Your Cart
Secure ordering |  Free shipping · 2-year warranty · Easy returns

Stolt Running

Award-Winning Commuter Backpacks

Stolt / Help Center / Compare Backpacks / Alpha backpack vs Alpha C backpack

Alpha backpack vs Alpha C backpack

TL;DR: All Stolt Alpha backpacks share the same core design, but the Alpha C is a special edition built tougher. The Alpha C uses heavy-duty 1680D ballistic nylon and adds a side carry handle, making it sturdier (and slightly heavier) than the standard Alpha.

What is the difference between the Alpha backpack and the Alpha C backpack?

Material & Durability: The original Stolt Alpha backpack is made from a very durable yet lightweight 500D nylon, designed for runners and cyclists. In comparison, the Alpha C is constructed with 1680D ballistic nylon, which is a much tougher, more rugged fabric. This makes Alpha C more hard-wearing for heavy use; it also weighs a bit more than standard Alpha (about 1.4 kg vs 1.2 kg due to the denser material ). If you’re rough on your gear or want maximum longevity, Alpha C offers extra durability.

Additional Features: One notable addition on the Alpha C is the side handle. In addition to the top handle (which both versions have), Alpha C’s side handle lets you carry it briefcase-style on its side – handy for navigating tight spaces or for a professional appearance. This feature aligns with Alpha C’s positioning as a premium business-ready rucksack. Internally and structurally, the Alpha and Alpha C share the same layout of compartments (laptop section, expandable shoe pocket, etc.), and both are compatible with Stolt’s garment box for carrying suits.

Aesthetics & Branding: All Alpha-series bags maintain the “renowned design” Stolt is known for – sleek shape and smart organization – so the main differences are aesthetic. The Alpha C is tailored for a modern professional look: it comes in a limited colorway with a subtle embroidered logo (toned down for business style). The regular Alpha has more casual variants as well, featuring the signature Stolt woven label logo on the front for a sportier vibe . Stolt also releases special projects or colorways in the Alpha line occasionally, but those are still the same core backpack with unique branding.

Alpha C Business Set Alpha Business Set Athlete Commuter Set Podium Business Set
Capacity 20l->25l 20l->25l 15l->18l 10l-13l
Weight 1.4kg / 3.1lbs 1.2kg / 2.6lbs 1kg / 2.2lbs 0.7kg / 1.5lbs
Material 1680D Ballistic Nylon 500D Nylon 500D recycled polyester 500D Nylon
Side handle
Electronics  Organisation Separate compartment with padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets Separate compartment with padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets Separate compartment with padded laptop sleeve and multiple pockets  Padded laptop sleeve &  easy access pocket
Garment packing Separate Garment box Separate Garment box Separate Garment box In-built Garment Sleeve
Expandable pocket Expandability with roll top
Hide-away straps
Carry options Backpack (business & sports mode),  top-handle, briefcase Backpack (business & sports mode),  top-handle Backpack (business & sports mode), top-handle, detachable waist belt Backpack (business & sports mode),  top-handle
NEW Alpha design with a super tough, rugged material and a side handle perfect to cycle or walk to the office and overnight business trips ORIGINAL Alpha design with a super durable, yet light-weight material designed for runners and cyclists as well as business travellers ATHLETE is our rolltop design with a more relaxed feel and water bottle pockets for city runners and cyclists alike. PODIUM design is half the size of Alpha making it the perfect day pack for those looking to pack light and run for longer distances
£249 £198 £198 £169

Sign up to our newsletter & Get 10% off your first Stolt order

Be the first one to know about new product drops, special offers and more.