Mystery Ranch

Catalyst 26 Backpack

Simple, functional, perfect!

As a long-time loyal Arc’teryx customer, I’ve always appreciated their build quality. However, recent experiences pushed me to explore other brands, leading me to the Mystery Ranch Catalyst 26 after extensive research. I’ve been using this bag as my daily EDC for the past few months, and I have nothing but good things to say. Design & Accessibility The tri-zip access is outstanding, allowing incredibly easy entry into the main compartment. The zippers feel solid, smooth, and well-engineered—Mystery Ranch clearly put thought into every detail. Build Quality & Durability No surprises here—the craftsmanship is fantastic. From the materials to the stitching, everything feels built to last. I have no doubt this pack will withstand the test of time as an EDC workhorse. Comfort & Fit At 5’7” and 175 lbs, the Catalyst 26 fits me perfectly. The weight distribution is spot-on, and the padding makes it extremely comfortable, even when fully loaded. Ventilation is another huge plus—unlike my experience with Arc’teryx, my back stays noticeably drier even after hours of hiking. Minor Drawback: Water Bottle Pockets The only shortcoming for me is the water bottle pockets—they’re a bit too loose to securely hold a standard bottle, especially when bending over. That said, I personally prefer carrying my bottle inside, so this isn’t a dealbreaker. Plus, this design choice contributes to the pack’s sleek, streamlined look. Final Verdict: 5/5 Stars The Catalyst 26 is an absolute winner. With its thoughtful design, top-tier build quality, and exceptional comfort, I highly recommend it to anyone looking for a reliable EDC or hiking pack.

Great Pack

Overall a great EDC pack. I like all of the organization and the separate laptop pocket. I actually bought the pack because I bought a larger laptop (older eyes). The one downside is that it won’t stand on its own without something in the bottom of the pack.

Exactly what I was looking for except one problem

I bought this bag when it was on sale, and I was extremely happy with its quality and features. Unfortunately, it has one flaw in my opinion: the water bottle pockets on the sides are a bit too small for my Nalgene 32 oz bottle. It fits, but just barely. I have to set the bag down and use both hands to stretch and push the water bottle in. As a result, I returned it and opted for the Dragon 2.0. Although it is much more expensive, the water bottle pockets on that model should be standard on every MR bag.

Great Bag

Bought this bag for Medical School, fits everything I need and more, and keeps it organized and easy to access.

Almost great

Overall the bag is good. None of the pockets inside or out have any sort of give. It would be great if there was some elasticity to the pockets. Otherwise great bag

High hopes. Disappointed.

Familiarity:

I've put it through the wringer

Bottles fall right out of the pockets. Zippers have too much resistance so it’s a pain to open and close. The back panel has deformed after 7 months and now pokes me in the upper back and rubs, making the bag now essentially unusable. I suspect this is due to a design flaw of some of the inner organization pockets being too tight to actually put anything in them without bending the panel.

love how it opens from top or front

Bought this bag for travel and also as a baby bag. I felt it was the perfect size, had good compartments and can be opened from the top or front so if I need a specific item I don't have to dig everything out to get to it. It's multi use is great and it's a good looking bag as well. I would recommend. Also shipped within the same week!

Good travel pack

I brought this to replace another back pack from a different company where the straps weren’t sewn on correctly and tore. The mystery ranch bag looks much nicer and more solidly made. The contrasting interior is nice and it’s a good size for the plane and taking to a class. I travel a lot for training so this is ideal for me

Should bought it earlier

I have tried a lot of backpacks for my daily commute, this one is the best so far. It looks clean, not having bunch webbings or cords on the outside of the bag is a key. It doesn’t look “tactical”, so it is kind discrete. I have a 16inch laptop, which fit in the there perfectly.

This one stands up!

I have the urban assault 24 and I love it. There are two features on that pack that I’m not a fan of. The water bottle holders and it won’t stand… well they did make some upgrades the bottle holders are a little better. Wish they would expand though. And the main feature upgrade I noticed. It stands on its own. I do think the top pouch is slightly smaller. It seems like a little taller and narrower design with works well. All around love the pack. I think even better than thr urban assault.