FEATURED

PLEASE NOTE the following before you make your purchase of the WHITLEY:

1. The current WHITLEYs being offered are the new 2023 ones with the upgrades, see below.

2. The WHITLEY is a 20L backpack, that's small in volume.

3. While the height of 18.5" and width of 11" is standard, the depth of the main compartment is only 5". 

4. If you have an existing backpack please check the volume of your pack to gauge how much smaller in volume the Whitley is.

2023 Upgrades:

The Whitley will be available in the following fabric / color options:

• X-Pac VX42
• 500D Black
• 1050D Ballistic Nylon, Black

Lining in 210D ripstop orange

 Current VITALS:

• Dimensions, 18.5" (H) x 11" (W) x 6" (D)
• Weight, 3.15 lbs (500D Black), 3.2 lbs (X42), 3.7 lbs (1050D Ballistic Nylon)
• Volume, 20L

FEATURES:

• Front stash pocket lined in Nilex, 7.5" deep, #8 YKK RC zippers

• Front organizer compartment, #8 YKK RC zippers:
• Rear document sleeve
• Top organizer (revised Evade design) with padded phone pocket (holds up to iPhone 13 Max), 2 pen slots, 1 light / multitool slot, card holders, rear zippered pocket
• Two bottom elastic pleated pockets
• Compartment is entire height of backpack, 1" deep and unzips half way down

• Main compartment, #10 YKK RC zippers, 5" deep:
• Front wall, Top zippered pocket in matching lining fabric, 7" deep
• Front wall, Bottom zippered mesh pocket, 5" deep
• Rear wall, Suspended & padded slim laptop sleeve for up to a 16" MBP
• Padded tablet sleeve in front of the laptop sleeve

• Top carry handle
• Quick access zippered opening (behind carry handle) with #8 YKK RC zippers to get to your laptop & tablet
• Adjustable and removable sternum straps
• Padded mesh back
• Luggage (handle) pass through
• Padded shoulder strap harness (new design)
• Removable leather patch

All our products are developed and manufactured in our own Studio in Saigon, Vietnam using materials sourced from the US, Korea, Taiwan and domestically.  

It goes without saying that here at AON, we are big proponents of the backpack. But sometimes, we need or prefer a smaller bag to conveniently carry our basic essentials that we use and need access to throughout the day. After almost 6 months of rigorous testing and evaluation, we are proud to announce the latest generation of our beloved Chio bag: the Chio-X! This bag was designed with convenience and versatility in mind, ensuring that you can take all your essentials with you wherever you go.

 NOTE: The new Chio Organizer is sold separately.

A YouTube video by PK Shiu has been added under 'Video Reviews'!

Story behind the original CHIO:

We designed the Chio bag to hold the basic essentials, and I carry what is shown in the video here. These items I carry daily, regardless of whether I'm back home, traveling stateside or internationally. I simply add or remove additional items depending on where I'm going and how long I'm going to be there. For domestic and international travel, I keep the Chio bag below the front seat on a flight, and keep everything else in my backpack in the luggage bins above. This is especially useful on long flights when the lights are out, and I don't want to rummage through my backpack in the bin.

Finally, for those photographers among us, I would like to also mention the availability of the optional Chio camera pouch add-on. This well-padded pouch has a hook bottom that helps secure it to the bottom of the Chio where you will find a corresponding inline strip of loop. Not only is this pouch a great addition to your Chio bag, it also doubles as a stand-alone bag with its own shoulder strap. In a quick instance, you can easily convert your Chio into a small camera bag, perfect for capturing those special moments........Helm @ AON

UPDATE, September 19th: Pre-orders are open with estimated fulfillment to start Nov3rd. Thanks!

GUIDELINES for this Evade 1.0X drop can found BELOW.

Please read EVERYTHING, including the Q&A below, before you place your pre-order.

NOTE: Matching organizers & sliders can be found HERE.

When the AON Evade was first launched as the Recon 9, a 21L backpack, it quickly became a popular crowdsourced choice. Over time, it evolved into the 2.0 (30L) and the recent 1.5 (25L), but now, it has come full circle back to its original 21L size in the form of our first Evade 1.0X.

Product development is a collaborative effort, and the Evade 1.0X represents a significant step forward thanks to the valuable feedback from existing Evade owners and the dedicated contributions of remarkable individuals and collaborators…………..our dear friends and esteemed industry pros, David Valencic and Brandon Vulaj.

But what does the "X" signify?

The "X" commemorates the brand's 10th anniversary, coinciding with the 20th anniversary of our parent company, SERT. During its initial decade, AON was dedicated to creating products based on crowdsourced ideas and feedback. Our foundation in law enforcement and military gear production remained an integral part of this process. However, what's lesser-known is my personal background in the fashion industry, where I spent nearly 20 years contributing to prestigious brands like Armani, Kenzo, Comme des Garcons, Dolce & Gabbana, Karl Lagerfeld and DKNY (my first product development gig).

As we celebrate AON's 10th anniversary, we're proud to unveil the X series, starting with the Evade 1.0X. This time, together with assistance from Brandon & David, we're infusing my personal fashion sensibilities into the designs, merging what I think is the best of both worlds.

Warm regards.......HELM

The Evades 1.0X will be made available in batches on a first come, first serve basis, starting with the X50 variant (a limited number of X42 will be released later). And yes there will only be one type, no more Fulls nor Lites.

Current DATA:

• Volume: 21L
• Weight: 3.5 lbs (1.575 kg)
• Dimensions: 18.5” (H) x 12” (Base) x 6” (D) (47 x 30.5 x 14 cm)

Shell: Dimension-Polyant’s X50, bottom of pack 1050D ballistic nylon

Interior: Fully lined in Challenge’s UltraGrid Dark Chili

Reinforced carry handle with with leather wrap

Zipper:

• YKK TPU Coated Reverse Coil #10 and #8; *bottom front zipper is #8 RC
• Leather zipper pulls

Webbing: Multi-column (aka car seat)

Main compartment:

• Front wall has our 2 zippered pockets design (top fabric, bottom mesh)
• Back wall holds the padded & suspended laptop and tablet sleeves.
• Back wall has a single layered PALS row at the top to allow use of Matroskya and other pouches.

Laptop Compartment:

• While the laptop sleeve is part of the main compartment, it is sealed off thus creating it's own compartment with access only via the top quick access zipper that's behind the carry handle.
• Tested to fit up to a current 16" MacBook Pro.

Front pockets:

• Front organizer compartment has 2 sleeve pockets with large loop field, and a zippered pocket above it.
• Loop field is sized to hold existing Type 1 & 2 organizers and any hook & loop compatible pouch.
• Alternatively you can slip one of our Sliders in there.
• Top front quick access pocket
• Bottom stealth pocket with lip covering reverse coil zipper

Back panel and shoulder / strap harness is an updated version of the Whitley with new SBR close cell foam in the shoulder straps.

Flat side water bottle pockets; currently this has only been tested to hold the Hydroflask Trail (24oz).

Let's address some common questions:

• Q: Is the 1.0X a limited release?
• A: As with our previous launches, the 1.0X will be limited initially. Based on demand, feedback, and resonance with our audience, it could become a staple in our offerings.

• Q: Will the 1.0X be available in other fabrics?
• A: For now, it will only be offered in the X-Pac and UltraGrid combination. We're working on streamlining our product range, including fabrics and color choices.

• Q: Will the 1.0X come with alternative lining colors?
• A: No, the current lineup features a singular lining color.

• Q: Does this mark the end of the Evade 1.5?
• A: Absolutely not. The Evade 1.5 will undergo evolution, though not in its current design.

• Q: Can you ensure ship out by October 15th?
• A: While we aim for timely shipments, delays occur. We prioritize transparency and will communicate updates. Feel free to inquire about others' experiences in AON groups.

• Q: Where will the 1.0X be available?
• A: The following stockists are expected to carry the launch:

Additional notes: 

There is no CCW compartment on this Evade.
There are no compression straps.
There are no loop patches on this pack apart from the removable leather patch.

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Guidelines for the Evade 1.0X Drop: Ensuring a Smooth Experience (updates Sep 1st)

1. Flexible Payment Options: As you gear up for the Evade 1.0X Drop, we're offering you flexibility. You have the choice to opt for a $150 deposit or make a full payment. If you select the deposit option, the remaining balance will be charged approximately 2 weeks before shipping (approx Oct 9th).

2. Commitment to Your Choice: Once a payment is made, it's a commitment. Please note that both deposits and full payments are non-refundable.

3. Fulfillment Timeline: Our initial target is to initiate fulfillment around October 23rd for this drop. While we strive for accuracy, delays can occasionally occur. We promise to keep you informed about progress throughout the journey. However, we recommend against placing yourself or us in a predicament where the pack is essential for a specific date due to an upcoming trip. Unfortunately, we cannot assume responsibility for such situations.

4. Stay Updated: Beyond email communication, updates will also be accessible on Threads, Instagram, and Facebook. We understand that emails can sometimes be overlooked or filtered into spam folders. To stay fully informed, kindly keep an eye on your inbox, folders, and our online platforms.

5. Accessorize with UltraGrid Dark Chili: For those who appreciate the finer details, matching organizers and sliders in the captivating UltraGrid dark chili will be offered as an option during this drop. You have the option of no deposit or full payment for these.

6. Finally, we CANNOT combine orders but we can revise one if needed.

These guidelines provide a comprehensive overview of the process. If you have the time before the drop, please head over and familiarize yourself.

We're excited to welcome you online tomorrow at 11:00 AM for the release. Your support and enthusiasm drive us forward. 

Thank you!

UPDATE, SEPT 12th: Our Weekender duffel, to commemorate our 10th anniversary, will be shipping starting September 30th. This will be a very limited edition. Pre-order is now open.

WEEKENDER Duffel

Introducing the enhanced and upgraded version of our renowned Recon 6 duffel bag – the ultimate companion for your journeys! Crafted to meet rigorous mil-spec standards for exceptional durability and designed with a focus on simplicity, this bag is built to exceed your expectations.

Unzipping the robust #10 YKK zippers reveals a meticulously organized interior. On one side, you'll find two generously sized open top stretch sleeve pockets, perfect for effortlessly organizing your belongings. On the opposite side, there is an additional sleeve pocket featuring a convenient webbing hook and loop closure, specifically designed to securely hold a tablet or similar device. Rest assured, all your essentials will find their rightful place within the spacious main compartment, regardless of the nature of your gear.

As with all our meticulously crafted bags, the WEEKENDER showcases our new distinctive touch. This latest edition boasts two front pockets, both thoughtfully padded to ensure the safety of your belongings. In this revised version, we have adorned the flap covers of these pockets with exquisite Italian full-grain leather, elevating both the style and functionality of the bag. The magnetic closure adds an extra layer of convenience, ensuring quick and easy access to your essentials while maintaining a sleek and sophisticated appearance.

Whether you're embarking on a weekend getaway or an adventurous expedition, the new and improved WEEKENDER is engineered to accompany you every step of the way. Experience the epitome of quality, design, and versatility with this remarkable duffel bag.

Upgrade to the new WEEKENDER and unlock limitless possibilities for your travels.

FEATURES & BENEFITS

• Exterior made of Dimension-Polyant's Black X50 and 1050D Ballistic Nylon Black
• Genuine #10 & #8 YKK zippers with leather pulls
• Custom metal hardware
• Two (2) padded Front Pockets with double magnetic flaps, and a quick stash sleeve behind each  pocket
• Removable nylon shoulder straps with leather pads
• Dual layer reinforced handles in multi-column webbing with leather wrap handles
• UltraGrid Dark Chili nylon lined interior
• Shoulder straps that are adjustable on the go
• Fully taped seams

SPECIFICATIONS

• Exterior dimensions - 22.5" (Width) x 10.5" (Height), and it tapers from a base of 9.5" to 7.5" at the top (cross section)( 57cm x 27cm x 24 to 19cm )
• Weight - 2.9 pounds ( 1.31 kilo )
• ASTM Measured Capacity - 36 liters / 2200 cu in