MJ GEAR GUIDE: Fully Loaded - The best new bags in our favorite categories

Fully Loaded
The best carriers in our favorite categories

Specialization in luggage design is nothing new, but the latest models take the concept and roll with it. Wheeled carry-ons include backpack straps so comfortable that you can hit the trailhead straight from the airport, gym bags feature ventilated shoe kennels to let sneakers breathe, and daypacks have waterproof zippers to repel rain. We sought out dozens of packs and bags, tested all of them, and brought you our five favorites. These all-stars are the best in their categories and are expressly built to make carrying your burden, whatever it is, easier. --Mark Anders

HYBRID
Osprey | Meridian 22
The love child of a wheeled carry-on and a backpack, the Meridian 22 is ideal for adventure travel. Osprey's hybrid features interior mesh organizer pockets, a zip-off mini-daypack, and a hideaway harness system that transforms the bag into a trail-worthy pack. And while hybrids can be chintzy, the 8-lb, 9-oz Meridian is a rare double: It's easy to control as a roller, yet comfortable on your back. [$280; ospreypacks.com]
SPECS: 22" x 14" x 9"; 3,700 cu ins

WEEKEND
Filson | Sportsman's Bag
Made with durable twill treated with a water-repellent wax, thick bridle-leather straps, and rustproof brass zippers, the Sportsman's Bag is designed for rugged outdoorsmen. Snap-in dividers keep your stuff organized on the inside, and six pockets on the outside provide quick access to snacks and reading material. [$250; filson.com]
SPECS: 18" x 11" x 12"; 2,400 cu ins

DAY
Arc'teryx | RT25
Some daypacks are glorified book bags. The RT25, however, has outdoor-lifestyle functionality, including a drybag-style rolltop, watertight zippers, and a sleeve and hose clip for a hydration bladder. Most important, it features a thermo-formed shoulder harness and belt, which keep the load on your hips. [$125; arcteryx.com]
SPECS: 23" x 12" x 10"; 1,300 cu ins

DUFFEL
The North Face | Base Camp Duffel XL
Heavy-duty, waterproof PVC tarpaulin fabric coupled with twin end-haul handles and shoulder straps have made this hockey-bag-size hauler a staple on hardcore expeditions. No wonder: Its cavernous capacity can swallow an entire closet of gear. [$135; thenorthface.com]
SPECS: 32" x 19" x 19"; 9,070 cu ins

GYM
Tumi | Flow Sport Bag
Gym bags have evolved light-years from the old canvas sack you lugged in high school. Tumi's Sport Bag scores points with a zippered organization pocket for your wallet and keys, an easy-access holster for a water bottle, and a built-in sneaker slot with vents so you can quarantine your sweaty stuff. [$155; tumi.com]
SPECS: 24" x 12" x 9"; 2,400 cu ins

Photographs by: Michael Pirrocco
(February 2006)