The Thule Subterra 2 Backpack 21ℓ is a desirable piece of kit, thanks to its blend of understated style and durable, premium materials. But is it worth the asking price?
Walk into a boardroom while carrying a stylish and premium laptop bag, and you’re sending two messages. One, that you’re successful. Two, that you can differentiate between quality and the cheap stuff from Computer Mania, Shein, and Temu. Yes, your laptop bag is a fashion item. Like a coat from Hugo Boss or Armani, it reflects your status.
Ready-to-wear
Thule is a luggage and accessory brand adored by a loyal army of South Africans, and for good reason. These products from Sweden are cleverly designed, durable, and stylish.
They have another trait that customers value: their higher price point gives them a measure of exclusivity.
Pricey for a reason?
But why are Thule products expensive? Rather than rip-off pricing, the problem probably lies with South Africa’s weak currency, making Thule products less attainable. At R3 999 the 21ℓ Thule Subterra 2 Backpack isn’t the priciest bag, but it’s certainly close to the premium end of the price spectrum.
However, the questions remains: Is it worth the money? Also, does it live up to Thule’s reputation?
A final note before we jump in: Thule has given a number of its products the name “Subterra 2,” which is confusing.Subsequently, I’ve inserted “21ℓ” and “Backpack” here and there to differentiate it from other Subterra bags offered for sale.
Design and build quality
Thule has given the 21ℓ Thule Subterra 2 a mild facelift. With its updated form and new colours, it looks stylish yet understated. This makes it a suitable for formal and less formal work environments.
Thule manufactures the bag from bluesign® approved 800D nylon/polyester, meaning the fabric is thick and strong. bluesign® certification means the 21ℓ Subterra 2 Backpack meets strict criteria for environmental, consumer, and worker safety.
This (also) means the fabric’s durable and water-resistant finish is free from PFCs, a group of synthetic chemicals known for their environmental persistence and potential health risks.
High-quality YKK zippers ensure smooth operation and longevity, Thule states.
Compartments and storage
Thule says the Subterra 2 Backpack 21ℓ has the following features to store and protect its owner’s belongings:
- Padded laptop and tablet sleeves: “The backpack features a soft-lined laptop sleeve that fits a 15.6” PC or a 16” MacBook, and a padded sleeve for an 11” tablet.” Important: Do not stuff a 17” laptop down the sleeve, as you will ruin it.
- Interior organisation panel: “This panel keeps pens, cords, keys, and other essentials organised and within easy reach.”
- Dedicated ‘power brick’ storage: “A designated pocket protects your laptop charger.”
- Padded, soft-lined pocket: Thule claims this pocket is ideal for fragile items like sunglasses – more about that below.
- Back panel security pocket: “Keeps vital items like your passport hidden and secure.”
- Large side water bottle pockets: “Two spacious pockets on the sides allow you to carry a water bottle, umbrella, or both.” But do they? We had a different experience, described under “Dislikes” below.
Thule also mentions a “padded, soft-lined pocket” that’s supposedly ideal for fragile items like sunglasses. But this pocket isn’t crush proof. I would rather keep my glasses inside their case and then slip the case into the padded pocket.
Security features
When travelling for business or leisure we are often more vulnerable to theft than usual. What’s more, losing a passport, laptop, or chronic medication torpedoes one’s travel plans. Therefore, Thule has designed the 21ℓ Subterra 2 with theft protection in mind, it says.
First of all, there’s the “back panel security pocket” mentioned above. With this feature, you can secure your passport but also retrieve it quickly when passing through airport security and immigration checkpoints.
Next, pickpockets have their work frustrated by a simple solution: The zippers of the main compartment can be secured beneath webbing loops located at the bottom of the bag.
Lastly, the sternum strap, when fastened across your chest, can make it harder for a criminal to lift the bag off your shoulders
Comfort and ergonomics
If you’re spending top dollar on a laptop bag, you expect a high degree of comfort. The Thule Subterra 2 Backpack delivers.
The padded air mesh back panel provide airflow for ventilation and comfort, while the adjustable shoulder straps and the sternum strap stabilise the load, making it comfortable to carry.
Travel-friendly feature
The Thule Subterra 2 Backpack has a luggage pass-through strap for attachment to a wheeled suitcase. This makes transport through airports and stations easier and safer.
Specifications
- Dimensions: 32 x 20 x 46 cm
- Laptop compartment dimensions: 25 x 2 x 37,5 cm
- Weight: 0,85 kg
- Volume: 21ℓ
- Material: bluesign® approved 800D nylon/polyester
- Model name/number: TSLB415/3205025
Likes
Durable and water-resistant: High-quality materials and construction ensure long-lasting use. I’ve owned a number of Thule bags, and only one ever broke (a zip), which the local distributor repaired at no cost.
Formal and comfy: It doesn’t look as informal as a tourist’s day pack, yet it has all the advantages of a backpack, like equal weight distribution across both shoulders.
Thoughtful theft protection: The hidden passport sleeve should be a feature of all laptop backpacks.
Premium materials: The pack’s shell is made from stern stuff, but the luxurious lining, that’s soft in the right places, makes the bag a pleasure to use.
Dislikes
Slippery side pockets: The average sized water bottle can easily fall out when the bag is held horizontally or at a downward angle (Maybe the side cavities could have used elastic? To prevent objects falling out. Maybe a 1,5ℓ water bottle wouldn’t slip out, but who carries a bottles that size?
Crush-proof case: I missed the embedded case for spectacles or sunglasses that all my previous Thule bags had.
Limited capacity: At 21 litres, it might not be sufficient for those who need to carry larger loads regularly. I would like a slightly larger bag, but that’s a subjective opinion.
Conclusion and rating
Despite its higher price and relatively modest capacity, the Thule Subterra 2 Backpack 21ℓ is an excellent choice for those seeking a stylish, durable, and well-organised backpack. Its combination of sleek aesthetics, robust construction, and thoughtful features make it a standout option.
Still, if you can afford it, upgrade to a Thule laptop bag that includes the company’s well-known ‘strong box,’ as well as side pockets that won’t let go of your water bottle.
The Thule Subterra 2 Backpack 21ℓ scores 4 out of 5.
You can watch Thule’s video of Subterra 2 Backpack 21ℓ by clicking here.
4.0 out of 5.0 stars
