Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack Review: Versatile Accessory for Your Backpack

When you're out exploring with your favorite backpack, there's always that moment when you need to carry something extra—a wet jacket, a tripod, or a water bottle that doesn't fit inside. That's where the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack comes in. This simple yet clever accessory is designed to add external lashing points to your bag, making it easier to secure gear on the outside. In this review, we'll take a close look at the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack and see how it performs with popular NOMATIC packs like the Navigator RS Pack 15L and the Navigator Sling 10L.

The Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack consists of two elastic cords with plastic hooks on each end. They're meant to be attached to compatible daisy chains or webbing loops on your backpack. The idea is straightforward: stretch the cord over an item and hook it to secure it. But does it hold up in real-world use? Let's dive into the details.

Design and Build Quality

The Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack is made from durable elastic cord with reinforced plastic hooks. The hooks are designed to clip securely onto standard backpack webbing, such as the daisy chains found on many NOMATIC bags. The cords are about 12 inches long when relaxed and can stretch to roughly 24 inches, giving you plenty of flexibility to secure items of various sizes. The elastic is strong enough to hold a lightweight tripod or a rolled-up jacket without sagging.

One thing I appreciate is the simplicity. There are no moving parts or complicated mechanisms—just two cords with hooks. This makes them incredibly easy to use and almost impossible to break under normal conditions. The hooks have a small locking tab that prevents accidental detachment, which adds a layer of security when you're on the move.

• Strong elastic cord with reinforced plastic hooks
• Hooks fit standard daisy chains and webbing
• Approximately 12 inches relaxed, stretches to 24 inches
• Locking tab on hooks for secure attachment

Compatibility with NOMATIC Bags

The Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack is designed to work with any bag that has compatible daisy chains or webbing loops. I tested them on the Navigator RS Pack 15L and the Navigator Sling 10L, both of which have external webbing that the hooks fit perfectly. On the Navigator RS Pack 15L, I attached the cords to the front daisy chain to secure a lightweight jacket. On the Navigator Sling 10L, I used them on the side compression straps to hold a small water bottle.

If you own a bag without daisy chains, like the McKinnon Camera Messenger 13L, you can still use the shock cords by threading them through other loops or attachment points. However, for best results, a bag with dedicated webbing is ideal. The cords are also useful for cinching down a partially filled bag or keeping loose items from shifting.

• Works best with daisy chain webbing
• Compatible with Navigator RS Pack 15L, Navigator Sling 10L, and many other NOMATIC bags
• Can be used on bags without daisy chains with some creativity

Real-World Performance

I used the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack during a day hike and a city commute. On the hike, I attached a lightweight tripod to the side of my Navigator RS Pack 15L. The cords held the tripod securely even when I was scrambling over rocks. The locking hooks never came loose, and the elastic didn't show any signs of wear. For the commute, I used one cord to hold a folded umbrella against the front of my Navigator Sling 10L. It was convenient to access without opening the bag.

One minor issue: if you're carrying a heavy or bulky item, the cords may not provide enough tension to keep it from bouncing. They're best suited for lightweight items like jackets, hats, or small tripods. For heavier gear, you might need multiple cords or a dedicated strap system. Also, the hooks can be a bit fiddly to attach with one hand, but you get used to it.

• Secure hold for lightweight items
• Easy to attach and remove
• Not recommended for heavy or bulky loads

Pros and Cons

Like any accessory, the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack has its strengths and weaknesses. Here's a quick breakdown to help you decide if it's right for you.

• Pros: Simple design, durable materials, versatile attachment points, affordable price, adds external carry capacity without bulk.
• Cons: Limited to lightweight items, hooks can be tricky with one hand, not all bags have compatible webbing.

Final Verdict

The Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack is a small but mighty accessory that enhances the functionality of your backpack. It's especially useful for travelers, hikers, and commuters who need to quickly secure extra gear on the outside of their bag. While it won't replace a dedicated compression system for heavy loads, it's perfect for lightweight items that you want to keep accessible.

If you already own a NOMATIC backpack with daisy chains, like the Navigator RS Pack 15L or the Navigator Sling 10L, adding the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack is a no-brainer. It's inexpensive, easy to use, and expands your bag's capabilities without adding weight or complexity.

In short, the Luma Shock Cord 2-Pack is a versatile and affordable accessory that every backpack user should consider. Whether you're lashing a jacket to your Navigator RS Pack 15L or securing a water bottle to your Navigator Sling 10L, these cords provide a reliable solution. For more ways to customize your carry, check out the full range of NOMATIC accessories and bags on the website.