Essential Crossbody

I have several Waterfield products and really wanted to add this bag to my collection. Although it's generally well-designed (with one or two small shortcomings), the bag I received was poorly made. The webbing on the back of the back was crooked, as was the "Waterfield" tag sewn on the side of the bag. When I first called these issues to the attention of their support team, they apologized for not inspecting the bag more carefully before they sent it. When it came to send the bag back for a refund, they backed off and said the bag met their quality standards so they would not pay for return shipping. After several emails back and forth, I just paid the $11 postage to send the bag back so I could get the cost of the bag itself refunded. It cost me over $16 in shipping fees to give the bag a try. I understand that Waterfield is not Amazon and can't pay return shipping when customers just change their minds, but that wasn't the case here. They never even offered to send me a replacement bag. Yes, they design nice bags, but buyer beware: If there's a problem with the bag the cost of sending it back is on you. Waterfield doesn't stand behind their work.

I have mobility issues and want to keep items close. I like the size, but I wish the strsp was a bit longer. I'll be taking this pouch with me. I would like to be able to couch the pouch.

Main Compartment: I love this bag, the zipper is so nice and I like how wide it opens for easy access and viewing. Very few times do items snag the zipper. The two pockets are a nice size. I like where they’re attached. Things do not snag on them. I have room for my water bottle (hydroflask), my bulky sunglass case, and misc items. When I put my iPad mini in things start to get tight, but I mostly don’t carry that. The main pocket is deep which is good for my water bottle or tall items but overall things can get lost down there and if you stuff the bag it’s hard to get things out. I wouldn’t mind a couple pen holders either on the sides or hidden under the zipper might work.

Front zipper pocket: Bad News.. those pockets inside are useless. Awkward small size. And worst of all, they were placed on the back inside. So when you go to slide a narrow thing in there, it snags. The fabric is loose too which adds to the snag and the stitching right down the middle.. more snag. Super frustrating pocket. This is where I put my wallet and every time I put it in, it snags on the middle stitch. I actually cut the middle stitch out so now it’s one big pocket and I’m considering cutting out the entire pocket. The opening is a bit narrow. The inside is deep but like the front open pocket, a lot of space is wasted as the bag gets so tight you can only get an item or two in here.

Front open pocket: Would look better if the leather and canvas were swapped. It’s a shame they use a full piece of leather but cover it with canvas. Also, it feels like the leather has a bit more flex where as the canvas is tight. I’d like a bit more flex in the open pocket because quick access is my favorite part of this bag. As mentioned, actual pocket itself is very tight that I can’t use this pocket to its full potential. Maybe an accordion style or just a little more fabric would help. A magnet closure might be nice like the Bolt.

Sides: This could be leather and potentially be turned into a narrow pocket. Would be a great place to put a knife, narrow flashlight, pens, or most importantly.. For tucking in the strap when you get somewhere and don’t want the strap on the floor. Right now I tuck it inside the main compartment. It works but it gets in the way. Also, the larger size essential bags have metal D loops, but this one is just fabric. Not sure why they didn’t add those. One to the bottom would be nice for stability straps.

Back: Nice moisture wicking mesh but a hidden compartment back here would be nice for wallet or tucking in the strap. Again a nice D loop for stability strap please.

Bottom: it would look better if this was leather too and maybe a piece of high density foam would help the bag stand better.

Top: A leather handle please.. the back one is ok, better than nothing, but would prefer a leather one on top like Sutter Sling

Strap: love this camlock so much. It works super well. The swivels work wonders. A quick magnet release would be a nice touch but that might be too busy. I’m open to the idea.

Overall: I’m stoked with this bag. It’s my favorite I’ve found so far. Very comfortable. Maybe the constricting nature of it is a good thing to prevent over packing and keep it light, but ultimately I think there is a lot of wasted space that could be designed better. Happy I found this bag and worth the price!

Good quality product and looks great to tote around. Solid and durable I like the oiled canvas with oiled leather giving it a rustic look.

I’ve been a fan of Waterfield since I first discovered them in 2017. They make incredible products, and this one doesn’t disappoint. Even the strap is above average with its easy to adjust clasp. I went with the waxed canvas accent for the iPad Pro (medium size) and it looks beautiful. The lining where you’d place the iPad has a soft side that just makes sense and adds to the bag’s elegance and quality. Definitely recommend!