Hello everyone, and welcome to another of my reviews. In this article, I’ll review the Dryna Laptop Backpack from local accessories label Gnome and Bow.
The Dryna backpack is the brand’s best-selling product, and is actually only available via pre-order currently. Before it sold out for a record third time, Gnome and Bow were kind enough to send me one to review. Let’s see if it’s any good.
Gnome and Bow – Dryna Laptop Bag Review
The first thing that stood out to me was how light the Dryna laptop bag was.
According to Gnome and Bow, the Dryna weighs just 600 grams, making it featherlight to carry. This is primarily due to its lightweight nylon construction, which makes it significantly lighter than full leather backpacks such as the Athos (which weighs in at 1.3kg). This not only makes the Dryna a more comfortable option for everyday carry, but also positions it as a great choice for a travel backpack.
Furthermore, the bag’s nylon construction also means that the Dryna backpack is water-resistant, thus boosting its viability as both an everyday backpack and a travel bag.
While most of the bag is made of nylon, the Dryna actually features a rich full-grain leather top-lid. For those uninitiated, leather generally comes in three quality tiers: genuine leather, top-grain leather, and full-grain leather, in ascending order of quality. Full-grain leather is considered the most premium of the lot, and will patina beautifully over time (though the patina will be less obvious on this black colourway). This gives the Dryna backpack a touch of luxe, while retaining the abovementioned discussed advantages of nylon.
The top zip design means that you’ll be able to easily access all of your essentials – no fumbling about here. As always, the interior of the backpack is lined in Gnome and Bow’s signature heringbone lining, which further elevates the backpack.
The Dryna backpack came with a dedicated padded laptop compartment, which is able to fit my 14-inch laptop comfortably. There are also two slots on the sides for a drink and an umbrella. Unfortunately, there’s not much space left – I suppose you might be able to fit a pair of shoes and some spare clothes for your after-work gym session, but that’s about it. Compared to the 23.5L capacity of the Athos, the Dryna’s 13.8L capacity means it’s not suitable for heavy-duty users.
However, I do appreciate certain nifty features of the Dryna, such as how the leather logo patch doubles up as a cardholder, or even a hidden compartment to store an Airtag. These small details illustrate that thought has been poured into the design of the Dryna – this is no generic backpack.
The build quality of the Dryna is superb as well. For example, YKK Excella zippers (the gold standard in the industry) are used throughout the backpack. I never had an issue zipping/unzipping the bag, and I’m confident in its durability and robustness.
The nylon shoulder straps are padded with EVA foam, making them comfortable to wear. As for the handle, it’s crafted out of full-grain cow leather for enhanced sturdiness.
Notice how the Gnome and Bow logo is subtly monogrammed on the back leather accents – another example of elegant design.
Despite Dryna’s minimalist aesthetic, the backpack is full of practical features. For example, there’s a side zip pocket that allows you to store your valuables (phone, wallet, AirPods, etc) when at the gym or passing through airport security.
There’s also a front zip compartment, where you can store essentials such as tissue, power bank, perfume, etc, for easier access.
Lastly, the Dryna also comes with a luggage slot, making it a bona fide travel backpack.
Gnome and Bow – Product Care
I’ve been using Gnome and Bow accessories for some time now, and a common theme in their products is the use of full-grain leather. As such, it’s fitting that the brand now has product care offerings.
For a dual-material backpack (like the Dryna), Gnome and Bow’s fabric and leather cleaner comes in handy. Apply the respective products to the accompanying sponge, and clean the leather/fabric surface in a circular motion. The cleaner will gently remove unwanted dirt, oil, and grime accumulated over use, thereby extending the backpack’s durability.
If your leather products are looking a little worn, you can also use the leather conditioner to nourish, clean and restore, protecting leather products (such as shoes, bags, wallets, even watch straps) from mould and water damage. Simply dab the leather conditioner onto your leather product with a microfibre cleaning cloth, and allow it to airdry overnight.
Conclusion – so Gnome and Bow’s Dryna Backpack “shiok” or not?
After using the Dryna backpack for a month, I can see why it’s been Gnome and Bow’s hero product. Not only is it lightweight and comfortable, but it also has a sleek, minimalist aesthetic that’s bolstered by thoughtful design details. If you’re someone who travels light, then the Dryna will be right up your alley. However, if you tend to pack your backpack to the brim, then the Athos will be a better choice with its near-double capacity. Whichever backpack you choose, I’ll recommend considering the brand’s product care offerings to extend its lifespan.
Those interested in purchasing the items can use the promo code “WAHSOSHIOK” to enjoy 10% off all Gnome & Bow products on their web-store. After the promo code, the Dryna backpack can be had for just $358, with the product care offerings costing around $34 each.
View the Dryna Backpack here.
View the Product Care offerings here.
View the rest of Gnome and Bow’s offerings here.
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P.P.P.P.S Shiok is a common word Singaporeans use to express admiration or approval. As of 2016, you can find the definition of the word in the Oxford English Dictionary.
