Chrome Recruit 22L backpack

Chrome Recruit 22L Pack — everything you need, nothing you don't

Some days do not call for a roll-top. The Recruit 22L answers with a dual-zip main compartment that opens flat, a padded sleeve for a 16-inch laptop and a footprint tight enough that the bag disappears under a coat. It is the most straightforward pack Chrome makes, and that is the point: no straps to manage, no closure to learn, just a clean profile built out of the same military-grade nylon the brand has used since 1995.

The detail that gives it away is the sternum strap — closed with Chrome's iconic aluminium mini buckle, the piece the brand's messenger bags made famous. It is a quiet signal on an otherwise understated bag.

Weather resistance

Built from 1050D recycled nylon with 1680D recycled ballistic nylon reinforcement and a 150D recycled polyester liner, all PFAS-free. The construction is weather resistant: it shrugs off the rain of an ordinary commute and protects a laptop through a wet ride home. The main compartment closes with zips rather than a welded roll-top, so it is not a waterproof bag and should not be treated as one.

Carrying system

• Padded mesh shoulder straps
• Adjustable sternum strap with Chrome mini buckle closure
• Breathable padded back panel
• Rear luggage pass-through for rolling suitcase handles

Organisation

• Dual-zip main compartment for full, flat access
• Padded internal sleeve, fits devices up to 16 inches
• Internal organiser pockets for the small things
• Zippered front panel pocket
• Two side pockets, one with a stretch cord for a U-lock

Specifications

• Volume: 22 litres
• Dimensions: 45.7 × 27.9 × 15.2 cm (H × W × D)
• Weight: 0.76 kg
• Device fit: laptops up to 16 inches, padded sleeve (device pocket 33.7 × 30.5 cm)
• Outer shell: 1050D recycled nylon and 1680D recycled ballistic nylon
• Liner: 150D recycled polyester
• Closure: dual-zip main compartment
• Water resistance: weather resistant, PFAS-free
• Construction: vegan
• Warranty: Chrome lifetime warranty against material and workmanship defects

Frequently asked questions

How does it compare to the Initiate 26L?
Same materials, same laptop sleeve, same U-lock storage. The Recruit is four litres smaller, opens with zips instead of a roll-top, and weighs 130 grams less. Choose the Recruit for a fixed daily load and quick access; choose the Initiate if your carry varies day to day or you travel with it.

Will a 16-inch laptop fit?
Yes, in a dedicated padded sleeve measuring 33.7 × 30.5 cm. That covers 16-inch MacBook Pro and 15.6-inch Windows machines. 17-inch laptops will not fit.

What does "weather resistant" mean here?
The fabric repels water and the bag will carry your gear dry through a normal rainy commute. It has no waterproofing rating and no welded seams. For guaranteed dry storage in sustained rain, look at Chrome's Urban Ex or Barrage roll-tops.

Is it comfortable fully loaded?
At 22 litres the load stays close to the back, and the padded mesh panel keeps air moving. It is sized for a laptop, a change of clothes and lunch rather than a week of luggage. Come and try one loaded at L'Hirondelle Bike Shop in Meppel if you want to be sure.

Can it be repaired?
Chrome backs the bag for life against material and workmanship defects. For wear-and-tear damage, a gear repair specialist can usually restore zips and seams — our workshop can point you in the right direction.