Our Patagonia and Osprey tote comparison examines two great gear haulers. We hope you find it as useful as we find their tote bags!
introduce
We've been avid users of the Patagonia 61L Tote since we were introduced to it a few years ago. We always have a bunch of equipment to move and these simple and durable bags make transporting gear so easy.
This season, Osprey introduces two sizes of tote bags in its revamped Transporter collection. We had the pleasure of trying out the early release 28L size tote and giving it a real thumbs up.
So we thought a comparison of these two great options would help you decide which one to choose. We hope our Patagonia vs Osprey handbag comparison was useful to you.
Patagonia Black Hole Tote Bag Features
We used the Patagonia Black Hole Tote in the 61 liter size, but Patagonia also makes it in a liter version. Both are constructed from extremely durable, weather- and abrasion-resistant 100% recycled polyester ripstop and recycled TPU film laminate.
They have a large wide top opening and a semi-rigid construction that helps the bag stay open while loading and in use. There is an external zippered side pocket and reinforced dual handles. Finally, there are external reinforced daisy chains for tying bags or connecting items.
Currently, the tote comes in black (as tested), and a 28-liter version also comes in gold, called Blowfish Gold (though it's worth noting that Patagonia seems to be changing colors or launching new alternatives on a regular basis). The 61-liter version weighs 835 grams and the 28-liter version weighs 391 grams. They cost £110 and £70 respectively.
Osprey Transport Tote Features
We've been using the 28-liter Transporter Gear Tote, but there's also a 60-liter version. Both models are constructed with Bluesign-approved NanoTough fabric. This is a newly created material that we have discussed here related to Osprey Transporter Wheeled Duffel 120. Osprey also has a detailed blog post about this fabric here. They describe it as an extremely strong and highly water-resistant fabric made from 100% recycled high-tenacity nylon with a carbonate coating.
The structured design allows the tote to remain open while loading. They both have a long zippered exterior pocket and interior mesh pocket. There are dual internal compression straps and external lash tabs. The 28-litre version comes with a pass-through strap to secure the bag to a trolley, cooler or wheeled suitcase handle.
Larger models have a removable padded base. This can be used as a sitting cushion or changing pad. Alternatively, it can form a lid to seal the top of a tote. The 28L tote comes in Raven Black, Flame Blue or Euphoric Purple. The larger tote comes in raven black, pine leaf green and euphoric purple. The larger model weighs 866 grams and the smaller model weighs 508 grams. The large model retails for £95 and the small model for £60.
In use
Tote bags are great if your event requires moving a lot of equipment. The minimalist style and large opening make them easy to load, and the durable straps make moving them very easy. Durable and weatherproof construction makes it completely reliable.
We use them for hiking gear, camping gear, food, even hauling firewood to campsites, and more. They are so simple and efficient. We have two 61-liter versions of the Patagonia and don't use them on nearly all car trips.
The Osprey Transporter 28-litre version has only been part of our gear transport arsenal for a short time. That said, it has proven to be invaluable. The 28 liter version is perfect for carrying food or essentials for a day on the water. In fact, we believe that once you start to understand their capabilities, you'll find endless uses for them.
Patagonia Tote vs Osprey Tote
So, this is a comparison piece, so the question is which model series would we recommend? Well, there is no doubt that you will definitely be satisfied with any of them. Both are stylish, extremely sturdy and efficient to use. Both are made from recycled fabrics and come from manufacturers committed to sustainable business practices. You really can't go wrong.
Patagonia and Osprey both have great guarantees too. Ospreys have their All-round guarantee and Patagonia has their Ironclad guarantee.
Simplicity and extra features
In this case, your choice really depends on the details and what best suits your requirements. Patagonia bags are simple. There are large storage compartments and a small single exterior zip pocket. Then, there are the extremely durable straps. Indeed. They are simple but efficient. They feel like the kind of bags you'd pass down to your children. In fact, they may pass it on to their children too! They are designed for hard courts and do exactly what they were designed to do.
Extremely durable
Osprey models are still extremely durable, but they also have some extra features. The exterior pockets are much larger, as well as a large mesh interior pocket. This is great for keeping things organized. Compression straps are also very useful.
We haven't used the larger model yet, but the removable padded base seems like a good idea. You can pull it out and use it as a seat or changing pad. Plus, the Osprey team says it can also be used as a changing pad inside the bag. For this option, the user steps into the bag and stands on the base of the mat while taking off the kit. Then the wet or muddy items are already safely tucked away in the bag.
Suitable for water sports enthusiasts
Taking all of this into account, the Osprey version is really suitable for users such as water sports enthusiasts or mountain bikers. The cuboid shape of the small tote is also ideal for storing food or items that need to be kept upright. It's also great for storing wet or muddy boots.
The only potential weak link we'd like to know about the Osprey bag is the internal mesh organizer. This is a great feature and does a great job of organizing it. However, mesh won’t last as long as other fabrics. This means a little care is needed to prevent it from fraying or getting snagged. Otherwise, the Osprey handbag seems to be up to any challenge.
Have confidence in any choice
So while the Patagonia vs. Osprey handbag comparison is true, you can feel confident investing in handbag products from both brands. We also recommend that once you try a few tote bags, you'll be as smitten with their benefits as we are. Full details of the Osprey 28L Handbag are below here Patagonia 61 Liter Handbag Details here.
HFortunately, you found our Patagonia and Osprey handbag comparison useful. We regularly review products from several manufacturers, including Patagonia and Osprey. All our reviews can be found on our blog here. Some examples include our Osprey Transporter WP Duffel 100 review here And our Patagonia M10 Anorak review here. Our blog also has a variety of inspiration and advice articles. Be sure to check it out.
