Quick Answer: Volcom or RVCA?

Choose Volcom if you want a well-documented 24L school or commuter backpack with double main compartments, separate padded laptop storage, interior organization, and two bottle pockets. The Volcom Roamer 3 is the clearest all-around reference model.

Choose RVCA if you want a more specialized layout. The RVCA EDC Skate Backpack explicitly includes adjustable skate straps and a cooler-lined bottle pocket, while the Pullguard provides top-loading access, a separate padded laptop compartment, internal organization, and external cinch straps. The Estate II is a simpler compact option at approximately 21L.

There is no universal winner. Volcom offers the easier everyday recommendation; RVCA offers several distinct configurations for skate carry, top-loading access, or lighter daily loads. Compare the exact generation and product listing because features should never be transferred from one model to an entire brand.

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Volcom vs RVCA Backpacks at a Glance

The Exact Models Behind This Comparison

Four products provide the most useful evidence. The Volcom Roamer 3 is a 24L everyday model measuring 18 by 12.25 by 4.25 inches. Its listing specifies two main compartments, a separate padded laptop compartment, a front zip pocket with organization, two bottle pockets, padded straps, and 100% polyester construction.

The RVCA Estate II is listed at approximately 21L. It has adjustable mesh-padded shoulder straps, stretch-mesh side compartments, and three zippered compartments. Its product information supplies a useful capacity reference but does not document the same laptop arrangement as Roamer 3.

The RVCA EDC Skate Backpack uses a single zip main compartment with a zipper flap, padded laptop sleeve, second large zip pocket, cooler-lined side bottle pocket, and adjustable skate straps. It is the clearest skate-specific choice in this comparison.

The RVCA Pullguard Backpack uses a top-load zip main compartment with a lid pocket, separate padded laptop compartment, front U-zip compartment with internal organization, two mesh bottle pockets, and external cinch straps. Its listed package dimensions are 20 by 11 by 5.7 inches, but package dimensions should not be treated as exact usable bag dimensions.

Capacity and Daily Packing

The Estate II is the only compared RVCA model with a clear liter rating in the retrieved details: approximately 21L. That makes it a reasonable option for a lighter school or day load, such as a device, several notebooks, accessories, and a compact lunch. Three zippered compartments help divide that space, although the listing does not explain their exact internal proportions.

Volcom’s Roamer 3 moves to 24L and combines that size with double main compartments. It should provide more breathing room for a normal school day while preventing books, clothing, or lunch from occupying a single undivided cavity. Its separate laptop section also preserves usable main-compartment space.

The RVCA EDC Skate and Pullguard descriptions do not publish capacities, so it would be misleading to invent liters from package measurements or photographs. Their layouts matter more than an unsupported size comparison. EDC Skate dedicates exterior structure to board carry and special bottle storage. Pullguard favors top-loading access, a front organizer, and external compression or cinch control.

Write down the items carried most often. If the list is mostly books, computer, lunch, and water, Roamer 3 is the easiest model to evaluate. If the list includes a skateboard, EDC Skate’s documented straps are more important than a capacity estimate. If bulky layers or tall items are common, Pullguard’s top-loading layout may be more convenient, but confirm current dimensions before purchasing.

Compare available Volcom backpack sizes on Amazon

Laptop Carry: Separate Compartment or Internal Sleeve?

Roamer 3 and Pullguard both specify separate padded laptop storage. That structure allows the device to remain independent from the primary cargo area, which is useful for school security checks, commuting, or frequent computer access. Roamer 3 combines it with two main compartments; Pullguard combines it with a top-load main compartment and front U-zip organizer.

EDC Skate lists a padded laptop sleeve rather than a separate compartment. A sleeve can still protect a device from direct contact with other contents, but it commonly shares the opening and interior volume with the main load. Estate II’s retrieved feature list does not specify laptop padding, so shoppers should not assume it has a protected computer area simply because it is an everyday backpack.

No model description reviewed here provides every internal measurement needed to promise that all 15-inch or 16-inch laptops will fit. Screen size is diagonal and ignores chassis width, depth, thickness, and any protective case. Measure the actual device and compare it with the seller’s current compartment measurements. The Volcom laptop fit guide explains the process.

Choose Roamer 3 for conventional zippered separation and a familiar school layout. Choose Pullguard when top-loading main access and separate device storage work better together. Choose EDC Skate only after confirming that an internal sleeve meets your access and protection needs.

Browse current Volcom laptop backpack listings on Amazon

Skateboard Carry: RVCA Has the Verified Advantage

The RVCA EDC Skate Backpack has the strongest evidence for functional skateboard carry because the listing specifically identifies adjustable skate straps. This distinction matters. Skate branding, graphics, or a brand’s history does not prove that a particular backpack can secure a deck.

The EDC model also includes a second large zip pocket and cooler-lined bottle pocket. That combination fits a skate-day routine: the board can stay outside, smaller gear can remain separate, and a drink has dedicated insulated storage. A cooler lining may slow temperature change, but it should not be interpreted as refrigeration or a guarantee about how long contents stay cold.

Pullguard lists external cinch straps, but the retrieved product copy does not explicitly call them skateboard straps. Do not use generic compression hardware for a board unless current manufacturer information confirms the intended load. Roamer 3 similarly lacks documented board straps in the details reviewed here.

When board carry is essential, inspect current images for strap placement, buckle strength, grip-tape contact, wheel clearance, and blocked pocket access. Verify that the system tightens around the deck and remains stable while walking. Our skateboard backpack guide explains how to distinguish skate styling from a real carry system.

Organization and Access

Volcom Roamer 3 uses a conventional organization map: two main compartments, separate laptop storage, front organizer, and bottle pockets. This is easy to understand and suits students or commuters who want predictable access without learning a specialized closure.

RVCA Estate II has three zippered compartments and stretch-mesh side sections. It offers useful division in a smaller stated capacity, though its retrieved description lacks the detailed internal organizer and laptop wording found on the other models.

EDC Skate has one primary compartment, a large secondary zip pocket, laptop sleeve, special bottle pocket, and external board straps. Its organization is purpose-driven rather than symmetrical. Pullguard is the most distinctive: a top-load main section, lid pocket, separate laptop area, U-shaped front compartment with internal organization, side bottle pockets, and cinch straps.

Top loaders can accommodate tall or awkward items and keep the opening away from the back panel, but items at the bottom may take longer to retrieve. Panel-loading backpacks such as Roamer are often easier when books and folders must be seen at once. Choose based on access frequency, not merely pocket count.

Comfort and Stability

Comfort depends on body shape, strap geometry, padding, packed weight, and how the load is arranged. Estate II specifically lists adjustable mesh-padded shoulder straps. Roamer 3 lists padded shoulder straps. The retrieved EDC Skate and Pullguard descriptions emphasize storage more than detailed back-panel or sternum-strap construction.

A skateboard carried outside changes leverage and balance. Tighten EDC Skate’s board straps so the deck cannot swing, and keep dense interior items close to the back. Avoid overfilling the pack simply because the board remains external. Inspect attachment points regularly because grip tape and hardware can create abrasion.

Pullguard’s external cinch straps may help reduce movement when the bag is partially filled. Cinch them evenly and keep zipper tracks unobstructed. For every model, adjust both shoulder straps to equal length and keep the backpack high enough that it does not sway against the lower back.

Published features cannot guarantee personal comfort. If possible, test the packed bag indoors while the seller’s return period remains open. Stop using a setup that causes numbness, sharp pressure, or persistent pain, and reduce unnecessary load.

Materials, Construction, and Durability

Roamer 3 specifies durable 100% polyester. EDC Skate and Pullguard descriptions also identify polyester construction. Estate II’s retrieved feature list does not provide a detailed fabric denier. These facts do not support a blanket claim that one brand lasts longer.

Polyester is common in everyday backpacks because it can balance weight, abrasion resistance, and cost, but fabric name alone is not a durability grade. Zipper construction, seam reinforcement, thread, strap anchoring, coatings, and daily load all influence lifespan. Model generations can also change while retaining similar names.

Inspect stress points where shoulder straps meet the body, where skateboard straps attach, and around top-load hardware. Do not use exterior straps beyond their documented purpose or load them with sharp objects. Keep skateboard grip tape from rubbing directly against fabric whenever possible.

Follow the sewn-in care label. A gentle spot-cleaning process is generally safer than machine washing unless the manufacturer expressly permits machine care. Heat can damage foam, coatings, and adhesives. See the backpack cleaning guide for a practical low-risk method.

Water Resistance and Weather

Neither brand should be assumed waterproof. The Roamer 3, Estate II, EDC Skate, and Pullguard details reviewed here do not provide an IP rating, seam-sealing standard, submersion depth, or test duration. Polyester construction alone is not proof that the complete bag keeps water out.

EDC Skate’s cooler-lined bottle pocket is designed around beverage storage; it does not establish weather protection for the main compartment. Pullguard’s top lid may change how the opening faces rain, but closure shape is not a waterproof certification. External skate and cinch straps likewise say nothing about zipper or seam resistance.

For light rain, check current seller claims for coatings, zipper design, and protected seams. For electronics or documents, use an inner waterproof sleeve or dry bag when meaningful exposure is possible. For boats, paddling, or submersion risk, choose equipment with a suitable published rating.

The Volcom Forecast Dry guide covers a separate Volcom model whose listing claims a waterproof main compartment. That claim should remain limited to the named compartment and model; it does not transfer to Roamer 3 or the whole Volcom catalog.

See Volcom everyday and water-focused backpack options on Amazon

Style and Routine

Volcom and RVCA both carry skate, surf, and streetwear associations, but the compared models express them differently. Roamer 3 has a conventional school silhouette and raised branding, making it easy to use beyond action sports. Estate II is similarly understated, with rubber branding and branded lashing.

EDC Skate communicates function more directly through visible board straps. Pullguard has a utility-oriented shape because of its top-load structure, lid pocket, U-zip organizer, and cinch straps. These features can look more technical but should be chosen for usefulness rather than appearance alone.

Black and dark neutral colorways usually hide marks and transition easily between school, commuting, and casual settings. Camo, brighter colors, and seasonal graphics can be easier to identify but may be tied to older inventory. Always compare the actual listing photos because logo placement, lining, hardware, and pockets may change across versions.

Best Backpack by Use Case

Best all-around school backpack: Volcom Roamer 3

The 24L capacity, two main compartments, separate padded laptop section, organizer, and two bottle pockets form the most complete conventional school layout.

Best lighter everyday backpack: RVCA Estate II

Estate II’s approximately 21L capacity and three zippered compartments work for a relatively light daily load. Confirm laptop protection separately because its retrieved details do not specify a padded computer section.

Best for skateboarding: RVCA EDC Skate

EDC Skate wins through documented adjustable skateboard straps. Its padded laptop sleeve, secondary pocket, and cooler-lined bottle pocket add useful everyday functionality.

Best for top-loading organization: RVCA Pullguard

Pullguard is the specialized choice for users who prefer access from the top, a lid pocket, separate laptop storage, front U-zip organization, bottle pockets, and exterior cinch straps.

Best for predictable laptop access: Volcom Roamer 3 or RVCA Pullguard

Both list a separate padded laptop compartment. Roamer uses a conventional double-compartment school layout; Pullguard combines computer separation with a top-loading main section.

Value and Buying Checklist

Value changes with inventory, seller, colorway, model age, and current price. A discounted backpack is not a bargain if the device does not fit, the closure style slows daily access, or needed skateboard straps are absent. Compare total delivered cost and current seller policies.

• Write down the normal load: Include books, electronics, lunch, bottles, clothing, and skate gear.
• Measure the laptop: Screen size is not enough; include chassis dimensions and any protective case.
• Verify skateboard hardware: EDC Skate documents adjustable skate straps; do not infer the feature from branding.
• Choose access style: Roamer is conventionally divided, while Pullguard is top loading.
• Check the exact generation: Estate, Estate II, EDC, Pullguard, and Roamer versions may differ.
• Interpret special pockets literally: Cooler lining is not refrigeration or whole-bag waterproofing.
• Confirm seller terms: Amazon or the applicable seller handles purchases, delivery, returns, and warranty matters.

Browse the Volcom backpack collection and read the complete Volcom backpack guide to compare additional documented options.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Are Volcom or RVCA backpacks better?

Volcom is the easier all-around choice through the organized 24L Roamer 3. RVCA is stronger when a specialized model such as EDC Skate or top-loading Pullguard matches the routine.

Which RVCA backpack carries a skateboard?

The RVCA EDC Skate listing specifically identifies adjustable skate straps. Do not assume every RVCA model, or every skate-branded backpack, has functional board carry.

Which backpack is better for a laptop?

Volcom Roamer 3 and RVCA Pullguard both list separate padded laptop compartments. EDC Skate lists an internal padded sleeve. Measure the device because no brand label guarantees fit.

How large is the RVCA Estate II?

Its listing states approximately 21L. That is smaller than the 24L Volcom Roamer 3, though usable space also depends on compartment proportions and packing shape.

Are RVCA backpacks waterproof?

The compared RVCA listings do not establish IP-rated or submersible protection. Polyester, a lid, or cooler-lined pocket should not be interpreted as complete waterproofing.

Is Volcom Roamer 3 good for school?

Its 24L capacity, two main sections, separate padded laptop area, front organizer, bottle pockets, and padded straps make it a strong school layout when its dimensions fit the user and load.

What is special about RVCA Pullguard?

Pullguard combines a top-load main compartment, lid pocket, separate padded laptop storage, front U-zip organizer, side bottle pockets, and external cinch straps.

How should I clean a Volcom or RVCA backpack?

Follow the care label. Empty and vacuum the bag, spot clean gently with mild soap unless machine washing is explicitly allowed, and air dry away from direct heat.

Final Verdict

Choose Volcom Roamer 3 for the most balanced everyday backpack. Its 24L size, double main compartments, separate laptop storage, organizer, and bottle pockets make it easy to recommend for school and commuting.

Choose RVCA when a particular specialist feature matters. Estate II is the compact 21L option, EDC Skate is the verified skateboard-carry choice, and Pullguard is the top-loading organizational alternative with separate laptop access.

Match the model to the routine instead of choosing solely by brand. Verify laptop dimensions, capacity, current photos, skateboard hardware, weather claims, and seller terms. That model-level comparison produces a more reliable purchase than any blanket Volcom-versus-RVCA verdict.

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