YOU DON’T HAVE TO BE LOST IN THE WOODS TO NEED EFFECTIVE GEAR

STORY BY RYAN LEE PRICE

The AER Fit Pack 2.0 is attractive and roomy without being ostentatious.

Marko Blazevic / Unsplash.com

Everyday carry is not just about wilderness survival. Even if you spend every day in the concrete jungle, there are certain items you should think about carrying on a regular basis.

One hundred years ago, someone’s pockets were just as full as a modern person’s pockets are today. The only difference is, back then, they were more inclined to wear suits or sport coats. Therefore, they had more pockets available to spread the much-needed EDC. Everyday carry items ranged from possibly a lighter and a pack of Lucky Strikes to a comb, a pocketknife, and a small memo book for notes. Sunglasses, a wristwatch, keys to their East Side apartment, and a wallet/coin purse may have rounded out the accoutrement. Depending on their line of work or neighborhood, a small Colt may have been tucked in a coat pocket near by a flask of a favorite illicit liquor. That was life in the city.

Today, people are only working with maybe four pockets but nearly the same amount of stuff as someone from 100 years ago. Today’s basic human is equipped with keys, sunglasses, a wallet and a phone. But there’s no need to be basic when you can be extraordinary. Wear a smart watch to pair with your phone. Carry your cards in an RFID-protected wallet. Slide a slim-line pocket knife into your pants pocket that makes a statement of dapper elegance. Dump the blue Bic pen for something extravagant (you’ll be amazed how many people compliment a fantastic pen).

Embrace the technological advancements of today. There’s nothing to be gained by walking the city streets with empty pockets woefully ill-prepared for what modern life has in store for you. Gear up to meet your urban challenges head on. Here are some ideas to get you started.

REVIEW 1

AER FIT PACK 2.0

A PACK DESIGNED FOR ACTIVE URBAN CARRY

PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE MANUFACTURERS

As an urban EDC backpack, the AER Fit Pack 2.0 provides ample space to carry all the gear needed for a person on the go in the big city. Measuring 18.5 x 12.5 x 8 inches with an 18-liter capacity, the Fit Pack 2.0 tips the scales at only 2 pounds.