You already know that the PowerPage is comprised of a few select editors with a fetish for luggage, but a new bag from Brenthaven has captured more than my attention it is making me re-think ergonomics on a larger scale.
Most discerning Mac users will agree that style is key and the PowerPage has always credited excellent bag design where it is due. Take our obsession with messenger bags like the Timbuk2 Commuter Messenger Bag for example. Although it is great looking, it tends to lean more toward fashion over function. That’s not to say I dislike TB2 – no way – it’s just that the more you use a bag, the more you need function first.
You already know that the PowerPage is comprised of a few select editors with a fetish for luggage, but a new bag from Brenthaven has captured more than my attention it is making me re-think ergonomics on a larger scale.
Most discerning Mac users will agree that style is key and the PowerPage has always credited excellent bag design where it is due. Take our obsession with messenger bags like the Timbuk2 Commuter Messenger Bag for example. Although it is great looking, it tends to lean more toward fashion over function. That’s not to say I dislike TB2 – no way – it’s just that the more you use a bag, the more you need function first.
The Brenthaven Professional backpack (T6091G/A, US$179) I tested is specifically designed for the new 17-inch PowerBook and it also comes in models for the 12 and 15-inch models as well. I have found a backpack to be the best way to carry my PowerBook for extended periods of time, it hurts my lower back much less than a shoulder bag and frees up my hands to do other things. In fact, after using it for about a week I couldn’t believe how much more freedom of movement I had.
The PowerBook 17-inch (nee Aircraft carrier) is not only heavier than my previous 15-inch it is also much wider which presents its own set of problems for luggage. I was first rolling it around in a 15-inch wheelie bag, but it stuck out the top and I had to drape a newspaper over the top when I was worried about the weather.
The Professional 17 backpack is a two-compartment backpack constructed of military grade Ballistic nylon that is well built and looks good too. The zipper hardware is extremely tough and the straps are thick and well padded. The Pro 17 backpack features a fully removable computer sleeve with a velcro flap and extra thick padding. To make it even better Brenthaven has updated their bags for 2003 and great additions include the hidden quick access ticket pocket and the updated organizing compartment with six interior pockets.
The outside of the backpack has a small zippered pocket that is perfect for an iPod or digital camera and each side of the case has a neoprene hold-tight stretch pocket perfect to securely hold a cell phone or a small collapsible umbrella.
My only suggestions for improvement would be to add a zipper to the snap-only exterior pocket – I like to keep my reading materials in there and worry about bad weather – and possibly the addition of a removable waist strap for even more support for those long treks between Philly and New York.
Overall the Professional 17 backpack has been a dream and literally taken a large burden off my shoulders. My PowerBook. The Brenthaven Professional backpack (US$179) is available from the Apple Online store – Click on Mobile Gear in the left hand nav bar.
Specifications:
- 2 compartment backpack design: one for the computer, hardware accessories and files; the other with an organizer panel and quick access pockets
- Removable, PowerBook G4 17″ protection sleeve
- 4 media pockets, 2 hardware accessory pockets, 2 internal quick
access pockets, 3 external zippered pockets, 1 slip-into storage bin pocket,
1 iPod(tm) pocket - 2 external cell phone/camera pockets
- Key fob
- Padded, ergonomically shaped packstraps
- Easy-grip handle
- Lifetime guarantee
- Color: black
- Case dimensions: 7 1/2″ x 18 3/4″ x 12″
- Case volume: 1540 in3
- Case weight: 3.9 lbs
- 2 compartment backpack design: one for the computer, hardware
accessories and files; the other with an organizer panel and quick access
pockets - Removable, PowerBook G4 17″ protection sleeve
- 4 media pockets, 2 hardware accessory pockets, 2 internal quick
access pockets, 3 external zippered pockets, 1 slip-into storage bin pocket,
1 iPod(tm) pocket - 2 external cell phone/camera pockets
- Key fob
- Padded, ergonomically shaped packstraps
- Easy-grip handle
- Lifetime guarantee
- Color: black
- Case dimensions: 7 1/2″ x 18 3/4″ x 12″
- Case volume: 1540 in3
- Case weight: 3.9 lbs
Brenthaven
300 Harris Avenue, Bellingham, WA 98225
tel 360.733.5608 fax 360.671.0495
800.803.7225
www.brenthaven.com
