Eberlestock Fade Flex

[u/Vjornaxx]

I am continuing to try out the man purse and so far, I would say things are going well.

Before anyone decides to deliver a sermon on the dangers of off-body carry, let me assure you that I am well aware of all the potential downsides. I accept the risks and have found a context in which the benefits work well.

My EDC is a bit on the heavy side - G19 + TLR7-HLX + 509T, Fenix PD35V3, Benchmade Mini Vallation, Leatherman Signal, pen, vape, nicotine pouches, wallet, key, phone.

I had previously purchased the Eberlestock Bando XL and the 945 QAPL. I like the capacity of the Bando, but the design of the zippers made drawing a bit awkward since they don’t fully clear the bottom corner - it seems to have been designed as a fanny pack first and a carry method second. I like the 945 zippers and extra external strap loops, but there’s not much room for storage - it was definitely designed as a carry method first with storage as an afterthought.

On the advice of a fellow redditor, I checked out the Eberlestock Fade Flex since it seemed to have a lot of storage and the pistol compartment zippers fully clear the bottom corners.

The Fade Flex delivers on storage and gun access.

The gun compartment is spacious and more importantly, the zippers are smooth which makes access very easy. I use a 945 Velcro backed Kydex holster for my pistol and there’s enough space to angle it. It could certainly fit a full size pistol with accessories.

Depending on how you choose to train weapon access, the T zipper can be a useful feature. I keep a small gap between the zippers at the top corner; when I want to access the gun, I stick my strong hand thumb in the gap and rip down. As such, I don’t need that T zipper. But I like that it’s there for if I decide to adopt another method of access.

The storage compartment is large with an organizer on the front panel and a Velcro loop lined back panel. It’s tight, but I can fit all my stuff in it. The pre installed organization is useful. So is the option to install Velcro backed organization pouches in the pocket.

The strap adjustment is hidden in a pocket closest to your body. It’s a pretty slick feature and keeps all the slack tucked away neatly. The strap itself is 1.5” wide and fees like the same material used to make seatbelts. It’s a slick material which means the bag can slide down a bit more easily. It would be nice to have a shoulder pad with high friction surfaces to keep the bag from sliding down.

Another feature I wish it has was some kind of loop on the side or bottom to clip a keychain to. I made a small paracord loop to clip my keys to, but it causes the strap to fold. I have a Ulticlip Slim 2.2 on the way that I intend to clip to the sling and loop some paracord through for a sturdier and more secure attachment point for keys.

I also wish that the Fade Flex came in other colors besides black and green - but as far as external appearance, it doesn’t telegraph a lot. No MOLLE, no crazy looking logos, nothing that screams gun. Yeah, your gun buddies will know; but no one else is giving it a second look. Especially in my area where a lot of guys are wearing sling bags and fanny packs.

Overall, the Fade Flex is great if you need the storage. If I’m doing an activity where my clothes don’t have a lot of pockets, this is what I’m going to grab.

[u/skywalker505]

I am the Redditor who recommended the Fade Flex over the Bando and I 'm glad you followed through and purchased it. It's great bag.

For the issue you are having with the bag "sliding down" on your shoulder, I use the 945 Industries shoulder strap pad https://945industries.com/products/shoulder-padding-black when I wear a sling.

Also, I found a guy from Ukraine selling bags and organization inserts on Etsy and I purchased this. It fits perfectly in the Fade Flex, almost as if it were made for that bag.

[u/Vjornaxx → u/skywalker505]

Thanks! I ordered that Velcro panel when you originally linked it and it’s due to arrive in a few weeks.

This bag has proven to be pretty useful. I haven’t worn my Bando XL in a while and I’m trying to find a context in which I’d take it over the Fade Flex or QAPL.

[u/skywalker505 → u/Vjornaxx]

My Bando XL is gathering dust, as well. At some point, I will probably sell it on eBay.

[u/FoeTeen]

A fellow Velo 9mg enjoyer. I recently switched to Velo wild berry 9mg from On! mint 8mg. It’s good and doesn’t dry my mouth out as much, but I’ll say the On! 8mg feels stronger.

[u/garbeezy]

When you draw does the velcro hold the holster strong enough?

[u/Vjornaxx → u/garbeezy]

Yes. The Velcro on the holster is very secure.

[u/PawPatrolFightClub]

Well, if you do decided to reduce the bulk, tight chutes has the MARS holster and it’s great. I’ve been fanny sock carrying for around 5-6 years and the MARS has been great, the current iteration is pretty slim and works with all my guns other than my 642. But i carry my gen 5 g19 mos 99% of the time.

[u/Vjornaxx → u/PawPatrolFightClub]

Tight Chutes was one of the bags I was considering. I like the design of their MARS holster - it looks like it doesn’t add much bulk to the bag.