Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Mission Workshop Rhake

Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.

Hill People Gear Tarahumara

Front facing view of the Hill People Gear Tarahumara
Capacity16 L
Weight0.7 kg
Dimensions44×24×10 cm
Airline fit100%
Price$125

Feature by feature

Hill People Gear TarahumaraFeatureMission Workshop Rhake
Storage
S Compression S
None Expanded Capacity None
0 Opening 0
N Passport top
N Passthrough Y
Carry
S Backpack S
R Hip Belt N
S Sternum Strap S
Inside
0 Laptop 15
2 Main Compartments 6
N Organizer Y
Outside
× Hard Shell ×
N Rain-fly N
2 Water Bottle Holder 1
Y Water Resistant Y
Material
500D CorduraAvailable in HT500 or MultiCam Black Camo Cordura

Mission Workshop Rhake

Front facing view of the Mission Workshop Rhake
Capacity22 L
Weight1.4 kg
Dimensions54×34×13 cm
Airline fit98%
Price$365

The Hill People Gear Tarahumara backpack and Mission Workshop Rhake backpack share similarities but have key points that set them apart. The Tarahumara has a minimalist, rugged appeal with dimensions of 44 inches tall, 24 inches wide, and 10 inches deep, weighing only 0.7 pounds. It can carry up to 16 liters with full compatibility across all airlines. Constructed with 500D Cordura, it's durable and intended to last. However, it lacks a laptop compartment, emphasizing its simplicity for light gear.

The Rhake, in comparison, is larger, boasting dimensions of 54 inches tall, 34 inches wide, and 13 inches deep, with a weight of 1.4 pounds. With increased size comes increased capacity, clocking in at 22 liters. While it slightly falls short compared to the Tarahumara in airline compatibility, at 98%, it compensates with an aptitude for organization. It comes with a 15-inch laptop compartment and is available both in HT500 or MultiCam Black Camo Cordura.

As for user experiences, both backpacks come with glowing excellent reviews. Many reviewers argue that the Tarahumara is the best go-to bag for day hiking due to its perfect size, high build quality from reliable materials and the advantage of its secure, easy-to-access center zip compartment. On the other hand, dichotomously reviewers laud the Rhake for its suitability for daily and travel use - it's slim, thoughtfully designed with plenty of pockets, comfortable to use and made with weather-proof materials making it durable enough to last a long time. To sum it up concisely, it's a debate between simplicity versus organization.