 This Product
Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger | |||||
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| Awards |  Best Overall Laptop Bag |  A Modern Briefcase Option For a More Professional Carry |  Best Value for Work to Weekend Crossover Use | Best Under $50 | |
| Price | $199 List Check Price at Amazon | $185 List Check Price at Amazon | $159 List | $125 List Check REI (on sale!) | $40 List Check Price at Amazon |
Overall Score  |
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| Star Rating | |||||
| Bottom Line | A lightweight urban messenger bag that will keep you laptop bone dry and give you the freedom and style that only a messenger bag can | This all-star backpack has pockets that make staying organized a cinch, as well as padded straps and back for all-day comfort | A rugged and versatile laptop briefcase that can quickly switch up into a comfortable messenger bag | High capacity, smart organization, reliable structure, and a large laptop compartment make this bag a great tool for commuters and travelers | A screaming good deal that has good enough quality, comfort, and function to hold up to daily use |
| Rating Categories | Timbuk2 Especial Sta... | Timbuk2 Authority De... | Aer Tech Brief | The North Face Recon | Matein Travel |
| Comfort and Fit (30%) | |||||
| Laptop Protection (20%) | |||||
| Storage and Organization (20%) | |||||
| Ease of Use (15%) | |||||
| Versatility (15%) | |||||
| Specifications | Timbuk2 Especial Sta... | Timbuk2 Authority De... | Aer Tech Brief | The North Face Recon | Matein Travel |
| Compatible Laptop Size | 15" | 17" | 16" | 16" | 15.6" |
| Carry Style | Crossbody | Backpack | Briefcase, crossbody | Backpack | Backpack |
| Volume | 17 L | 20 L | 16 L | 30 L | 28 L |
| External Water Bottle Holder | Yes | Yes | No | Yes | Yes |
| Location of Laptop Compatrment | Main/Back | Separate/Back | Main/Back | Separate/Back | Separate/Back |
| Unique Features | Water-resistant, messegner-style carry, attachable cross strap | Lower gear straps | Briefcase design with attachable messenger strap, waterproof zippers | Removable hip belt, women's version available | Exterior USB plug, lightweight |
| External Side Pockets | No | No | No | Yes | Yes |
| Weight | 2.2 lb | 2.3 lb | 2.6 lb | 2.5 lb | 1.7 lb |
This pack is made to do battle with the elements, particularly rain and snow. We love the dense exterior fabrics on the Timbuk2 Especial Stash Messenger. They are super rugged and are coated with a water-resistant rubbery shell. This bag passed our spray tests with flying colors. The part we loved the most was the separate waterproof laptop compartment. It sits deep in the main compartment and is made from a membrane that shields the laptop from water. However, its rubbery material made it more difficult to wiggle our laptop into place.
We like the look and fit of the Timbuk2. Its shoulder strap is well-padded and very adjustable. It also offers a detachable cross strap to more securely attach the bag to your body if you plan to ride a bike or motorcycle, and has a quick-release buckle that makes it easy to get on and off. This bag is very comfortable, can be worn on either shoulder, and it fits nearly every body type. We also think the built-in bottle opener is pretty cool too.
Although waterproof, we don't think the Timbuk2 has enough padding around the laptop compartment. The padding that does exist is high-quality. We just think there could be a little more. The laptop compartment does have a false bottom though, and we really like that it keeps our laptop from hitting the floor too hard when we set the bag down.
The Especial Stash Messenger is a great weather-protective choice for a light load, but its smaller size limits its versatility. The Osprey Metron 18 Messenger is another messenger bag we really like. It's slightly larger and lighter in weight than the Timbuk2 and we think it may be a little more versatile with its nifty bike-friendly features. We also loved the versatility of the Aer Tech Brief. It's primarily a briefcase, but has the added option of a detachable shoulder strap. It's also super rugged and protective. If you're looking for a more traditional backpack carry, the Timbuk2 Authority Deluxe is an excellent all-around bag.
