Review: Gaston Luga Resenar Backpack

The new Gaston Luga Resenar backpack is part of Gaston Luga’s new Corporate Coast collection. The design aim was to create a bag that could be used for both work and for outdoors. The Resenar backpack is available in three different colours – (1) black, (2) taupe, and (3) natural green. The unit I have is the black model. Gaston Luga Resenar retails for S$279, but you can discount code TECHJIO22 for 15% off.

Tech specs

Build quality and design

Gaston Luga Resenar backpack has a smooth-to-the-touch finish thanks to nylon being used as the main material for the bag. The overall feel of the bag feels very similar to the Biten 15″ bag. Resenar has a more utilitarian design to it with the straps also made from nylon compared to PU used on the Splash bags.

The silhouette of the Gaston Luga Resenar is slightly wide and squarish especially when you compare it against the Splash. The design of the Gaston Luga Resenar is rather unique. The side pockets of the Resenar does accentuate the functional design language of the bag to one that is versatile yet stylish.

Compartments and space

The main compartment of Gaston Luga Resenar backpack features a laptop sleeve and the rest is just plain space to store your belongings. The dedicated laptop sleeve can store up to a 16″ laptop. Do note that the laptop sleeve does not seem have a false bottom. The space in the main compartment is really generous as you can pack it all the up to the brim where the zipper is at. The only thing I wish Gaston Luga Resenar had some organisational slots.

Another unique design feature of the Gaston Luga Resenar is its two side zippered pockets. These pockets are sized enough to store items such as power bank, tissue paper, or any items you might want easy access to. The side pockets also have a drawstring pouch sewn to it, which you can keep water bottles or umbrella there. But as the size is not very big, about 13cm long, you may want to only store small bottle there.

Features

At first glance, you might think that the Gaston Luga Resenar is accessed from the top flap. However, the top flap is simply folded down and clasped in place for a nicer look. The main way to access your belongings in the Resenar backpack is via the L-shaped zipper.

The L-shaped will be located on the left side of the bag if you’re carrying it. By design, the L-shaped zipper should allow for quick access to items located at the bottom of the bag. However, as there is an inner lining to in the main compartment to prevent things from falling out, you are kind of blocked by that lining when you want reach for stuff located at the bottom of the bag. I’d say that the L-shaped zipper would work better for taking out belongings that are located nearer to the top of the bag, such as a sweater.

Going to the front of the Gaston Luga Resenar, there is a latch point which you can use to hook things or accessories. The latch points is a perfect place if you have the Gaston Luga Liten mini pouch. The Liten mini pouch uses the same nylon material as the Resenar, and is great for storing small items such as earbuds.

Moving to the back of the Resenar, you’ll find a slip over luggage strap, which makes it super convenient when travelling with you luggage. This is another functional nod that Gaston Luga has incorporated towards their whole Corporate Collection line.

Comfort of carry

Like the Splash, the Resenar has a perforated back panel to improve comfort and breathability when carry especially in a humid and hot climate like Singapore. The harness on the Gaston Luga Resenar are decent enough for comfort. They are about 6cm in width and about 1cm thick, which I personally feel is sitting more on the slimmer side.

Thankfully, the cushioning on the harness is good enough as long your carry is not so heavy. There is also an addition of a chest strap to help with weight distribution. The chest strap is detachable so you can remove it if you don’t like it.

Conclusion

Gaston Luga Resenar has a unique design, and is an interesting take on a backpack to be used for both work and travelling. The L-shaped zipper provides fast access to stuff packed at the top, and foldable flap based design allows you to expand the capacity if you’re packing for a trip.

If you are interested in the Gaston Luga Resenar, you can purchase it from their official website here. Be sure to use the code TECHJIO22 for 15% off!