The Best Multi-Stage Running Backpack? Instinct XX 20-22l review after 1,830 miles

[@markwhitmore3936]

Excellent review! Tried one of these on at the National Running show last weekend and was VERY impressed with the storage layout and fit. But a £200+ price tag coupled with durability issues is definitely making me think twice about purchasing one.

[@mrlj70]

I was just about to order xx20 when I found your video 🙏👍 What alternative would you recommend these days? (i’m in Europe) Looking at Raidlight ultralight 24l , but people also not happy with durability :( Thanks

[@roberttecza4719]

Did you consider Raidlight ultralight 24l backpack instead of Instinct?

[@scapetobi]

❤

[@bev9708]

Outstanding review, extremely thorough... It's a bit of a niche market for sure but one where good thorough product reviews are vitally important so this is gonna be a much appreciated video for sure!! Just curious if you've been in contact with Instinct... I imagine they know about you and what you did and this video ?

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks Bev, glad you enjoyed it. I’m in contact with the Instinct founder. I’ve given my feedback direct too and they do know the way I tested it!

[@maxchen75]

thanks for this review! You said is necessary an upgrade to the elastic straps on both sides. And I agree with you. I'm preparing for a Desert Ultra in Namibia and I will test this backpack. Could u suggest me what kind of new elastic I can use? Thank u so much

[@CharloHum]

Hey Kieran, great review. I'm running 200 miles over 4-5 days in a few months time - do you think this pack is too large for a run of this length? Cheers!

[@timtrenholm3698]

Great quality review in a space that doesn't get a lot of content. Well done.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks Tim. Always a pleasure to try and help with the really big decisions on multi stage.

[@muddymickey]

Great review. I've been looking for an alternative to the UD Fastpack 30 - which I really liked because of the plethora of storage on the front, but it sat low on my back and the bottom edge of the rear panel rubbed me raw when I was just wearing a t-shirt. Other packs don't seem to offer the same handy storage on the front - but this Instinct looks perfect. Have you had any issues with the bottom of this pack rubbing on your back at all ?

[@OrdMandrell1]

Finally! This review have been months in the making. Been waiting for this for a while. I use Instinct vests for all of my ultras.

[@TheRunTesters]

Fantastic. Happy to be able to get this one out.

[@javiereduardomartinezcabre9450]

I'm not a long distance runner but I love hiking and camping and watching this review I thought this can be a prettty good camping backpack

[@muchasgracias6976]

Well done Kieran on your adventure! This backpack is impressive. BTW I believe the sanitary towel is a tried and true 'hack' which is used by military candidates on selection courses.

[@alexward1638]

Well if there's a spare one going for the 'for rangers' multi stage event in kenya going I'll borrow it hahahah

[@GRumpyonekinobi]

Well done on your run, have you tested the 40ltr Instinct bag? i need a big running bag that fits in laptop, clothes food and spare shoes...oh and a thermos flask lol! im not bothered about weight, i just take it easy, just want somethingbthat doesnt bounce round and hugs the body a bit better than a rucksack. Ive got an Osprey bag about the same size as this Instinct bag you tried but i want a bigger one...dont we all 😂

[@StephenJReid]

I've just bought the 40lr and plan on making a video about it once I've tested it. I make videos of my trips and carry a few bits of camera gear so wanted a bigger pack. Tested it at the National Running Show 2 weeks ago and it was really comfortable.

[@georgibg]

I'm absolutely in love with this pack. I bought it even though I don't do multi-stage races. I liked your objectivity and that you pointed out the durability issues. I know the owner of the brand, he's very attentive to detail and I hope that they improve on the pain points for future iterations or new products.

[@arsenalmanic5540]

does it fit a 15 inch macbook pro?

[@georgibg]

@@arsenalmanic5540 I'm away from home but I can check that for you when I'm back.

[@ajmartinez1906]

Well done, I hope it is available in the US.

[@TheRunTesters]

Thanks. I’m not sure if it’s coming to the US. Will try and find out.

[@ajmartinez1906]

@@TheRunTesters I thank you