Product Review : Datsusara Gear Bag Core

Here at BJJ Canada, one of our goals is to introduce products to the BJJ community that will help their game on and off the mats. One company that gears their products to benefit the community is Portland Oregon’s Datsusara. Founded in 2007 by Christopher Odell, Datusara primary reason for starting the company was to produce high quality gear made with keeping in mind the environment as Datsusaras main material in its line of gear is HEMP. Chris found a way to utilize the anti microbial properties of hemp and create functional, high quality gear bags for the mixed martial artist.If you want to read more about the backround of Datsusara you can find the info here

http://www.dsgear.com/pages/about-us

PRICE : Available for 115 usd or 150 Canadian online at https://www.grapplegearstore.com/

REVIEW : If Datsusara’s objective was creating a high quality gear bag then with the Gear Bag core they have achieved that and more. I purchased this bag back in 2014 because I wanted a bag that fit all my gear, was durable and didn’t rip apart as well as had other compartments that kept items separate from my gear. That’s when I found Datsusara. Not only did the gear Bag core have all the qualities I was looking for but it also was made of Hemp. Now when doing more research on hemp based products I found that not only is hemp durable but it also has anti microbial properties which fight staff infection, ring worm and other nasty infections that would be the result of a hard day training on the mats.

Im a size A2 and the gear Bag Core fits 4 of my gi’s in the main Compartment and there is also room in the sides for other items such as rashguards,small hand towels etc. Now the best part I like about this bag is not only is it spacious but there is other pouches on the side that fit all the extras like my hockey tape, belt , keys and wallet, cell phone and that’s only on the front of the bag. There is also two side pouches that are very large and fit items such as my sandals and shower towel. The gear bag core also features a “nasty bag” which is basically a gi bag that fits your wet stinky rashguard so your other gear doesn’t get all gross. You could also use this bag to store wet towels. The gear bag core also features a mesh pocket on the outside of the bags that holds your water bottles .

Conclusion

This bag has been with me on all of my trips to other schools, vacations and everyday training. Its reliable and durable and holds a TON of items. I have gone on vacation and packed 4 of my gis and still had room to fit rashguards, towels ,boxers, hoodies etc.

Hemps ability to reduce bacteria growth is also an added feature that should be a reason why this bag appeals to anyone that might be prone to any type of infections caused by dirty mats. Another great feature to hemp is its lightweight and durable. The gearbag core should look like a used backpack after the abuse ive put it through but after a lot of usage still looks brand new which is a testament to the high quality hemp fabric used in this bag.

Positives is its functionality , stitching, durability and the fact its holds A LOT plus it’s a small company so quality control is an essential part of datsusaras business and part of the reason for its success. Chris oversees a company that produces high quality gear bags and datsusara is on the forefront of choosing environmentally friendly fabric.

The only negative I could see is how much are you willing to spend on a high quality bag. Everyone has a budget and for me this bag featured everything and more for the price range I was looking for. I spent just as much on another bag that ripped within 6 weeks so having the gear bag core suited all my needs in a gear bag. Give it a try !! If you have any questions, concerns or just want more info then reach Chris at dsgear.com

STYLE AND FUNCTION /DIMENSIONS

Body made of 100% 19oz Hemp Canvas

Size total 14″H x 21″W x 13″D (36x54x34cm), capacity 3,822 cu. in. (62L)

Main compartment 14″H x 16″W x 13″D (36x59x34cm)

Zip end pockets 14″H x 2.75″W x 13″D (35.5x7x33cm)

Side velcro pockets 8″H x 6″W x 2″D (21x16x5cm)

Front left side small velcro pockets 3″H x 4″W x 2″D (21x10x5cm) & 3″H x 2″W x 2″D (21x5x5cm)

Middle zip pocket 6″H x 6″W x 2″D (15x15x5cm)

Inside main compartment water resistant zip pocket 5″H x 6″W (13x15cm)

1000D Polyester reinforced bottom panel, water resistant

Front top sides PALS webbing, compatible with our Bag Accessory Straps (sold separately)

Mesh end pockets with elastic securing loops that will fit up to 4 large water bottles, towels, etc.

Neoprene padded handles and detachable, adjustable shoulder strap

Removable velcro logo and name tape velcro patch area

YKK® self healing zippers

Includes Nasty Bag Core for wet/soiled gear separation, 22″H x 15″W (56×38 cm)

