REVIEW: Arc'teryx LEAF Khard 30

1, 2, 3 ... Open! - The Arc'teryx Khard 30 from the Canadian luxury gear manufacturer's Law Enforcement & Armed Forces (LEAF) line is on the ground, available in Germany at TACWRK. We at SPARTANAT have taken a close look at this masterpiece of a backpack for you.

The name says it all, this version of the Khard is at home in the 30-liter class (the backpack is also available in a larger version called Khard 45). The backpack maintains its posture because it is slightly stiffened in the front and side walls. Although there is something inside the Khard, it is only half full, which is hardly noticeable from the outside. Simplifying down to the essentials, the Khard 30 weighs a light 1.4 kilograms.

The very compact backpack focuses on minimalism: the back (left) is stiff. While other backpacks have a fabric-covered and possibly padded back with a separate stiffening plate, Arc'teryx integrates that plate directly into the back. It is beautifully ergonomically shaped, fits well against the human back, and at the same time forms the backbone of the Khard 30.

There is a hip belt: we have secured it, as we do not use it.

On the right side, the Khard also features a carrying handle. While walking, you can carry the backpack horizontally like a briefcase.

Also notable is how thin and light the shoulder straps are, yet they fit perfectly...

... and it has a quick-release system. Pull and the buckle opens.

The front side (top right) is minimalist, which we particularly like. Bungee cord provides quick hold when you want to attach a jacket on the outside. MOLLE strips offer additional attachment and expansion options.

Quality is also a priority in the closures (top right). Besides the MOLLE strips, there is also a minimalized MOLLE made from thin webbing.

Now it's lying on the ground (bottom). Completely open, you can see its construction principle. The Khard is a surface into which storage space can be built. Lots of Velcro and loops.

Or you can make do with its natural features and space: there is a small pocket in the large flap (bottom left), and on each side of the body are two large, easily accessible vertical compartments.

The magic lies in this Velcro: you can divide the interior space with Velcro pockets as needed.

CONCLUSION: With the Khard 30, Arc'teryx once again demonstrates its prowess in the LEAF line. The result is a functional and aesthetically pleasing backpack that excels in both nature and urban environments. Lightweight, easily configurable, and beautiful - a high-end product for users who appreciate minimalism and practical solutions.

The Arc'teryx LEAF Khard 30 is available at TACWRK Berlin in Multicam, Crocodile, and Wolf for 290 euros (excluding shipping). The big brother Khard 45 is also available at TACWRK for between 360 and 410 euros.