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Comparing Messenger Bags

Showing 8 products | Change
 
Awards Editors' Choice Award Top Pick Award Top Pick Award Best Buy Award  
Price $160.00 at Backcountry
Compare at 3 sellers		$179 List
$179.00 at Amazon		$220 List$129 List
$79.00 at Amazon		$75.00 at Amazon
Overall Score Sort Icon
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Star Rating
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Pros Spacious, savvy pocket configuration, easy on/off, comfortable, weatherproofWaterproof laptop sleeve, weather-resistant, great features, ambidextrous, brightly colored interiorRugged, weather-proof, stylish, comfortableAffordable, durable, weather-resistant, simple but functional organization features, customizableComfortable, compact, intuitive design, easy on/off, reflective panel for higher visibility at night
Cons Heavy, spendy, laptop zipper not waterproofExterior water bottle pocket is small, shoulder padding can get bunched up, tips over easily when set downNo padded laptop compartment, cargo pockets don't perfectly accommodate a U-lockLeft-shoulder carry only, minimal protection for laptop, shoulder strap is somewhat finickyHeavy for the volume, not ideal for carrying a laptop, could use more storage slots in front pocket
Bottom Line This tech-savvy, spacious, weatherproof, and comfortable messenger bag features ample pockets and can accommodate up to a 17" laptopThis is a highly impressive ambidextrous bag with excellent features and bomber weatherproofingA comfortable, weather-proof, and rugged messenger bag with an attractive aesthetic and just enough pockets to organize your gearThis durable, weather-resistant, and simple bag is thoughtfully designed with great pockets and reasonable comfort, all at an affordable priceA compact and comfortable bag for carrying your daily essentials, featuring a seatbelt buckle for easy on and off and a reflective panel for increased visibility
Rating Categories Chrome Buran III Timbuk2 Especial Stash Mission Workshop Monty Timbuk2 Classic Chrome Kadet Sling
Comfort (30%)
10.0
8.0
8.0
7.0
9.0
Packing & Organization (30%)
9.0
10.0
8.0
8.0
6.0
Electronics (15%)
9.0
10.0
6.0
5.0
4.0
Ease of Use (15%)
9.0
8.0
9.0
8.0
9.0
Construction Quality (10%)
9.0
9.0
9.0
8.0
6.0
Specs Chrome Buran III Timbuk2 Especial Stash Mission Workshop Monty Timbuk2 Classic Chrome Kadet Sling
Measured Weight 2.71 lb 2.28 lb 2.78 lb 2.02 lb 1.20 lb
Advertised Volume 24 L 17 L 21 L 16 L 9 L
Measured Volume 22L 15L 21L 18L 7L
Weight-to-Volume Ratio 1.97 oz/L 3.07 oz/L 2.12 oz/L 1.80 oz/L 2.74 oz/L
Dimensions 21.25" x 12.25" x 7.0" 17.5" x 12.2" x 4.7" 16.0" x 10.0" x 5.0" 14.6" x 12.2" x 7.1" 17.0" x 8.0" x 4.0"
Shoulder Preference Either Either Either Either Left
Number of Compartments 2 3 3 2 1
Number of Large Pockets 1 3 2 2 1
Number of Small Pockets 8 4 4 5 3
Number of Zipper Pockets 4 3 3, 1 large and 2 hidden inside 4 2
Key Clip? No Yes No Yes Yes
Reflective Material? Yes, on bottom straps Yes No Yes, but very small Yes
External Side Pocket Yes Yes Yes No No
Sleeve For Laptop? Yes - 17" Yes - 15" Yes - 15" Yes - 16" Yes - Tablet Only
Stabilizing Cross Strap Yes Yes Yes Yes Yes
Available Sizes One size M, L 21L, 27L, 35L XS, S, M, L One size
Size Tested One size Medium 21L Medium One size