High Above is a Washington-based brand that makes a small line of packs with a focus on quality materials, craftsmanship, and durability. The latest product from the brand is an upgraded version of its popular Venture hip pack, leveraging 3D printing technology and super tough materials to make “the perfect pack” with “no compromises.”
3D printing is becoming a more common construction method across a range of cycling accessories. The ability to create unique shapes and structures has made it increasingly used in things like bike saddles, chamois pads, and helmets. According to High Above, however, the Venture 3D is the first hip pack to employ a 3D-printed back panel in its construction. We’ve seen similar printed panels on other types of packs, including the new Deuter Hiline, but this is indeed the first hip pack we’re aware of that uses this technology.
Based on the brand’s existing Venture hip pack, they added the aforementioned 3D-printed back panel, an upgraded shell material, and made a few other improvements to create a minimalist pack that will last a lifetime. And, with a $200 price tag, you’ll be happy to know that High Above intends for it to actually last a lifetime. Like all of their products, the Venture 3D is made in the USA in Washington and comes with a lifetime guarantee.
High Above Venture 3D Details
The Venture 3D is a relatively low-profile hip pack for those looking to carry the essentials on their rides. The rectangular pack has a 2.5-liter storage capacity and a small footprint on your lower back. The storage compartment is surprisingly spacious, with a folding lid that opens wide to provide easy access to the contents inside. The interior pockets are well-designed, helping to keep tools, snacks, and other essentials organized and stable inside. Fidlock buckles on the lid and waist-belt are secure, easy to use, and add a bit more techiness to the otherwise minimalist and bespoke-looking pack.
Venture 3D Specs
Volume: 2.5L
Weight: 12.6 oz
Backpanel: Custom designed Carbon3D proprietary 3D printed lattice
Shell Fabric: Challenge UltraWeave 400x
Lining Fabric: 210D Nylon Ripstop
Stretch Pocket Fabric: Challenge UltraStretch UHMWPE Reinforced
Organization: Internal zippered pocket with key clip, two internal stretch pockets, internal phone pocket, two wing pockets.
Buckles: Fidlock (Closure and Waistbelt)
3D-Printed Back Panel
The 3D-printed back panel is arguably the most interesting aspect of the Venture 3D’s design. High Above worked with Carbon 3D, “a company at the forefront of softgoods 3D printing technology,” to design its 3D printed back panel. The goal was to create “a pack with a back panel that allows for better durability, breathability, cleanability, and anti-bounce grip.”
According to High Above, “Carbon3D’s technology creates a complex lattice of flexible, durable material that acts similar to an open cell foam, but allows significantly more customization. We went through dozens of prototypes, adjusting the lattice pattern and shape each time to get the feel exactly right. The end result is a backpanel that has the comfort of foam, the breathability of an open mesh, and the durability and grip of polyurethane.”
I happen to have one of the new Venture 3D packs on hand, and the back panel does live up to all of those claims. It’s cushioned, breathable, and provides ample grip and stability while riding. I haven’t used mine enough yet to require any cleaning, but the porous structure looks like it should rinse off quite easily as well when needed.
Other Updates
High Above’s existing, and still available, Venture pack is made from a very durable and weather-resistant EPLX600D material. That material feels about as sturdy as they come, but they upgraded it on the 3D version anyway. High Above moved to a new Ultra400 shell material, which they claim is “nearly 5 times more tear resistant, 3 times more abrasion resistant, and half the weight.”
Padding has been added to the hip wings for enhanced comfort around the waist, along with Ultrastretch pockets to keep small items handy. The waist belt is also easier to adjust with a pull-forward design. Other minor updates include a new shell pattern for cleaner lines and reduced seams to enhance weatherproofing and durability, and a darted lid for a cleaner fold when closed.
High Above Venture 3D: Pricing and Availability
High Above’s new Venture 3D pack sells for $200. There’s no denying that’s a lot of money for a hip pack. What you’re paying for is a pack that is made in the USA using the highest quality materials, Fidlock buckles, and the latest in 3D printing technology. This pack is impeccably crafted, feels absolutely bombproof, and is ready to provide you with many years of dutiful service. While the initial investment may be hard to swallow, this pack will be paying dividends for as long as you choose to use it. Should you ever have any issues, High Above’s lifetime guarantee has you covered.
The new Venture 3D pack launched last week and is available now exclusively through High Above’s website.
highabove.net
