If one thing has become clear in the last few years, the backpack has made a comeback. Flocking in abundance to the underground and the bus, commuters have shunned traditional briefcases for the traditional rucksack, favouring its comfort and practicality. But still safety is not always enough. Traditional backpack designs see back-facing zips begging for dishonest fellow travellers to slip open and pinch what they can whilst the discerning wearer is left oblivious. This is where the RiutBag comes in.

In March 2014 Sarah Giblin, commuter and rucksack user, thought – the conventional backpack is the wrong way round. This culminated in the RiutBag revolved by 180 with all zips against your back, abolishing those challenges urban travellers face.

Speaking of the brainwave she said: “When I designed the first RiutBag in 2013, I built it for the commuter and digital nomad. I want travellers and commuters to move around with peace of mind, thinking about the things they want to focus on. That’s why I removed all the zips from the outside of the RiutBag and planned them against your back. So, when you wear it, your zips are perfectly protected by your back.”

We recently tried out the RiutBag R25, the 25 litre version ideal for commuters, gadget lovers and travellers alike. Crafted from waterproof Cordura with a foam lining it is as versatile as it is sleek, making it ideal for taking to the office, but also to withstand a weekend of camping or for a long trek in the countryside. It contains a large main compartment for storing your larger belongings, two large pockets for drinks bottles and two exterior zip pockets for quick access to things like your wallet or phone (again at the back to prevent theft.) Whilst the bag is undeniably hard-wearing, it also ensures comfort is paramount, with plenty of padding to the back and a chest strap for more strenuous journeys.

The size of the bag(55cm x 40cm x 20cm) also means it fits just inside the carry-on limit for planes accepting up to this on board (be sure to check with your airline before you travel), making it the ideal travelling bag.

The RiutBag R25 is priced at £129, but well worth it. It is comfortable through-and-through, practical and so diverse it will carry you from work to weekend, leaving your belongings safe, secure and protected throughout. It is sleek and smart and something you can feel proud to carry no matter the situation. The RiutBag R25 proves that going backwards can sometimes be the best way of going forwards.