Why We Like The Matador ReFraction 16L Packable Backpack
Whether we're puddle-jumping around Europe or navigating public transit as we explore new cities, having a lightweight, packable backpack on hand is always useful. The Matador ReFraction 16L Packable Backpack is as convenient as it is functional, giving us the freedom to ditch our heavy luggage and pack only the essentials. The rugged nylon construction has a polyurethane coating and DWR treatment to increase waterproofing, ensuring that if we get caught in a rainstorm, all of our gear comes out dry on the other side. Multiple pockets keep us organized and offer easy access to water bottles, maps, and extra layers, so whether we're on trail or in town, we have everything we need.
Details
- Packable backpack that makes our day trips a breeze
- 16-liter capacity gives us space for day-long adventures
- Durable nylon construction stands up to rigorous travel
- Polyurethane waterproofing ensures our gear stays dry
- Two stretch side pockets hold water bottles and umbrellas
- Front stretch pocket helps keep us organized
- Packs down into its own zippered top pocket
- Comfortable padded shoulder straps for easy carrying
- Item #MTU0021
- Responsible Collection
- Recycled/Repurposed, [stow bag] bluesign® APPROVED
- Material
- [face fabric] 100D recycled nylon, PU, PFC-free DWR treatment, [stow pocket] 70D nylon
- Volume
- 16L (976cu in)
- Shoulder Straps
- padded, adjustable
- Access
- top
- Pockets
- 2 stretch sides, 1 zippered front, 1 zippered top
- Dimensions
- [unpacked] 17 x 10 x 7.5in, [packed] 5.5 x 8 x 3in
- Claimed Weight
- 7.9oz
- Activity
- travel
- Manufacturer Warranty
- limited 1 year
Reviews
Q&A
What do you think about this product?
Overall Rating
5 based on 4 ratings
Review Summary
Fits True To Size
Screen reader users: the following list provides a visual scale to illustrate the product fit. Please refer to the heading above for the fit type in text.View
Selecting an option will reload the available reviews on the pageJuly 8, 2025
Perfect Travel Daily Carry
- Familiarity:
- I've put it through the wringer
I bought the Refraction backpack for my daily carry for a 2 week trip to Japan. The backpack was perfect for the trip and I have already used it back in the US. Not too big, the 16L size was perfect.The water bottle holder also held my umbrella alongside the water bottle. Often with a packable backpack you don’t have much organization but the refraction has the main compartment and two other pockets in addition to the two water bottle holders. The water resistant zippers was a must for me. All in all I am thrilled with this backpack and would definitely recommend it to someone with a similar need.
June 11, 2025
Great purchase!
Needed a backpack for travel and the ReFraction was absolutely perfect! I was amazed each time I had to fold it inside of itself to pack. Takes up next to no space at all and then opens to a large walking around town backpack. It was easily the #1 purchase of my trip. I thought the waterproof was overkill and would never be out in the rain, but it happened and I was very glad to have all of my items safe and dry. I want to find a reason to buy another one I like it so much. NO BRAINER!
June 1, 2025
Awesome day backpack with organization
I wanted a day backpack that wasn’t black, to use on vacations for long walks plus to just hold my stuff on vacation day outings. This pack is perfect. It’s lightweight, has good strap adjustments, and the numerous pockets are so helpful for organizing and are what sealed the deal for my purchase. These include two smaller zipper compartments, and two deep stretch pockets on either side which could be for small to large water bottle(s) or anything else since the ultra stretchy material holds in the contents. From a size standpoint, I found the bag perfect for day outings. I’m a medium size woman and found the unisex shoulder straps to be comfortable, and just slightly wide—which was easily addressed by using the sternum strap, but if I didn’t have that engaged then the bag would occasionally shift off one of my shoulders. So glad I ordered this!
August 5, 2024
Perfect packable! A must have!
- Familiarity:
- I've put it through the wringer
- Size Bought:
- One size
Bought a few of these to use on day excursions while in Europe and they are fantastic! Kept everything dry even in 2 hour downpour. Packs down to fit anywhere in your luggage but still has shape and is comfortable to carry (padded straps and back) when wearing. Looks small at first glance, but when you start loading it up- everything fits! Love the pocket’s especially the stretchy water bottle sleeve style, which easily fits -and secures- up to 32 ounce stainless steel bottles. Husband is an airline pilot and uses it ALL the time. It’s become a staple in his work bag.
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