
For 20 years, the deuter Attack backpack has been the go-to for mountain bikers who know what they want. So when deuter came to RE ZRO® looking to mark that anniversary with something new, the brief was clear: honour 20 years with a product worthy of the next 20.
The result is a custom, removable back protector built specifically for the Attack - thinner and more ventilated than any the pack has carried before.
When beginning this process, we knew we had to deliver impact protection without compromising on what their riders expect. The team at RE ZRO® was so excited to work alongside the design and development team at deuter to create a custom back protector for the mountain bike and ski market.
Wil Marschall, CTO/CEO and Founder, explained how we were approached by deuter to use our experience in the motorbike industry to create a solution. Founded in 2020, RE ZRO® creates high-performance impact protection with environmental responsibility considered in every decision made combining cutting-edge materials with circular design delivering top-tier safety for athletes.
When entering into custom developments with partners, especially with a prestigious brand such as deuter, we collaborate closely. We engineer solutions to their exact specifications - whether that means optimising for impact resistance, ventilation, weight, or all of the above. Our aim is to create something that not only performs exceptionally, but meets the needs of their consumers and reflects RE ZRO® core values.

The flexible TPE construction, with RE ZRO®'s signature open geometry design allows airflow where you need it most. CCO and Co-Founder Alex Yellowley was clear that the protector needed to feel like it belonged, visually and functionally within deuter's existing range, while carrying RE ZRO®'s own clear design identity.
Riders can now experience the same innovative deuter design, with an added sustainable RE ZRO® design element. RE ZRO® gear is made to be recyclable**. So if you are ready to upgrade, just check with local authorities for their guidance on recycling Group 7 plastics. However, our armour is enhanced by TOTO-TOA®, meaning that if it does end up in landfill, it will biodegrade* in an estimated 3-5 years.
The nature of RE ZRO’s distinctive open geometry design uses minimal material for an ultra-lightweight feel without compromising on safety, allowing athletes to remain comfortable even on long journeys. The unique structure of our armour allows for unparalleled airflow and breathability, providing high-performance impact protection without added discomfort. Athletes can ride feeling confident in their protection.
What really sets our partnership process apart is our injection moulded TPE. RE ZRO®’s unique process gives us and our partners the opportunity to be really creative with the custom pieces. In this case with deuter, the custom back protector has a custom outline, featuring the iconic deuter logo. When partners come to us wanting custom products, it is important that we fit their brief, providing something unique, while remaining true to RE ZRO® 's core foundations.
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But don’t just take it from us. Mountain biking icon Gee Atherton is no stranger to unfamiliar terrain, and has spoken about how important protective gear has been throughout his career. When discussing the ‘Attack’ 20th generation backpack, Atherton described how valuable the lightweight and compact custom back protector is.
The 20th Anniversary Edition of the Attack isn't just a celebration of what the pack has been. It's a statement about where it's going, and proof of what becomes possible when two brands with uncompromising standards work closely together.
We are thrilled to have contributed our expertise so riders like Gee can have high-performance protection, while remaining comfortable.RE ZRO® was built on a simple principle: revolutionising impact protection while maintaining respect for the planet. That ethos drives every partnership we enter and deuter's uncompromising standards made this collaboration a natural fit. The Attack 20th Anniversary Edition represents what's possible when materials expertise meets world-class pack design.
Explore the new ‘Attack’ range at deuter.com, or discover more about RE ZRO® protection technology at re-zro.com.
**Ask your local recycling authority if recycling facilities are available for this type of product.
*RE ZRO® TPE material has been independently tested and achieves the biodegradability of 14.14% over 90 days in accordance with ASTMD5511-18 & ISO 15985 : 2014.