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Ok, I admit it. I was also sceptical at first. Hip bags - those little belt bags that bodybuilders and bouncers always wear around their waist and hipsters in big German cities strap across their chests. The sausage-shaped tastelessness was called Wimmerl here in the 90s and whoever put on one of the neon-coloured bags could be sure of a quiet giggle from passers-by.
But times are changing and the fanny pack is celebrating a comeback of the finest kind as a backward-looking variant. Almost every rucksack manufacturer now has at least one so-called hip bag in its range and it's hard to imagine the trails and bike park without these practical hip bags.
The advantages are quickly explained: thanks to the design, the shoulders and back remain free and you have noticeably more freedom of movement, especially in technical passages. The ventilation is of course also great. The small packing volume could of course be seen as a disadvantage. But for me it's a positive because I'm not embarrassed to carry unnecessary material. So here is my favourite item of the year: the Ergon BA Hip Pack.
Ergon BA Hip Pack - Data and price
- Volume 3 litres
- Weight 547 g*
- Special mobile phone compartment
- Protector holder
- Rotary wheel for compression
- Wide hip belt with stretch and compression function
- Numerous inside pockets
- Optional hydration bladder (1.5 litres, 32.95 euros)
- Price 89,95 Euro >> available here at a reduced price
As a test editor, I'm lucky enough to be able to try out all sorts of different items. That's why I've had almost every available hip bag on my back. In the end, I stuck with the Ergon BA Hip Pack. It no longer just accompanies me on quick rides around the house, but now also on longer tours. It is always ready to hand on the hook in the garage and is filled with a pump, mini tool, spare tube, bar and some change as standard. If I'm going out again in the evening, all I have to do is put my keys and mobile phone in, strap on the bag and off I go.
Great shape, perfect fit
What I particularly like about the Ergon bag is the almost perfect fit. The slightly downturned banana-like shape with four textured pads and a non-slip inside means the bag sits firmly and securely on the back. At the front, the wide hip belt with compression function ensures optimum support. Good for somewhat sturdier bikers: the strap is extremely long, but can be shortened in two positions if required and therefore does not get in the way unnecessarily.
Clever pocket layout
The compartmentalisation is also successful: two side pockets keep important items within easy reach. The left-hand pocket is big enough for a spare inner tube or mini tool. I always put my keys in here because it's the first thing I need when I get back from a tour. The right-hand pocket is specially designed for carrying smartphones and works perfectly. Quickly check the right route during the ride or take a photo of your mates? The mobile phone can be released from its Velcro holder in a flash and secured again just as quickly.
The 3-litre main pocket is divided into various compartments. Valuables can be securely stowed in the three zip compartments. There is an optional soft padded drawer for your smartphone. Slip pockets for small items are also on board. Almost too many options for such a small bag.
Optional hydration bladder
If you wish, you can also equip the BA Hip Pack with a hydration bladder. The appropriate hose guide is already integrated into the hip belt. However, the 1.5 litre bladder must be purchased separately. I don't use a bladder on my tours and prefer to use drinking bottles. Not only are they easier to refill and easier to clean. As soon as the hip bags are filled too heavily, the carrying comfort suffers and the bags bounce slightly during the ride. On long tours, this of course requires the ability to refill the bottle on the go - be sure to check beforehand!
Twist lock and protector holder
The BA Hip Pack has other clever details to offer on the outside. The main bag can be compressed using a twist lock. This means that the contents remain securely inside without wobbling, even on steep descents. Ergon has also integrated a fold-out holder for protectors. I use this either - as intended - for knee pads, or sometimes for additional layers of clothing, such as a rain jacket or a change of jersey, if there is no more room for them in the bag itself.
Great part - but not perfect!
With so much praise, there is of course also some criticism: threading the hooks of the protector straps into their loops didn't bring me to the brink of despair just once. And the main compartment with its top access can quickly become a little confusing when fully loaded. Apart from that, the Ergon BA Hip Pack really impressed me across the board and will continue to hang on the hook in the garage, ready to hand.
Stefan Frey
Editor
