Take it from me, finding an Everyday Carry (EDC) backpack that seamlessly blends functionality, durability, and style can be a bit of a challenge.
But I am pleased to say that today we may have found a contender!
Meet the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack – a product designed for those who refuse to compromise on their everyday needs. Whether you’re navigating the daily commute, hitting the gym, or heading out on a weekend adventure, this backpack deserves to be your reliable companion.
Crafted from premium materials and thoughtfully designed, the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack has quickly gained attention for its elegant appearance and robust build.
But does it live up to the hype?
Well over the course of this comprehensive review, I am going to delve deep into EVERY aspect of this backpack, from its specs and storage capacity to its aesthetic appeal and best uses.
If you’re considering upgrading your EDC game or simply in need of a versatile and stylish backpack, read on to see if the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack is the right fit for you.
About The Brand
ROMFRE are a relatively new name in travel (and brand new to me) hailing from Kapolei, Hawaii. Founded by Jared and Maddy Morse, the brand has over 13 years of experience in the broader leather industry, bringing a deep passion for high-quality craftsmanship to its products.
ROMFRE was established with a clear mission: to create ultra-durable, stylish travel gear that doesn’t break the bank.
What sets ROMFRE apart in the world of leather is its commitment to sustainable sourcing and ethical production. Each product is designed in Hawaii and handcrafted by artisans worldwide, ensuring a blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern design sensibilities.
ROMFRE’s focus on quality and durability makes it a strong choice for those who demand more from their everyday accessories.
Full ROMFRE EDC Backpack Review
Alright, let’s take a closer look at this beautiful leather backpack.
SPECS:
Price: $249
Capacity: 17L (Medium), 22L (Large)
Weight: Approximately 3.5 lbs (1.6 kg)
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Ok people, so the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack is positioned as a premium product – this is reflected in both its price and its features.
Available in two sizes (medium and large) this cracking leather backpack offers sufficient capacity for daily essentials while maintaining a manageable weight.
It strikes the perfect balance between being spacious enough for a day’s worth of gear and compact enough for easy carrying.
Storage and Access
When it comes to storage, both versions of the ROMFRE EDC Backpack are more roomy than they may first appear. Remember, it’s an EDC backpack and both the 17L and 22L versions offer about enough storage for a busy day out or a few nights away.
Getting into the details now, the backpack features a rear, padded laptop compartment that can easily accommodate up to a 15-inch laptop, making it ideal for professionals on the go. The main padded compartment is spacious, with enough room for books, gym clothes, or other daily essentials. It’s accessed nicely by zipping down and pulling back the top lip.
In addition to the main compartment, the backpack includes two smaller front pockets for quick access to items like your phone, wallet, or keys. A side water bottle holder on each side adds to the practicality, while the interior zippered pockets keep your smaller items organised.
The exterior also includes a convenient D-ring for attaching extra gear, adding to the backpack’s versatility.
Size and Weight
The ROMFRE EDC Backpack measures approximately 18 inches in height, 12 inches in width, and 6 inches in depth for the medium size. Despite its robust construction, the backpack is relatively lightweight for a leather pack coming in at around 3.5 pounds, making it comfortable to carry throughout the day.
The quilted backing and adjustable shoulder straps enhance comfort, ensuring the backpack sits well on your back without causing strain.
However, if you are used to carrying modern synthetic backpacks (like an Osprey Daylite or Qasar) then a leather pack will feel a lot heavier and will take some getting used to.
Materials and Aesthetic
Crafted from sweet-smelling, rugged and manly full-grain leather, the ROMFRE EDC Backpack exudes a sense of luxury and durability. The leather feels supple yet sturdy, and I expect it will offer a nice, long lifespan with the proper care.
High-quality YKK zippers and a heavy-duty polyester liner add to the backpack’s ruggedness. Zips are usually a weak point in backpacks so I always take time to inspect them thoroughly. To be honest, while these ones are thick and strong, the ones around the laptop compartment have gotten stuck a few times – maybe they will smooth out during use but let’s see.
Aesthetically, the backpack is a bit of a head-turner. Available in classic colors like cocoa, saddle, and black, it offers a truly timeless look that pairs well with both casual and professional attire. The clean lines and minimalist design give it a modern vibe, while the rich leather texture adds a touch of sophistication and tradition.
Best Uses
As an EDC pack, the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack excels in day-to-day versatility. It’s a perfect backpack for commuting to work, for carrying gym gear, or shopping hauls.
The backpack is also well-suited for some travel scenarios, especially as a day bag or airport carry-on. Its size and storage options make it ideal for short overnight trips or even long weekend getaways if you know how to pack effectively.
While not specifically designed for hiking, the backpack’s durable construction and comfortable straps mean it can handle light outdoor adventures. However, for more intensive hiking or camping trips, a dedicated outdoor pack might be more suitable as you will feel the weight after a long day out on the trails.
Price and Value
Costing $249, the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack truly positions itself in the premium segment of the market. While this may seem steep compared to more budget-friendly alternatives, the value it offers is reflected in its materials, craftsmanship, and design.
Proper full-grain leather is a significant investment which is known for its durability and ageing beautifully over time. When you factor in the high-quality YKK zippers, heavy-duty liner, and thoughtful design features like the padded laptop compartment and the two water bottle holders, the price becomes more justifiable.
Ultimately it’s a matter of personal circumstances, preferences and values.
My Osprey Qasar cost $100 and I could not be happier with it – that said, it is a completely different kind of EDC backpack so I am guilty of comparing apples to bacon here!
Comparison to Similar Packs
When comparing the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack to other high-end premium backpacks, a few key differences emerge.
For instance, the NOMATIC Navigator Backpack offers similar organisational features but is constructed primarily from synthetic materials, which may not appeal to those who prefer the classic look and feel of leather. The NOMATIC is also slightly more tech-oriented, with more compartments specifically designed for gadgets.
On the other hand, the Bellroy Classic Backpack Premium is another leather option that competes closely with ROMFRE. While both backpacks offer premium, high-quality leather construction, the Bellroy model leans more towards a minimalist design, with fewer external pockets and a much sleeker profile. It’s also priced slightly lower, which might appeal to budget-conscious buyers.
On the other hand you want to spend even more, then check out the Harber London range of luxury leather everyday wares.
Final Thoughts
All things considered, the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack is a sterling, standout choice for anyone in the market for a stylish, durable, and functional everyday backpack.
Its thoughtful design, premium materials, and versatile storage options make it a reliable companion for a variety of uses, from daily commutes to weekend trips.
If you’re looking for a backpack that combines luxury with practicality, the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack is definitely worth considering.
Ready to elevate your EDC game? Check out the ROMFRE EDC Leather Backpack today and experience the perfect blend of form and function.
