They say legends never die. But in some cases, they just evolve. Arc’teryx launched its Veilance sub-brand as a way to transpose its legendary outdoor performance to urban environments. Its first day-pack for city use, the Nomin was an instant hit and is still one of our favorite EDC backpacks ever with its pared-back minimalism, waterproof face fabric laminate, and instant recognizability. It also birthed so much innovation from the brand, such as the AC2 (Advanced Composite Construction) that’s still used on the Granville lineup.
The Nomin was a staple in the brand’s lineup until last year, when it effectively disappeared from the catalog. Customers even reported getting vouchers for Nomin bags that needed repairs. Luckily, Arc’teryx has appointed a successor to the throne, and we like what we see so far.
Born in Vancouver, Refined Over a Decade
Built more like a hardshell jacket than a traditional bag, the Nomin earned a rabid following over three generations, it earned a rabid following (and a few detractors) for its AC2-laminated shell, near-invisible branding, and signature Warp Strength harness straps that distributed load while maintaining an impossibly clean profile. The connective tissue between it and its successor is clear as day.
Same DNA, New Body
The Anodic arrives with a noticeably more rectangular, boxy silhouette compared to the Nomin’s soft dome shape. The squarer geometry actually improves usable space for structured objects like camera cubes, a rare criticism that Nomin owners have been working around for years. The 20.5L main compartment includes a padded 16-inch laptop sleeve (now accessed from the top, not the side — a long-requested fix), internal mesh organization pockets, and two side pockets. The padded back panel is a step forward from the Nomin’s flat construction, and the whole thing is built from a 100% nylon shell with TPU welding and FC0 DWR waterproofing. It clocks in at 1.84lbs and comes in Black or the muted olive-green Gnosis colorway.
Not Perfect… Yet
There are a few things to flag, though. Early adopters have noted that the side pocket zipper sits at an angle that can scrape your hand on access — annoying for a $650 bag. The straps are thinner than the Nomin’s and prone to some dangling. And the laptop sleeve reportedly requires both hands. Arc’teryx has also only published exterior product photos, which, at this price point, feels like a misstep.
Spec Sheet
Model: Anodic Backpack
Capacity: 20.5L
Dimensions: 17.32″ x 11.02″ x 5.91″
Weight: 1.84lbs
Materials: Body — 100% Nylon with weldable PU + Clear TPU; Contrast — RecNylon DBL Weave Heavy Weight (49% Nylon, 42% Polyester, 9% Elastane); Lining — 210d Recycled Nylon
Laptop Sleeve: 16″ (padded)
Pockets: 2 side pockets, internal mesh organizational pockets
Water Resistance: FC0 DWR, PFAS compliant
Sustainability: bluesign® approved materials, recycled content lining
Colorways: Black, Gnosis
Price: $650
Pricing & Availability
The Arc’teryx Veilance Anodic Backpack is available now through Arc’teryx directly and select retailers at $650, which is slightly cheaper than the Nomin (so far).
Recap
Arc’teryx Veilance Anodic Backpack
Arc’teryx has officially replaced the legendary Nomin with the new Anodic Backpack — a sleeker, boxier 20.5L urban carry that fixes a few long-standing gripes while introducing a couple new ones of its own. At $650, it’s not for everyone, but for Veilance faithful who’ve been waiting for a worthy heir, it’s worth a serious look.
