REVIEW: Tom Bihn Super Ego Notebook Bag
04 December 2006 11:25 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
The Tom Bihn Super Ego (US$140) is a hybrid messenger/shoulder bag that is designed to fit all sizes of their Brain Cell laptop insert and a lot of other of stuff.
I call it a hybrid because it combines the best feature of a shoulder bag (being able to access contents from the top) and the cool flap unique to messenger-style bags. The bag pictured is the Super Ego in Black/Steel with the Blue seat belt buckle strip.
Tom Bihn has been designing and making bags for over 20 years. The daypacks he made when he was 13 years old are still in use and in Santa Cruz, California, where Tom grew up, his laptop cases and book bags are almost legendary.
Tom is a bit of a renegade too...
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Holiday Shopping: eBags 20 Percent off
28 November 2006 09:34 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
eBags is an online retailer of (duh!) Bags and they carry bags from Timbuk2, Burton, Chrome, Puma, Oakley and Roxy and dozens of others. eBags is offering a 20% discount if you enter promotional code EMGR8GIFTS.
(Thanks Arthur)
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Crumpler $4M Home; The Horseman
30 August 2006 11:29 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
PowerPager Bob Snow adds to the bag discussion:
My first exposure to Crumpler was about 4 years ago in S.F. I was staying in "Graphics Gulch" and they have some superb photo galleries and pro level camera shops.Last week I bought a 4 Million Dollar Home (the Crumpler camera bag, not the home) for US$58 at Circuit City. It comes in a metallic box with a picture of an over the top Mansion. They make other sizes 1, 2 and 6 Million as well. My favorite Crumpler name is their "Baby Scarer".
I also purchased a "Breakfast Buffet" cheap/used laptop bag I got on eBay and modified to fit my slightly too big MacBook. It is a great bag, but has no outside pockets for flat things like plane tickets. You always have to lift the flap, which makes me glad the laptop compartment has an extra Velcro closure.
...and Emory weighs in:
Crumpler's The Cashmere Blazer was on my list until i figured out that it was huge. Not wanting something that large I settled on The Horseman (US$155):My main bag that I travel and work with is a Boblbee Megalopolis backpack. It is the bag I always come back to, but sometimes I don’t want to carry a backpack. So I was looking into other types of bags, and was almost ready to order a messenger bag from Chrome when I saw this one.
This bag is designed to accommodate 15” and 17” laptops, and I’m usually carrying either a 12” PowerBook or a 15” ThinkPad. But I’m also usually slinging around notebooks, index cards, a book or two, my iPod and/or a Sony PSP, a Wacom tablet (much easier to manipulate OmniGraffle or Visio documents when you’re not using a mouse!) and other assorted bits. Usually some sort of camera is included, so being able to carry one of those as well is critical.
Its quite easy to stuff this thing to gills, but even fully-loaded it is quite manageable.
I love bags.
Read Emory's complete Horseman review here.
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REVIEW: The Cashmere Blazer from Crumpler
28 August 2006 10:00 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
This one definitely fits in the "computer bag that doesn't look like a computer bag" category. Crumpler's The Cashmere Blazer (US$165) is a messenger bag that conceals a built-in computer sleeve that's well padded. It fits up to a 17-inch notebook but it works just fine with my 15-inch MacBook Pro too.
The best part about The Cashmere Blazer is that it's a perfect weekend bag because of its large size. In addition to a PowerBook, MacBook or iBook you can easily pack a weekend's worth of clothes and accessories inside. Traveling with one bag has its benefits, especially when you can carry your MacBook Pro and a weekend's worth of clothing in a single bag on a commercial aircraft (just remember to ditch the liquids!).
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Wrap Your Laptop in Sushi
17 August 2006 11:56 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
:For all your savory endeavors, how about a colorful and tasty MacBook cover... (Thanks ^jax)
Sushi is brain food. I guess that's why Gideon chose this print for a laptop folio. Please do not buy this unlesss you are Gideon. It's made for gideons laptop and no one elses. if you'd like to wrap your laptop up in it's own custom cover contact me via the link to the right and I'd be happy to make one just for you .
Saltygal's Etsy Shop - wrap your laptop in sushi
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REVIEW: Timbuk2 Commute Messenger Bag
15 August 2006 08:05 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Of all the types of bags out there I like messengers the best. It's true that backpacks are usually more comfortable and practical, but there's something to the shape and configuration of a messenger bag that particularly works for me. They're easy to whip on and off, can be worn in several different positions on your body and they're easy to re-configure on the go.
Today I want to take a look at the Commute messenger bag from Timbuk2.
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Bag Month: Slappa Metro Pro Laptop Bag
02 August 2006 11:52 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
First up in our Bag Month feature is a bag from a new entrant onto the notebook luggage scene. Slappa started out building luggage for DJs back in 2003 and I discovered them at Winter Music Conference in Miami a few years ago. Slappa started out making high-quality storage cases for CDs and has since branched out into notebook luggage.
Slappa's Metro Pro Laptop Bag (US$70) is built from rainproof and puncture proof BuckBlast material and features a hide-away carry handle and strong zippers. The main compartment features an adjustable Velcro divider and it fits a 15-inch MacBook Pro nicely, so it will also fit a 13-inch MacBook as well.
The second half of the main compartment has enough space to store an AC adapter, some papers, a magazine and a few cables, but that's it. The bag isn't enormous but it's adequately spacious for a 15-inch MacBook Pro and some accessories. The inside of the flap has a couple of small pockets for money and credit cards. The removable shoulder strap features Slappa's E.Z. Clip system which allows you to easily adjust the strap length by simply clicking into a different clip.
The 3/4-inch padding inside the Metro Pro bag is sufficient but not tremendously so. It's enough padding to protect your notebook from most day-to-day bumps but I'd prefer a little bit more on the bottom (although the molded rubber diamond grip feet help.)
The Slappa Metro Pro is a stylish and economical shoulder bag that I'd recommend to artists, architects and other scenesters that are concerned with looking good while carrying their notebook computer. Those that bash and flail their bags or need a ton of extra storage room should consider something larger and more rugged like Slappa's Velocity Pro Spider or HardBody Pro.
Manufacturer: Slappa
Model: Metro Pro Laptop Bag
Dimensions: 15" (w), 11" (h), 4" (d)
Weight: 2.6 lbs
Price: US$69.99
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PowerPage Bag Blowout 2006
01 August 2006 09:01 EST
PowerPage Contributor
No one likes the prospect of the end of summer and there's just something about start of August that says "one last month" before the summer begins to fade and it's time to get serious again.
One of my favorite things about the fall is, well, NFL football, But until kickoff on 07 September I live for the sound of Velcro being torn open and the smell of fresh Cordura Nylon in the air.
The start of August can only mean one thing - that it's time for PowerPage Bag Blowout 2006.
Whether you're a slick corporate raider, hipster student or just a stinky hippy in a van, we've got something for everyone this year. Although I really like the concept of Bag Week (think Shark...) one week isn't enough time to cover all the great new luggage that's available for notebook computer totage. So now that it's August I'll be peppering the site with fresh reviews of some crazy new bags from your favorite vendors.
(If there's something special that shouldn't be looked over during Bag Month, let me know and I'll do everything I can to have it included.)
Me, I'm a simple dude. When at home I keep my pimped MacBook Pro in a wooden crate and when I'm on the road I kick it with a homemade MacBook Pro sleeve made out of foam core and duct tape. Cha!
So what do you, fair PowerPage reader, carry your precious cargo in? Chime in using the comments below. FWIW I've turned off all authentication (read: no registration) on comments, so have at it, but please behave!
(Foam core diddy courtesy of Lifehacker, wooden box contributed by Calvin Tomm.)
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Fabrix's Killer MacBook, MBP Sleeves
05 June 2006 09:33 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
These are some badass looking sleeves for the MacBook and MacBook Pro. If you're looking for something other than boring black - check them out! Click through for the link.
Fabrix today launched its new collection of laptop cases built specially for Apple's MacBook and MacBook Pro (MBP). Each laptop case is cushioned with internal quilted padding that provides the laptop with protection against scratches and light bumps.
MacNN | Fabrix launches MacBook, MBP cases
technorati tags: MacBook, Luggage, Case, Sleeve
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Crumpler's Beer for Bags Sale Coming to NYC
11 May 2006 08:42 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Crumpler (one of my favorite bag companies) is doing something very unique - they're accepting beer in lieu of currency for a new Crumpler bag. They even play drinking games with you while they're at it.
You've got to be in New York to take advantage, Crumpler's first annual U.S. Beer for Bags sale runs from 03 June - 11 June, 2006 at its two Manhattan locations, 45 Spring St. and 49 8th Ave.
If you bring in a 12 Brooklyn Lagers, you'll get an Aggot. A 40 ounce Old English and 12 PBRs gets you a large Bundle. The bags get better as the the beer gets better. Tie one on and get some new nylon!
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REVIEW: Crumpler School Hymn Notebook Sleeve
08 May 2006 08:05 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Although it isn't even summer yet, some people are already planning for back-to-school. If you're looking for a case for your PowerBook or MacBook then you should check out this little number from Crumpler.
The Crumpler School Hymn notebook sleeve (US$45) is a slim notebook sleeve with enough protection to keep your notebook safe between meetings or classes and carry it in style.
They're hard on the outside, with a prefect-like zip guard... Lightly padded, semi-rigid, zip-up, work in/work out, protective laptop computer clamshell clutch case, tailor made for Alu & Ti PowerBooks.
School Hymn features a super soft 1.2mm PVC outer shell, light foam padded, hard plastic central layer, light foam inner padding, brushed nylon lining and self healing zipper.
The School Hymn from Crumpler is available in bed, black, blue (pictured) and green for 12" (US$40), 15" (US$45) and 17" (US$50) notebooks with free delivery in the U.S.
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New SleeveCase for 17 inch Apple MacBook Pro
27 April 2006 12:05 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
WaterField Designs will begin shipping their notebook SleeveCase designed specifically for the new MacBook Pro 17-inch on Wednesday May 3, 2006.
The MacBook Pro SleeveCase is a slim, durable covering made of a sturdy ballistic nylon shell and a high-grade neoprene interior that envelopes itself around the MacBook Pro for a snug fit. It can be used as a stand-alone case, or can be inserted into briefcases, messenger bags, or backpacks. Customers have the option of personalizing their MacBook Pro SleeveCase to match their own needs.
The 17-inch MacBook Pro is slightly deeper than the PowerBook G4 that it replaces, so if you're upgrading it's important to check if your previous case will fit.
MacBook Pro 17" 15.4" (W) 10.4" (D) 1.0" (H)
PowerBook 17" 15.4" (W) 10.2" (D) 1.0" (H)
WaterField SleeveCases comes in either a vertical or horizontal orientation and you can customize it by adding either a front flap for added protection, or a strap for carrying the SleeveCase by itself when not inserted into another bag. A detachable gear bag, the Piggyback, is also available to carry accessories.
WaterField produces over 40 different sizes of SleeveCases for MacBook Pro, iBook, PowerBook, and PC models. The MBP17 SleeveCase starts at US$40.
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Crumpler - Backpacks of the Gods
17 April 2006 10:20 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
There are three styles of computer bags that most people carry: backpacks, messenger and shoulder bags. While I've used 'em all, there are definite benefits to using a backpack - namely comfort and remaining hands free. While they might not seem as cool as a messenger or as corporate as a shoulder bag, backpacks are the choice of many discriminating mobile technologists.
Without a doubt the best notebook backpack out there is from the crazy kids at Crumpler. You may have seen the quality luggage from the Aussies at their various trade show appearances, but if you're in the market, check out there newest jive.
Granted, the Crumpler Web site is a bit of a paradox to navigate (hint: drag the animal to the right), but if you can get past that you'll definitely find something that you'll fall in love with. Crumpler sells killer messengers and shoulder bags too, but today I want to take a look at a couple of their backpacks.
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Review: Brenthaven Pro 15/17 Backpack
06 July 2005 10:59 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
People that know me know that I prefer backpacks for extended jaunts with my PowerBook. The simple reason is because backpacks are more comfortable for extended journeys with a heavy load - period. Now, don't get me wrong, I've definitely got a thing for cool-looking messenger bags but they're best for short trips in the summer. Brenthaven is a high quality bag manufacturer that has just updated their Pro 15/17 backpack for its namesake PowerBook. Read more...
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Review: The Complete Seed Messenger Bag
16 June 2005 05:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
I don't know what it is about bags, but I dig 'em. My latest fetish is The Complete Seed from Crumpler. It's an A3 bag with six pockets, a killer padded shoulder strap and a third leg. All your bags are belong to us. Read More...
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Review: The Complete Seed Messenger Bag
16 June 2005 05:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
I don't know what it is about bags, but I dig 'em. My latest fetish is The Complete Seed from Crumpler. It's an A3 bag with six pockets, a killer padded shoulder strap and a third leg. All your bags are belong to us. Read More...
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Review: The Complete Seed Messenger Bag
16 June 2005 05:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
I don't know what it is about bags, but I dig 'em. My latest fetish is The Complete Seed from Crumpler. It's an A3 bag with six pockets, a killer padded shoulder strap and a third leg. All your bags are belong to us. Read More...
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Review: Brenthaven Fusion Flex Messenger Bag
03 June 2005 09:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Sometimes it's hard to improve on a good thing, but Brenthaven has really out done themselves with their new Fusion Flex (US$129) messenger bag. To find it click on Shoulder Bags > Apple Cases > Fusion Flex. I am a big fan of Brenthaven's products and am currently traveling with my trusty Brenthaven Wheelie which has room to spare.
The Fusion Flex is a departure from previous Brenthaven bag... Click through for the whole skinny.
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Review: Brenthaven Fusion Flex Messenger Bag
03 June 2005 09:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Sometimes it's hard to improve on a good thing, but Brenthaven has really out done themselves with their new Fusion Flex (US$129) messenger bag. To find it click on Shoulder Bags > Apple Cases > Fusion Flex. I am a big fan of Brenthaven's products and am currently traveling with my trusty Brenthaven Wheelie which has room to spare.
The Fusion Flex is a departure from previous Brenthaven bag... Click through for the whole skinny.
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Review: Brenthaven Fusion Flex Messenger Bag
03 June 2005 09:16 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
Sometimes it's hard to improve on a good thing, but Brenthaven has really out done themselves with their new Fusion Flex (US$129) messenger bag. To find it click on Shoulder Bags > Apple Cases > Fusion Flex. I am a big fan of Brenthaven's products and am currently traveling with my trusty Brenthaven Wheelie which has room to spare.
The Fusion Flex is a departure from previous Brenthaven bag... Click through for the whole skinny.
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RadTech Announces Tekmod Cases
26 May 2005 10:46 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
RadTech has released their interesting new tekmd cases for 12 and 15-inch PowerBooks (US$75-80).
The tekmd regular works the way you want to work: use it as a conventional top-loading case for quick and easy access to your notebook; or use the unique stay-on feature to work right out of the case?with unrestricted port, slot, drive and storage pocket access! A convenient flip-out riser-stand provides the perfect incline for ergonomic keyboarding. An internal suspension system cradles and lifts the rear of the notebook allowing ample ventilation and air circulation to ensure cool running. tekmd regular's pockets and pouches completely flatten when empty, yet expand to accommodate a variety of items such as power supplies, cables, peripherals, documents, wallets, keys and more!
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RadTech Announces Tekmod Cases
26 May 2005 10:46 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
RadTech has released their interesting new tekmd cases for 12 and 15-inch PowerBooks (US$75-80).
The tekmd regular works the way you want to work: use it as a conventional top-loading case for quick and easy access to your notebook; or use the unique stay-on feature to work right out of the case?with unrestricted port, slot, drive and storage pocket access! A convenient flip-out riser-stand provides the perfect incline for ergonomic keyboarding. An internal suspension system cradles and lifts the rear of the notebook allowing ample ventilation and air circulation to ensure cool running. tekmd regular's pockets and pouches completely flatten when empty, yet expand to accommodate a variety of items such as power supplies, cables, peripherals, documents, wallets, keys and more!
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Review: Timbuk2 Commute Medium Messenger Bag
03 May 2005 11:56 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
My favorite type of messenger bag is the Timbuk2 for sheer style points. I have been into their messenger bags for quite some time now and can comfortably say that they're getting better all of the time. I first reviewed the Commute medium (US$100) messenger bag back in 2001 and am ecstatic with some of the improvements to this wonderful case. Read More...
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Review: Timbuk2 Commute Medium Messenger Bag
03 May 2005 11:56 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
My favorite type of messenger bag is the Timbuk2 for sheer style points. I have been into their messenger bags for quite some time now and can comfortably say that they're getting better all of the time. I first reviewed the Commute medium (US$100) messenger bag back in 2001 and am ecstatic with some of the improvements to this wonderful case. Read More...
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Review: Timbuk2 Commute Medium Messenger Bag
03 May 2005 11:56 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
My favorite type of messenger bag is the Timbuk2 for sheer style points. I have been into their messenger bags for quite some time now and can comfortably say that they're getting better all of the time. I first reviewed the Commute medium (US$100) messenger bag back in 2001 and am ecstatic with some of the improvements to this wonderful case. Read More...
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RadTech Announces Tekmod PowerBook Case
14 April 2005 08:54 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
RadTech has announced tekmod (US$79.95) ? a lightweight poly-reinforced notebook soft case featuring a revolutionary new use-in-case design.
Tekmod is a new breed of computer notebook cases designed for versatility and packed with practical features. You can use it as a conventional top-loading case for quick and easy access to your notebook; or use the unique stay-on feature to work right out of the case ? with unrestricted port, slot, drive and storage pocket access! A convenient flip-out riser-stand provides the perfect incline for ergonomic keyboarding. An internal suspension system cradles and lifts the rear of the notebook allowing ample ventilation and air circulation to ensure cool running. tekmod's pockets and pouches completely flatten when empty, yet expand to accommodate a variety of items such as power supplies, cables, peripherals, documents, wallets, keys and more!
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RadTech Announces Tekmod PowerBook Case
14 April 2005 08:54 EST
Jason D. O'Grady
RadTech has announced tekmod (US$79.95) ? a lightweight poly-reinforced notebook soft case featuring a revolutionary new use-in-case design.
Tekmod is a new breed of computer notebook cases designed for versatility and packed with practical features. You can use it as a conventional top-loading case for quick and easy access to your notebook; or use the unique stay-on feature to work right out of the case ? with unrestricted port, slot, drive and storage pocket access! A convenient flip-out riser-stand provides the perfect incline for ergonomic keyboarding. An internal suspension system cradles and lifts the rear of the notebook allowing ample ventilation and air circulation to ensure cool running. tekmod's pockets and pouches completely flatten when empty, yet expand to accommodate a variety of items such as power supplies, cables, peripherals, documents, wallets, keys and more!
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REVIEW: Waterfield Vertigo and Cargo PowerBook Cases
08 April 2005 12:56 EST
Okay, full disclosure: I'm a huge fan of any product designed by WaterField Designs. Their sleeve cases are to die for. But what I really want is a nice laptop bag. Something that won't hurt my back, and will look slim and clean. About a year ago I picked up WaterField's VertiGo bag. Read More...
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REVIEW: Waterfield Vertigo and Cargo PowerBook Cases
08 April 2005 12:56 EST
Okay, full disclosure: I'm a huge fan of any product designed by WaterField Designs. Their sleeve cases are to die for. But what I really want is a nice laptop bag. Something that won't hurt my back, and will look slim and clean. About a year ago I picked up WaterField's VertiGo bag. Read More...