Customer Reviews Arc'teryx Arro 22 Backpack

I purchased this backpack in November 2021 and have been quite impressed with the level of comfort it provides. It feels great on my back even when loaded up with a water bladder and hiking gear or a laptop and extra supplies. Speaking of bladders, this pack fits my 3L bladder very nicely and the hose-routing hole is well-positioned. The padding on the shoulder straps and back panel is very comfortable. The chest and waist straps are basic but perfectly suitable for the loads you'll likely be carrying with this pack. The adjustment straps work well and hold their position fairly consistently. The zippers are smooth, high-quality and contribute to the "reasonably-weather resistant" feel I get from this pack. Mine hasn't seen any use in the rain, but in moderate snow it kept everything inside dry. I'd certainly recommend this backpack, but do read below for some caveats. The backpack doesn't really sit upright on its own, meaning you either have to lean it against a wall or lay it down. Laying it down, however, makes it very easy for my water bottle to fully or partially slip out of the side pouch, and it has clattered to the floor on multiple occasions when I go to pick the pack up again. The side pouches could benefit from being a little deeper and "grippier" to alleviate this issue. The front compartment is quite large and eats into the main compartment space more than I expected. I see this as an issue because the front compartment only contains a key clip on its interior, otherwise there are no extra pouches, sleeves or other organizational aids. I would have appreciated some due to the size of the compartment. The main compartment has some sleeves and a pouch however, which have worked well for me. The textured surface of the front compartment seems a little less durable than it should be, and has attracted a minor few scuffs and frayed areas from moderate use. This damage is only really visible from a close inspection, but I feel it's worth noting anyhow. Overall, I'm satisfied and happy with my purchase, and I'm sure you will be too. Hopefully a future revision will earn this pack that 5th star.

I had to return it and get mantis instead because it was too long for my height. Not only on the back side it looked funny but also it was uncomfortable to wear. But the design, fabric, and functionalities were amazing.

I've had my Arro 22 backpack for a few months now and I've been using it as my commuter bag at my uni. It's very stylish and ultra rainproof. However, there are a couple of design flaws that I personally am willing to look over, but other die-hard fans of the brand may find below Arc'teryx standard. The bottom of the bag is rounded up preventing you from being able to place the bag flat on its bottom. You have to either carefully balance it against a wall/chair or lay it flat on the back otherwise it falls forward dirtying the front shell. The gear loop at the front below the zipper could be useful, but it feels flimsy and I am hesitant to hook anything heavy onto it. For fun, I set this product under a showerhead (empty of valuables) to see just how waterproof it was. The main compartment stayed completely dry, but the front shell did experience some pooling (the interior is waterproof as well) due to two aeration holes anchoring the gear loop in place (I imagine these holes could be plugged if desired). The bag is rather minimalist and there aren't many pockets, but I am a minimalist myself so I don't need anything more than my computer, charger, notebook, and pens/pencils, so it works great for me. I also suggest keeping the front shell filled with something if you want the bag to be visually appealing. I keep a little travel pillow or stuff sack jacket in the front so that the shell doesn't fold in on itself and look wonky. The straps on this bag are ultra-comfortable coming from someone with not a lot of meat on their bones. There is also a multitude of different strap adjustments that can be made to suit your comfort best. The water bottle holder is sub-par and there is a very high possibility of your bottle falling out. However, water bottles with rubber elements (especially hydroflasks with a rubber boot) I have found to stay fairly secure. If you're looking for a unique, stylish, techy bag I strongly recommend this product, but if you are looking for something more classic this likely wouldn't be a good fit.

The only drawback is that it could use a few extra pockets. That said, it's form fitting and super durable, and it's an excellent pack for both work and the trail.

Primarily used for commute/travel. It's clearly well made and carries a surprising amount of stuff without getting too big. A few nits that keep it from being perfect: - The front pocket is a little weirdly shaped, since it tapers off on the bottom the little bit of space down there is really hard to use - In general the triangular shape of the bottom makes it more difficult to stack things inside the bag, it could be flattened out a bit - I wish the hip belt was easier to take off Overall though it's a really great bag that looks good, is comfortable and seems durable

Primarily used for commute/travel. It's clearly well made and carries a surprising amount of stuff without getting too big. A few nits that keep it from being perfect: - The front pocket is a little weirdly shaped, since it tapers off on the bottom the little bit of space down there is really hard to use - In general the triangular shape of the bottom makes it more difficult to stack things inside the bag, it could be flattened out a bit - I wish the hip belt was easier to take off Overall though it's a really great bag that looks good, is comfortable and seems durable

I got this backpack for my long daily commute. I largely got it because of its water resistance. It is a little annoying in how it's shaped. Most of the space is in the bottom of the bag, it's shape isn't consistent through it's height. But with a little smart packing that's not an issue. It also doesnt like to stand up on its own. If you set it down on its bottom it will immediately fall over. That being said it's the most comfortable to wear backpack I've ever used. It conforms closely to your back so it's not flopping around as you walk. You can tighten the straps to pull it even closer to you. The back has a hard panel in it so you're not being jabbed by stuff in the bag. It does annoy me occasionally, but I do get regular comments on how much people like it. It's also very well made, solid sturdy construction. The materials it's made of and the zippers are thick and heavy duty. It is small, but good for a day pack.

I own both the new 2019 fall Arro 22 as well as the old version. This review is a comparision between the 2 versions. 1. The material of the kangaroo pocket used in the 2019 version is noticeably different as Arcteryx chose a more shiny rubber like material. You will still pickup lots of scratch marks on that kangaroo pocket area but in my opinion that 2019 Arro 22 holds up a little better. 2. All the straps, buckles, the load lifters and the waistbelt on the 2019 version is revised. They are NOT as beefy as the previous version. The buckles are smaller and less chunky whereas the straps are narrower and I guess this is the reason why the new version is a few grams lighter. Personally i'd prefer the old classic beefy buckles, waistbelt and straps since the new design looks a bit cheap in my opinion. 3. Zippers are newly updated. On the 2019 more fashionable zippers were used. They work well even with gloves on so in this case it's a matter of personal preference. 4. Thinner redesigned shoulder straps. For a 22L pack they work fine. But the updated shoulder straps are definitely thinner amd softer than those on the old version. Personally i dont feel that there is a huge difference in comfort over the previous design 5. Meshed side pockets/laptop sleeve/Organization pocket/Reinforced bottom. Great to see Arcteryx added a laptop sleeve and a small pocket inside the pack. The side pockets are now updated with a stretchy mesh which is not a bad idea. The bottom of the pack is now reinforced which is much more sturdy than the previous design Conclusion. This is a metro pack. It is quite obvious that Arcteryx has revised the Arro 22 to a more fashionable, metro style pack. From the newly designed zippers to the introduction of a laptop sleeve, organization pocket, they are great addons for daily use. However i am not a fan of the thinner materials and straps on the 2019 version, but its just me. I would still prefer the classic Arro 22. The new version simply do not have the rawness of the classic design. With that being said, the 2019 version is still a great pack. Its comfortable, stylish and a few grams lighter...

I own both the new 2019 fall Arro 22 as well as the old version. This review is a comparision between the 2 versions. 1. The material of the kangaroo pocket used in the 2019 version is noticeably different as Arcteryx chose a more shiny rubber like material. You will still pickup lots of scratch marks on that kangaroo pocket area but in my opinion that 2019 Arro 22 holds up a little better. 2. All the straps, buckles, the load lifters and the waistbelt on the 2019 version is revised. They are NOT as beefy as the previous version. The buckles are smaller and less chunky whereas the straps are narrower and I guess this is the reason why the new version is a few grams lighter. Personally i'd prefer the old classic beefy buckles, waistbelt and straps since the new design looks a bit cheap in my opinion. 3. Zippers are newly updated. On the 2019 more fashionable zippers were used. They work well even with gloves on so in this case it's a matter of personal preference. 4. Thinner redesigned shoulder straps. For a 22L pack they work fine. But the updated shoulder straps are definitely thinner amd softer than those on the old version. Personally i dont feel that there is a huge difference in comfort over the previous design 5. Meshed side pockets/laptop sleeve/Organization pocket/Reinforced bottom. Great to see Arcteryx added a laptop sleeve and a small pocket inside the pack. The side pockets are now updated with a stretchy mesh which is not a bad idea. The bottom of the pack is now reinforced which is much more sturdy than the previous design Conclusion. This is a metro pack. It is quite obvious that Arcteryx has revised the Arro 22 to a more fashionable, metro style pack. From the newly designed zippers to the introduction of a laptop sleeve, organization pocket, they are great addons for daily use. However i am not a fan of the thinner materials and straps on the 2019 version, but its just me. I would still prefer the classic Arro 22. The new version simply do not have the rawness of the classic design. With that being said, the 2019 version is still a great pack. Its comfortable, stylish and a few grams lighter...

Purchased this a month ago and it's doing great. I use this for commuting with computer and lunchbox. Waterproof functions well when it rains.

This bag is perfect for commuting daily across the city. Lighweight and durable, waterproof too.

This bag is perfect for commuting daily across the city. Lighweight and durable, waterproof too.

Purchased this a year ago to fulfil a mid-size day pack need and it works exceptionally well. Especially find it comfortable for day hikes with a modest amount of gear. Expensive but worth it since it is clearly the most versatile mid size pack I own. I have also found that it stays "centered" on your back nicely and doesn't throw you off balance when you are "bouldering" in the high alpine.

All comments in pros and cons - I really like the bag. Don't love it. My Klean Kanteren bottle falls our.

I read all the reviews on the straps tearing apart and bad stitching. My Arro is about 8 years old now and using it every week. No notice of any wear on the straps. Seeing the pictures it seems to me that Arc'teryx is using other less strong materials on there newly fabricated packs! Sure the side pocket are to small and tight for normal use. A water bottle will not be hold very well. And the long inside back pocket with the zipper is even more tight. Actualy being useless so I never found one option to use it to stuff things. I am very minimalistic. With some practice with packing I used I used it once on a three days mounting cabin hike in the Suisse Alps. Very strong and water resistant back. I even used it to sit on at a wet muddy surface.

I read all the reviews on the straps tearing apart and bad stitching. My Arro is about 8 years old now and using it every week. No notice of any wear on the straps. Seeing the pictures it seems to me that Arc'teryx is using other less strong materials on there newly fabricated packs! Sure the side pocket are to small and tight for normal use. A water bottle will not be hold very well. And the long inside back pocket with the zipper is even more tight. Actualy being useless so I never found one option to use it to stuff things. I am very minimalistic. With some practice with packing I used I used it once on a three days mounting cabin hike in the Suisse Alps. Very strong and water resistant back. I even used it to sit on at a wet muddy surface.

This is a great urban backpack. It's durable, water resistant, holds enough for a day out, and looks cool. My only complaint is the side pocket. It can hold a water bottle, but if you move too fast or bend over, the water bottle falls out. Fix that and this would be 5/5.

I've been using this pack nearly every day for 3 years, for a combination of cycle commuting, running, motorbiking, trekking and as a everyday/gym bag! It keeps its contents dry which was the main reason for the purchase, I find it generally pretty comfy but wouldn't want to do a long run wearing it as the straps although comfy, when done up tight do tend to rub. I agree with other reviews that the side pockets are pretty rubbish, can't access easily while wearing the pack, not big enough for a bottle and not secure. But I've never had a problem getting a days clothes/shoes and accessories in it, granted with some sensible folding!

I've been using this pack nearly every day for 3 years, for a combination of cycle commuting, running, motorbiking, trekking and as a everyday/gym bag! It keeps its contents dry which was the main reason for the purchase, I find it generally pretty comfy but wouldn't want to do a long run wearing it as the straps although comfy, when done up tight do tend to rub. I agree with other reviews that the side pockets are pretty rubbish, can't access easily while wearing the pack, not big enough for a bottle and not secure. But I've never had a problem getting a days clothes/shoes and accessories in it, granted with some sensible folding!

I've had my Arro 22 for almost 3 years now and I can attest that the backpack still holds strong and is still in great shape. It's sleek design makes it versatile for urban commuting, motorcycle riding and hiking. Somehow, there is something fancy about this backpack that makes someone turn to look and ask about it. The only hiccup I've had is cleaning the backpack, it's narrow and slim design makes it a little bit trick to clean the inside and the hole for the hydration bladder hose is small and I've had to alter it to be able to fit my hydration pack. But needless to say, this is the best backpack for all your quick get goes and adventures. Will recommend this backpack first on the list!

I've had my Arro 22 for almost 3 years now and I can attest that the backpack still holds strong and is still in great shape. It's sleek design makes it versatile for urban commuting, motorcycle riding and hiking. Somehow, there is something fancy about this backpack that makes someone turn to look and ask about it. The only hiccup I've had is cleaning the backpack, it's narrow and slim design makes it a little bit trick to clean the inside and the hole for the hydration bladder hose is small and I've had to alter it to be able to fit my hydration pack. But needless to say, this is the best backpack for all your quick get goes and adventures. Will recommend this backpack first on the list!

After a year of daily use while cycling in mixed weather I can say this pack is almost perfect: very sturdy, definitely waterproof, good size, comfortable to wear. But, frustratingly, it lacks in some departments and most of it could be easily added in a revised model for benefit of all who love this pack. 1. It should have better internal organisation, at least some elastic to hold a laptop and one additional pocket apart from the one for hydration bladder. 2. This pack is rather narrow (front to back) and deep (top to bottom) and it's hard to fish out stuff at the bottom. And when the kangaroo pocket is full, the main compartment becomes much too narrow severely limiting its carrying potential. 3. While it looks streamlined, it lacks some additional straps or at least hooks/loops on the outside to attach various things. One loop at the bottom is not enough. 4. As an urban commuter pack it has zero reflective elements. I'm sure something discreet could be easily added to help with visibility. 5. One other annoying side effect of this pack's top heavy "kidney" design is that, although ideal when cycling, when fully loaded it becomes very unstable and most of the times lands on its kangaroo pocket.

I have had this product for over a year and can fully attest to its utilization. I have used it as a gym bag (the kangaroo pocket allows a great place to put wet/dirty clothes. As a school bag, withstands many books/binders,textbooks, and a laptop as well as loads of food. As a work bag to put important files in, as well as other gear. I use it to put my hiking gear for the day. I also use it when I am hitting up the slopes to ski with (it is extremely water-repellent and resilient against all the elements). I don't baby my items... at all. This bag has been smashed, punched, kicked around, sprayed with mud, withstood liquid nitrogen (long story) and still keeps the contents dry. This bag has absolutely been through it all, durability is bombproof! A few things I have a gripe over is that it lacks internal organizational pockets. Contents inside the bag can get a bit jumbled up at times. The hook/tab below the kangaroo pocket is kind of weak. Can't put more than 20 pounds on it at a time or risk it ripping. All in all a great bag!

I have had this product for over a year and can fully attest to its utilization. I have used it as a gym bag (the kangaroo pocket allows a great place to put wet/dirty clothes. As a school bag, withstands many books/binders,textbooks, and a laptop as well as loads of food. As a work bag to put important files in, as well as other gear. I use it to put my hiking gear for the day. I also use it when I am hitting up the slopes to ski with (it is extremely water-repellent and resilient against all the elements). I don't baby my items... at all. This bag has been smashed, punched, kicked around, sprayed with mud, withstood liquid nitrogen (long story) and still keeps the contents dry. This bag has absolutely been through it all, durability is bombproof! A few things I have a gripe over is that it lacks internal organizational pockets. Contents inside the bag can get a bit jumbled up at times. The hook/tab below the kangaroo pocket is kind of weak. Can't put more than 20 pounds on it at a time or risk it ripping. All in all a great bag!

I love this backpack. It is comfortable, durable and fashionable.