The Integer Backpack from Mission Workshop Review
User Report
The Integer backpack from Mission Workshop has many features setting it apart from the traditional photographer bag. It takes the idea of modularity to a level rarely seen.
The Integer can be useful for anyone, but several design choices were done with a specific target audience in mind: bikers, be they urban or cross-country.
Twenty-four liters of internal volume put this backpack in the middle of the crowd, a reasonable size for daily carry. Note that the backpack can be used as a carry-on in trains or airplanes. Thanks to the expanding rolltop, it can be enlarged to hold more than 24 liters.
The Integer is all about user choices:
- Fold it flat or as a rolltop
- Attach it via Velcro or one of two clips
- Fold it small or fill it to the brink
- Access the photo gear by one of three entry ways
- Use the back as stand-alone or add modules
- Use it as a camera bag or a standard everyday carry
In addition, the sheer number of features, many of which are innovative and well executed, adds to the number of ways that a user can utilize this bag. The stowable bottle sleeve, the impressive (and almost overdesigned) tripod support, the hidden inner sleeve (behind the camera insert) are just a few examples. There is literally always something new to discover on this bag.
The level of ruggedness of the Integer can hardly be emphasized enough. This bag should resist difficult situations where other backpacks or their content will be seriously damaged. The bag is not a jewel either: it is intended to be used and abused.
What is impressive is that this ruggedness was achieved without making the backpack overly heavy. In fact, picking up the bag is always a surprise; it looks like it should be heavier.
The fit will vary greatly depending on the wearer's body shape. It is hard to comment on this in general terms. Ideally, one should always try a backpack before deciding on a purchase. For our tests, the Integer was worn by a 182 cm (6 feet) tall male and a 160 cm (5 feet 3 inches) tall female. In both cases the level of comfort was higher than expected. Frankly, the boxy shape of the backpack might suggest a basic product. It is of course not the case, and the same care was taken when designing the back panel and straps as with the rest of the bag.
The shoulder straps fall naturally to the right positions with a minimum of effort. The stiff shoulder straps offer excellent padding and distribute the weight properly. The sternum strap is easy to adjust, although it can move more easily than what we’d prefer. Even fully loaded, the bag does not feel heavy on the shoulders.
The only moment with the absence of hip straps was felt was during intense biking, with a heavy tripod attached to the side. The added stability of a waist belt would have been welcome.
Giving access to the camera equipment is probably the biggest challenge backpack designers face. Of course, with the Integer it is all about options.
We are not huge fans of the internal access. We appreciate the possibility to open the separator and turn the inside into one huge compartment, however realistically accessing the camera this way is far from ideal. Also, the lack of padding on this side can be cause for worry.
 |  |  |
When on the move, using the side access makes much more sense. As shown in a previous section, it is entirely possible to configure the insert to do so, but it is not the default configuration, a surprising choice. Once configured for camera access from the side, the bag works like many others in this regard. The zipper is easy to find and operate. The flap opens way from the body, which is always our preferred option. The opening is large enough to let any camera model through.
The front panel offers the largest access. To use it, the backpack must be laid down, otherwise items might fall. The large size of the insert let the user carry a good amount of equipment. The elastic bands which help secure heavier items are a simple and excellent idea, especially for active users. The material used for the insert is surprising at first, being rough to the touch. Attach a divider and its toughness becomes apparent, in keeping with the rest of the backpack.
Access to the edges of the camera insert is a weak point. The overlapping borders make it unnecessarily difficult. Wearers should use these sections for items used less often.
Thanks to its stiff bottom section, the Integer does not expand outwards as it is filled, but retains a slim shape.
The laptop compartment is large and, as can be expected, well padded. Most laptops should fit inside without trouble.
The two external pockets built in the bag are small but offer a good level of protection. The one located at mid-height is particularly long, and could probably hold a compact bike pump.
The added options offered by the Arkiv system do scale up the price, but they offer several interesting options, letting each user customizing their bag. The quality and ruggedness of the modules is on par with that of the bag itself.
Ventilation is always an important matter with a backpack. In this regard, the Integer does well enough, without breaking new ground. The breathable padding on the back is thick and perforated. It is made of several segments with space between them. Without being perfect, the Integer matches most other backpacks on the market.
Verdict
With an unrivaled modularity and astounding ruggedness, the Integer is a bag inspiring confidence on a level rarely seen.
As an everyday backpack for active people, the Integer certainly delivers. It should please even the most demanding user.
As a photography backpack, the Integer delivers… mostly. Challenges of configuring the insert for side camera access and the overlapping borders which make it harder than necessary to reach objects at the sides must be noted. Other than that, the Integer delivers on its promises.
