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please click THIS link. | | | WaterField Designs SleeveCase
July 23, 2002
By: Dan Deering
 Yeah, it is a bag. Ok, it's a sleeve. With options. This case is an unbelievable marvel for those of you who think bag design is artistry at least. Most everyone carries a lot of stuff when they travel, and they like the smallest number of bags. Everyone knows how difficult it is to cram power cords, accessories, mice, a CoolPad, digital camera, DVD movies, and blank media, all into a laptop case. But that L.L. Bean backpack is perfect isn't it? Enter the WaterField Designs SleeveCase. Just slip that into the rear compartment of the backpack, and it instantly becomes a laptop case as well, with all that extra room for gear.
Unlike many other companies out there that sell a standard bag, and if it isn't ideal, well, you have to deal. WaterField Designs offers a basic concept, which is totally customizable. There are both vertical and horizontal orientations for backpacks or messenger bags respectively. By default the basic bag just has an opening in the top to insert your laptop. Need something with a secure flap? No problem, add it as an option on either style (vertical or horizontal) case. Need even more? Add D-Rings on the side and order the comfortable shoulder strap and the SleeveCase is an ultra-portable case for your ultra-portable laptop.
One other minor detail that is very important to many consumers these days. This case is made in the United States, and secondly, it has a lifetime warranty. The workmanship of the product is superb and most materials are ballistic nylon (no, please don't try shooting it!) It's tough, durable, high quality, and made in the USA. Visit sfbags.com for more information and for other products, including iPod cases and stuff bags for all those cords!
My Two Cents
This has got to be one of the best cases I have worked with. Most everywhere I go, I have binders and various other materials I must travel with, which are usually best suited to a laptop case. I give Kensington credit for the SaddleBag, but carry that around on your back at Macworld for three days, and those shoulder straps are not all the comfortable. Get yourself a comfortable backpack (mine is a basic one from EMS,) and then add the SleeveCase. I can shove everything in there, and have room for the day-to-day stuff of life. I also have a very nice messenger bag I use upon occasion, but it offers no padding whatsoever for a laptop. With use of a horizontal loading SleeveCase, it would be a fully functional laptop case, with the benefits of the comfort of a messenger bag.
Pricing is a little on the high side, but so is replacing a broken iBook. But please keep in mind that these cases are manufactured and produced here in the United States, and to me as an individual that is worth a significant premium.
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