Review: Thule Paramount 29L Rucksack

Back in 2014, I reviewed the Thule Enroute Escort Rucksack; and it fast became my go-to pack for day trips, weekend breaks and business trips. In 2015, I reviewed the Thule Pack 'n Pedal Commuter Rucksack; and that is now my choice for daily cyclocross commuting. Between the two reviews, I have also used, abused and been impressed by a number of other Thule products within the range; including their famous bike carriers. (All the reviews can be found here). The theme with the products from this Swedish company is clear; they are carefully designed, tested and refined by outdoor enthusiasts; it is also evident that quality is paramount. So, on that note, I was interested to try out the latest release: the Paramount 29 Litre Daypack.

The Paramount 29L Rucksack is designed to be an everyday carry; smart enough for the office, but rugged enough for ventures off the beaten track. Features like light mounts, a waterproof base and a well-padded laptop compartment, serve to demonstrate this focus. It has a few unique design features too, and much like the Enroute Escort and Pack 'n Pedal Commuter before it, it has won me over.

Easy-access storage

The first unique feature of the Thule Paramount Backpack, is that it boasts a huge storage volume; but it doesn't provide it in the form of one cavernous top-accessed compartment. Instead, the Paramount adopts a multiple-access approach; where you can reach your belongings through multiple means...

The main compartment houses a well-padded laptop and tablet sleeve, with extra padding on the edges and base. It also boasts bags of room for additional items, like a jumper, jacket or notepads. This main compartment in the Paramount can be accessed either be opening the top flap, and unzipping the top-access entrance; or by accessing the laptop sleeve and/or the main compartment through the side of the rucksack. This approach means it's super easy to find stuff, and also means if you're carrying the rucksack by hand, then you can use the side carry handle, and use the bag a bit like a satchel.

Organised, protected possessions

Further storage in the bag comes in the form of a large zipped pocket on the 'hood' of the pack; which is great for quick-access items. Then, underneath the flap - with more protection and security, there is a fantastic padded section for sunglasses and phones; as well as a section with mesh pockets and zipped pockets, which is great for organising small essentials. Everything has a place, and the positioning of these allocated slots has been thought about, to make the Paramount as practical as possible.

Versatile comfort 

It is pretty clear that Thule have got the stowage in the Paramount pack nailed; but they also haven't skimped on the comfort. The rucksack has a strategically padded high density foam back, which helps to provide comfort, as well as good ventilation. The straps are made of a similar soft but shock-absorbing material, with a perforated structure that helps to let moisture escape. You also get an adjustable chest strap, which helps to keep the pack well placed on your back, even when you're active. There is no doubt, the Paramount 29 is comfortable to wear; just like the Enroute Escort and Commuter Rucksack that I have previously tested.

Overall

Overall, the Thule Paramount Backpack is another fantastic piece of quality kit, from the Swedish brand. It has a rugged and robust look and feel to it, and it has storage that is well thought-out and extremely practical. It's comfortable, durable and a pleasure to use. I have a new everyday carry...

View the Thule range at Thule.com (Link)

The Paramount 29L has a smart heritage look to it, and features great durable fabrics

Quality buckles and an innovative hidden light/key clip

Even the zippers on the Paramount 29 Rucksack have an 'outdoor enthusiast' feel to them

Comfortable foam padding and articulated shoulder straps on the Thule Paramount backpack

Next to the back, there is a well-padded laptop compartment, which can be accessed from the side

The main compartment can also be accessed through a side-opening; providing easier access to items

Safe, padded storage for your phone and sunglasses

Great organisation for small everyday essentials

The top opening for the main compartment, allowing you to access the laptop sleeve too

Overall, another fantastic, well-designed bag from Thule

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Comments

  1. Unknown7 May 2016 at 12:42

    Nice Bag. Rucksack Backpack is really good for travelling or to carry heavy weight.

    ReplyDelete
  2. Laci frum Hungary30 November 2020 at 12:42

    Thanks for the test!
    THIS BAG looks very good, but I don't know if it's not too long for a body height of 172cm? How tall are you? Are you still using it?
    Thanks!

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Tim Wiggins13 December 2020 at 07:18

      I am 181cm, it works well for me. Not overly long in the body

      Delete

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