Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack (Side Release Buckle) Review: Side Release Buckle & Comfort

The Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack (in both its versions) is a fun, sustainably built and lightweight belt bag that comes with me everywhere.

Whether I’m traveling on a road trip or a plane, or simply going out to buy groceries, I wear a belt bag to carry my essentials and not lose anything small. Of course, I like to look good while having this type of accessory with me for all times of day, and many kinds of trips.

In this review, learn about the Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack (Side Release Buckle) and why I find it to be a helpful fanny pack (that I wear a few ways) in its features, its benefits and its looks, with its sportier bold buckle.

The Score View detailed breakdown

4.38 / 5

The Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack (Side Release Buckle) is a lightweight, sustainable belt bag made from recycled plastic bottles that excels at daily use and travel. With its water-resistant phone pocket, mesh back panel and adjustable strap, it's an incredibly versatile fanny pack that packs small and offers excellent value, though it's not designed for those seeking flashy styling.

Check Prices

First impressions

With all Canvelle products, I am always impressed at how lightweight they are. The Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack with Side Release Buckle (formerly known as the Everyday Fanny) is no different, as the fabric is made of recycled plastic bottles and all the hardware and zippers are lightweight. There’s nothing to weigh it down.

As I explored the updated features, the things to note are the water-resistant phone pocket, the mesh back panel, the key ring clip (for holding onto my Canvelle wallet!) and the sturdy adjustable buckle.

The fit: What to know

As you can see in my photos, I’m short. I’m also petite! I rarely use the Canvelle products I have with much adjustment made to the straps, and I like to wear all my Canvelle belt bags, fannies and crossbody bags pretty tight. I don’t like when my bags jostle around.

What I can tell you about the fit, though, is that I’ve given Canvelle belt bags to friends and family over the years, and I’m always confident in the one-size-fits-all size of the adjustable shoulder straps.

The regular crossbody strap extends to 40” on the regular-sized fanny, and on the Oversized size, it extends to 34”.

Quality and details

I’ve had great luck with Canvelle quality over the years, and I’ve been wearing their fanny packs since 2022 when I got my first Oversized Classic Fanny Pack. Despite being so classic, timeless and “able to blend in,” I’ve gotten so many compliments on my Canvelle fanny packs over the years.

I think it’s because Canvelle is an emerging brand, and not everyone has seen a Canvelle bag. In fact, if I’m out shopping or at an event, and I see someone else with a Canvelle, I go over to say something to them because having Canvelle is kind of niche.

Anyway, with the quality and details: I find that the details with Canvelle fanny packs actually do pack a punch. It’s all in the day-to-day aspects that I really employ, like the inner mesh pockets, the back mesh panel, the super easily-adjusted shoulder strap that I change when I do back or front wearing and the key clip.

Usage review: how it’s working out

All my Canvelle bags get a ton of use. In fact, it’s why I get them all in versatile colors (I don’t get anything too stand-out) and mostly dark colors, too, to not show wear and tear, or stains and discolorations.

My Canvelle products come with me everywhere. I always leave the house with a belt bag, and my Canvelle fanny packs are the lightest-weight bags I have. I’ve gifted two to my mom over the years (she prefers the Canvelle Sling, like I mention in my Canvelle brand review), and she also appreciates the lightweight-ness.

Sustainability promises from Canvelle

The company has recycled over 2 million plastic bottles through their sustainable fabrics. The method of how the company makes the materials used across all the bags in all the product lines are through giving plastic bottles new life.

And if you’ve done as much reading about how doomed our planet is when it comes to waste like plastic bottles, this is pleasant news!

Why you might want it

My #1 reason to buy a Canvelle fanny pack bag is the lightweight build. I really have not owned a more lightweight, versatile and comfortable bag than my Canvelle Classic Fanny packs, and I have not only owned a few in different colors through the years, but I’ve also had them in both the strap versions, as well as in the original and oversized sizes.

There’s also the reason to want a Canvelle bag for the sustainability. The Canvelle fabrics are all consistent across the products, so you can mix (like I do) and match (among your wallet, wristlet strap, fanny pack or belt bag, duffel, weekender or backpack), and travel in style.

And lastly, Canvelle bags are machine-washable! If you get something messy on your Canvelle bag, you can pop it in your washer.

Why you might not want it

I can’t find many reasons to not want a Canvelle fanny pack, especially now that the side-release buckle version is a bit more unisex than the original Classic Fanny Pack with the gold hardware on the sides. Now, even men can enjoy (or share) Canvelle products with you (and they happen to have come out with suggested products for men who want to have Canvelle lifestyle bags).

You might not want a Canvelle bag if you truly want something with more pizzazz and style, like trims and bells and whistles.

Not me, though, as I like bags that I can pair with tons of outfits, and as always, I like the “lightweight” factor of all things Canvelle.

Detailed score breakdown

4.38 / 5

The Canvelle Classic Fanny Pack (Side Release Buckle) is a lightweight, sustainable belt bag made from recycled plastic bottles that excels at daily use and travel. With its water-resistant phone pocket, mesh back panel and adjustable strap, it's an incredibly versatile fanny pack that packs small and offers excellent value, though it's not designed for those seeking flashy styling.

Core functionality

90%

This fanny pack truly solves the quick-access essentials problem. I wear it everywhere, whether I'm traveling on a road trip or plane, or simply going out to buy groceries. It carries my essentials and helps me not lose anything small. The lightweight build makes it perfect for daily use.

Materials & build quality

88%

The fabric is made of recycled plastic bottles and all the hardware and zippers are lightweight. There's nothing to weigh it down. I've been wearing Canvelle fanny packs since 2022 and the quality has held up well. The details like the mesh back panel and key ring clip are thoughtful touches.

Organization & access speed

86%

The water-resistant phone pocket, mesh back panel and key ring clip help keep things organized. The interior layout is intuitive, and I can find what I need quickly. The adjustable strap makes it easy to access items whether I'm wearing it in front or back.

Security & closure confidence

84%

The zippers operate smoothly and feel durable. The water-resistant phone pocket adds an extra layer of security. While there aren't extensive security features like lockable zippers, the design keeps items secure during daily use and travel.

Wear comfort

90%

The lightweight build is incredibly comfortable. I like to wear my Canvelle belt bags pretty tight, and the adjustable strap extends to 40" on the regular size, which gives plenty of room for adjustment. The mesh back panel helps with breathability, which is nice during long days.

Durability & resilience

86%

I've been using Canvelle fanny packs since 2022 and they've held up well to daily use. The materials feel durable despite being lightweight, and the construction quality matches what I've come to expect from Canvelle. The fact that they're machine-washable helps maintain their appearance.

Weather resistance

82%

The water-resistant phone pocket provides protection from light rain and spills. The exterior fabric handles everyday weather well, though it's not fully waterproof. For typical travel use, the weather resistance is adequate.

Packability & footprint

92%

The lightweight design means it packs down small and doesn't take up much space in luggage. When I'm not wearing it, it easily fits into a backpack or tote. The compact size makes it perfect for travel when you want a secondary bag.

Ease of use

88%

The adjustable strap is super easy to change when I switch between back and front wearing. The side-release buckle is intuitive and works smoothly. The one-size-fits-all design means no complicated sizing, and the strap adjusts easily for different body types.

Versatility for daily use & travel

90%

Works great for everyday errands, travel, road trips and grocery runs. I wear it everywhere because it's so lightweight and versatile. The side-release buckle version is more unisex than the original, making it even more versatile. It pairs well with tons of outfits.

Overall value for price

88%

Excellent value for a lightweight, sustainable fanny pack that gets daily use. The machine-washable feature and durable construction mean it lasts for years. The fact that it's made from recycled materials adds to the value proposition for eco-conscious travelers.

How we score gear

The main difference between the Canvelle Fanny Original and the Canvelle Fanny with the Side Release Buckle (currently on sale) is in the buckle itself. The original Fanny has metal hardware (either gold or matte black in some color choices) and the “Side Release Buckle” version has a plastic buckle that looks more sporty.

Comparison with similar products

Here's how this product compares to similar options. Use this table to find the best of the bunch!

They both have the same great features, and if you see that the Side Release Buckle version is sold out in the color you want, the Classic Original Fanny is a perfect bet, too.

Where to get a Canvelle fanny pack

The best place to get all your Canvelle is from the Canvelle website! All shipping is free and returns are free, too.