The classic XD Design Bobby model without any remorse can be called the main backpack of our time. You can argue with this, but none of the backpacks did not affect the segment as much as the creation of the Dutch. Thousands of people all over the world were waiting for the main model to be updated — and finally waited. The brand introduced the new Bobby Pro, which preserved all the advantages of its predecessor and not devoid of fresh ideas. Read an overview of the new Bobby here.
But at the same time XD Design has developed another curious backpack. Bobby Tech has everything it can boast of, but it's equipped with a real solar panel. And the smartphone from the solar panel is charged wirelessly. Let's take a closer look at Bobby Tech.
Design
Bobby Tech is similar to the classic Bobby, and is exactly the same shape as the Pro. And yet, the presence of a solar panel makes it visually unique. Like the other XD Design models, the backpack consists of a flat front panel and a continuous rounded textile edge. The latter is a traditional design with a “rough” texture in gray. The front side is completely covered with a peculiar grid repeating the look of the solar panel cells, which stretches out a large rectangle in the middle.
The shape of the backpack is slightly lower than the classic “Bobby” and just at the top. The base is wider, making the body stand on the floor with more confidence. Also worth noting is the smoothness of the silhouette of the backpack: Tech (like the Pro model) has become more streamlined and rounded than its predecessor.
Design and ergonomics
The body of the model has become more dense, so the backpack retains its shape even better. The straps, on the other hand, are softened a little bit, although they still do not fit into the shoulders at all. Already the first “Bobby” was famous for its ergonomics, and Tech sits on the back as if it were inged. The load is evenly distributed on the back, and the ventilated layer does not allow it to sweat.
The straps are quickly and conveniently adjusted in length, and the remaining straps are carefully twisted and hidden. Sewing and bindings are more reliable than any praise — the backpack will last for many years (the debut model has already proved it). The handle was left unchanged — and correctly: it is voluminous, wide and more than convenient.
Solar battery and charging
The main feature of the Tech model that distinguishes it from the Bobby Pro is the presence on the front side of the solar panel. The battery has a rectangular shape and is covered with light-sensitive cells. The essence of the panel is that it serves as an additional aid for charging gadgets — and not any, and wireless! On the left strap there is a Fidlock mount, which holds the smartphone in the presence of a corresponding case. On sunny days, the phone will not only stay close at hand, but also receive power from the solar battery.
Solar panel — what distinguishes Bobby Tech from its brothers in the assortment. Thus the backpack is the advanced version of Bobby Pro, that is, as a matter of fact, the main backpack in an arsenal XD Design.
Of course, he is also a friend of Bobby Tech power bank. Under the right “wing” of the backpack there is a module with two ports for charging: MicroUSB and USB-C. On the back side of the socket is connected to the power bank, for which there is a special pocket.
Anti-theft protection and other chips
Bobby Tech carries on board the entire arsenal of protection against pickpockets, which is also available to Bobby Pro. Firstly, it is a cleverly hidden zipper of the main compartment: it is placed on the edge of the back and hides behind a fabric lapel — it is impossible to get to it just like that.
Secondly, Bobby's body is traditionally protected from cuts. Several layers of protection, including polypropylene, will not even pierce the backpack with a sharp object. The case is additionally impregnated with water-repellent solution, and in case of downpours Bobby can be protected with a complete rain cover.
In Bobby Tech the high-quality lightnings YKK which too cannot be opened by an awl or anything else are built in. On dogs when they are connected to each other, it is possible to impose the present padlock — the truth it should be bought separately.
Also, the new Bobby models have not one, but two secret pockets on the back. The first one is located in its lower part horizontally — here it is convenient to put documents and passport. The second section is placed above and vertically — it is intended for a tablet or an electronic reader. Also in the backpack there is an RFID section that protects the bank cards from cyberattacks.
Branches
XD Design has revolutionized the interior philosophy of its backpacks with the Bobby Pro and Bobby Tech models under consideration. The backpack still has only one main compartment, but it is possible to organize the space inside at one's own discretion.
This is achieved thanks to special soft dividers that divide the section into four parts. If desired, you can remove one of them — then the compartment will be divided into two sections. In addition, the main space is separated from the area with the laptop by a mesh screen that closes with a lock. It can also be removed by twisting and hiding at the base of the backpack.