks have.
FIDLOCK HIP BELT double – Magically magnetic!
FIDLOCK’s hip bag showcases the corporate’s proprietary magnetic system. The producer emphasise the user-friendliness and practicality, because of the abundance of magnets integrated into the design. Based on FIDLOCK, the waterproof, compressible fundamental compartment has three self-closing rows of magnets and a capability of two.5 litres. There are additionally crossed, versatile straps to carry a rain jacket securely outdoors the storage compartment. In fact, the HIP BELT additionally has a magnetic fastener. Nevertheless, the actual spotlight of the magnetic hip bag are the 2 magnetic bottle holders, generally known as TWIST bases, on the left and proper of the HIP BELT, therefore the title “double”. There may be additionally a “single” mannequin with just one holder. In each circumstances, just one TWIST bottle 450 is included, which, because the title suggests, holds 450 ml of liquid. A second bottle prices a whopping € 34.99. Given the equally hefty value of € 159.99 for the hip bag, this price ticket is probably not too stunning. With out the bottle, the bag weighs simply 500 g – one other clear benefit over a backpack. FIDLOCK’s Hip Bag has already gained the coveted Design & Innovation Award.
The FIDLOCK HIP BELT on take a look at – Holding sturdy
With out spoiling an excessive amount of, The FIDLOCK system performs admirably. The hip belt buckle clicks securely into place and is simple to open, even with only one hand. As well as, the HIP BELT’s impressively huge adjustment vary (76–140 cm) ensures that it will possibly accommodate riders of just about any dimension, and its padding gives added consolation. For smaller riders, nevertheless, the width of the hip belt could also be extra of a problem, particularly with a water bottle hooked up to either side. We examined the FIDLOCK HIP BELT extensively on each gravel and MTB trails, and in each eventualities we had no issues with the soundness of the hip bag or bottle. With a reasonable load, the hip bag was barely noticeable, the bottles stayed securely in place and clipping them on and off whereas using was a breeze. Nevertheless, with two full water bottles, one or two jackets and a handful of snacks, the bag turns into noticeably heavy and, when absolutely loaded, is extra suited to gravel than tough trails. Nonetheless, its beneficiant area ensures that nothing important must be left behind, even on lengthy rides.
The structure of the bag is sensible and the zips are simple to deal with – even with gloves on, so long as they aren’t too thick. We simply managed to suit a rain jacket and two skinny elbow pads into the principle compartment. A skinny jacket or jersey may also be hooked up to the skin with adjustable straps. Nevertheless, we weren’t solely happy with the maintain right here – no less than on bumpy terrain. Throughout our take a look at rides, the FIDLOCK HIP BELT was often uncovered to water and dirt. Impressively, the bag saved its promise: even after a number of hours of using, there was no signal of dust or moisture inside. As well as, the waterproof and dustproof HERMETIC dry bag retains your smartphone clear and dry. The outside of the FIDLOCK HIP BELT is simple to scrub with a gentle brush and slightly water.
Who’s the FIDLOCK HIP BELT double for?
When you choose to not carry a backpack however nonetheless need all of your necessities with you, then the Hip Bag is for you. And if you wish to carry as much as two water bottles safely and comfortably, the FIDLOCK HIP BELT double is the suitable alternative. Nevertheless, the burden when absolutely loaded shouldn’t be underestimated, making it extra appropriate for highway or gravel use. If you wish to be ready for all eventualities, a backpack is the best way to go – it distributes the burden extra evenly and even has area for a again protector.
Conclusion on the FIDLOCK HIP BELT double
The FIDLOCK HIP BELT affords loads of area for all of your necessities, even on lengthy rides: instruments, snacks, garments and room for 2 water bottles. The fastening system is meticulously designed, useful and will be operated reliably, even when carrying gloves. The waterproof and dustproof materials ensures that your gear stays clear and dry, even in downpours and dirt baths. Nevertheless, when absolutely loaded, the additional weight can turn out to be noticeable on the hips. The worth tag can also be on the steep aspect.
Tops
- well-thought-out fastening system
- loads of waterproof cupboard space
- holds two water bottles
Flops
- fairly heavy when absolutely loaded
- costly
For extra data go to fidlock.com
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Phrases & Images: Patrick Gruber Translation: Anne Radek