Adidas Urban Utility Backpack Review (Pros & Cons Compared)

The perfect backpack should be 3 things: Versatile, functional, and stylish. In an ideal world, you’d have one backpack that would be suitable for travel and weekend trips, work, and even hitting the gym. However, a backpack like this isn’t always easy to come by.  

In this article, we'll be taking an in-depth look at the Adidas Urban Utility Backpack, a versatile backpack that is oozing with style and useful features. There are various models of this backpack available, but in this review, we’ll be focusing on the Adidas Originals Urban Utility III. 

In this comprehensive Adidas Urban Utility Backpack review, we’ll tell you everything you need to know about the bag to help you decide whether it’s the right option for you.  

Unique Features Of Adidas Urban Utility Backpack 

The Adidas Urban Utility Backpack has many unique features that are worth considering before you purchase it. Below are all of the details you’ll need to make an informed decision. 

Size 

The Adidas Urban Utility Backpack is a medium-sized backpack, perfect for everyday use and short travel trips. The dimensions of the backpack are as follows:  

  • 12.5" x 6.5" x 17.5" 

Although quite compact, the top-loading design provides a lot of space, meaning that there is space for everything you would need, from snacks to camera equipment and everyday essentials. 

Carrying Capacity (Liters) 

This bag is capable of holding around 30L when fully loaded, or 1,831 Cubic Inches. For longer travel trips, pro-travelers recommend a backpack of around 50L+. However, this more lightweight option is perfect for those who prefer to travel light or want a carry-on backpack that will stow easily under airline seats.  

Inside The Bag

As this is a utility backpack, the inside of the bag is fairly no-frills. It has a large open space for you to top-load your larger items and a padded laptop sleeve for you to safely store your computer.  

However, it’s the pockets on the outside that really help this bag to shine. On the sides of the bag, there are two large utility pockets which are useful for those items that you need quick access to.  

It also has a convenient pocket on top for storing smaller items like your phone, money, or sunglasses. 

Color & Style Options

The Adidas Urban Utility Backpack is available in 3 different colors: Black, Khaki Green, and Orange. The black is perfect if you want a backpack that can seamlessly transition from vacation to office use.  However, if you want to make more of a statement with your backpack, the Orange option is particularly striking.  

Material Quality  

The backpack is made from 100% nylon material, making it durable and easy to clean with soap and water. The material is extremely lightweight and offers adequate protection for your items. However, the bag isn’t waterproof and therefore isn’t made for extreme weather conditions. 

Fastener Quality 

The Adidas Urban Utility Backpack utilizes a range of fasteners, including clasps, a cork lock, and a zip. The clasps on the pockets are heavy-duty and easy to open and close. Similarly, the cork lock makes it easy to get in and out of the backpack quickly. The accessory pocket is accessed via a high-quality covered zip. 

Design & Comfort 

This backpack is designed with style and comfort in mind. The utility-inspired design gives it a stylish edge that could be easily matched with a range of outfits.  

Similarly, the cushioned back panel and straps mean that you can carry it comfortably all day long. This bag can also be connected to other bags in the Originals modular range using the webbing provided.  

adidas urban utility backpack

Our Review of The Adidas Urban Utility Backpack 

adidas Originals Originals Utility III...
  • Top load with cord lock and hood.
  • Large side pockets with clip-lock closures.
  • Webbing to connect to originals festival...
  • Branded rubberized patch.

Now you know a little more about the Adidas Urban Utility Backpack, it's time to jump into the review.  

If you're looking for a versatile mid-sized bag, then you can't go wrong with this one. It's just spacious enough that you can use it on the occasional short trip, but offers ample room for everything you'd need on a day-to-day basis. The bag can easily store your laptop, gym kit, and other daily essentials with even some room to spare.  

When it comes to price, this bag is surprisingly affordable. The bag is branded, and made from high-quality materials, and can be purchased for around $65.  

The main drawback of this bag is the waterproofing aspect. Although the material is durable and lightweight, Adidas makes no mention of any sort of water resistance or waterproofing. 

Therefore, if you're planning on taking this bag hiking, you may want to look into other options. Equally, if you're looking for a bag that you can use for longer travel excursions, it may be best to opt for a slightly larger backpack unless you're an extreme minimalist.  

Overall, it's an extremely spacious day-to-day option that delivers on both style and versatility, and it's affordable too!  

What We Like 

  • Stylish 
  • Affordable  
  • Spacious enough for everyday use 

What We Don’t Like 

  • Not waterproof 
  • Not large enough for longer trips  

Price Guide & Sales Expectations 

If you buy directly from Adidas, you can get your hands on an Urban Utility Backpack for around $65. However, the backpack is frequently sold out on the website, so you may need to purchase it from a different seller.

As such, you may pay slightly higher or lower than the official Adidas price. You may also be able to save 10-15% off this price during a sale, such as on black Friday.  

black adidas urban utility backpack

In our opinion, the best place to buy this backpack is on Amazon. You can find stock of all the colors for the same amount or less than the original price.  


Adidas Urban Utility Vs Other Backpack Brands 

Not sure if the Adidas Urban Utility Backpack is right for you? Here’s how it measures up to some similar backpacks that you may be considering. 

Adidas Urban Utility vs SwissGear ScanSmart  

Like the Adidas Urban Utility Backpack, the SwissGear ScanSmart is great for carrying laptops and has ample space for day-to-day use. It's a little less stylish than the Adidas option and is more suited to work use than outdoor activities and travel. It's also slightly more expensive but might be a good option if your main priority is laptop security.  

You can check out our review of the SwissGear line of backpacks here.

Adidas Urban Utility vs LowePro FastPack

The LowePro FastPack is a great alternative to the Adidas Urban Utility Backpack for people that love to travel. This model has a few more compartments that can be useful if you’re packing for longer trips. However, it’s slightly less stylish and more considerably more expensive than the Adidas option.  

Adidas Urban Utility vs UnderArmour Storm Recruit  

The UnderArmor storm recruit backpack is similar in both style and pricepoint to the Adidas Urban Utility. However, it is a little smaller and has zipper pockets as opposed to a top-loading design. On a day-to-day basis, this may be more efficient than the Adidias Urban Utility. However, if space is your main priority, then the Adidas bag is likely the best choice. 

You can check out our review of the UnderArmour range of backpacks here.


People Also Ask (FAQs)

If you didn’t find the information you were looking for above, check out these frequently asked questions relating to the Adidias Urban Utility backpack. 

Are Adidas Urban Utility backpacks waterproof? 

No. Although the backpack might keep your belongings dry in a light shower, Adidas does not list this as a waterproof backpack. Therefore, you should look for other options if you’re planning to use this for serious outdoor activities.  

Check out our review o waterproof backpacks here.

Is Adidas Urban Utility backpack a laptop backpack? 

While it's not technically listed as a 'laptop backpack,' it does have an integrated laptop sleeve, so it can be used to safely transport your laptop. However, if laptop security is what you’re looking for, a dedicated laptop bag like the SwissGear ScanSmart may be more suitable.

Is Adidas Urban Utility backpack good for travel? 

Yes. Although small in size, it can store quite a lot thanks to the top-loading design. It’s perfect for use as carry-on luggage on flights and has enough space for 1-2 days worth of clothing.  

Is Adidas Urban Utility backpack good for school? 

Yes. The stylish design and branding may make the Adidias Urban Utility a popular option for schools, particularly amongst teenagers. It has room for laptops and various pockets that can be used to store all of your school essentials and sports kits.  


Conclusion

So there you have it, a full review of the Adidas Urban Utility III Backpack. If you’re keen to get your hands on one, head over to Amazon and choose your favorite color.  

If you’re still unsure if this is the backpack for you, be sure to explore some more of our reviews to find the right backpack for your needs. 

  • Updated October 26, 2021