Testing: Test: Outentic - The modular outdoor backpack system from the ProSieben show "The Thing of the Year"

Test: Launched in 2016, Outentic is still a relatively young company whose main goal was to develop a simple and safe carrying aid for alpine mountain bike adventures. It quickly became a modular backpack system that is said to be suitable for many outdoor sports. A backpack for everything, which can be adapted to the respective use with accessories and modules. This not only protects the wallet, but also sustainable resources.

On March 5th, Outentic's modular backpack system even made it onto the ProSieben inventor show "Das Ding des Jahres" with Joko Winterscheidt and Lena Gercke. ( Teaser for the show )

Outentic – Basepack 8L

The Outentic Basepack 8L is the central unit of the modular backpack system. All additional modules are attached here using a magnetic and mechanical 4-point connection. But the basepack also offers space for the essentials on its own. A 8-liter hydration bladder can be stowed in the main compartment of the small 2-liter backpack, which is accessed via the back. A helmet net can also be stowed in a small compartment on the bottom of the backpack. The upper material is water-repellent and cleanly processed. The integrated SasTec back protector, which can also be removed if necessary, should be emphasized. The so-called crash element, a C-shaped plastic part at the height of the hip belt, provides additional protection. This crash element not only absorbs forces in the event of a fall, but also cleanly transfers the forces and loads that arise from the total weight to the hip belts. Thanks to the various loop systems on the shoulder strap or hip belt, extensive accessories such as a drinking bottle or mobile phone pocket can be attached using the Fidlock system.

Outentic – Bike Modules

Through the 4-point connection attached to the basepack. Can the Bike Module be screwed on? The Bike Module can be adjusted to a wide range of bike sizes using two adjustable hooks. The construction of the aluminum frame optimally distributes the weight of the bike over the shoulder and hip belts. Once the rubber-coated hooks are set correctly, the bike levels itself off on its own and sits securely upright on your back. Compared to "classic" wearing, this is a bit unfamiliar at first, but it is definitely easier to handle in tight places. Our test bikes, including a large Specialized Enduro in size XL, found their place quickly and safely and didn't get in the way of the back.

Outentic – Casual Module 15L

If the bike does not have to be carried, or if you are traveling without a bike at all, the Casual Module can be attached to the Basepack 8L instead of the Bike Module. This increases the volume of the modular backpack system by 15 liters to a total packing volume of 23 liters. Ideal for the way to work or the next trekking adventure, enough equipment can be stowed away. The water-repellent Casual Module is attached to the Basepack 8L using four magnetic Fidlock points and gravity, but the Casual Module 15L can also be used with a separate carrying strap without the Basepack 8L. The screws used to fasten the Bike Module are now also in the Series designed differently, so that another module, for example the casual module, can also be attached to the bike module.

Outentic – well thought-out modularity?

We tested the base unit with all modules and all accessories and can confirm the variety and modularity. In our opinion, the Outentic system is not fully suitable for the originally intended purpose of mountaineering. An extensive tour requires enough provisions, a change of clothes/bad weather clothing, a first-aid kit, breakdown accessories and much more. But in combination with the Bike Module, all of the luggage has to be stowed in the small 8-liter Basepack 8L, which is definitely too small for our packing list. However, the backpack sits very well on the back, even on rougher descents, and can be easily adjusted to different body sizes. Only somewhat fuller bikers may be somewhat restricted with the hip belt that is not too long. We tested a Source 2 liter hydration bladder in the Outentic Basepack 8L, which found its place perfectly. However, the opening for the hose on the side of the pack is designed in such a way that the hose cannot be routed cleanly on the shoulder strap, so we routed the hose through a small opening on the back compartment zipper, resulting in no restrictions. A very practical feature is the small additional tool bag, so the most important things can be reached quickly if necessary.