Washington Heights Backpack

Style-wise, this pack was what I expected from the pictures. The laptop compartment can fit my 16" MBP with its own sleeve, but getting it in and out is a little tight. I have to fold back the top/side paneling quite a bit for access. When the side pockets are described as small, that's exactly what they are. I wouldn't put anything much bigger or heavier than a 500mL plastic bottle of water. It holds an mini umbrella just fine. But when I tried to fit a 750mL metal water bottle, it would not stay in securely. All and all, a decent commuter pack that's somewhat functionally limited for me.

I have had several MP laptop bags during my 20 year DJ career, and they always hold up top notch. They are machine washable and I have never had any component fail or seam rip.

For some reason that didn't stop me from shopping around when looking for an urban day pack that I would use to hold essential items I used on my long dog walks around my So Cal City. I found a few packs that looked great, but none with all the features I wanted and needed. Multiple water bottle pouches, inside dividers with flaps and straps were all to be had on this backpack along with a padded area complete with heat dissipating mesh. The size is large but not cumbersome. The construction is sturdy but not stiff. It gives me great confidence knowing I have everything my dog and I need in it and can add more if need be. I even used it to fend off a stray dog that came at us on a walk. It came away unscathed. This isn't the cheapest backpack out there, but I do think it is the best for a variety of reasons. If you take into consideration the warranty, it is money well spent. The value overall is unequaled.

I am very happy with it so far. I'm a Manhattan Portage man for life.