Although Vertx® needs no introduction to most readers, some background is always in order. Vertx got its start in 2009, when its parent company, the Fechheimer Brothers Company, was approached by a federal agency looking for comfortable low-profile pants with all of the functionality as the tactical pants they were wearing at the time but didn’t scream “shoot me first.”
Leveraging their experience gained in making US military uniforms since 1842, they came out with what they felt was the most low-profile tactical pants in the industry. Vertx expanded more into low-profile clothing over time, which eventually brought them into bags and packs, as well as other accessories so their same customers could carry all the equipment they needed while remaining discreet.
Vertx Go Pack
Vertx bags and packs have evolved over time along with their changing roles and the needs of end users. The Go Pack is a recent addition to the Vertx line. Vertx describes the Go Pack as a drawstring gym bag with tactical upgrades. Although that description is accurate, it really doesn’t do the Go Pack justice. Let’s start with a look at the features.
The Go Pack is an ultralightweight, low-profile 21-liter backpack. It’s the ideal size for a daypack. It has exterior dimensions of 17″ H x 10″ W x 8″ D. It weighs a scant 0.75 lbs. It’s sized to hold up to a 15″ laptop. It features lightweight fabric construction and a packable design that allows for quick storage when on the go. You can stuff the empty pack into a space not much larger than a softball.
The shell of the Go Pack is constructed of 210D nylon ripstop fabric with a wipe-clean water-resistant polyurethane (PU) coating. Bonded nylon thread is used throughout. Handle attachment points are bartacked for extra durability. Duraflex® (D-Flex®) plastic hardware is used throughout.
The Go Pack features two lightweight and comfortable breathable Airmesh shoulder straps with contoured shoulder pads that evenly distribute weight for increased comfort and durability. An adjustable sternum strap and removable waist belt provide added security and stability. The waist belt is not designed for load bearing but it does keep the pack close to the body and not flopping around. There’s a top grab-handle on the pack for grab-n-go scenarios.
The basic layout of the Go Pack consists of a large drawstring interior compartment and a deep outer “shove it pouch.” It’s a simple design that lacks the organization of sime of the other Vertx bags and packs, but it’s nonetheless very well thought out.
A spring-loaded closure system releases the drawstring with an easy pull for fast access to gear. The pack is equipped with a top flap that folds over and features a secondary G-hook closure to keep gear secure and accommodate larger loadouts. It has a durable Hypalon® quick release pull tab.
The interior drawstring compartment has genuine VELCRO® Brand loop for attaching hook-and-loop accessories. It provides superior performance compared to other hook-and-loop materials. The compartment is sized to fit the Vertx S.O.C.P. Rigid Insert Panel.
All Vertx bags and packs are part of a system designed for versatility and configurability. In keeping with this, Vertx offers a variety of accessories (not included) that can enhance their storage capabilities. These include the Tacticgami™ accessories, Vertx S.O.C.P.® Deployable Rigid Insert Panel, Parabellum Bandoliers and zippered Overflow Mesh Pouches.
Vertx Tactigami accessories include MPH (Multi-Purpose Holster) accessory holsters, MAP (MOLLE Adapter Panel System), MAK (MAGs and Kit) accessory system. The patented system is constructed of VELCRO Brand ONE-WRAP®. Vertx also offers a Tactigami Mini Organizational Pouch and a Tech & Multi-Tool Pouch.
The Vertx S.O.C.P. Deployable Rigid Insert Panel was developed in conjunction with Greg Thompson, founder of Special Operations Combatives Program® (S.O.C.P.). The S.O.C.P. Rigid Insert Panel is an injection molded panel that’s designed to provide you with an organizational platform that allows low-profile movement of sensitive kit no matter what external carrier you’re deploying with.
The Vertx Firebase Bandolier is a multifunctional, multiple carry platform mags. The platform allows for on or off-body carry options. It’s available in two versions — Firebase Parabellum Bandolier and Firebase PCC Bandolier. The Firebase Parabellum Bandolier has four pouches sized to fit IFAKs, radios and other tools. The Firebase PCC Bandolier has four pouches sized to fit pistol caliber carbine/SMG mags, flashlights and other smaller tools.
The drawstring interior compartment on the Go Pack is large enough to hold a SMG or PDW. The outer stuff-it pouch can be hastily loaded with a jacket or towel to avoid printing. That being said, the Go Pack wouldn’t be my first choice for carrying a SMG or PDW. The drawstring closure dramatically slows access. I would definitely opt for one of the other Vertx bags or packs for this specific purpose if given the choice.
My Thoughts
The Go Pack is an outstanding backpack for use in its intended roles. As with all Vertx products, it’s well thought out and of exceptional quality. It serves a niche not met by other packs on the market.The lightweight plus ability to collapse and stow it make the Go Pack an outstanding minimalist bag for travel where size and weight are an issue. This feature also makes an ideal secondary bag for use with your primary carriage system or as a dump bag for sensitive site exploitation (SSE). It’s also perfect for heading to the gym or beach, anywhere a simple, ultralightweight bag or pack is desired.The Go Pack isn’t designed to carry a significant load. The lightweight construction makes it uncomfortable to do so. As the saying goes, there is no such thing as a free lunch.
The Vertx Go Pack has a MSRP of $61.99. It’s currently available in three colorways—It’s Black, Canopy Green/Smoke Grey and Reef/Smoke Grey Matter. It’s available online from Vertx at vertx.com or at authorized Vertx dealers. Vertx offers free standard shipping on all orders over $99. Vertx stands behind all of its products. If you’re not 100% satisfied with your purchase, they will be happy to accept an exchange or a return for a full refund within 60 days of purchase (terms apply, as always).
Sources
Vertx
www.vertx.com
Special Operations Combatives Program (S.O.C.P.)
www.ussocp.com
Material Disclosure
I received this product as a courtesy from the manufacturer so I could test it and give my honest feedback. I am not bound by any written, verbal or implied contract to give this product a good review. All opinions are my own and are based off my personal experience with the product.
*The views and opinions expressed on this website are solely those of the original authors and contributors. These views and opinions do not necessarily represent those of Spotter Up Magazine, the administrative staff, and/or any/all contributors to this site.
Photos courtesy Vertx..