The Black Ember FORGE 30 is a solid entry into the world of high-performance, tech-driven backpacks, as well as an upgrade to the already revered FORGE series. The new FORGE 30 sets out to elevate the experience of city commuters, digital nomads, and travelers who need a combination of tech-focused features, sleek aesthetics, and a build to stand up to the elements.
With a tough exterior made from 420D Cordura® re/cor™ RN66, paired with YKK AquaGuard zippers, the FORGE stands up to the elements. The bag’s monochrome, matte black finish feels futuristic and purposeful, though the bag’s silhouette is deceptively simple. You’ll find an array of hidden compartments, thoughtful design choices, and modular add-ons that reflect Black Ember’s DNA. From commute to weekend adventures, the FORGE 30 doesn’t flinch.
Modern Armor
The FORGE 30 MAX is constructed from 420D Cordura® re/cor™ RN66. This material has a futuristic, almost armored texture, but it doesn’t feel abrasive to the touch. It’s designed to withstand the abuse of everyday urban use while remaining sleek enough for professional environments. The laser-cut, bonded seams ensure that the bag remains sealed off from the elements along with the YKK AquaGuard zippers. I tested the bag during a light rain, and everything inside remained completely dry.
You’ve also got lockable zippers on the main compartment, which adds some peace of mind when traveling.
One of my favorite things about the FORGE 30 is that whether you’re throwing it in an overhead bin, dragging it across a train platform, or carrying it through crowded city streets, it maintains its structure without sagging or losing its form. Even when fully packed, the bag retains its shape, never feeling overstuffed or unwieldy
Hybrid Carry Options
The FORGE 30 transitions seamlessly between a backpack, a shoulder bag, and briefcase-style carry. This hybrid setup allows it to adapt to your needs throughout the day. The backpack straps are well-padded and contoured to the body, and provide great support for heavier loads or hands-free situations.
The shoulder straps can be quickly tucked away into the back panel, allowing you to carry the bag as a briefcase with the side handles – a feature I found particularly useful when I just need to grab-n-go. If you want shoulder carry, there’s also an optional shoulder strap that can be used on one shoulder or crossbody. Typically, I found myself using the FORGE 30 in backpack and briefcase mode the most, since they transition so easily between one another.
There’s also a luggage pass-through if that’s important for you.
Interior Organization & Capacity
The main compartment offers a solid 20-to-30-liter capacity, which is more than enough for daily use, weekend getaways, or even light travel when expanded. When slimmed down to 20 liters it can even act as a solid daypack or just a cafe-trip briefcase.
The primary compartment opens horizontally, clamshell-style, giving you full access to everything inside. The zippered compartment separator makes this feel very much like a suitcase shrunk down into a backpack which is great for packing. On the flanking side, you’ve got a few mesh pockets.
The dedicated laptop compartment, which can accommodate up to a 16-inch device, is one of the best out there. The sleeve is heavily padded and suspended off the bottom of the bag, which gives added peace of mind knowing that your device is safe from drops. There’s also a tablet pocket and the strap can be docked out of the way if you don’t want it.
It’s a well organized bag. The front panel features an admin pocket with various sleeves and slots for pens, notebooks, and other daily essentials as well as a magnetic key leash.
Expandability & Modular Features
Black Ember has designed the FORGE, similarly to their other bags, with a minimal PALS-style grid system on the exterior, allowing for a variety of pouches and add-ons to be attached. These are pretty fun to use in practice.
For example, I opted for orange compression straps. They’re pretty easy to open and close with their magnetic clasps, and they add a nice pop of color. There’s also a water bottle pocket you can attach if that’s your thing. The FORGE 30 is pretty dynamic and you can always tailor it to your day.
Final Verdict: A Versatile Powerhouse
The Black Ember FORGE 30 MAX is an outstanding hybrid backpack. Whether you’re commuting to work, traveling, or exploring the city, the bag’s versatility, durability, and hybrid carry options make it an ideal and easy choice. Not to mention its clean, minimalist silhouette is versatile enough for both the professional and casual portions of your day.
I truly believe that Black Ember is at the forefront of innovative bag design and that shines through in the FORGE. The FORGE 30 is more than capable of meeting the needs of modern, on-the-go individuals, all while maintaining a sleek, minimalist aesthetic. If you’re looking for a bag that can do it all and look good while doing it, the FORGE 30 MAX is a worthy investment.
This is a Curated Sponsor Article from our friends at Black Ember.
