The Fjällräven Vidda Pro Backpack is a rugged, durable daypack designed for outdoor enthusiasts who demand reliability and functionality. As part of the Vidda Pro series, which includes trousers and jackets, this backpack shares the same ethos: built to withstand harsh conditions while offering practical features. In this review, we'll examine its construction, comfort, storage, and how it compares to other Fjällräven classics like the Kånken or Greenland No. 1.
Design and Materials
The Vidda Pro Backpack is made from G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco, a blend of 65% polyester and 35% cotton, waxed for water resistance and durability. This fabric is the same used in the Greenland No. 1 jacket, known for its ability to repel light rain and resist abrasion. The backpack features a top-loading main compartment with a drawstring closure and a flap that secures with two buckles. A padded laptop sleeve fits up to a 15-inch computer, making it versatile for both trail and town.
The exterior includes a front pocket with a zipper, two side pockets for water bottles, and a small zippered pocket on the top flap. The shoulder straps are padded with mesh for breathability, and the back panel is also padded with a ventilated channel. A sternum strap and a removable hip belt provide additional load stability. The pack weighs approximately 1.2 kg (2.6 lbs) and has a capacity of 28 litres.
Comfort and Fit
For a daypack, the Vidda Pro offers excellent carrying comfort. The padded shoulder straps distribute weight well, and the sternum strap prevents slipping. The hip belt, while not heavily padded, helps stabilise the load during scrambling or uneven terrain. The back panel's ventilation channel reduces sweat buildup, though it's not as advanced as some dedicated hiking packs with trampoline backs. The pack fits torsos roughly 45–55 cm (18–22 inches).
One note: the hip belt is removable, so you can strip it down for urban use. However, for heavy loads (over 8 kg), a more substantial hip belt would be beneficial. For light day hikes, it's perfectly adequate.
Storage and Organisation
The main compartment is spacious and simple: a single large chamber with a padded laptop sleeve at the back. The drawstring closure allows quick access, and the flap covers the opening securely. The front zippered pocket is ideal for keys, wallet, or a map. Two side pockets are deep enough for a 1-litre Nalgene bottle, but they lack compression straps to secure larger items. The top flap pocket is small but handy for sunglasses or a phone.
Inside the main compartment, there's a small mesh pocket for small items. The lack of internal organisation might frustrate some users, but the minimalist design keeps weight down. For comparison, the Kånken Classic offers a simpler open compartment, while the Greenland No. 1 provides a similar top-loading design with more pockets.
Durability and Weather Resistance
The G-1000 HeavyDuty Eco fabric is tough. After months of use, the pack shows minimal wear, even when bushwhacking through scrub. The wax coating can be reapplied with Greenland Wax to maintain water resistance. In heavy rain, the fabric will eventually wet out, but it dries quickly. The zippers are YKK, and the buckles are robust. The bottom of the pack features reinforced stitching for added abrasion resistance.
One potential weak point is the thin mesh on the shoulder straps, which could snag on branches. However, overall, the Vidda Pro is built to last for years.
Versatility: From Trail to Town
The Vidda Pro Backpack straddles the line between outdoor gear and everyday carry. Its sleek, understated design (available in dark grey, green, and navy) doesn't scream 'hiking pack', making it suitable for commuting or travel. The laptop sleeve adds utility for office use. However, the top-loading design and lack of a quick-access pocket on the hip belt (if installed) might be less convenient for urban use compared to a panel-loader like the Foldsack No. 1.
For day hikes, the pack excels: it carries a light load comfortably, and the waxed fabric sheds light rain. The side pockets are accessible while wearing the pack, and the compression straps on the sides (not on the bottle pockets) help cinch down a smaller load.
Comparison to Other Fjällräven Backpacks
Fjällräven offers several backpacks that compete with the Vidda Pro. The Kånken Classic (16 litres) is smaller, lighter, and more urban-focused, with a top flap and zippered main compartment. The Greenland No. 1 (20 litres) is similar in material but has a roll-top closure and fewer pockets. The Foldsack No. 1 (20 litres) is a panel-loader with a front pocket, better for organisation. The Vidda Pro sits in the middle: larger capacity, more rugged, and with a laptop sleeve that the Greenland lacks.
For a comprehensive guide to choosing among these, see The Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Fjällräven Rucksack.
Price and Value
Retailing at approximately £130 / €150 / $170, the Vidda Pro Backpack is priced similarly to other Fjällräven daypacks. It's more expensive than the Kånken but less than the Greenland No. 1. Given its durability and versatility, it offers good value for those who need a pack that can handle both the outdoors and daily life. It's available from Fjällräven's website, as well as retailers like Cotswold Outdoor, REI, and Amazon.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Durable G-1000 fabric, comfortable for day hikes, laptop sleeve, removable hip belt, classic design.
- Cons: Limited organisation, side pockets not secure for small items, heavy for its size, hip belt could be more padded.
Conclusion
The Fjällräven Vidda Pro Backpack is a well-built, reliable daypack for outdoor adventures and casual use. Its robust materials and thoughtful design make it a solid choice for hikers, travellers, and anyone who appreciates functional gear. While it may not be the lightest or most organized pack, its durability and versatility justify the price. If you're looking for a pack that can handle a rugged hike and then blend into city life, the Vidda Pro is worth considering.
Related articles
- The Complete Guide to Choosing the Perfect Fjällräven Rucksack
- Kånken Classic Review
- Greenland No. 1 Review
- Foldsack No. 1 Review