For avid tennis players, having a tennis backpack that keeps you organized and prepared on the court is a given. However, if you are like me, you may want even more from your tennis backpack in other aspects of your life off the court. Versatility was a key focus when designing the Axiom Backpack 2.0, and I wanted to really put it to the test on a recent trip to the Acadia National Forest in Maine. This trip, which included my wife and 6-year-old son, tested the backpack in various environments and activities, proving its versatility and durability. Here’s a day-by-day account of our trip and how the Axiom Backpack 2.0, the best selling tennis bag, performed during our adventure.
Day 1: Hiking the Gorge Trail to Cadillac Mountain
Our adventure began with an energizing hike up the Gorge Trail to the top of Cadillac Mountain. The Gorge Trail is a moderately challenging route known for its steep, rocky sections and beautiful forested areas. If I’m being honest, it was probably a little more than my 6-year-old son should have handled, but being newbies to the area, we tackled it head-on, and he did great. As we set out, the sky was overcast, hinting at a potentially cloudy view from the summit, but we trekked on.
The Axiom Backpack 2.0 proved its worth right from the start. The ergonomic design and premium shoulder straps made it easy to carry, even with a full load of hiking essentials for the whole family. This lightweight tennis bag is made with multiple compartments which allows efficient organization of our gear. The main compartment held our extra layers of clothing, as the weather was unpredictable, while the front pocket was perfect for snacks and quick access to my phone for pictures and videos.
As we ascended, the trail became much steeper and at times concerningly challenging. The backpack’s resistant and durable construction was evident as it withstood the rough terrain without showing signs of wear. The reinforced zippers and tough material gave me confidence that it could handle anything the trail threw at us.
Reaching the summit, we were met with a thick layer of clouds, obscuring the much-talked-about breathtaking views. Despite the disappointment, the Axiom Backpack 2.0 had kept our gear dry and secure throughout the hike. Its water-resistant properties were crucial in this misty environment, ensuring our belongings stayed protected.
Day 2: Exploring Jordan Pond and Bubble Rock
On the second day, we embarked on a more novice hike around Jordan Pond, a serene body of water with crystal-clear reflections of the surrounding mountains. The trail around the pond is relatively easy, providing a pleasant walk with stunning views. Our goal was to hike to the top of Bubble Rock, a large, precariously balanced boulder offering panoramic vistas.
The hike up to Bubble Rock was a bit more strenuous, involving some scrambling over rocks. It was too dangerous and technical for our 6-year-old, so my wife and I each took turns hiking the apex while the other stayed back with our son. The backpack’s adjustable straps ensured a snug fit, preventing it from shifting during this very challenging apex climb. The padded back panel provided excellent support, reducing strain on my back even with the added weight. After reaching the top of Bubble Rock, I took in some of the most breathtaking views I’ve ever seen during all my years of hiking.
Later, we revisited Cadillac Mountain, this time driving to the summit and parking for a clear view. The view from Cadillac Mountain was as-advertised and well worth the extra time to come back.
On our way back to the hotel, we made a quick stop at Thunder Hole, a natural rock inlet where waves crash with a thunderous sound. The Axiom Backpack 2.0’s water-resistant material came in handy here, protecting our gear from the unexpected sea spray as we marveled at the powerful waves.
Day 3: Bar Island Trail and Whale Watching
The third day began with a meandering walk along the Bar Island Trail, accessible only at low tide. This unique trail leads to Bar Island, providing a fascinating experience of walking on the ocean floor. The terrain is a mix of sandy and rocky areas and includes sea glass which my son enjoyed collecting and storing inside the side elastic pocket of my Axiom 2.0 Backpack.
In the afternoon, we embarked on a whale-watching tour from Bar Harbor Whale Watch Co., an experience my wife and son were particularly excited about. I tend to get motion sickness, so I was a bit nervous about the trip and took some Dramamine about an hour before the tour began. This proved to be a wise decision as many passengers on the boat became sick about 2 hours into the voyage. The backpack’s adaptability was crucial here. It needed to carry our essentials for a 5 ½ hour boat trip, including accessory, jackets, sweatshirts, snacks, water, and binoculars. The water-resistant material ensured everything stayed dry too as we occasionally were sprayed by the ocean waters.
The boat ride was a huge success, and we spotted 4 distinct whales multiple times over the course of an hour or so. This was our first time ever seeing a whale, and all of us were floored by the experience. I highly recommend a whale-watching tour if you’ve never been. We also saw several porpoises and an interesting Basking Shark.
Day 4: Tennis and Travel
No trip with an Axiom Backpack 2.0 can be complete without a little tennis. Our final day at the Harborside Hotel started with a morning tennis session. Considering the Axiom Backpack 2.0 is my go-to racquet bag for light tennis sessions at home, I’m already very familiar with how well it performs on the court. A pleasant surprise, however, is how easy it is to transition the bag from one activity to another.
After our family tennis session, it was time to pack up and head home. The Axiom Backpack 2.0 again made this transition effortlessly. Its sturdy and spacious interior accommodated our flight essentials and my laptop for the air travel back home, and the ergonomic straps made everything feel light when racing from one terminal to another.
Daily Pool Visits
Throughout our stay, we enjoyed daily visits to the pool at the Harborside Hotel. The Axiom Backpack 2.0, once again, catered to our poolside needs with ease. Its divided main compartment was perfect for separating water bottles from towels, and the waterproof side compartment was great for storing my son’s wet bathing suit when he was done swimming.
Wrapping Up
The Axiom Backpack 2.0 proved its worth and versatility during our family adventure to Acadia National Forest. It handled everything from rugged hikes to casual sightseeing, whale watching, tennis sessions, and daily pool visits with ease. Its durability, organization, and subtle modern design make it the ideal choice for avid tennis players who lead an active, multifaceted lifestyle.
Whether you’re heading to a tennis tournament, embarking on an outdoor adventure, or simply enjoying a family vacation, the Axiom Backpack 2.0 has got you covered. Visit the Geau Sport website to explore the Axiom Backpack 2.0 and discover why it’s the perfect companion for your active lifestyle.
Ready to elevate your tennis and adventure experiences? Visit Geau Sport for more details on the Axiom Backpack 2.0 and explore our range of premium tennis bags, including the best selling tennis bag designed for the avid tennis player.