In the disc golf backpack industry, some of the best looking options are Discmania’s collaborations with Grip Equipment. There are two versions of a Discmania branded backpack, each with small differences between the two. Both these bags are of Grip’s B series of bags, with the newer “Jetpack” bag being the “Upgraded” Bx3 series.
Disc Storage: I’ll start by comparing the bags disc storage, as that is the primary purpose of a discing backpack. The red, discmania “Tour Bag” is advertised to hold 21 discs, but depending on how many are drivers, up to 25 could fit in the bag, with 2 in the pocket covering the main storage, and 3 putters up top.
The sleek grey and white discmania Jetpack bag is slightly different storage. Claiming 18 discs in the main storage compartment, this number is absolutely true, and even a bit tight at that number. the putter pocket is the same as in the Tour Bag though. Claiming two putters fit in there, while three easily fits. If max disc storage is your main priority in comparing these two bags, the Jetpack is not the right one for you. The Jetpack is missing the disc pocket on the outside of the main storage door, unlike the Tour Bag.
Other storage: Both bags have a similar “valuables pocket” on the face of the bag, while not a ton of storage for anything bulky has room, small items such as a scorecard, phone, wallet, etc fit with ease in this pocket. This pocket also has a clip to attach park passes, bag tags, etc.
The side storage pockets is where change in storage is noticeable. While initially the storage is about the same, the Jetpack bag has an unzippable expandable pocket feature for a bit more storage room. While i thought that the Tour Bag had a perfect amount of storage, i also tried to carry as light as possible to limit the wight i would be carrying. If This bag was going to be put into a cart for tournament play, the Jetpack might be the better option.
Looks: While the appearance of a bag is purely an opinion, there is something to say about both bags. The Tour Bag is a much less subtle red and black colorway, with white Discmania branding on the front and on each side. The bag itself is nice and compact, staying tight to the wearer while walking through the woods.
The Jetpack has a much classier looking colorway. With Black and light grey being the colors, and white Discmania branding, and an extra Discmania “wings” logo the bag looks sleek. It should be said that there is more branding on this bag. If someone does not want to feel like an advertisement, i would suggest just getting a unbranded Grip backpack.
Misc: There are small details that differ from bag to bag. Each bag has it’s pros and cons. Starting with the red Tour Bag, the added pocket to hold up to two discs in the door to the main compartment is very nice to have, and not big enough in the Jetpack to hold a disc. The Tour Bag is more prone to fading as it is used. Red will eventually get faded through rain and sunlight. The Black of the Jetpack is much more resistant to fading. The Tour bag has an included rain fly that uses snaps to clip to the bag. While this is on, most of the bag is usable enough to get you through a round, but that is about it. The Jetpack does not have an included rain fly, but has an available rain fly that uses elastic to stretch around the whole bag, unlike the Tour Bag not doing this as effectively. This rain fly has openings to access pockets in the Jetpack, while the simple rain fly on the Tour Bag is more or less a shell.
Cost could be a factor in deciding on the two bags. I picked up the Tour bag from the factory website fro $160 during a spring sale. It should be noted that the tour bag is out of production. Finding a brand new one may be tricky, but a well loved used one is always a possibility. The Jetpack is currently available online for $229.99. If price is a major factor, I believe the Tour Bag wins this.
Conclusion: If i were to pick between the two bags discussed above, I would pick the Jetpack. Allthough it does not include a rain fly, and has a bit less storage, and is a bit more expensive. Both bags have been very enjoyable to own, I just like the appearance of the Jetpack more. Storage is not a major issue for me, and both bags have plenty of space for a windbreaker.
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