CODE OF BELL X-POD (S): REVIEW

FOREWORD

Code of Bell is a small LA-based innovative brand that redefined what an expandable bag can be. With their first successful Kickstarter campaign launched in November 2017, Code of Bell introduced the X-Pak, their vision of a well-organized, comfortable and expandable sling that could be a valid alternative to a backpack.

The hero of today’s review is X-Pod (S) an expandable sling that was launched as a second Kickstarter campaign by Code of Bell. Launched in October 2018 the campaign was funded in less than 24h raising nearly $50k (with campaign goal of $12k) with the support of over 290 backers. The success of the campaign quickly brought a lot of attention to Code of Bell and since then each CoB new release is a noteworthy event in the carry world.

WHO IT SUITS

• Anyone looking for a versatile expandable sling

• Those who are into techwear aesthetics and unique shapes of their bags

• If you need a bag that can fit your essentials and more when needed

WHO IT DOESN’T

• Those who need to carry a tablet or a laptop

• If you are looking for the simplest, no frill bag X-Pod with its features, rich organization and expandability might be a bit overwhelming

ABOUT THE BAG

• PRICE: $149

• DIMENSIONS: 14 x 5 x 2 / 350 x 130 x 50 (folded) and 14 x 5 x 6 / 350 x 130 x 160 (expanded)

• WEIGHT: 380g

• CAPACITY: 2.3L-7L (folded to expanded)

• COLOR OPTIONS: X50 MCB, VX42 Black

DESIGN & FEATURES

There is nothing quite like X-Pod (pronounced cross-pod) on the market. With a unique shape and tons of features in such a small package it is an unmistakably Code of Bell product with a lot of features carried over from the big brother - X-Pak such as signature expandability, orange liner, multiple access points, etc.

The X-Pod that I was testing was actually another iteration of the original Kickstarter version with mainly buckles being changed and improved upon.

Here’s some of the key features I enjoyed and appreciated over the course of my 8 week testing.

• The top grab handle is a godsend on any bag larger than 3L and I am glad CoB included it in the smallest sling they offer. The design, look and feel of this handle reminded me of the side handle seen on Boundary Supply Prima backpack. In short, it’s great with perfect length and thickness.

• An external back pocket is concealed enough to be a secret pocket to store your valuables such as phone, wallet, passport. Love it!

• There are two small hidden pockets on the strap, fit for airpods or car keys. One of those pockets was a default home for my AirPods Pro.

• Removable compression straps when crossed create the X that I believe was the inspiration for the name X-Pod. These are useful to attach a windbreaker if needed, personally I removed them for a cleaner look, luckily they are attached with some metal G-hooks and velcro - effortless to remove or and put back on.

• Key leash in the expanded compartment was great - considering number of pockets on the bag defining a “home” for each item is quite important to avoid frustration of “where the hell is that thing” when interacting with the bag

• Silky smooth YKK aquaguard zippers are a joy to use and also have subtly branded hypalon zipper pulls. I always appreciate when the product is not “screaming” the branding at you

• Quick release Fidlock V-Buckle on the main strap is great to take the bag off and put it back on. Bonus points for looking badass and cool :)

• Strap keepers to prevent dangling bits is everywhere where it matters - main strap and compression straps. It’s a small thing but it goes a long way when using the bag daily

• Multiple access points to the main compartment is great to ensure that you can get to your stuff in any configuration - folded and fully expanded

• Multiple carry modes - cross-body, on the waist or even “briefcase” style by using a top grab handle. All of these modes were quite comfortable and useful, no gimmicks.

COMFORT

This part is easy - the bag is comfortable in any configuration and mode thanks to soft foam on the back of the bag (warning, it is very addictive and pleasant to the touch!) and the strap that is just right in length and width.

My one wish however is that CoB added an optional stabilization strap to prevent the sway of the bag. You can of course tighten the bag to make it really hug your body but an alternative stabilization would be appreciated.

MATERIALS & ORGANIZATION

X-Pod is no slouch in the materials department. X50 MultiCam black from Dimension Polyant is used on the outside of the pack ensuring that the body is ultra-tough and plenty water-resistant.

The inner liner is a bright orange nylon.

The organization is simple yet effective. The bag is split into multiple compartments:

Main expandable compartment that can be accessed from the top and also has an alternative zipper access for the cases when the bag is fully expanded. This compartment contains the key leash and a great place to store a jacket or bulkier items thanks to its generous size when expanded.

The org compartment with less space but multiple zippered pockets and a bigger flat pocket for things like a phone, passport or a wallet.

There are also 2 smaller pockets hidden in the base of the strap - great place for car keys or airpods.

Last but not least a semi-hidden pocket behind the back of the sling - perfect for a phone

WHAT’S HOT

• The build , materials, overall construction is brilliant - looking badass and performing extremely well

• Built-in organization with both externally accessed pockets and internal compartments to keep you organized is really great

• High-visibility signature orange liner is a nice CoB feature seen on all the products as well as useful touch that helps in day to day interaction with the bag

• Access and expandability of this sling is in a league of its own - I haven’t seen other companies offer any alternative if you are looking for expandable sling with multiple entry points which makes X-Pod a unique offering on the market

• Multiple modes of carry - cross-body, hip pack, even “briefcase” mode thanks to included grab handle. The X-pod is versatile and adaptable

WHAT’S NOT

• When filled to the brim the bag has a strange shape facing outwards. This does not impact the comfort much but does create an aesthetically strange look of the bag that I was not a fan of.

• The lack of the optional stabilizer strap is noticeable especially if you plan to use this sling for rigorous activities

VERDICT

X-Pod is unlike anything on the market. The Code of Bell team created a unique expandable sling that can be compact on most days and spacious in those occasions when you need to throw a water bottle, jacket or some workout equipment to carry with you.

With outstanding materials used, innovative design, multiple carry modes and great internal and external organization the X-Pod deserves to be a part of anyone’s collection. Admittedly, it has a bit of a learning curve considering how many features you get, but if you are willing to invest some time and patience to really get to know this bag and incorporate it into your life - you will quickly realize that it’s hard to find another sling that could beat the X-Pod.

Disclaimer

X-Pod was provided by Code of Bell as a sample for review purposes, the content of this review was not shared with Code of Bell before publishing. 

My goal is to share an honest, unbiased review that is not tailored to keep the brand happy.