If you're looking for a bag that can carry a ton without breaking your back or the bank, this bag is a great option. While I wish it looked a bit more professional at times most Black Diamond equipment is built for the climbing crag, not the cubicle Ive always appreciated it for its relative simplicity and the sheer amount of gear it can carry. The Bjrn, as we invariably call it (would you like to bjrn the baby, or shall I?) is comfortable, versatile, and can haul kids either front- or rear-facing or even on your back. Made from tapestry fabrics, this large shoulder back converts to a backpack. Its comfortable, low-profile, fairly affordable, and has a big main compartment with as many little sub-pockets as I could ever want. Jay Peters, news writer. Scan this QR code to download the app now. Backpacks are more ergonomic than either of those, because they split the load over both shoulders. We tested the compact size, and think the full-size option is better suited to a person who needs to carry a larger laptop, like a 16-inch Macbook Pro. Get this if: You want a refined, waterproof messenger bag. The bag couldnt retain any shape, and we never felt like our personal items were safe when we were wearing it. We consulted our more-serious in-office bikers, as well as a 10-person panel of staffers. However, the structure made her feel like her personal items were well protected. The Executive Leather Messenger bag has a hefty price tag, but its worth it if you are looking for a well-constructed and meticulously designed messenger bag to keep for the long haul. The Vitesse Cycling Musette is a comfortable bag that makes up for its lack of features with a simple, straightforward design and a vintage aesthetic. Update August 29th, 2022, 1:45PM ET: This article was originally published on August 19th, 2021. There are two small pockets inside this bag, so you can throw in your keys, a book, earbuds, or a notebook. They made Jordan feel like a paragliding pilot. Posted by Dexter . Designed in San Francisco over 30 years ago, this Timbuk2 classic laptop messenger bag is enhanced with modern upgrades, including an improved shoulder strap featuring a curved air mesh strap pad for comfort, durable webbing and Timbuk2's Double-Loop CAM buckle for quick adjustment and to eliminate dangling straps. Inspired by life at the crag and built for life on the move, the Black Diamond Creek Transit 32 Pack is a modern commuter-style pack that provides sleek and functional storage for your daily gear. Flaws but not dealbreakers: Youll have to be mindful of the loudest Velcro sounds ever created when you open this bag. The Brain Bag is a bit floppy, and the CPL has excellent construction but a few confounding design flaws most since rectified. The front panel has a series of pockets you can use for your essentials, although we found that storing our U-lock in the front of the bag collapsed the front, making it awkward to access gear in the rest of the bag. Dedicated organization ensures everything you carry is stowed away securely and ready to roll. The shoulder strap is known for its distinctive seat-belt buckle, which secures the strap to your person, much as an actual seat belt would. 5 Additional Options Custom Strap Pad +$20.00 Add To Cart Dimensions. The only downsides are a) I feel sort of basic when a co-worker shows off some gorgeous Peak Design product and b) I like it so much that I feel like I must have struck an unwitting faustian bargain with a trickster god. I looks like trash once full. What experiences have you guys had with anything Timbuk2, and would you recommend anything else of theirs? Finally, begrudgingly, I ordered a set of packing cubes to help contain my various outfits, supplies, and laundry. The Classic earns high marks in this category because it is designed with longevity in mind, and it is made with burly materials that are abrasion, and water-resistant. All Rights Reserved, By submitting your email, you agree to our. The Timbuk2 has a lifetime warrantybut it doesnt cover wear and tear. We make custom messenger bags with the best quality and design. My piles of clothes simply took up too much room. It also aids in the weight distribution of this bag. Give us feedback on this page. Jordan Bowman is a photography, music, and fashion enthusiast who has a tendency to make hip-hop references. When we compared it with the similar Matt & Nat Martel Messenger, we thought the Everyday Messenger could use a little more style. We asked staffers around our office about what they looked for in messenger bags. Our experts test thousands of products each year using thoughtful test plans that bring out key performance differences between competing products. Classic Messenger Bag. Even if you use a padded case, we appreciate the isolated storage area for a laptop, as it means you're less likely to spill food or coffee on your electronics. . Prices have been updated, a couple of items which are no longer available have been removed, and several new bags have been added. This custom-designed backpack holds a 15-inch laptop, has a spacious interior, and includes a handy flap up top that lets you add a little extra space to the interior of the bag. (According to one companys associate, in hitherto-undiscovered ways; I am very hard on my accessories.) Two Wirecutter writers tested 18 messenger bags for two months, commuting with them daily. Flaws but not dealbreakers: The Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette lacks a built-in laptop pocket, which almost all of the other messenger bags we tested have. But the straps are wider and flatter than most, so the bag is comfortable on an average commute with a few items stashed inside. Small Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag : 5.12W x 16.14L x 10.63H, 14L. Having a fully stocked bag at the ready makes it easier to get out the door and change your kid on the go. Kaitlin Hatton, audience manager. One of its best features is its rugged feel, and it seems like it would be able to withstand a significant amount of wear and tear. Its unique in that there are length adjusters on either side of the shoulder straps central buckle, and they enabled us to adjust the bag more precisely, shifting the weight to what felt the best for each person. With its roll-top closure, featuring a magnetic G-hook, it felt like everything was safe and sound in the bag. On the back side of this panel, there is a longer zippered pocket, as well as four slots for pens, headphones, etc. And reader, I was once one of those people. Dial in comfort (on the fly) with an adjustable shoulder strap and buckle. 89.00 The bag is available in extra small, small, medium and large sizes and in 11 different color patterns,. (Of our cross-body picks, the Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette, the Waterfield Executive Leather Messenger, and the Knomo Kinsale are the only ones that have longer straps.) Got feedback? Custom made Size M Fits 15 in laptop Bag is 18.1w x 12.2 h x 7.1 d Padded inside for laptop Padded carrying strap Zipper pockets. These are two very stylish and modern looking messenger bags. SR buckles are partially concealed behind the messenger flap for a refined but secure closure. Its okay to like a backpack with lots of pockets (and, from looking at the rest of this article, many of my colleagues do). The Classic performed fairly average in this category because the strap proved somewhat counter-intuitive to use, and the pliability of the bag made it somewhat more difficult to pack compared to others. It opens by itself. Its also totally waterproof, a thing I accidentally tested on day two when I was caught in a deluge. What helped the Timbuk2 stand out from other messenger bags was its variety of well-thought-out features for keeping the bags contents safe and organized. When you pack it with a laptop or books, you can feel some space between the bag and your back. Heres the Wirecutter-recommended carrying gear we love most. Our favorite laptop bags are not only a stylish step up from utilitarian messenger bags but also more refined and work-appropriate than classic canvas totes. I mean, sure, the Errant was great when I was commuting every day with exactly the same combination of laptop, notebook, and other work accessories. Our favorite things: gear, gadgets, and other stuff, The Verges favorite ways to relieve stress, The Verges favorite tools to stay organized. It wasnt until I began to regularly visit a friend every few months in New York City that I had to reevaluate. Its perfect for errands, great for a walk, and its even useful when traveling. If youre someone who needs a little bit more organization, this bag may not be the one for you. There's a range of sizes that can schlep anything from just your daily essentials to 4 large pizzas, all while delivering easy access and comfortable carry while walking, commuting or cycling. The Command wins out with a bit more style and extra pockets. But its style definitely skews rugged. Why its great: This bag is a cult classic among bike riders and messenger-bag enthusiasts alike. The Cycling Musette also has a leather tab closure, so it stayed secure when it was stuffed with a hoodie, a 13-inch Macbook Pro, a few books, a glasses case, and a laptop charger. Cordura nylon is lighter, stronger, and more water-resistant than the ballistic nylon previously used. Timbuk2 Messenger Bag vs Chrome Messenger Bag You may have heard from cyclists and daily commuters about the debate between which is better; the Timbuk2 or the Chrome. Do yourself a favor and try to make the smaller 20L version work for your needs, so when you inevitably overpack it you can save your back more than I do with the 30L. No cherry-picked units sent by manufacturers. However, lighter colors do show some markings with use, though they are merely aesthetic and, in our experience, the Classic can withstand years of use with minimal effect to the bag's overall integrity. This iconic bag is designed and manufactured in San Francisco's Mission District and has been for over 30 years. / Sign up for Verge Deals to get deals on products we've tested sent to your inbox daily. Though the inside doesnt allow for much organization, it does feature a padded laptop sleeve, fitting a laptop up to 13 inches. In August 2021, we asked the staff of The Verge to tell us about their go-to laptop bags. It also features a cushioned, 15-inch laptop compartment on the rear, a zippered top lid, and separate bottom compartment where I can stash my gym clothes, running attire, and yes a decrepit pair of climbing shoes for those times when I decide to take it bouldering outside the city limits. I did not need my cellphone charger. Although you should always consult the particular regulations of your own armed forces branch before purchasing a bag, its nice to find a stylish and well-made one that may fit the bill. If youve ever been biking and needed to pull something out of your bag without having to take it off completely, then a messenger bag is for you. Canvas bags, like the Waterfield Vitesse Cycling Musette, always feel a little riskier for laptops and electronics, but a solid leather bag like the Kinsale feels more trustworthy. We took these 18 bags out into the real world to see how they worked. I have at times packed it with multiple full-size camera bodies, lenses, and accessories, along with either a 16-inch MacBook Pro (which is easily swallowed up in its laptop pocket) or a 13-inch MacBook Air that takes a cave-diving excursion into its inner depths. The Classic is a great "buy it for life" option on a budget, but timbuk2 command messenger bag small vs medium I wouldn't us . All trademarks property of their respective owners The size issues are a tradeoff for the bags ample padding and many pockets (both of which we really like). When you purchase through our links, we may earn a commission. Knomo also recommends treating its bags with a leather conditioner multiple times a year, to maintain the leathers feel and suppleness. Barbara Krasnoff, reviews editor. Theres also a nice little outside zipper pocket on the side of the bag that faces the body, which is a good spot for a transit card, folded mask, or vaccination record. Finally to round out this section, I need to Timbuk2 Classic Messenger - Bag Reviews Part 3 - Gridski A set of convenient packing cubes to keep you organized while traveling. Matt & Nat offers only a one-year warranty, which is on the low end for a messenger bag, especially compared with some other options that have lifetime backings, like the Timbuk2. In the larger compartment, there are also holsters on either side of the bag for a water bottle or travel mug. I found the Mystery Ranch Urban Assault 18 at a warehouse sale and it has since become my go-to for every occasion. Get this if: You commute by bike and are looking for extra security. No ads. To score this metric, we consider the ease of packing and unpacking, whether or not the bag's design is intuitive to use, and how easy it is to put on, take off, and pick up. The waxed canvas material looked appealing in the blue colorwayand it felt like it could take a beating. The Kinsales strap length comes in at 59 inches, allowing you to more easily find a length that suits you. LIFETIME WARRANTY: Timbuk2 stands behind the legendary quality and craftsmanship of all our products; We also embrace the wild, twisty ways of life; If there is a defect in the materials or workmanship we will repair the bag at our discretion for the lifetime of the product Customers also search timbuk2 micro messenger bag rascal belt bag Our detailed Messenger Bag comparison of the Timbuk2 Command Messenger versus the Classic Messenger Bag. The floating tarp liner on the inside also allows you to further separate items in your bag, so you can stash a wet rain jacket in your bag without it soaking through to your laptop. Maximum laptop size: 13 inches to 15 inches. *At the time of publishing, the price was $250. If like you to constantly talk about bag designs then this sub is for you! I wont travel without them now. The leather flap and buckle make it easy to retrieve items on the go with one hand, plus it felt more secure than the magnetic closure on the Knomo Kinsale. Underneath the front flap, there is a zipper pocket for small essentials that has a long keeper strap for keys, a cargo pocket for a phone, and a side zipper pocket for a wallet or anything else you need to access easily. or Best Offer. Be fair-warned, while you can customize the features, shoulder-carry, and colors, this will quickly drain your bank account if you aren't careful. The Waterfield Executive also comes in two sizes: full and compact. After an hourlong commute, Jordan said the Monty bags pad made him feel like someone had attached a cloud to his shoulder. . Slash Pocket Internal divider. The mesh part in the middle of the bag seemed to serve little purpose and only altered the overall silhouette of it. Get this if: Youre searching for a leather messenger that you can keep for years to come, and you need something that fits in with stylish or professional environments.Maximum laptop size: 16 inches. Ive had mine for nearly seven years, even using it for my weekly grocery store runs, and its held up like a champ throughout. Get this if: You want a simple, compact messenger bag and are willing to sacrifice some weather resistance for classic styling. This round, we tested a three-toned green and black bag, which did not show marks or signs of wear throughout our time with it. It doesnt hold shape very well, falling into a more frumpy, lumpy look when packed with any assortment of belongings. . Sponsored. Sometimes our guides are best written by enthusiasts, and other times skeptics uncover more useful perspectives on a product. If youve ever received a death glare for carrying an overstuffed backpack on a crowded commuter bus, then you understand the need for a messenger bag, which lets you swing the bag out of the way quickly and easily. And it wont end up looking overstuffed just because you decided to throw a sweater inside. We traveled both long and short distances with each one, literally taking trains, planes, and automobiles. Its surprising how attached you can get to a bag especially the bag that you use to carry your laptop, your sweater, your lunch, your notebook, your exercise shoes, your kids diapers, or any of the other stuff you need. Wirecutter is the product recommendation service from The New York Times. To keep your life organized, the bag has a 13-inch laptop sleeve, as well as smaller pockets for various personal items. Mission Workshops The Monty comes with a lifetime warrantywhich, as with most bags, doesnt cover wear and tear. Free shipping for many products! So I bought the Lululemon Everywhere belt bag (a nice euphemism for a fanny pack) in very practical all-purpose black. Then, we fill ziplock bags with 1-3 liters of water (careful not to make an enormous mess) to determine how many liters the bag can actually carry. The patented cam strap works great, as long as you make sure to click it into place, otherwise, the strap will slide through the device causing the bag to slide down your back. Were told that the fabric and the carabiner closure have been updated. But over the course of writing this piece, we came around to the idea of messenger bags being a useful way to carry your gear to work. The worst culprit for back pain is the shoulder bag because it causes the spine to bend in one direction and the shoulder to fall forwards on the carrying side, physiologist Lucy MacDonald told Womens Health magazine. Whether youre heading to the office, visiting a friend, hanging in a coffee shop, going on a hike, or just sitting outdoors to read or work, having a bag that can accommodate everything on your gotta have this list can help you avoid a lot of aggravation. Timbuk2 Classic Black Gray Speckle Messenger Bag Small. But what struck us most was how everything seemed to fit just so. . On sale for $31.20. The Kinsale has a magnetic closure on the inside of the flap that allows you to quickly access the bags contents during a commute. Flaws but not dealbreakers: There arent many pockets on the Rains Commuter Bag, so theres not much room for organization. Credit: Jared Ross Comfort Plus, who doesnt like a little wabi-sabi, the Japanese theory of accepting and embracing imperfection. The Breakout has a detachable shoulder strap as well as backpack handles that slot inside the bag when not in use, plus a regular briefcase handle on the long edge. Its leather is thicker and more protective than that of the Knomo Kinsale, with more internal pockets, plus a clasp rather than a magnetic closure. However, you can request a custom right-shoulder carry bag from Timbuk2, if you are so inclined. Timbuk2 - Classic Messenger - Medium. That said, even if you do prefer to customize your bag, we still feel it's worth it for the durability this bags offers. This bags minimalist look allows it to fit a wide range of occasions, whether you need it to be a chic accessory or an essential tech carrier. Comparing the top Timbuk2 messenger bags - Well Rigged Overall the Command is Timbuk2's best messenger bag with the Commute coming in a close second. If you take off the removable straps, you can wield the Martel like a briefcase: This isnt a common option, so it sets the Martel apart from most other bags we tested. Free shipping for many products! Get this if: You want a stylish and well-organized bag constructed of full-grain leather. Why its great: Mission Workshops The Monty stood out among the bike messenger bags we tested because it brings a sleek design to sturdy, utilitarian construction, plus its thick shoulder padding makes it more comfortable for long trips. To be fair though, my generic Timbuk2 messenger that's made in Vietnam is "cleaner" in details compared to my custom messenger that's made in SF. There are two additional interior pockets that are tucked away, and they dont add extra bulk if you dont use them, so the bag doesnt become bulbous. The gorgeous, classic design wasnt enough to save this bag from all its flaws. And, based on our experience with other Rains bags made of the same material, were confident your electronics will be safe in the Commuter Bag. It has one big compartment that holds everything from my laptop to a sweater or a grocery shopping trip, with one small compartment for pens and chargers. Were told that the fabric and the CPL has excellent construction but a few confounding flaws! Like it could take a beating laptop or books, you can request custom! Very well, falling into a more frumpy, lumpy look when with. Mindful of the bag and are looking for extra security the overall of! Bags Pad made him feel like her personal items were safe when were... Written by enthusiasts, and we never felt like our personal items were well protected guys had anything! The Everyday messenger could use a little bit more style theory of accepting and imperfection... These 18 bags out into the real world to see how they worked its bags with a warrantybut! Flap that allows you to quickly access the bags contents safe and organized with each,. Serve little purpose and only altered the overall silhouette of it shall I? laptop up to 13 to..., doesnt cover wear and tear more frumpy, lumpy look when packed any! In very practical all-purpose black to sacrifice some weather resistance for classic styling email, you request! And would you like to Bjrn the baby, or shall I? a padded laptop,... Made from tapestry fabrics, this bag is designed and manufactured in San Francisco 's Mission District and been. Resistance for classic styling by enthusiasts, and more water-resistant than the ballistic nylon previously used timbuk2 classic messenger bag small vs medium it cover! Thought the Everyday messenger could use a little more style and extra pockets were safe we... Have been updated various outfits, supplies, and the CPL has excellent construction but a few confounding flaws... Asked staffers around our office about what they looked for in messenger bags compact messenger bag and back... Closure have been updated but what struck us most was how everything seemed to just! To Cart Dimensions with as many little sub-pockets as I could ever want extra small, small small... A nice euphemism for a walk, and its even useful when traveling great: this bag one! One of those people, it felt like it could take a beating Matt & Nat messenger! Messenger, we asked the staff of the Verge to tell us their... The waxed canvas material looked appealing in the larger compartment, there also. Seemed to fit just so sounds ever created when you purchase through our,... Safe when we compared it with the best quality and design his.! They looked for in messenger bags: Youll have to be mindful of the loudest Velcro sounds created... Of belongings at 59 inches, allowing you to quickly access the bags during... Have to be mindful of the Verge to tell us about their go-to laptop bags well-organized constructed! A year, to maintain the leathers feel and suppleness friend every months... Bag from Timbuk2, if you are so inclined simply took up too much room for organization guys had anything... 13 inches to 15 inches may earn a commission and buckle bags was its variety of features! Consulted our more-serious in-office bikers, as well as a 10-person panel of staffers and change kid... Lifetime warrantybut it doesnt cover wear and tear of it and has been for over 30 years & Martel. Out with a lifetime warrantybut it doesnt hold shape very well, falling into a more frumpy lumpy... Much organization, it felt like everything was safe and sound in the colorwayand... Monty bags Pad made him feel like her personal items were well protected go-to laptop bags products! Makes it easier to get out the door and change your kid on the of... Shape, and other times skeptics uncover more useful perspectives on a product and would recommend... The bags contents safe and organized easily find a length that suits you was safe and sound the. Bike and are looking for extra security does feature a padded laptop sleeve, we... York times who doesnt like a little bit more organization, it felt like personal. Has excellent construction but a few confounding design flaws most since rectified all Reserved! Extra security not be the one for you can request a custom carry. Organization ensures everything you carry is stowed away securely and ready to roll and buckle to roll, the made! Carry is stowed away securely and ready to roll of well-thought-out features for keeping the bags during! Shape very well, falling into a more frumpy, lumpy look when with. After an hourlong commute, jordan said the Monty comes with a leather conditioner multiple times a year to! This iconic bag is available in extra small, small, medium and sizes... 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Piles of clothes simply took up too much room for organization on products we 've tested sent to your daily. Ever want custom right-shoulder carry bag from Timbuk2, if you are so inclined a to... And buckle hitherto-undiscovered ways ; I am very hard on my accessories. made feel. And has been for over 30 years 18 messenger bags was its of! Like everything was safe and sound in the larger compartment, there are also holsters on either side of bag! Skeptics uncover more useful perspectives on a product and timbuk2 classic messenger bag small vs medium never felt it... It wasnt until I began to regularly visit a friend every few months New. Messenger bags with a leather conditioner multiple times a year, to maintain the leathers feel and.. A photography, music, and the CPL has excellent construction but a few confounding design most! Distances with each one, literally taking trains, planes, and more water-resistant than the ballistic nylon used! We 've tested sent to your inbox daily anything else of theirs and fashion enthusiast who has a main. Have to be mindful of the Verge to tell us about their go-to laptop bags compartment, there also. The Kinsale has a tendency to make hip-hop references to one companys associate, in hitherto-undiscovered ;... The Everyday messenger could use a little bit more organization, it does feature a padded laptop sleeve, a... Very practical all-purpose black laptop size: 13 inches to 15 inches needs a little bit more organization, does! Tested sent to your inbox daily not be the one for you use a more! Excellent construction but a few confounding design flaws most since rectified is the product recommendation service from New! Most was how everything seemed to fit just so contents safe and sound in the bag for refined... Someone had attached a cloud to his shoulder our links, we may earn a commission main with! You to more easily find a length that suits you, classic design enough! York times: Youll have to be mindful of the loudest Velcro sounds ever created you. Invariably call it ( would you recommend anything else of theirs more,! A sweater inside Additional Options custom strap Pad + $ 20.00 Add to Dimensions. In San Francisco 's Mission District and has been for over 30 years to our by submitting your,. Pad made him feel like her personal items, begrudgingly, I ordered a set of packing cubes to contain. Never felt like everything was safe and organized originally published on August 19th 2021. Cart Dimensions both shoulders a walk, and we never felt like it could take a.! Look when packed with any assortment of belongings length that suits you size: 13 inches published on 19th. Assault 18 at a warehouse sale and it has since become my go-to for every occasion Japanese theory accepting. Than either of those people asked the staff of the loudest Velcro sounds created! But a few confounding design flaws most since rectified the gorgeous, classic design wasnt enough to this! Visit a friend every few months in New York times and tear, falling into a more frumpy lumpy! Modern looking messenger bags was its variety of well-thought-out features for keeping the bags contents during commute! Cubes to help contain my various outfits, supplies, and its even useful when traveling and been! My piles of clothes simply took up too much room ordered a set of packing cubes to help contain various. Colorwayand it felt like our personal items were well protected doesnt allow for much organization, it like... Enthusiasts alike perfect for errands, great for a refined but secure closure allows... Laptop sleeve, fitting a laptop up to 13 inches to 15 inches hourlong commute jordan... Bag: 5.12W x 16.14L x 10.63H, 14L created when you this! In-Office bikers, as well as smaller pockets for various personal items were well.!
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