We know that Oakley is all about innovation. While we usually talk about their sunglasses and goggles, they lend the same dedication and quality to their apparel including backpacks!
But with so many options, how do you know which is right for you? Don’t worry we’ve got you covered!
Keep reading as we cover everything to know when buying an Oakley backpack. Plus the best Oakley backpacks this year!
Table of Contents
What to Look for When Buying an Oakley Backpack?
Oakley’s men and women’s backpack selection is so big, it’s important to focus on exactly what you need in your bag.
To do this we’d recommend focusing on 3 critical elements:
- Size
- Material
- Design
Now let’s dive into each of the key components so you can find the right backpack.
Finding the Right Size
First up is Size.
Finding the right size bag means you have storage for all of your needs. But it also means you aren’t carrying around too much extra space that can make it uncomfortable to wear.
- Small – Under 20L in total capacity. If you need a backpack for school or everyday use, a small bag is probably right for you.
- Medium – Between 20 and 28L in capacity, Medium backpacks are great for day hikes and other outdoor activities. They also come in very handy for commuting or school if you prefer some extra space.
- Large – Over 28L in storage capacity, you’ll want a large backpack for longer hikes, military, or sport-specific use. Even those looking for a single backpack to trek a large amount of equipment in the city will find a large bag to be the best choice.
Which Material is Right For You?
As you would expect, Oakley does not have a one-size-fits-all approach to backpack materials. Across their lineup, each of the materials has benefits tailored for their use:
- Polyester – Polyester has a fine thread that gives it a lower strength-to-weight ratio making it comfortable all day. And Polyester is more abrasion resistant than nylon making it durable for the long haul.
- Nylon – Easy to clean, and stain-resistant, Nylon fabric is softer and stretchier than Polyester making it great for bags that you want to pack full of your gear!
- Polyurethane Blends – This blend of materials is built to be stretchy, and resistant to oil, grease, and abrasion! This makes it great in a durable backpack for the next adventure.
Water Resistance and Durability
In addition to the basic exterior fabrics, Oakley uses a variety of materials to create packs with multiple uses. Metal handles, MOLLE webbing, Velcro straps and pockets, heavy-duty zippers, interior padding, and more give their backpacks customizable versatility.
Plus Oakleys adds a water-resistant coating to their waterproof and water-resistant fabrics. They also use Cordura® fabrication on some of their backpacks for extra durability. This synthetic fabric offers extra protection against abrasion as well.
And for military use or heavy-duty bags, like the Link Pack Miltac (Product Link), are made with tougher, 600 Denier polyester for extra durability.
Design & Style
School and Everyday Use
School and everyday bags tend to be sleek and stylish, with only a few external pockets. The Street Backpack (Product Link) is a good example. It has two small external front pockets and comfortable, adjustable straps.
Inside, every day and school packs feature laptops and other device compartments. The pared-down design makes for long-lasting, multi-purpose backpacks that can handle the stresses of everyday use.
Overall, School and everyday use bags tend to be relatively small, usually between 17 and 20 liters.
Camping and Outdoor Use
Camping and outdoor bags tend to have different features than everyday bags.
A good example is the Link Pack (Product Link). This versatile outdoor use pack loads from the top has multiple exterior pockets, and includes mesh for increased back airflow.
And at 20L, the Link Pack is on the small end of outdoor packs, which range all the way up to the largest packs Oakley offers (30L+). But its incorporation of reflective material, device storage pockets, and multiple interior compartments make it a great choice in this category.
Military and Hiking Packs
Hiking and military Oakley backpacks have extra-rugged construction and features like interior hydration sleeves. These designs are made for heavy use in outdoor environments and are typically larger than their camping cousins.
The top-loading Link Pack Miltac (Product Link) has large exterior side compartments, a dedicated eyewear compartment, and Velcro and daisy chain webbing for attaching your gear. And its 23L capacity includes a 2L hydration bladder.
These are tough, functional packs and also include Oakley Tactical Backpacks.
The 6 Best Oakley Backpacks of 2022
Our choices for the top Oakley backpacks of 2022 include something for everyone. From a sleek travel backpack to a rugged hiking pack or the versatile Kitchen Sink, you’ll find a high-quality backpack that fits your lifestyle.
Check out our picks for the Best Oakley backpacks below:
6. Travel Backpack
The sleek, 17L Travel backpack (Product Link) is the perfect companion for the frequent traveler. Small enough to slide under a plane seat and large enough for your computer and other devices, this comfortable backpack has plenty of organizational features. Plus its front-load style makes the contents easily accessible in a stylish design.
Travel Backpack Highlights
- Compatible with other Oakley Travel Trolley accessories and luggage
- Top grip handle for comfort and a better experience when carrying this bag
- Water repellant exterior in a 100% Polyester shell to protect your belongings
5. Icon Backpack 2.0
The Oakley Icon 2.0 backpack (Product Link) is a versatile, rugged workhorse made of 100% Nylon. And with adjustable external straps, a front-load design, and multiple exterior pockets, this is a must-have. Plus a molded back panel makes it a comfortable city or trail pack!
Icon Backpack Highlights
- Water repellents durable Cordura® fabrication exterior that’s great for hikers and the outdoors
- Ergonomic metal top handle adds even more ruggedness to this bags design
- 24L capacity makes this a great bag for around town or any active person
4. Link Pack Miltac 2.0
The Link Pack Miltac 2.0 (Product Link) is a heavy-duty pack made of 600 Denier polyester. Its generous 27L interior has a laptop sleeve that can also be used for a water bladder. Plus its sternum clip and padded shoulder straps make it comfortable to carry all day!
Link Pack Miltac Highlights
- Top load style with daisy chain exterior webbing and side pockets lets you expand this pack as needed
- 27L capacity while weighing only 2 pounds
- Sternum clip and padded shoulder straps for ideal weight distribution and comfort
3. Enduro 3.0 Backpack
The Oakley Enduro Backpack (Product Link) occupies a special place in Oakley’s catalog of backpacks. It is available in three different sizes: 20L, 25L, and the “Big Backpack” at 30L. And these tough packs feature specialized storage and organization for electronics, plus comfortable straps.
Enduro 3.0 Highlights
- Padded laptop compartment and card slots with extra padding for electronics
- Padded exterior eyewear pocket with easy access for your Oakley sunglasses
- Available in a variety of sizes including Top-load style (30L) and Front-load style (25L and 20L)
2. Extractor Sling Pack 2.0
Available in both black and camo, Oakley’s Extractor Sling Packs (Product Link) are lightweight and easy to carry. And the mesh interior pockets offer organization while the exterior mesh offers space for extra gear. Plus the Extractor is an Oakley sling backpack, featuring a single strap, making it easy to grab and go.
Extractor Sling Pack Highlights
- Water repellent exterior to protect all of your essentials
- Single strap design with superior build quality for all day comfort that’s great for young adults
- Front-load style with side pockets and storage for water bottles
1. Kitchen Sink
You really can have it all with the Oakley Kitchen Sink backpack (Product Link)! With its super roomy 34 liter capacity, you can bring everything you need for backpacking in the wilderness or trekking your gear across town. Need to bring both shoes and a 17” laptop? No problem. Because this top load style nylon pack is tough and versatile with plenty of room.
Read more in our complete Oakley Kitchen Sink Backpack review.
Kitchen Sink Highlights
- Water-resistant exterior shell and interior lining for maximum protection
- Large front compartment with Convenient exterior compartments and interior organizational pockets
- Heavy-duty construction with a padded back and comfortable strap options
Frequently Asked Questions
Are Oakley Backpacks Good for School?
Yes, Oakley backpacks are great for school use because they are sturdy and comfortable.
And since they come in various shapes and sizes, students have the options they need to safely and comfortably transport all their stuff!
We’d recommend looking for styles with computer compartments and lots of organizational pockets for school use.
Are Oakley Backpacks Waterproof?
Yes, some Oakley backpacks are waterproof, but you’ll want to check the specific model you’re interested in.
While some backpacks are waterproof, some Oakley backpacks are only water-resistant.
Nylon and polyester are both somewhat water-resistant (nylon less so than polyester) and Cordura® construction adds an additional layer of protection. But it’s important to check the details.
But don’t make the mistake of thinking that waterproof and water-resistant backpacks are only for wilderness excursions. Anyone carrying electronics to work or school should consider this feature.
Also, remember that water-resistant is not the same as waterproof. If you’re going to be stuck in a downpour with your clothes or computer, make sure you get the level of protection you need!
How Do You Clean an Oakley Backpack?
The best way to clean your Oakley backpack is to follow the directions. And while some like the Clean Days backpack are designed for machine washings, we’d recommend spot cleaning with soap and water.
Commuter, school, and gym backpacks get a different kind of dirty than those used on the trail or in the wilderness. But while the polyester and nylon fabrics are durable and rugged, they may not be great for your washing machine.
Check the tags on your pack to find out how Oakley suggests you keep it clean.
Where to Buy Oakley Backpacks?
If you prefer to buy in stores, you can visit your local Oakley or sporting goods store. But for the largest selection, you’ll want to visit Oakley’s website (Product Link).
And if you’re looking to save, you can typically find an Oakley backpack sale every month or two on their website. For more details on when to expect a sale, check out our guide to Oakley’s sale schedule.
But if you’d rather not wait for a sale, you still have options to save!
You can typically find new and pre-owned Oakley Backpacks on aftermarket sites like our Oakley Forum Exchange, eBay, or Poshmark.
Want More?
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