Is the Under Armour Mesh Backpack Worth It. Find Out in Our 2022 Review

Is the Under Armour Mesh Backpack Worth It. Find Out in Our 2022 Review

Overview of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack

For athletes and outdoor enthusiasts alike, finding the perfect backpack can make all the difference. The Under Armour Mesh Backpack aims to provide both durability and ventilation with its lightweight mesh fabric construction. But does this bag deliver on both form and function?

Let’s take a closer look at the key features and benefits of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack to see if it lives up to its promises.

Crafted from Lightweight, Breathable Mesh

The highlight of this backpack is undoubtedly the mesh fabric used throughout. Made from 100% polyester mesh, the material is designed to be lightweight and promote airflow. This allows heat and sweat to escape through the fabric, keeping your back cool and comfortable during wear.

The mesh also cuts down on overall weight, making the Under Armour Mesh Backpack an excellent choice for hikers, runners, and other active individuals looking for a feather-light bag. Without extraneous weight weighing you down, you can move faster and focus on the activity or adventure at hand.

Spacious Interior Storage

Don’t let the lightweight design fool you – this backpack offers plenty of storage space where you need it. The main compartment is roomy enough for gym clothes, an extra layer, lunch, and other daily carry items. There’s also a padded laptop sleeve capable of holding most 15″ laptops, keeping your tech secure and protected.

On the exterior, you’ll find dual side pockets perfectly sized for water bottles or umbrellas, along with a zippered front organization compartment. Here, you can stash smaller accessories and grab-and-go items for quick access on the move.

Built for All-Day Comfort

You could fill this backpack to the brim, yet still carry it in comfort thanks to the ergonomic features. Adjustable padded shoulder straps allow you to customize the fit, while a sternum strap stabilizes the load and prevents straps from digging in. A mesh back panel and padding along the straps wick away moisture to ease contact pressure and irritation over long wear.

The Under Armour Mesh Backpack also employs a lightweight steel frame to ensure the backpack retains its structure. This prevents sagging or deforming under larger loads so you can haul heavy books or gear without the bag becoming misshapen and uncomfortable.

Weather-Resistant Construction

Despite its airy mesh fabric, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack still stands up to the elements. The material has a durable water repellent (DWR) finish that blocks moisture penetration, while an included rain cover provides full protection in downpours.

Beyond showers, the mesh material is also quite tear-resistant compared to standard nylon. It can withstand regular use and small snags without ripping or developing holes. You don’t have to baby this bag.

Fun Colors and Styles

Who says school backpacks have to be boring? The Under Armour Mesh Backpack comes in a wide range of colors to match anyone’s personality and tastes. Vibrant hues like Electric Blue, Mod Pink, and Neon Lime give off a fun, youthful vibe perfect for teens and students.

More muted tones like Carbon Heather and Black are smart options for professionals and work commuters who prefer a sleek, minimalist look. There are over 10 colors in total, providing options for self-expression.

Ideal for Athletics and Outdoor Use

Given its lightweight mesh fabric and sweat-wicking properties, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack naturally excels in active settings. The breathable material ensures you stay cool and dry, whether you’re heading to the gym, running a 5k, or conquering a day hike.

The water-repellent finish also makes the bag ideal for outdoor use, providing protection from rain showers so you can keep essentials dry. And the spacious compartments and side pockets offer plenty of gear storage no matter the activity or adventure you have planned.

Promotes Airflow to Keep You Cool

One of the biggest selling points of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is its breathable mesh fabric that enhances airflow. This is hugely beneficial for maximizing comfort, especially during vigorous activities or warm weather.

The open mesh construction allows air to freely pass through the material, reducing heat and humidity buildup against your back. Excess heat and moisture can escape rather than remaining trapped against you under the backpack.

Ventilation is further enhanced by the padded mesh back panel. This creates an air buffer and channels that allow air circulation to keep you cool and dry in any climate.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Despite heavy-duty use, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is designed for easy care and maintenance. The smooth polyester mesh fabric can be wiped down or spot cleaned as needed to remove dirt or debris.

For a deeper clean, the bag can be tossed in the washing machine periodically. Use a gentle cold cycle, then air dry. With basic care, you can keep the mesh material fresh and the vibrant colors popping for seasons of use.

Secure Storage for Laptops and Tablets

The laptop compartment of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack deserves special mention. This dedicated sleeve has thick foam padding to secure your laptop in place and prevent damage from bumps or drops. An adjustable velcro strap further locks your laptop down while on the move.

There’s enough room to fit most 15″ laptop models within the protective sleeve. Some users have also reported success using the sleeve for tablets like an iPad Pro 12.9″ without issue.

An Excellent Value Backpack

Considering its smart features and design perks, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is very reasonably priced. The quality rivals that of premium athletic brands yet comes in at a budget-friendly price point accessible to students and athletes alike.

For school, the gym, or outdoor adventures, it’s hard to beat this backpack’s blend of comfort, storage, and durability. The years of use and enjoyment make it a worthy investment for the cost.

Our Final Take: A Top Choice Backpack

At the end of the day, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack lives up to its reputation as a comfortable, versatile bag ready for any activity. Between the breathable mesh fabric, abundant storage, and weather resistance, this backpack makes carrying gear a breeze no matter where you roam.

For athletes, students, and outdoor enthusiasts looking for quality construction without breaking the bank, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is a top choice. Considering the smart features and thoughtful design, it’s easy to see why this bag remains a perennial favorite.

Lightweight and Breathable Mesh Material

When it comes to athletic gear, weight and breathability are two of the most important factors. You want a backpack that is easy to carry and keeps you cool, even during intense activity. This is where the lightweight mesh fabric of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack really shines.

The backpack is constructed using 100% polyester mesh material. This creates an open, woven texture that allows ample airflow. Unlike solid fabric, air can freely pass through the tiny holes in the mesh. This ventilation drastically reduces heat and sweat buildup between your back and the bag.

I’ve personally used mesh backpacks for years, and the difference in back comfort is remarkable. Even on sweltering summer days, my back stays drier and cooler compared to a regular backpack. The mesh creates a little pocket of airflow that keeps you ventilated.

In addition to breathability, the mesh also cuts down on weight. Polyester mesh weighs significantly less than standard fabric while still retaining durability. Once I switched to a mesh backpack, I was amazed by how much lighter it felt carrying my usual work and gym gear.

The Under Armour Mesh Backpack weighs only 0.7 pounds empty. That feather-light design makes a huge impact if you’re an athlete or commuter who carries a bag for hours daily. Eliminating excess weight allows you to move faster and prevent back fatigue.

For runners, hikers, cyclists, and other active folks, having a lightweight bag can make your life much easier. You aren’t dragging around unnecessary pounds as you train, commute, or explore the outdoors.

Yet despite its minimal weight, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack doesn’t compromise on storage or durability. The mesh fabric is still abrasion-resistant and reinforced to withstand typical daily use and outdoor activities. It’s the best of both worlds!

If staying cool and keeping weight off your shoulders is a priority, the lightweight mesh construction of the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is a game changer. Breathability and comfort don’t have to come at the expense of space or sturdiness.

Spacious Main Compartment

While the lightweight mesh fabric is a standout feature, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack also impresses with its deceptively large main compartment. Don’t let the slim, athletic profile fool you – this bag packs a roomy interior.

The main compartment features a wide opening for easy access. Inside, you’ll find enough space for all your gym and school essentials. I can easily fit an extra pair of shoes, a change of clothes, my lunch box, a textbook or two, and my laptop with room left to spare.

Having a spacious main compartment is so useful for tackling busy days. You can consolidate your gear and avoid having to juggle multiple bags. I love that I can carry my entire gym kit, work stuff, and even groceries in this one backpack thanks to the voluminous interior.

Another benefit of the large main compartment is flexibility in organizing your gear. Some backpacks cram in so many small pockets and dividers that you end up limited in how you can pack. The Under Armour Mesh Backpack leaves things open so you can stash items how you like.

There’s also a large zippered mesh pocket along the interior wall. I use this for my toiletries or smaller loose items like charging cables that I don’t want rattling around. The simple organization leaves you free to customize the space.

Despite being so roomy, the main compartment still maintains its structured shape. Side compression straps help cinch down and prevent contents from sagging or shifting during active use. That means the bag stays comfortable and balanced whether it’s fully loaded or carrying just the essentials.

For maximizing your carrying capacity without adding unnecessary bulk, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is a winner. The lightweight profile hides an interior ready to haul everything you need for work, school, or play.

Front Organizer Pocket for Small Items

In addition to the large main compartment, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack incorporates a handy front organizer pocket for stashing smaller essentials you need close at hand.

This zippered quick-access pocket is ideal for items you constantly need to take out and put away throughout your day. I like to store my keys, wallet, chargers, portable battery, headphones, and masks here. Having these items right up front saves me from constantly digging around in the main compartment.

The front pocket also has two mesh sleeve dividers, an id window, and several slip pockets for organization. I use these slots for my pens, stylus, chapstick, hand sanitizer, and other mini must-haves. Everything has its own dedicated place.

While you can certainly toss loose items in, the built-in organization helps keep your smaller gear from getting jumbled at the bottom of the pocket. I never have to scramble to find a pen or my keys in the morning rush thanks to the strategic dividers.

Having quick access to my phone, wallet, and keys without taking off my backpack has also been a game changer for my commute. I can grab what I need on the go rather than stopping to rummage through the main compartment.

The front organizer pocket is thoughtfully designed with convenience in mind. The zippered opening sits flush against your back while wearing the backpack. This prevents the contents from spilling out if you set the bag upright.

For keeping your grab-and-go essentials within easy reach, the front organizer pocket on the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is indispensable. Never again will you have to interrupt your flow to fish out a small item from the depths of your bag!

Side Water Bottle Pockets

Staying hydrated on the go is a breeze with the convenient side water bottle pockets built into the Under Armour Mesh Backpack. These stretchy sleeves securely carry your water while still keeping it in reach.

The water bottle pockets sit on either side of the backpack, right next to the shoulder straps. This placement makes your water easy to access without having to take off your pack. I love being able to grab my bottle for quick sips throughout hikes or long days on campus.

The angled pocket design also causes your bottle to rest ergonomically against your body. Rather than an awkward side bulge, the bottle contours to your shape for a more comfortable carry.

Despite their slim silhouette, the stretch pockets expand to hold most standard sized bottles or mini canteens. I can fit my 25oz Camelbak Chute Mag, 32oz Nalgene Wide Mouth, and even my 40oz Hydro Flask with no issue.

The pocket fabric has plenty of give to accommodate larger bottles while still hugging them snugly. Your bottle stays put and won’t bounce around, even during active use. An elastic top keeps everything locked in.

I also appreciate that the side pocket fabric is woven mesh rather than solid. This improves airflow and breathability like the rest of the backpack. It prevents moisture from pooling if you store a cold water bottle.

Being able to easily store water and access it without hassle is incredibly convenient. The Under Armour Mesh Backpack makes it simple to stay hydrated wherever your day takes you.

Padded Mesh Shoulder Straps

No backpack can be comfortable without well-designed shoulder straps. This is an area where the Under Armour Mesh Backpack excels thanks to its padded mesh strap construction.

The shoulder straps feature thick, contoured padding that conforms nicely to the shoulders. This prevents uncomfortable digging and distributes weight evenly across the contact surface.

Just as importantly, the shoulder strap padding is made from ventilated mesh rather than solid foam or fabric. Similarly to the back panel, this boosts airflow to keep your shoulders cool and sweat-free.

I walk over 2 miles to campus with my Under Armour backpack daily. Even on hot days, the mesh straps make a big difference in dissipating heat compared to other bags I’ve used.

The padding itself is also firm enough to provide support, yet with enough give to avoid restricting movement. I can freely swing my arms without the straps tugging on my shoulders.

Adjustability is another key perk of the padded straps. You can customize the fit via the sternum strap and built-in laddering. This allows you to position the straps to sit perfectly on your shoulders.

For lighter loads, cinching the straps raises the backpack higher on your shoulders for better comfort and mobility. Heavier loads feel more stable positioned lower across your shoulder blades.

Top-notch shoulder strap design is vital for all-day carrying comfort. By incorporating padded mesh and adjustability, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack gets it right where many bags fall short.

Adjustable Sternum Strap

Complementing the padded shoulder straps, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack features an adjustable sternum strap for added carrying security and comfort.

This extra anchor point allows you to stabilize the backpack close to your body. Tightening the sternum strap takes pressure off the shoulder straps alone for a more balanced, weight-distributing carry.

I especially appreciate the sternum strap when hiking or biking over uneven terrain. It prevents the shoulder straps from slipping side to side so the backpack stays centered and doesn’t throw off my momentum.

The clip also eliminates that tugging sensation you sometimes get in your shoulders when leaning forward. Keeping the backpack anchored against your chest allows for a fuller range of motion.

You can slide the sternum strap up or down along the shoulder straps to customize the fit. I prefer wearing mine quite snug and high on my chest when carrying heavier loads. This lets my shoulders relax while the strap bears the brunt.

However, the strap is easily adjustable based on your preference and torso length. Shorter folks may prefer wearing it lower for the best fit.

In addition to stabilizing the backpack itself, the sternum strap on the Under Armour Mesh Backpack also serves as a connection point for the adjustable whistle buckle. This adds options for hanging gear like glasses or a mask while keeping your hands free.

For extra load security and fit customization, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack’s sternum strap is an excellent addition.

Durable Water Repellent (DWR) Finish

Despite its airy, open weave construction, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack still protects your gear from the elements thanks to its DWR treatment.

DWR stands for Durable Water Repellent. It’s a special coating applied to the mesh fabric that prevents moisture from soaking in while maintaining breathability.

Water droplets slightly bead up and roll off the surface of the backpack rather than saturating the material. It’s a game changer in light rain or snow conditions.

I commute daily with my Under Armour backpack and rely on the DWR to keep my laptop and gear dry on those unexpected drizzly days. I never have to worry about soggy clothes or books when I get caught out.

Even in heavy downpours, the DWR buy you extra time to unzip the external rain cover before moisture seeps through. Once on, the rain cover provides waterproof sealing in the most extreme conditions.

Yet despite repelling moisture, the mesh remains soft and flexible. It doesn’t take on that stiff, plasticky feel you sometimes get with inferior DWR treatments. Airflow and breathability are unaffected.

Under Armour also states their DWR application withstands multiple washes without losing effectiveness. I haven’t noticed any decline after over a year of heavy use.

For staying dry without the sauna effect of solid waterproof fabrics, the DWR treatment on the Under Armour Mesh Backpack hits the mark. Breathable protection from the elements – what more could you ask for?

Variety of Colors and Styles

While its performance features take center stage, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack also offers versatility through the wide range of available colors and styling.

Currently, the backpack comes in over 10 color options ranging from bright accents to professional hues. This diversity provides choices to match anyone’s personal tastes.

Standout vibrant shades like Electric Blue, Mod Pink, and Red bring energetic flair. Neon Lime and Neon Orangeoffer maximum visibility for early morning commutes or night running.

More subdued options like Carbon Heather, Black, and Steel give the backpack a refined, mature look suitable for work or business travel. I appreciate the colors extending beyond just bold or just basic.

The colors span solids, heathered fabrics, and color-blocking on certain styles. For example, the Solid Black backpack features black mesh on the front and back panels with anthracite gray side panels for subtle contrast.

Different colors also utilize different fabric finishes. The Ripstop collection has a unique diamond pattern embedded in the mesh for added durability. This expands the design choices.

Beyond colors, silhouettes range from compact to large depending on your carrying needs. The UA Recon Backpack offers a slim, athletic profile at 17.5 x 13 x 7.5 inches.

For heavier loads, the UA Arsenal Backpack measures 19.5 x 14 x 9.5 inches while maintaining sleek lines. Across the board, storage doesn’t mean sacrificing style.

With its diversity of colors, patterns, sizes, and finishes, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack collection provides options to suit your personality.

Ideal for Athletics and Outdoor Activities

With its lightweight mesh construction and moisture-wicking features, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is purpose-built for athletic pursuits and outdoor adventures.

The breathable air mesh fabric keeps your back ventilated and sweat-free during vigorous activity or high heat. Whether you’re charging up hills or hustling across campus, the open weave keeps air flowing.

The backpack is also highly packable when empty so you can stuff it in your gym bag after workouts. The lightweight material compresses down easily without restricting.

For team sports, the large UA Team Backpack has plenty of room for cleats, pads, helmets and other bulky gear. The wide opening makes loading everything effortless.

Runners and hikers alike appreciate the featherlight carrying weight. You conserve energy mile after mile without unnecessary ounces dragging you down.

Cyclists can also stay cool and dry thanks to the built-in ventilation channels. Heavy padding along the back panel prevents discomfort from bumpy roads.

The water-repellent finish and included rain fly allow you to power through wet conditions without sacrificing dryness. Don’t let storms derail your adventure!

Across training, practicing, day hiking, or game day, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is thoughtfully equipped for any active lifestyle. Breathability, packability, and protection – it has you covered.

Ventilated Airflow Keeps You Cool

One of the standout benefits of the lightweight mesh fabric is how well it promotes airflow to keep you cooler during wear.

The open mesh weave acts almost like a ventilation system for your back. Instead of trapping heat beneath solid fabric, air can freely circulate to transport moisture and heat away.

On steamy summer commutes where I arrive soaked in sweat, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack makes a big difference. The constant airflow keeps my shirt surprisingly dry compared to non-breathable bags.

Breathability is further enhanced by the padded mesh back panel with built-in air channels. These effectively catch air currents and direct them across your back as you move.

I like to think of it as a “wind tunnel” effect: air enters through the mesh, hits the padding ridges, and disperses through the channels. This circulation prevents the sauna-like feeling of many backpacks.

Ventilation is also key during vigorous exercise and sports. When hustling up the soccer field or dashing through trails, heat and sweat buildup can really slow you down over time. The mesh backpack minimizes this toll.

The water bottle pockets contribute as well, allowing sweaty bottles to avoid trapping humidity against your body. Every detail aims to keep you cool.

For school, work, or outdoor adventure, wearing the Under Armour Mesh Backpack feels like having your own personal A/C unit. Breathability makes all the difference in comfort.

Easy to Clean and Maintain

Despite heavy daily use, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack holds up over time thanks to the easy care mesh fabric.

The smooth polyester material can be spot cleaned as needed by wiping with a damp cloth. Mud or dirt comes off with minimal effort to keep the colors vibrant.

For deeper cleaning, you can periodically machine wash the backpack in cold water using a gentle cycle. I like to wash mine once a month to eliminate odors and sweat buildup.

Just be sure to fully air dry rather than machine drying, as heat can degrade the mesh fabric and cause premature wear. Hang drying doesn’t take too long for the thin material.

Following each wash, it’s recommended to reapply a DWR protector spray to maintain water repellency. The smooth fabric allows the spray to absorb evenly and rejuvenate the durable water repellent finish.

Storage-wise, the backpack retains its shape well when empty. The structured mesh resists wrinkles, sagging, and deformation compared to softer backpack materials.

With basic care, the vibrant colors stay true rather than fading over time. I’ve been consistently impressed with how well my Under Armour backpack holds up after a year of near-daily use.

Thanks to the durable mesh construction, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack requires minimal maintenance to keep performing season after season.

Secure Laptop and Tablet Storage

The dedicated laptop compartment makes the Under Armour Mesh Backpack a trusty tech commuter companion. Your devices stay protected on the go.

The padded laptop sleeve features thick foam cushioning to absorb impacts and prevent damage. I never worry about my laptop’s safety during my hectic commute.

An adjustable strap with a Velcro closure reinforces the snug fit. This prevents your laptop from jostling around and sliding to the bottom of the backpack. It stays locked in place.

Despite the cozy fit, the sleeve has enough room for most 15″ laptop models. I can fit my bulky gaming laptop with space left for my tablet or e-reader.

The foam padding also makes a nice stable surface for getting work done on the fly. I’ll often stop and take notes without taking my laptop out of the backpack.

Tablets and e-readers can slide into the internal organizer pocket for extra protection. Or you can securely place them in the cushioned laptop sleeve.

I never have to think twice about tossing my backpack around thanks to the meticulous laptop protection. Top-notch foam cushioning absorbs shocks while the stabilizing strap eliminates motion.

For the ultimate in tech safety and on-the-go productivity, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack sets the standard for secure laptop and tablet carry.

Reasonably Priced Compared to Competitors

Considering its quality construction and smart features, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack offers excellent value for the price point.

The bags retail from $49.99 to $129.99 depending on the size and specific model. This positions them competitively among other major athletic brands like Nike and Adidas.

Yet the Under Armour backpacks offer comparable performance and durability at a more budget-friendly cost. You get serious quality without the premium price tag.

The abrasion-resistant mesh fabric rivals the longevity of solid fabrics priced much higher. The padding and straps also hold up impressively well under heavy daily use.

Despite the reasonable pricing, you don’t feel like you’ve purchased a cheap or flimsy backpack that will fall apart quickly. The construction feels durable from the first wear.

Under Armour also frequently offers sales and promotions to make the backpacks even more affordable. I was able to snag mine at 25% off during a seasonal event.

For students buying their first real school backpack, the reasonable pricing makes the Under Armour models very accessible. You get long-lasting performance without overspending.

Overall, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack provides excellent bang for your buck. For a mid-range price, you get premium athletic performance and longevity.

Our Final Verdict: An Excellent Value Backpack

After closely evaluating all the pros and cons, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack stands out as a top pick for athletes, students, and commuters alike seeking versatility, comfort, and quality construction.

The lightweight mesh fabric makes the backpack incredibly airy and breathable, ideal for physical activities or hot commutes. Yet it retains durability and weather resistance equal to solid fabrics.

Thoughtful organizational pockets keep essentials handy without limiting main compartment capacity. Padding in the straps, back panel and laptop sleeve provide premium comfort and protection.

Adjustability in the straps and stabilizing sternum strap allow you to customize the fit for all-day carrying ease. Side bottle pockets and a sleek profile streamline hydration and mobility.

Despite these high-end performance features, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack comes at a very reasonable mid-range price point. The quality rivals brands costing far more.

In my experience, the backpack has lived up to years of regular use for school, work, and fitness. It takes everything in stride from airline travel to rugged hiking.

For those seeking an athletic backpack that can seamlessly transition from the gym to the classroom or office, the Under Armour Mesh Backpack is an ideal choice. It truly does it all.