EVERGOODS CIVIC Access Sling 2L (V2) Review

The new EVERGOODS Civic Access Sling 2L has enough space to meet our standards for use as a travel sling; however, it has a large footprint for a crossbody bag of this capacity. Will this larger size be more comfortable or leave us wanting something more compact? Let’s find out!

External Components

The primary material used on the exterior of the Civic Access Sling 2L is 840D ballistic nylon 6. If there’s one thing we’ve come to expect from EVERGOODS in testing dozens of their products, it’s durable materials and hardware. This fabric holds up well, even after two weeks of rigorous testing.

We haven’t noticed any loose threads or abrasions, and it practically looks brand new. At the time of writing, there’s a small dirty area where a tester (cough, cough, Eric …) spilled coney sauce from a hot dog vendor at the park on it, but it cleans up well, so we’ll make sure he gets on that before we shoot the review video.

The zippers on the sling are from YKK, which, similar to the 840D ballistic nylon, is durable and rugged. Their size feels like overkill for the job at hand; however, we prefer that they’re larger than smaller, as these are more durable.

The plastic hardware is from Duraflex, which, you guessed it, is durable and can handle the job it’s tasked with. Duraflex and YKK are two of the best brands in the business. While we’re happy to see their inclusion, we aren’t surprised, as we’re used to seeing this from EVERGOODS on their slings, travel backpacks, and daypacks.

Like other EVERGOODS gear we’ve reviewed, the Civic Access Sling 2L has a hook-and-loop fastener logo. You’ll likely find this neat or hate it; the choice is yours! Regardless of your stance, it is minimalistic and allows you to add a patch, which is fun!

The exterior doesn’t have a ton going on; however, you might not guess that by looking at it. The harness system is capable, which makes it look like there’s more than meets the eye. Let’s dive into that!

Fit Notes

The sling has the same back panel we see on other EVERGOODS bags. It doesn’t look well padded or aerated, but, surprise, it is! It breathes incredibly well, especially for a black sling, and keeps you cooler than other similar-looking slings we’ve tested. The padding isn’t the most dense, but for the capacity of this sling, it works well and doesn’t get in your way. It’ll still get warm on a hot day; however, we’re happy with how it performs overall.

The strap has no padding or aeration but has width, which spreads out the weight to make it comfortable to carry. It may start to dig in if you load the sling up with a ton of tech and other heavy items. Because of the sling’s capacity, we don’t miss the padding or aeration much, though some users with different priorities as to what constitutes a comfortable sling may disagree.

The buckle is located right next to the strap’s connection with the sling, which makes it easier to attach and open while wearing it. Plus, it won’t rest on your back when wearing the sling with a backpack, which ensures a comfortable carry. There’s a strap keeper, too, so no extra material gets in your way while you’re out working or enjoying your day.

The sling has what we call hip huggers, which add comfort. Essentially, there’s a demilitarized zone between the strap and the sling crafted from the exterior material, which hugs your body while you’re wearing the sling. This negates awkward pinching whether you’re hiking the North Country Trail or exploring New York City. You can wear this sling as a waist pack or a crossbody bag; however, we feel that it excels at the latter and is just okay at the former.

Inside The Sling

Inside, the liner material is 210D nylon 6.6, which is durable, water-resistant, and not rough on your hand while you’re grabbing or organizing gear.

We aren’t sure which pocket we think is the true heir to the main compartment name; however, they both have a fair shot at claiming it. We’ll start with the front pocket and move backward!

The front pocket has no organization but has a ton of space, especially for a sling of this size. There’s depth, too, so you can stow larger items inside, like over-ear headphones. Because there’s no segmentation, you have to throw everything inside. Still, between this and the back compartment, you can decide which goes where to resemble a sense of order and dignity for your gear.

There’s a key leash inside, too, which is handy. It’s red, which is a nice contrast and makes it easy to see. Depending on how you’re wearing the sling, you will likely have to take the keys off the clip to open your door. Still, it’s an excellent addition, and it doesn’t get in your way if you aren’t using it, which we dig.

The back compartment has significantly more organization but less depth; flat items do well here.

On its front is a zippered compartment with three pockets inside: one large and two medium. There isn’t much depth here, so it’s where your thin, flat items, like a passport, do best.

On the back side, there are two liner pockets. One takes up roughly two-thirds of the back wall and the other one-third. If you have a smaller phone, it may fit inside the larger one; however, a standard-sized iPhone didn’t make the cut. Again, flat items do well here, like a passport or travel wallet that isn’t overstuffed.

There’s a space between the two organizational areas where you can stow gear. A phone works well, as there’s enough room and you have quick access to it. However, you can fit larger items here, too, like a paper map, while exploring an unfamiliar city.

Overall, we’re digging the duality between the two unique compartments and the comfortable carry offered by the EVERGOODS Civic Access Sling 2L. It provides enough organization for our liking without monopolizing space for larger gear, and we’re here for it.

Now, let’s get down to brass tacks. Which one do you think is the main compartment?