When the AON Evade was first launched as the Recon 9, a 21L backpack, it quickly became a popular crowdsourced choice. Over time, it evolved into the 2.0 (30L) and the recent 1.5 (25L), but now, it has come full circle back to its original 21L size in the form of our first Evade 1.0X.
Product development is a collaborative effort, and the Evade 1.0X represents a significant step forward thanks to the valuable feedback from existing Evade owners and the dedicated contributions of remarkable individuals and collaborators…………..our dear friends and esteemed industry pros, David Valencic and Brandon Vulaj.
But what does the "X" signify?
The "X" commemorates the brand's 10th anniversary, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of our parent company, SERT. During its initial decade, AON was dedicated to creating products based on crowdsourced ideas and feedback. Our foundation in law enforcement and military gear production remained an integral part of this process. However, what's lesser-known is my personal background in the fashion industry, where I spent nearly 20 years contributing to prestigious brands like Armani, Kenzo, Comme des Garcons, Dolce & Gabbana, Karl Lagerfeld and DKNY (my first product development gig).
As we celebrate AON's 10th anniversary, we're proud to unveil the X series, starting with the Evade 1.0X. This time, together with assistance from Brandon & David, we're infusing my personal fashion sensibilities into the designs, merging what I think is the best of both worlds.
Warm regards.......HELM
The Evades 1.0X will be made available in batches on a first come, first serve basis, starting with the X50 variant (a limited number of X42 will be released later). And yes there will only be one type, no more Fulls nor Lites.
Current DATA:
Volume: 21L
Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.575 kg)
Dimensions: 18.5” (H) x 12” (Base) x 6” (D) (47 x 30.5 x 14 cm)
Shell: Dimension-Polyant’s X50, bottom of pack 1050D ballistic nylon
Interior: Fully lined in Challenge’s UltraGrid Dark Chili
Reinforced carry handle with with leather wrap
Zipper:
YKK TPU Coated Reverse Coil #10 and #8; *bottom front zipper is #8 RC
Leather zipper pulls
Webbing: Multi-column (aka car seat)
Main compartment:
Front wall has our 2 zippered pockets design (top fabric, bottom mesh)
Back wall holds the padded & suspended laptop and tablet sleeves.
Back wall has a single layered PALS row at the top to allow use of Matroskya and other pouches.
Padded tablet sleeve.
Laptop Compartment:
While the laptop sleeve is part of the main compartment, it is sealed off thus creating it's own compartment with access only via the top quick access zipper that's behind the carry handle.
Tested to fit up to a current 16" MacBook Pro.
Front pockets:
Front organizer compartment has 2 sleeve pockets with large loop field, and a zippered pocket above it.
Loop field is sized to hold existing Type 1 & 2 organizers and any Velcro compatible pouch.
Alternatively you can slip one of our Sliders in there.
Top front quick access pocket
Bottom stealth pocket with lip covering reverse coil zipper
Back panel and shoulder / strap harness is an updated version of the Whitley with new SBR close cell foam in the shoulder straps.
Flat side water bottle pockets; currently this has only been tested to hold the Hydroflask Trail (24L).
Let's address some common questions:
Q: Is the 1.0X a limited release?
A: As with our previous launches, the 1.0X will be limited initially. Based on demand, feedback, and resonance with our audience, it could become a staple in our offerings.
Q: Will the 1.0X be available in other fabrics?
A: For now, it will only be offered in the X-Pac and UltraGrid combination. We're working on streamlining our product range, including fabrics and color choices.
Q: Will the 1.0X come with alternative lining colors?
A: No, the current lineup features a singular lining color.
Q: Does this mark the end of the Evade 1.5?
A: Absolutely not. The Evade 1.5 will undergo evolution, though not in its current design.
Q: Can you ensure ship out by October 15th?
A: While we aim for timely shipments, delays occur. We prioritize transparency and will communicate updates. Feel free to inquire about others' experiences in AON groups.
Additional notes:
There is no CCW compartment on this Evade. There are no compression straps. There are no loop patches on this pack apart from the removable leather patch.
