Matador
Freefly16 Packable Backpack
Best ultralight daypack for adventurers traveling in wet, rugged conditions.
The Matador Freefly16 is a high-performance, 16-liter daypack designed for ultralight travel and challenging, wet conditions. This backpack is fully weatherproof, featuring sealed seams and sealing zippers to protect your gear from the elements. When not in use, it conveniently compresses down into an included mesh sack for easy packing. Durability is ensured through UHMWPE-reinforced wear panels, offering extreme resistance to abrasion and tearing. It balances lightweight design with necessary functionality for the modern adventurer.
$80.00
Owner Satisfaction
4.5
/ 5
Category Rank
4049
/ 12402
#4049 in Backpacks
Price vs Category Average
-25%
Below average
Volume
16
/ liters
Who it's for
- Day hikers seeking comfort without the bulk of traditional packs
- Travelers needing extra storage that fits in a pocket
- Outdoor adventurers facing unpredictable wet weather conditions
Who should skip it
- Rugged explorers who drag gear across abrasive terrain
- Commuters carrying fragile laptops or sensitive electronics
- Organized travelers who prefer dedicated pockets for small gear
Performance breakdown
Packability
Compresses into a tiny footprint that disappears inside larger luggage.
Weather Resistance
Sealed seams and PU-coated zippers keep contents bone-dry in downpours.
Material Durability
UHMWPE-reinforced ripstop handles rugged terrain without showing signs of wear.
Carry Comfort
Weight-distributing straps perform well, though the frameless design lacks back structure.
Weight Efficiency
Ultralight construction provides maximum utility without adding unnecessary bulk.
Gear Accessibility
External loops and oversized pockets make grabbing essentials quick and intuitive.
Key Specs
Volume
16 liters
Weight
6.7oz (190g)
Unpacked Dimensions
19 x 10 x 6in (48.3 x 25.4 x 15.2cm)
Packed Dimensions
3.75 x 3.75 x 5.5in (9.5 x 9.5 x 14cm)
Primary Material
70D Robic® nylon UHMWPE reinforced ripstop with PU waterproofing
Seams
Internally sealed seams
Zippers
Number 5 YKK® PU coated sealing zippers
Coating
UTS coating provides 30% increase in waterproofing and tear strength
Features
- Highly packable design compresses into included mesh sack
- Weatherproof construction with sealed seams and zippers
- UHMWPE-reinforced panels for extreme durability
- Comfortable, weight-distributing shoulder straps
- External gear loops for quick attachment
- Load stabilization with compression straps
- Water-resistant front pocket for secure storage
- Oversized mesh side pockets for water bottles
What customers say
The sentiment is overwhelmingly positive, centering on the backpack's ingenious design and surprising quality. Consumers love the Freefly16's exceptional packability, noting how effortlessly it integrates into travel luggage, serving as the perfect ultralight daypack. Reviewers frequently highlight the durability of the weather resistant materials, confirming the bag handles daily use and unexpected elements far better than typical packable options. This balance of minimal weight and reliable construction makes it a highly valued piece of gear for efficient travelers.
Know before you buy
The pack is designed for challenging, wet conditions. It features internally sealed seams and YKK PU-coated sealing zippers, which provide excellent protection against rain and spray, though it is not intended for full submersion.
The Freefly16 is a 16-liter frameless daypack designed for ultralight travel and outdoor activities. While it can fit a small tablet or a very slim 13-inch laptop, it lacks a dedicated padded sleeve, so you would need to use a protective case.
When compressed into its included mesh sack, the backpack measures just 3.75 x 3.75 x 5.5 inches. It is compact enough to throw into a larger suitcase or carry-on without taking up significant space.
Yes, the pack is built with 70D Robic nylon and reinforced with UHMWPE (Ultra-High-Molecular-Weight Polyethylene) panels. This combination offers extreme resistance to abrasions and tears, making it well-suited for demanding outdoor use.
The shoulder straps are designed to distribute weight effectively across your shoulders. While they are lightweight to maintain the pack's packability, they provide enough support for day-long excursions and travel.
With 16 liters of capacity, it is sized perfectly for a daypack. It includes oversized mesh side pockets for water bottles and a water-resistant front pocket for quick-access items, providing ample organization for essentials.
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$80