Waterfield Designs Syde MacBook Case Review — $159

I was so excited to get my new MacBook Pro. It’s such an elegant machine! But that excitement quickly turned to worry—I didn’t want to scuff it up! My solution was to put it inside a small protective case and then put that inside my actual bag—a hassle, to say the least, since these days I’m moving from class to class in an MBA program.

So began my frustrating search for a better solution, which finally ended when a good friend introduced me to the Waterfield Designs Syde MacBook Case.

The next day I walked into class and set my new case on the desk. I pulled apart the straps, the magnet clasp popped open, and I slipped the computer out. My classmate responded with, “Whoa! You just pulled a computer out of your purse.” He proceeded to admire the size and quality of the bag, which has now gotten more attention than my laptop.

Functionality

This case is designed for a minimalist user. That was initially a concern for me. For starters, it meant carrying my binder separately, in my hands. I soon realized I could do without most of what was in there. And when teachers gave us handouts, they fit nicely into the bag’s outer sleeve, which provided safe transport till I got them home to my binder.

In the leather pouch on the outside, I put pens, wallet, calculator, and charger. That all fit, though it was a little snug (maybe it’s time for a slimmer wallet). Everything else had to stay behind.

If you’re a minimalist, or a wannabe like me, I think you’ll like the simplicity of the bag. There are no extra pockets, inches, or frills. But it won’t work well if you’re the type who likes to bring the kitchen sink.

The strap is adjustable, and the shoulder pad has grips, which makes it comfortable and stationary on my shoulder.

Construction

The main compartment is an exact fit for the 13” MacBook Pro. In fact, my friend told me that Waterfield delayed the final design till the latest MacBooks (with the lightbar) arrived so they could make sure the design had no excess. This main sleeve is pretty impressive. It’s cushioned in a high-grade neoprene that’s soft and great for absorbing shocks. As for keeping my MacBook safe, it put all my worries at ease.

The outer pocket and the handle are made from premium, full-grain leather. At first I was worried about scuffing up this leather, till I learned that mild wear actually gives the surface more character, which does make it look better over time.

The coolest part of the design is the silent, magnetic closure. (I consider it the spiritual reincarnation of the magnetic power plug from the old MacBooks—my favorite abandoned feature.) You just pull the handles, and the seam pops open. Then pick up the bag by the handles and the clasp gently snaps back closed—almost automatically. I love it! The magnetic closure also gives the bag’s opening some structure, so it’s never left hanging open. It’s a beautiful design and a remarkable match for the technology it carries.

Aesthetic

I really like the look and feel of this bag. It’s perfect for conferences, recruiting events, interviews, and any other event in which you want a minimal, protective bag. And it’s quite stylish.

The strap and the fastening loops at first seemed too flimsy—not that I thought they might break, but they just looked dainty to me. Now I’ve gotten used to it, and the lightweight straps feel more fitting for the minimalist aesthetic.

The main compartment is made of a durable waxed canvas which has a rugged look that compliments many different styles. It’s soft to the touch and, like the leather, gains some personality with use.

The outer pocket is a beautiful, grizzly-colored leather. If this isn’t quite your style, Waterfield also makes this bag out of ballistic-black canvas, with either black or grizzly brown leather for the pocket as an accent.

Conclusion

This is a high-quality product, made from durable yet fashionable materials. It’s designed to fulfill the simple task of transporting your MacBook and its accessories in style, and it does this without an ounce of excess. I’ve been quite happy with my Waterfield Designs Syde MacBook Case, and I think you will be too.

[Megan Spencer and J Washburn wrote this review in collaboration.]

June 24, 2016December 19, 2017

Mission Mercantile Laptop Sleeve Review – $115

After spending a good chunk of hard-earned cash on a new laptop, the last thing you want to do is cause any preventable harm to it. Thankfully, you can always pick up a laptop sleeve to keep it protected. Instead of getting an ugly, easily torn nylon or neoprene case, check out some of the leather and canvas options out there. One of those great options is the Mission Mercantile Laptop Sleeve.

ABOUT MISSION MERCANTILE

Mission Mercantile was launched in fall 2015. They operate out of their own factory in Leon, Mexico– Blue Artisan Group. We recently reviewed Mission Mercantile’s Stateroom Weekender, as well as their Steamer Backpack (which we are giving away here).

You can learn a bit more about Mission Mercantile in my recent interview with Chuck Bowen, one of MM’s founders, who has a passion for serving “mission men and women” who love leather goods.

CONSTRUCTION & AESTHETIC

The Laptop Sleeve is made with full-grain vegetable tanned leather and thick waxed canvas. It’s designed to pair with the Steamer Backpack, which uses the same materials and is offered in matching colors. They both have a similar vintage aesthetic and look great as a pair or separate. The contrasting stitching looks great against the dark “Oil” colored leather.

The interior is lightly padded and lined with matching suede. It keeps your expensive electronics protected and scratch-free without being too large or bulky.

FUNCTION

The Laptop Sleeve will hold up to a 16″ laptop. My trusty Macbook Pro is 13″ and fits nicely even with a bit of extra room on the sides. The padding holds it snugly. The closure is a straightforward strap and loop combination that’s simple enough for quick access but sturdy enough that it doesn’t feel like it will open up on its own.

CONCLUSION

The Mission Mercantile Laptop Sleeve is a beautiful, buy it for life item that will far outlast any laptop you put in it. And, you still have the chance to win this Laptop Sleeve AND the matching Steamer Backpack. Good luck!

September 3, 2015December 19, 2017

HIDES Canada Leather Tech Tote Review – $266

Whether you’re a student, self-employed, or a full-time office worker, chances are, in 2015, you bring your laptop with you everywhere. And when you usually carry a purse as well, it’s nice to be able to combine them so you don’t have bags hanging all over you like a pack mule.

Today I’ll be looking at the HIDES Canada Leather Tech Tote as an everyday laptop tote bag.

ABOUT HIDES CANADA

HIDES Canada is a new brand out of Toronto, Canada. Their product line includes messenger bags, totes, duffels, wallets, and a dopp kit. From their website:

HIDES was inspired by the age old leather making tradition in the subcontinent region of Punjab and Northern Kashmir. We are committed to bridge the gap between man and nature during these complex processes. The way the leather is being crafted – these methods have been used since the past 35 years and only the best had crafted skins are used for our products. This ensures that our products are not only, eco-friendly, but also handcrafted to perfection; which only get better with age!

THE LEATHER

HIDES Canada uses a full-grain leather with a distressed look. The leather used at HIDES is unique, as it comes from the region of Punjab in the subcontinent and Northern Kashmir. The animals in these parts of the world are free to roam and are exposed to harsh climates and temperatures. Extreme conditions like these make the animals’ skins thick and extremely adaptable to their surroundings, which produced a very tough and unique leather. The leather they use is full-grain, and is often referred to as Crazy Horse leather. Crazy Horse leather is a thick pullup leather that is finished with natural oils and waxes, which gives the leather a distressed, rugged look and finish. The leather on the Tech Tote is very unique looking. It darkens up in certain areas, while maintaining the lighter areas, giving it great texture.

CONSTRUCTION & FUNCTION

The Tech Tote features a large main pouch with a padded sleeve that fits up to a 15″ laptop and is secured with a velcro strap. The opposite side has a large zippered pouch, a phone sleeve, two pen loops, and a small multipurpose pouch. There are just enough pouches to keep you organized but not overwhelmed.

The middle of the bag is nice and roomy, and is made even larger with the zippered gussets on each side. Just unzip the sides and the tote expands significantly. This also adds a bit of stability to the bag if you’d like it to stand up on its own. This is an awesome feature that works especially great if you are carrying around papers or files. The expansion feature on the Tech Tote works flawlessly. Some bags have this feature but the gussets are not solid leather like Tech Tote, and items fall out the sides or get caught in the zipper. It’s clear that a lot of thought was put into the functionality of this tote.

The outside of the bag features zippered pockets on the front and back. The front of the bag displays two stitched pieces of leather, in slightly contrasting colors, giving some visual appeal and texture to the bag. The inside is lined with olive and khaki fabric, which contrasts nicely while remaining in the same color palette.

The handles are the perfect length for over-the-shoulder carry if you prefer. The tote comes with a 46″ shoulder strap that attaches to D-rings on the inside of the gusset with lobster claw clasps. It is adjustable via a heel bar and has a small pad for comfort. The shoulder strap is really the only part of this bag that I am not a fan of. The strap feels cheap, brittle, and flimsy. This is an issue I’ve noticed with a lot of bags on the market, where detachable shoulder straps seem like an afterthought. Thankfully the attached handles are very sturdy and comfortable.

AESTHETIC

At 15″x12.5″x5″, the Tech Tote is nice and compact when it comes to laptop bags. In fact, it’s not really that much larger than many purses. I’ve found that it doesn’t stand out as a laptop bag and can easily double as a purse. It’s usable in tons of different settings, and its tan color makes it quite versatile. It’s not too crazy or modern, and functions perfectly for everyday use. I have been told that this bag will soon be available in black, as well, so keep an eye out for that! I think black leather will look great.

CONCLUSION

I’ve been quite pleased with the HIDES Canada Leather Tech Tote. It’s the perfect color, shape, and size for everyday carry. It’s well-constructed and the Crazy Horse Leather will only look better and more interesting with age. $266 USD is a reasonable price for a very useful bag that will last you for years.

October 25, 2012May 9, 2020

Saddleback Leather Macbook Air Sleeve Review

If you are heading out to door for a flight, to the coffee shop, or Machu Picchu, the Apple MacBook Air is perfect for its fantastic portability. If you walk around with your computer outside of a messenger bag or briefcase then it is wise for you to get a sleeve, and therein lies the question. Should you get this one from Saddleback Leather?

In keeping with the minimal design of the Apple MacBook Air, here we have the Saddleback Leather MacBook Air Sleeve, minimal extraordinair. Like the Macbook Air, we will see how long it remains useful since its usefulness is intrinsically related to the lifespan of the MacBook Air.

construction

The Saddleback Leather MacBook Air Sleeve is one piece of 4-5 oz. full grain leather which is bent around and double stitched on the other side. The interior is lined with pigskin which is very durable and thin. Pigskin is most often seen in luxury leather goods, which this absolutely is. There is a strip of neoprene stitched between the leather layers on the spine of the sleeve to help cushion a fall on the spine.

function

While its durability is not questioned, the long term functionality of the Air Sleeve is certainly questionable and therefore perhaps categorizes itself as a luxury item. If you replace your Air with anything else in the future, what will you use your case for? What if the Air gets even slimmer (which it will)? Then your sleeve won’t work at all! And then what? You are going to sell it? Maybe. But everyone else bought the new Air and has no need for the old version. The resale value is going to plummet because there will be no market demand. The iPhone and iPad cases have the same problem because of their updates every year. Seems it is.

Another problem is the open ended design of the sleeve. While the design protects the laptop from three sides, the open side makes the Air vulnerable to either slipping out accidentally or hitting the front corner of the sleeve in a fall and quite forcefully ejecting the Air. The design would be much safer, and bulkier, if there was a buttoned-down wrap-around strip of leather which secured the Air into the sleeve it would be more recommendable.

aesthetic

The simplicity of the Air Sleeve is elegant. One swath of leather with a pigskin liner and double stitched with polystyrene (super-strong) thread.

On one side the cursive Saddleback Leather logo is branded into the leather quite pleasingly.

Functionally though, the Air Sleeve lacks elegance. The above mentioned foibles detract from the overall usefulness of the design because they force you to constantly worry that the design issues are going to lead to the downfall of your lovely Air.

Best Leather conclusion

If you have money to spend on each new iteration, you are not concerned about your Air slipping out or being ejected in a fall, and the extra bulk and weight of the sleeve does not ruin the simple appeal of the MacBook Air, then by all means get the Saddleback Leather MacBook Air Sleeve, in Chestnut. Because that is the best color.

Check them out here on the Saddleback Leather Website.

If you are relatively frugal, you want your sleeve to be functionally perfect, or the idea of obsolete leather does not appeal to you, then carry your Air in the Saddleback Leather Messenger Bag (for durability) or the Colonel Littleton No. 42 (for refinement), instead of the Saddleback Air Sleeve. Which is what they should have called it.

You could opt for a cheaper sleeve you won’t mind replacing when you get a new version, check out something like this.

Saddleback Leather MacBook Air Sleeves can be on found on Ebay, although they seem to be appropriately rare.

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