Forvert Ice Louis Backpack

Forvert is probably not one of the names that springs to mind when you think of outdoor gear, as it is more of a ‘fashion’ brand, but its Ice Louis Backpack is actually just as practical and useful as it is ‘trendy’.

The backpack has a total capacity of 20 litres, with one main compartment and three additional smaller zipped compartments. The back and shoulder straps are reasonably well padded for a comfortable carry, and there are also adjustable chest and waist straps.

Outside as well as inside

Although the layout and degree of compartmentation are basic, which can be a great advantage if you are carrying the minimum amount of gear and want to be able to get to it quickly, where this backpack comes into its own is the amount of external carry provision. On the front of the backpack is a ‘boardcatcher’, intended for skateboards, apparently. It allows you to attach relatively large items to the outside securely. There are two wide straps with plastic catches, one at the top and one at the bottom, and a large elasticated drawcord zigzagging up the face of the pack between those straps. This setup is ideal for attaching clothing, such as wet weather gear, where it can be accessed quickly and easily. Alternatively, you could attach clothing that is already wet, so that it can dry out, and not get the inside of the pack wet.

On the sides, there are mesh pockets at the bottom, with elasticated edges, and compression straps at the top. These are ideal for transporting long, slim items like shooting sticks or tripods, so that they are held securely but are also easily accessible.

Small but mighty

At 18.7 x 11 x 4.7”, the Forvert Ice Backpack is relatively small, and this means that, even with items attached to the outside, it is not going to be so bulky or wide that it catches on bushes or undergrowth. With the external side pockets loaded, the pack is still narrower than the wearer.
It is well made, and all seams and zips are strong. A polyurethane coating increases the moisture resistance of the outer shell, although it is not fully waterproof, and a nice flat bottom means that the pack stays upright when you set it down.

Conclusion

Although it may not be your typical shooting backpack, the Forvert Ice has some very practical features, and it is really well-priced. Currently on sale at £54.36, it is an even better bargain and well worth considering. It is available in a large range of colours, from bright turquoise to dark brown, so you can choose a colour to suit your shooting environment. With autumn here and winter approaching, it will be ideal for carrying the extra layers of clothing you might need in the changeable conditions. Sometimes it is worth thinking outside the box and considering items like this instead of the usual options.