Black Ember Forge 30L expandable work, EDC, travel backpack

BLACK EMBER

Black Ember FORGE 30L Expandable Backpack

Name: Black Ember FORGE 30L Expandable Backpack
Brand: BLACK EMBER
SKU: 130001
Price: 319.00 USD
Availability: InStock

$319.00

15 reviews

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The Black Ember Forge 30L Expandable backpack is expandable from 20L to 30L. It is the second edition of our ever-popular, weatherproof EDC and Travel Pack. Originally pioneered in Tokyo, the FORGE was inspired by the Japanese 3-Way Pack, long commutes, and longer days mixing business, commuting and travel. The FORGE is designed to be carried three ways: Backpack, Soft-Brief, and Shoulder Bag.

Ready to pack? The The Black Ember Forge 30L Expandable backpack unzips and divides into two separate sections: The organization panel has a place for everything while the storage compartment is made for clothing and bulky items. For long term travel: grab the expansion zipper. The FORGE instantly expands from 20 to 30 liters. If you max out the storage space, compress the FORGE with our magnetic compression straps.

Designed to keep your gear organized and protected. Your essentials are right at hand in the quick access panel. The laptop sleeve gives you easy access to your laptop and tablet, you'll find them isolated and protected in layers of quilted EVA foam and rip-stop nylon.

Ergonomic 3D shoulder straps with two densities of EVA foam provide both cushion and support. Set up your FORGE to your fit with Load-lifters and a magnetic sternum strap. The FORGE has a contoured back-panel with an air-channel to keep you cool and dry. Our butterfly back-panel keeps your straps hidden, until you need them. Laser-cut, locking zipper pulls secure your gear.

If you think you need more space, the Forge 40 is a great choice! Accessories? Add a Boarding Kit, Packing Cubes or Dopp Kit. They all fit!

Built from a combination of Cordura’s new RN66 Velocity fabric and YKK® Aquaguard zippers for a durable weatherproof construction. Hidden, bonded hypalon panels form a composite shell with structural elements where you need them and flexibility where you don't. The FORGE also features our latest T6 anodized aluminum hardware.

The new Velocity fabric brings the same CORDURA® durability and quality with a lustrous matte-shine, dust & dirt resistant finish. Black Ember is proud to be the world's first brand to collaborate withCORDURA® on their new CORDURA® re/cor™ RN66. It's the first 100% recycled nylon textile fromCORDURA®. The RN66 code name stands for recycled nylon six, six. That 6,6 rating means it's a high tenacity nylon that's ultra-durable and it's passed the brutal barrage of tests that make a woven nylon aCORDURA®. When compared to virgin N6,6 production CORDURA® re/cor™ RN66 produces 83% fewer GHG emissions, consumes 82% less energy and uses 57% less water.

All Black Ember products are made using our BOND-STITCH™ high-precision construction. All textile components are laser-cut for precise assembly. This construction yields a weatherproof, durable pack with a blacked-out, minimal aesthetic.

FAQ

What is the Black Ember FORGE 30L?
A 3-way carry pack (backpack/brief/shoulder) that compresses for daily use and expands to 30L for 1–3 day travel. Professional aesthetic, weather-resistant build, and organized access.
What are the key features?
It is a 3-way carry; perimeter expansion from 20L to 30L; dedicated suspended laptop/tablet compartment; clamshell main access; fast-access top pocket; pass-through exterior pockets; butterfly back panel to stow straps; luggage pass-through; Fidlock sternum strap; optional shoulder strap, hip belt, and Maglock compression straps.
What are the exact dimensions and capacity
Compressed: 20 x 12 x 8 in (51 x 31 x 20 cm). Expanded: 20 x 12 x 10 in (51 x 31 x 25 cm). Capacity: 20–30L. Weight: approx. 5 lb (2.25 kg).
What laptops are compatible with it.
Dedicated, suspended laptop sleeve fits up to most 16-inch laptops, with quick access. Separate tablet sleeve.
What Materials and hardware is it made with?
EmberTex PFAS-free shell; YKK Aquaguard zippers; laser-cut Hypalon details; anodized aluminum hardware; 210D ripstop lining; Fidlock magnetic sternum strap and key ring.
What is it like in terms of carry and comfort?
Ergonomic, dual-density shoulder straps; contoured back panel with air channel; load stability from structured build; strap-stow “butterfly” panel for brief/shoulder carry. Very comfortable!
What is the organization and access like?
The Black Ember Forge 30L has three zones: admin/organization, main clamshell, and dedicated laptop/tablet compartment. Quick-access top pocket. Exterior pass-through pockets into main body.
Is it water and weather resistant?
Yes! It has a weather-resistant shell and Aquaguard zippers designed to protect tech in light rain and daily urban conditions.
What fits in it (daily and travel)?
Daily: 16″ laptop, charger kit, tech pouch, water, lunch, light jacket, documents. Travel (expanded): 1–3 days of clothing, footwear, Dopp kit, with room for work essentials.
Does it comply with Airline carry-on guidance?
Height/width align with typical carry-on rules. Depth expands from 8″ to 10″; compress for stricter carriers.
Are there optional add-ons?
Yes. Shoulder strap, hip belt, Maglock compression straps, external bottle holder (if used).
What are the trade-offs to consider?
Structured durability adds some weight. Expansion zippers add bulk and work best with deliberate operation.
Who is it best for?
Professionals and commuters who want one bag for office, gym add-ons, and weekend travel without sacrificing a clean, refined look. Business travel too! People with refined taste ;-)