Explore our full review of the Able Carry Core Sling & Mini – the compact travel sling with premium materials, modular carry and urban style.......
If you’ve spent any time in the world of “carry gear”, you’ll know Able Carry has quietly built a cult following thanks to their sleek design language, technical materials, and obsessively engineered bags.
After deep reviewing the slings on YT here— this is my full, in-depth review written out for you: the good, the great, and the “I wish they’d done this slightly differently”.
Let’s dive in.
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For how much they ask, the materials and design feel premium, the carry configuration is thoughtful, and the “mini” size option gives you a genuine alternative for ultra-light days.
That said — there are a few trade-offs (as always) that you should know about before you buy.
Why Able Carry?
A little context helps, especially for what you’re choosing.
The brand Able Carry sits in that sweet spot between fashion/urban carry and technical/functional gear.
Their strengths: choice of materials, design finesse, streamlined aesthetics, and a focus on carry ergonomics.
In previous reviews of their backpacks, I have praised the build and minimalist look.
For the Core Sling line, it feels like they channel a lot of that DNA into a compact format.
Ripstop version uses Cordura Re/Cor 210D + 1000D (in some areas)
Ultra version uses “Ultra 200x” fabric: blended woven Ultra-PE fibres (similar in concept to Dyneema) plus polyester reinforcement. It’s about 30% lighter than X-Pac VX21 in weight.
The UltraStretch fabric is described as snag and tear resistant elastic fabric reinforced with Ultra-PE fibres for long-term stretch performance.
Water resistance: PFAS-free DWR coating. Note: water resistant, not fully waterproof.
Extras: Modular strap setup (removable padded strap on the regular size), 360° swivel clips, multiple loop points, “Accordion Flex” layering design that lets the bag expand-compress up to ~2×.
Colour & Options
Available colours include Field Green, Midnight Blue, Ultra Black, Ultra Panda (on Ultra fabric version) — so you get some flexibility in style.
Who This Is For
Here’s my take on who should strongly consider this sling — and who perhaps should look elsewhere.
You should consider the Core Sling if you are:
An everyday minimal carryer: phone, wallet, keys, maybe a small charger or notebook. If your load is light and stands to be light, the 1.5-2.5 L range makes sense.
A commuter / urban user: the sling form works well when you’re walking, on public transport or cycling — quick access, front-swinging, compact profile.
Someone who values materials and design details: the fabrics here are high-end for this size of bag, the strap/clip options are more sophisticated than basic slings, and the look allows dress-up or casual.
A person who already carries a backpack and wants a supplementary small bag for “just the essentials” days. Because the size is compact, you could even tuck the sling into a larger bag when not worn.
Comfortable with single strap carry. If you’re okay with a sling across a shoulder (rather than dual strap backpack) and you’re usually carrying light, this works.
You shouldn’t get this if you:
Regularly carry heavier or bulkier loads (laptop, change of clothes, large water bottle). Sling bags redistribute weight less effectively than backpacks.
Are wearing the bag for long periods with a heavier load or need full day comfort. The single‐shoulder carry and compact size may start to feel limiting.
Need serious weather protection. The DWR makes the bag splash-resistant, but it is not fully waterproof for heavy rain or prolonged exposure.
Need lots of compartmentalisation or big capacity. At 1.5-2.5 L you’re in “essentials only” territory; if you’re packing multiple shape-varied items you may feel constrained.
Features in Use
Let’s look at how the Core Sling performs in real life — what works, what could be better, and what I found after everyday carry testing.
Good Stuff
The “Accordion Flex” concept: the bag expands when you have a few more items, and compresses when you don’t, which keeps the profile neat. Especially appreciated on errands or commute days when load fluctuates.
The UltraStretch fabric version (and even the Ripstop) feel premium: they handle everyday stress, the look is clean, and the strap/hardware feels robust. The modular strap with 360° swivel clips adds versatility: wear across the chest, side-sling, or even looser.
Organization: while it’s small, the bag has three compartments + internal dividers + an UltraStretch slip pocket so you’re not just throwing everything in a pouch. That helps keep things accessible (phone, wallet, etc) rather than rummaging.
Style: you could easily dress this up a bit (smart-casual) or wear it down for errands; the minimalist silhouette is a plus.
Colour and fabric options: offering both Ripstop and Ultra versions gives you a choice between “classic rugged” and “premium ultra-light/stretchy”.
Things That Could Be Better / Trade-offs
The water test!
While materials are great for water resistance, I personally prefer coated/invisible zippers or more “weather-sealed” zip tracks for prolonged downtime in rain. The zippers here aren’t explicitly heavy weather-proof.
The Mini size (1.5 L) is superb for ultra-light days, but I found it just small enough that the lack of a “secret pocket” or very hidden stash pocket was noticeable. For urban/subway carry I like at least one hidden back panel pocket for “just in case”.
For the regular Core Sling (2.5 L) the padded strap is a nice touch, but I’m not entirely convinced that a padded strap is absolutely necessary given the small size; it adds a bit of weight and bulk that may not pay off if you’re already carrying light.
Because it’s a single-strap sling, if you pack somewhat heavier or unevenly, you may feel the shift. A backpack still wins for weight distribution over extended wear.
This is my take on the Mini and regular size slings after some use!
On a commute: The sling sat neatly on one shoulder, it can swing it to the front when boarding transport or grabbing a coffee — the swivel clips and strap length adjustment made that easy. The profile stayed slim enough that it didn’t hit my backrest in the train.
On a short flight/layover: I haven't taken it on a flight YET, but you can use the 2.5 L version to carry passport, phone, glasses, small charger, earbuds, and snack. The Accordion Flex means it compresses when you have less gear, and expands when you add additional items (like a snack or charger).
For errands/city walk: The Mini version was ideal for “just phone, wallet, keys, small notebook” days. It was so light I forgot I had it on. However, when I tested it by slipping in a larger power bank and sunglasses case, the space got snug and I missed a little extra hidden pocket.
Weather: A light drizzle on one commute and the DWR held up fine — no soaking or visible leak. But I wouldn’t rely on it in a heavy downpour without cover.
Comparison with Competitors
To put the Core Sling in perspective, here are a couple of alternative slings worth knowing about:
AER Go Sling 2: A more “urban tech” oriented sling, well regarded for structured form and sleek design. Might have less stretch or the “accordion flex” feel that the Core has. Good for those who prefer rigid structure.
Osprey Daylite Sling: More minimalist, lighter capacity, less premium material finish compared to the Core, but strong in its own right. If you want ultra-light and don’t need premium fabric, this could be enough.
In other words: the Core Sling positions itself as a premium, designer-tech sling in a compact size — you’re paying a bit for materials, build and design versatility.
My Final Take
The Core Sling line from Able Carry hits a very good sweet spot: compact size for essentials, premium materials, thoughtfully designed carry and mounting options, and stylish enough for both urban daily carry and travel use. If I were choosing only one, I’d likely go for the regular 2.5 L Core Sling (unless I genuinely only ever carry the “super essentials”) because the extra room feels worth the modest size/weight increase. The Mini is still excellent if you’re very minimalist.
If I were nitpicking: I’d like one more hidden pocket in the Mini, and perhaps more weather-sealed zippers across the board (for heavy rain). Also, if you’re carrying more than “just the essentials”, you might run into the natural limits of a sling.
In terms of value, for what you’re getting the pricing is competitive for the quality and design. If you’re in the market for a compact sling and you appreciate premium fabrics and modular carry, this is a strong contender.
Would I recommend it? Yes — especially for commuters, city travellers, everyday carryers who want something stylish yet functional. If you align with the “light carry” philosophy and don’t need laptop + several bulky items, this is very much worth your attention.
Choose Ultra vs Ripstop based on budget vs weight vs stretch: Ultra is lighter and has the Ultra-PE fibre stretch fabric; Ripstop is still very good and probably more than adequate for many.
If buying from UK/Europe: Check shipping, duties, returns policy — the product page notes international shipping but buyer is responsible for duties.
Consider how you’ll carry: single strap across chest or side? The modular strap gives you flexibility — test both during setup.
Packing smart: since it’s compact, organise items well — use slip pockets for phone/wallet, keep bulk items minimal. The internal dividers help but aren’t endless.
Weather caution: good for splashes/light rain, but not for full downpour. If you expect heavy weather, consider a cover or a more weather-sealed bag.
If you already have a larger backpack and want a smaller bag for “just the essentials” days — this is a great secondary piece.
Colour choice: go with what fits your wardrobe and use-case. Ultra Panda gives a nice design twist; Ultra Black is stealthier.
Strap fit: Because it’s a sling, make sure strap length is adjusted so it sits comfortably on your body; you don’t want it bouncing or flopping if full.
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Fitness, mental health and, of course, travel! These are my big passions. And my job here as resident gear specialist is to trial all the latest and best travel gear. helping you decide what's worth buying and, more importantly, what's not!
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