I've had this bag for about 4 months now and can't say anything bad about it. I use it for personal and business travel and have received compliments from coworkers on both the style and practicality.
I was specifically looking for something that was NOT a laptop backpack (since I've already got an awesome Timbuk2 Commander messenger bag for that purpose) that would hold about a week's worth of clothes and supplies for business trips. I was previously using a hard shell roller bag and I just prefer the convenience of a backpack when traveling at this point since I tend to travel on the lighter side. I have not yet used this bag for backpacking or hiking but plan to do so later this year when the U.S. Northeast thaws.
Features I like about this bag:
- it's basically one big pouch with a pull-string at the top and a cover. I highly dislike the trend towards multiple "main" compartments and specifically searched for a backpack with the single pouch + pull-string top configuration.
- The front is zippered to allow for easy packing & unpacking and/or access to the bottom of the bag.
- The hip belt can be stowed when not used. I like having the option for a hip belt - I use it for hiking and backpacking, but not business travel, and the ability to stow the hip belt makes this pack more versatile.
- Well balanced and very comfortable.
- Stretch side pocket with strap. Something that bothers me about previous backpacks I've had with side pockets is just how easily a bottle of water (or whiskey...) can fall out, for example if I lose my footing or put the pack down or if the pack is just too overloaded. The "bottle" pocket on this pack is deeper AND it has a clever pull-string to hold on to your whiskey!
- Integrated (but removable) rain cover. I'm not that experienced a hiker or camper so I wouldn't have thought to look for a pack with this feature (I'm a garbage bag guy) but this just seems clever. Not only is it more sturdy and more stylish than a garbage bag, but it's a better fit around the pack. Plus, if you don't need it you can detach it and use the stow pocket (outside, bottom of the bag) for something you DO need.
- There's a key clasp inside a zippered pocket on the top cover of the pack - it's the little things. When I park my car at the airport and get into the shuttle, I set the pack between my feet, unzip the top pocket, clip my car keys to the clasp, put my parking voucher in the pocket, and zip it back up. Similarly, when I'm in the shuttle on the way back to the parking lot, I can easily open the same top pocket to get everything. I also find myself using this pocket for phone chargers, snacks, even reading glasses or shades - things I need to get at frequently and easily.
So far the quality of construction seems solid. I've taken roughly a dozen trips with combined car, train, subway, walking, and airline travel, and the pack looks brand new. I would definitely buy this pack again (if it ever wears out) and I highly recommend it to others looking for a similar type of backpack.
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