Review: Numbat chest pack from Helikon-Tex

Among the useful functional accessories of outdoor equipment is the sometimes somewhat neglected chest pack. Its advantage is that you will have all the important things at hand. It is compatible with both a backpack and a carrying system, and above all, it is comfortable. In today's review, we will introduce the Numbat model from the well-known Polish manufacturer of tactical and outdoor products Helikon-Tex. How has it proven itself in 2 years of use?

As part of my outdoor activities, I was looking for a bag in which I could carry all the important things (wallet, headlamp, cutlery set, lighter, etc.) and at the same time I could use it for one-day nature walks. I was tired of carrying all these things in my backpack and taking them off and putting them back on when needed (or carrying them in different pockets).

So I was looking for a suitable functional accessory that would provide me with just such a service and at the same time not limit me in any way. Since Helikon-Tex is one of my most trusted brands, I started looking with them. I was lucky and came across the Numbat chest pack.

On the front of the Numbat chest pack from Helikon-Tex you will find two "hidden" stretch pockets.

Product description

After receiving the bag, I had to try it on immediately, and after putting on and adjusting the straps, I knew that it was definitely not a step aside. The pack fit perfectly and its straps did not restrict me in any way even when using a backpack.

Front and bottom side

The front and bottom of the bag have laser cut slots that are MOLLE compatible, so you can attach other equipment to the outside of the pack. There is a bungee cord on the bottom, under which you can attach, for example, a raincoat, a flashlight, etc.

I must also not forget the front two "hidden" pockets made of stretch material (for example, I put grape sugar here for a quick energy boost).

The underside of the Numbat chest pack by Helikon-Tex is equipped with a bungee cord for attaching other equipment.

Back side

The padded chest area is pleasant and comfortable, even if the pack is quite overpacked. Inconspicuous paracord loops are located along the edges of the back side, where you can hang e.g. a carabiner with gloves or other accessories.

The chest contact side of the Numbat pack from Helikon-Tex is made of pleasant padded material. paracord loops are placed along the edges for hanging material.

Back part

The mesh back support is a bonus thanks to its ability to "ventilate" and wick moisture away from the body.

Interior space and opening

The opening of the pack is equipped with a high-quality two-way YKK zipper and opening regulators, where at the maximum setting the pack can be opened up to an angle of 90 degrees.

The interior space provides plenty of compartments and pockets for storing small equipment. The inner back panel consists of a complete soft lining with velcro compatible with Versatile Insert products such as a velcro gun holster.

Inside you will also find a zippered pocket where you can store documents, a map or similar equipment. I personally store a charging cable with the ComplEAT dining set from Gerber^® here.

Regulated opening of the Numbat chest pack by Helikon-Tex with YKK zippers on both sides and with the possibility of opening up to an angle of 90 degrees.

Product parameters

• Dimensions in cm (H × W × D): 19.5 × 28 x 6 cm
  

• Weight: 490 g
  

• Materials: 100% nylon 500D Cordura^®
  

• Zippers: two-way YKK zippers
  

• Snaps/buckles: Woojin^®
  

• Fastening: adjustable and detachable shoulder straps with mesh back panel
  

The inner removable panel of the Numbat chest pack by Helikon-Tex, under which the velcro area is hidden. It is compatible with Versatile Insert products.

Plus points

• Convenient and unrestricted use.

• Internal variable layout.

• Quality and durable materials.

• Everything you need right at hand.

• Many color versions so everyone can choose.

• Effective combination with the Foxtrot MK2 carrier system.

The inner zippered pocket of the Numbat chest pack by Helikon-Tex is ideal for documents, a map and other valuables and small equipment.

Conclusion

If, like me, you are looking for a pack in which you will always have everything you need close at hand, then this pack is one of the hot candidates. The price/performance ratio is uncompromising and the pack has served me reliably for more than 2 years. When treating it with impregnation, you can also rely on a fairly decent water repellency, when the pack can handle even solid rain.

What else is worth mentioning – for day trips I combine it with another functional product from the Helikon-Tex company, which is the Foxtrot MK2 carrying system.

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