I decided to try this out as a crossbody alternative to a (beautifully) aging Sutter Sling Pouch. This messenger bag has a surprising amount of space. Thanks to the generous 3” width, it can easily carry a 13” MacBook Pro in a sleeve, an iPad Pro with Magic Keyboard, a fully packed Shinjuku Tech Organizer, a Dynamic Duo leather glasses case, two phones, and there is still room left over. For EDC without the MacBook and iPad this bag is a lot more comfortable than the Sutter Sling Pouch. It feels like a pillow. Life Hack Alert: Just like the Sling Pouch, I can wear this while driving and have all my essential items handy in front of the steering wheel. The build quality and materials are second to none. It’s an easy five stars! Thank you Gary & WaterField for designing this great bag.
Got a bigger 16” laptop, this bag replaced a very similar (smaller) Waterfield I’ve used for almost 10 years. The Shinjuku Messenger is better in almost every way - the expandable capacity fits any accessories I need without cramming, yet it remains low profile when not full.
I do have two gripes - one thing I loved about the old bag was the padded material around the entire laptop pocket. This gave the bag more structure and allowed easy one handed insertion (i.e. I could hold the bag in one hand, and use the other to insert with a satisfying thwump). The Shinjuku Messenger in my experience requires setting the bag down and holding the pocket taught to avoid snags. It’s a bit fussy.
Additionally, I have to be more cautious because on the outside, the laptop’ broadside and corners are only protected by the exterior canvas. Aluminum laptops may be damaged if carelessly swung around. That was a little disappointing.
There are no stitched pen slots, which might matter to some.
However, comparison is the thief of joy! If I hadn’t had the experience of carrying another excellent WaterField bag for many years I would have nothing but praise. Nobody else makes bags like Waterfield. These are lifetime quality items. This level of design and craftsmanship is truly rare in the era of crummy consumer goods 🫡
I hope I can come back in another 10 years for the next one. Hang in there Waterfield!
I really love this case. Its a very simple case, but the elimination of having to unzip and zip a case has been a nicer feature to have than I thought it would be. I was skeptical as to the value since it is an expensive case, but i wanted something, as an adult, that looked more appropriate for me at my age to be holding/carrying around instead of something that’s obviously a handheld colsole
The Fidlock buckle looks like a magnet for snatch thieves.... pardon the pun! :-)
I recently purchased the Air Porter (compact) bag and have only used it on one flight. My initial impressions are very positive. The compartments are well thought out. I use the bag for laptop, other electronics/accessories, some folders and a light jacket. The bag stands upright which is a key feature. Also, the bag does slide upright under the seat in front of you(at least on my United Flight). As mentioned in other descriptions aisle seats offer less under seat space although I was still able to place my feet on either side during takeoff and landing. That may not have been possible with the full size bag although I think you would have be good with either sized bag in the middle or window seat. One thing that I haven't seen documented is that other than takeoff or landing the bag sits nicely against the front of your seat giving you the full space under the seat in front of you. This is only possible because it stands upright so well. I think this bag will be with me a long time!
My friend has had a Waterfield bag for years and recommended them to me. I finally got mine a couple weeks ago and am very happy with it. Sturdy and stylish and functional.
Taking an around the world trip in November. Let's see how it works.
Overall the usual and then some quality that I have grown expect is present. My only draw down that kept me from 5 stars is the zipper on the main compartment. I would have liked it a tad bit longer for better access.
Waterfield is my go to accessory for all my Apple gear and their Vision Pro case is unsurprisingly perfect. Thoughtful design, premium materials, and overall quality never disappoint.
I purchased the Air Caddy with the Air Porter many years ago when they were both first released. Both are fantastic items and have served me well for many years. I travel with a backpack more these days than with my Air Porter, but my Air Caddy still accompanies me every single time. It looks as good as it did on the day I received it. The profile of the Air Caddy, which is different to most tech pouches, works perfectly then you have a tablet, kindle, electrical cables, AirPods, and other thin electronic accessories and flight necessities. Most good bags have an easy access pocket where the Air Caddy can live, and lets you grab it as you are finding your seat. Then stow it in the seat back pocket or storage cubby for the duration of the flight and you can access everything you need. Also works just as well when traveling on trains, buses, cars. I love this pouch, and should mine ever wear out, I hope Waterfield continues making it for years to come so I can replace it like-for-like.
Excellent product of superior quality. A true pleasure to have purchased it.
My wife doesn’t like carrying a purse everywhere but she wants her wallet, iPhone, and car fob. The iPhone pouch is perfect.. It holds everything she wants and the smaller size makes it comfortable to sling carry in front hands free. None of the other options similar to this are made in the USA . Products made in USA may cost slightly more but the quantity and workmanship is always worth it. This pouch is extremely well made, I wouldn’t hesitate to buy it again.
Beautiful and high quality strap that really enhances the wearing experience of my Tom Bihn side kick.
High quality, doesn’t slip, and helps me carry a few extra pounds in my vitesse messenger. What’s not to love?
The smaller Air Porter bag is perfect for bringing everything I need onto flights. The magnetic adjustable leather flap makes getting to items that need quick access easy. Holds a laptop and an ipad in the back compartment, also very easily accessible from your seat while flying.
Beautiful case which is VERY well made and fits the Apple Vision Pro perfectly. It has a wonderful attention to detail with adequate spacing for everything needed, including the battery and additional zipper pocket for headphones (airpods). Also I compared it to the standard Apple Vision Pro case from apple and it's almost half the size. Excellent!
