Hill People Gear Tarahumara vs. Exped Metro 30
Two carry-on travel backpacks, compared spec for spec.
Hill People Gear Tarahumara
| Capacity | 16 L |
| Weight | 0.7 kg |
| Dimensions | 44×24×10 cm |
| Airline fit | 100% |
| Price | $125 |
Feature by feature
| Hill People Gear Tarahumara | Feature | Exped Metro 30 |
|---|---|---|
| Storage | ||
| S | Compression | N |
| None | Expanded Capacity | None |
| 0 | Opening | 2 |
| N | Passport | N |
| N | Passthrough | N |
| Carry | ||
| S | Backpack | S |
| R | Hip Belt | H |
| S | Sternum Strap | S |
| Inside | ||
| 0 | Laptop | 15 |
| 2 | Main Compartments | 1 |
| N | Organizer | N |
| Outside | ||
| × | Hard Shell | × |
| N | Rain-fly | N |
| 2 | Water Bottle Holder | 2 |
| Y | Water Resistant | Y |
| Material | |
| 500D Cordura | 600 D ripstop polyester, PU coated, 1'200 mm water column |
When it comes to traveler-friendly backpacks, two strong contenders rise to the surface: Hill People Gear's Tarahumara and Exped's Metro 30. Both backpacks are unique in their design and features, and though slightly similar in some areas, each has its own appeal for different types of travelers, with no words minced nor details left to assumption.
The Tarahumara, standing at 44 inches tall, boasts a rugged 500D Cordura build promising durability, while the Metro 30, slightly shorter at 19 inches, relies on a combination of 600 D ripstop polyester for strength and PU coating for waterproofing - essential for those unexpected showers. However, size is not the only concern here. The difference in the backpacks' capacities is striking: the Tarahumara provides 16 liters, while the Metro offers a much larger 28 liters. Of course, this directly reflects on the weight, with the former weighing 0.7 pounds and the Metro slightly heavier at 0.8 pounds. Additionally, while the Tarahumara provides compatibility with all airlines, the Metro falls short in this area, only compatible with 47%.
- Height: Tarahumara is 44 inches, Metro is 19 inches.
- Material: Tarahumara uses 500D Cordura, Metro uses 600 D ripstop polyester and PU coating.
- Weight: Tarahumara is 0.7 pounds, Metro is 0.8 pounds.
- Capacity: Tarahumara has 16 liters, Metro has 28 liters.
- Airlines compatibility: Tarahumara is 100%, and Metro is 47%.
In terms of usability, the Tarahumara makes up for its smaller volume in simplicity and durability. With reviewers praising its sturdiness and versatility, it promises to last a lifetime. Lacking a dedicated laptop compartment, its utility mainly caters to trekkers and outdoorsy types who travel light. On the contrary, the Metro 30 does have a laptop compartment accommodating up to 15 inches, making it ideal for city dwellers and office commuters. Reviewers describe the Metro 30 as a sleek, well-crafted pack suitable for day to day use in urban settings. Its BlueSign Certification, a nod to sustainable manufacturing, stakes it a claim in the eco-friendly gear market.
The Hill People Gear Tarahumara and the Exped Metro 30 distance themselves from each other through their distinct appeal to different sets of consumers. The Tarahumara excels in durability and robustness, fitting those in tune with nature and rough terrains. The Metro 30, meanwhile, shines in urban usability and sustainability - essentials for the modern-day cosmopolitan wanderer. With anything worthwhile, the ultimate choice is subjective and rests wholly on individual needs and lifestyle.