Magnets are simply fascinating and fascinate even small children. With wooden trains, for example: How the hell can these little locomotives pull tens of wagons behind them by simply docking them together at the metal knobs? Sure, magnetic fields, electric charges, Lorentz force - we've heard it all before. But who really understands the phenomenon of magnetism? Fidlock was all the more enthusiastic when they launched the first magnetic bike products on the market. Since then, more and more manufacturers have been focussing on these practical magnetic gadgets - for helmet fasteners or water bottle holders, for example.
Hip bag with clever magnetic functions
And now a hip bag with a wide range of magnetic functions. In addition to its large, compressible main compartment, the new HipBelt double has two further compartments on the hip straps as well as a water and dust-proof compartment for your smartphone. There is a twist base on either side of the main compartment, which can be fitted with a 450 ml twist bottle. However, only one bottle is included in the scope of delivery.
As mentioned, the twist base is just one of the many magnetic features. Similar to the bottle cages for the frame, there are two magnetic buttons that attract the bottle almost magically. The bottle can be detached from the base with a slight twist of the wrist. When you put it back, you only have to bring the bottle close to the holder so that it snaps back into place on the magnetic fasteners.
Fidlock hip bag offers space for schooners & co.
Fidlock also uses magnets to compress the main compartment. The fastening system familiar from helmets is used here. The buckle is pulled off the magnet at the top, but finds its way back onto the counterpart almost automatically when it is put back on. The straps with their side wings are ideal for transporting additional material such as protectors on the outside.
Behind the main compartment is a wide rubber flap, which is also equipped with magnets. Fidlock also uses this system for its hydration bladders. A waterproof and dust-protected compartment for your smartphone is concealed under the double flap fastener. There is even room for the latest large mobile phones.
When you buckle up - surprise surprise - you come across the fourth magnetic buckle. The HipBelt double also dispenses with a classic buckle on the belt itself. Instead, the two ends are held together by strong magnets. A small nose prevents the buckle from coming undone during the ride. The hip bag can be opened very easily by pulling the small "ripcord" on the belt.
The back section of the HipBelt is equipped with mesh padding on the wings. In the centre section, structured padding is used, which is intended to ensure stable carrying comfort on the one hand and allow some ventilation on the other. We'll be testing whether this works on the trail in the coming weeks.
Fidlock Hip Bag HipBelt double - Data and price
- Hermetic compartment protects the smartphone from water and dust
- 2x integrated TWIST base for use with TWIST 450 bottle
- Large compressible storage compartment
- Two compartments for additional items on the hip belt
- Flexible straps for transporting light clothing or protectors
- Weight: 608 g (with a 450 mm bottle)
- Price: 159,99 Euro >> available here
- Another Twist Bottle 450 ml costs approx. 35 euros
Slimmed-down version: HipBelt single
For all those who really only want to take the bare essentials with them on tour, Fidlock also has a more spartan version of the HipBelt in its programme. The HipBelt single is suitable for both running and biking and guarantees that everything you need is well stowed and easily accessible. The HipBelt single has a Twist base for attaching a Twist 450 bottle for quick hydration during the ride. A Hermetic compartment - as in the large version - protects the smartphone from water and dust. Two additional compartments are used to store keys and other small items such as mini-tools or bars.
Hip Bag HipBelt single - Data and prices
- Hermetic compartment protects the smartphone from water and dust
- Integrated Twist base for use with Twist 450 bottle
- Two compartments for additional utensils
- RRP: 129.99 EUR
Stefan Frey
Editor
