Patagonia Atom Sling 8L

There are three generations. I bought the first generation used. Most are in great shape after years of use. Second generation dropped the pleat but added more space for bigger phones in the strap. Third generation is more teardrop shaped.

Great pack, still highly rated, and in this age of paid influencers, that is saying something. A lot of the older makers are still soldiering on yet the market is suffering an onslaught of newer offshore brands, some of which only last 6 months, and who apparently buy their reviews as you can see them dominate for weeks then disappear. It is NOT the marketing we are used to with relevant experts and long-term use no longer prioritized, just fashion, not utility.

There is also a shift away from "outdoorsy" which still sells well in some markets but the urban users are trending toward different fabrics—which look like drab office upholstery—and a very understated stye, typical of Danish Modern. The form follows function of yesteryear is fading.

I bought the first gen precisely because the colorway and style is practical, not flashy—grey with subdued teal—yet just enough brighter compared to Ugly Black Tactical that my spouse can find me. The metro trend to black has utility as soil and dirt are difficult to see—and positive—but some "best of" reviews with black pack against black clothing and black jackets don't translate well or reveal features. When possible, exam pics of the light colorways to see actual details as this fad eventually fades in the rear view mirror. 

Patagonia has gone the extra mile sourcing a recycled fiber fabric that is durable, has good texture and weave, is color coordinated (in each eras 'niche" for good or, well, unappreciated. Your generation has its tastes vs others. The interior layout, structure and design are superb as the Atom 8l was an early product in the Sling designs and it shows how well they got it right by its long product life—reviews here reflect that. 

For the larger phone user, the second generation may suit better. The interior space handles tablets well with its padded divider, offering safe carry. It is NOT an overnight sling. There is enough room to put a light garment inside, heavier does fit under the stowaway straps. In dense urban situations that may be a good idea to prevent snagging, out of doors it's rarely an issue. 

The one-sided shape doesn't switch to very good carry for the off shoulder, and if done then the pack swung in front the zippers are on the bottom. It's definitely not universal—but in my experience that isn't a bad thing. It fits well on the one shoulder which is how I have used two-strap backpacks since the 1970s—when book bags were common but I was cycling and a small nylon issue field pack more suitable for the long trip to college cross town. Now it's short hikes, shopping etc and the small size is more acceptable in stores without having to leave it at the desk. 

That is one issue I see misdescribed for users—as a way to carry ID, wallet, etc and I would caution certain items should remain on your person, not in an off body bag that if misplaced or stolen takes your keys, license, cards, phone, etc—all too often, forever. Packs are stolen more than purses, for the same goods and treasures, one smaller that doesn't carry an expensive laptop or appear to have your credit cards is a better approach traveling or organizationally. There is much less to be inconvenienced keeping yourself protected from circumstances by NOT putting all your eggs in one basket. 

Overall, Patagonia now offers generations, some of which fit better than another for specific uses and tastes. You can find a lot more colorways than the current years offering and that opens options if it's important, vs taking whatever is being sold now as your only choice—which can force you into some difficult corners, as one reviewer noted, beige and purple not being his most favorite fashion splash. 

Background

Carrying backpacks since the 1970s, when mobilized lived out of one when away from our housing as you could be miles away and needed expanded EDC choices, including workout gear. Adopted slings ten years ago, too small and too large were the choice then and now Atom is "just right."

The fact that I haven't seen it much since I brought it home says a lot.

I don't quite remember who the bag was originally intended for, my wife or oldest daughter. I brought it home because it looked cool and was too good of a deal to pass up. Originally the ladies said something like, "What's that for?" and, "You bought a purse?"

"I dunno, I thought it looked useful. You want it?"

I got an uncommitted, "Oh, sure... thanks.  Just set it over there."

So it sat, unused. No one claimed it. I was disappointed. I was feeling a little like my $$ had been wasted. It was moved a couple times to get it out of the way but largely ignored till one morning my 14-yr-old daughter took it skiing with her. I went too and I think I annoyed her asking how she was liking the bag so many times.

She liked it skiing because it held her lunch, my phone, a small thermos and any layers she had to peel. While on the lift it swung around to the front so she could ride properly and while skiing the extra belt it comes with kept it in place. A few crashes were prevented from becoming yard sales since the pack kept everything safe and secure. She says she likes the look too, ours is tan with purple accents.

From then on she pretty much adopted it. It went with her to Montana where we skied more and went on some day hikes. It even held a small handgun reeeally nicely once, but that's about the only use from it I have seen for myself. Then it ended up sitting unused again and my wife started using it as a purse.  With a big family we usually carry a decent amount of junk wherever we go and this pack keeps it fairly organized. 

I complained above that I can't carry it because, to me, it looks too purse-like. Maybe the problem is me. If you feel differently then go ahead and carry it. I also wish it weren't made in Vietnam but, I guess they need jobs there too and if it were made here I probably couldn't afford it. I still give it 5 stars. 

So the fact that both a willowy girl and a mother of five use it with equal utility tells me that I found a hit.

Now it looks looks like a storm is brewing. The daughter wants it back. I might have to get another one, in a different color of course. And now it's not on sale anymore.

I countd't ask for a better pack!

I absolutely love this pack! It has everything I need and can hold an amazing amount for a 7 litre pack. Amazing! Plus, it's not a big giant heavy behemoth hanging off my body! For those of us who are small, this is a win-win product!

I've had one for about five years and it was just stolen from my car in a break-in...this is the first thing I'm replacing out of everything that was stolen because I love it so much!

I've carried it everywhere as a purse, light pack for a quick dayhike, camera bag, you name it. They're reasonably water resistant and super durable to snaggy sticks, dragging on rocks, etc. A wonderful product that looks good, feels good, and is indestructible!

I have owned this bag for over three years and am looking for a second one in the event it is ever discontinued. It is so balanced that you forget it is over your shoulder. Great construction, durability, and design.