Test: ION Hipbag Plus Traze 3 - denim look and great fit

Hipbags have become indispensable in cycling. Firstly, a small bag is often enough and secondly, backpacks can be a nuisance in high temperatures. The test shows whether the ION Plus Traze 3 is one more product on the market or something special.

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First impression

The jeans-like upper makes the Traze 3 stand out from the crowd. A cool look without being aggressively conspicuous. It holds a two-liter hydration bladder and is said to have a total volume of three liters. Probably more on paper than in reality: when the water bag is half full, there's not much space left. The most important items can still be stored. In addition to an air and shock pump, you can fit a repair kit, a spare inner tube and, with a little "mosten", a small windbreaker.

The main compartment is divided and has a compartment for the hydration system. The hose is ideally routed around the waist via the hip belt and is attached to the side with a magnet. The all-round zipper is generously designed and makes it easy to fill the bag. The compartment integrated into the flap is ideal for credit cards, small change or a train ticket.
The two side pockets are practical for small items; there is just enough room for an iPhone 7. Hidden in the bottom is a holder for protectors or larger items of clothing. The holder can be attached to the daisy chains using special hooks. There are more than enough of them. The fastening system is a little fiddly at first, especially the assembly. It takes a bit of practice to get the hooks to thread nicely into the fabric flaps. However, releasing them again is quicker than with any other system.

The addition "Plus" in the product name comes from the hydration bladder supplied. The hip bag is also available without a hydration system.

In use

The Traze 3 sits very comfortably on the hips. Thanks to four compression straps, it can also be individually adjusted. The belt buckle is attached to the side of the hip support and does not get in the way at all. With other products, the buckle is usually in the middle of the abdomen, which makes absolutely no sense. Unfortunately, the rubber protection makes it a little more difficult to open the buckle.

When riding, the bag sits without getting in the way - except when jumping, where, like all hip bags, it doesn't hold ideally to the body. If you load the additional holder with heavy protectors, there is an uncomfortable pull to the rear.

The pads on the back ensure good ventilation in warm weather. Even in midsummer, there was no annoying sweating.

Conclusion

The Hipbag Plus Traze 3 from ION is certainly one of the best of its kind. It scores points with its perfect fit and well-positioned buckle. If the rubber can be removed, it has a chance of taking the top spot on the podium. One weak point is the elastic strap that is supposed to fasten the loose part of the harness. It is far too wide and therefore doesn't really do its job. However, it is not annoying. The advantages of the product are convincing and the jeans look is second to none.

Recommendation

The ION Plus Traze 3 is basically suitable for anyone who wants to ride with a hip bag. People with a little more flab on their hips are well advised to check whether the belt is long enough. It is suitable for reasonably athletic builds.

Price: CHF 109.90