The New Staad Laptop BackPack Is Perfect For The Techie In Your Life

You can’t be in love with a carry bag. If you could, I’d be sending flowers to San Francisco, Calif.-based WaterField Designs. The company’s new Staad BackPack is its most beautiful, yet functional product to date, and arrives just in time for the holidays.

The Facts

• Company Name: WaterField Designs
• Product Name: The Staad
• Price: $319 and $329, depending on the model.
• Size: The Slim is 2.4 pounds and measures 5.5 x 12 x 1.0-3.0 inches. The Stout is 16 x 14.24 x 1.5-5.5 inches, and weights 2.8 pounds.
• Compatibility: Has enough space for one laptop and one large-size tablet. Plus keys and a mobile phone.
• Website: http://www.sfbags.com
• Date Reviewed: Oct. 28, 2013

The Basics

The Staad is ideal for both casual and professional office environments. The body is made of water-resistant tan waxed-cotton canvas or customized, 1050 denier black ballistic nylon. The naturally-tanned leather flap is available in black, chocolate, or grizzly. Both cases can securely hold a MacBook Air or MacBook Pro, an iPad, plus accessories. Both feature cushioned interior pockets for each device. The neoprene cushioning and moisture-resistant material keep the wearer comfortable and dry. On the outside are two zippered side pockets, which are perfect for holding a set of keys or a mobile phone. The Slim can hold up to a 13-inch laptop, while the Stout can hold a laptop up to 15-inches in size. Take a look: http://www.youtube.com/watch?feature=player_embedded&v=j_teLj5CIDk

Integration with iOS devices

For testing purposes, I’ve been using a Stout Staad. Inside is my 11-inch MacBook Air, 9.7-inch iPad with Retina display, and iPhone 5s. Each device fits like a glove in the pockets assigned. I wasn’t crazy about this tight fit, at least initially. However, I soon realized that this opinion was largely based on my past experience with less expensive bags. Yes, those bags could hold all of my Apple products. Rarely, however, did they do so while also providing the necessary protection.

Accessories

The Staad includes a quick-grab leather handle that provides an additional carrying option.

Use and feel

This bag is simply gorgeous. Like with other bags that contain leather, The Staad will only improve with age.

Scratches, Scuffs, and Dirt

The more scratches and scuffs on the outside, the better, in my opinion. However, you should probably still use a leather cleaner on it occasionally.

What’s Hot

• Durability
• Multiple pockets
• Perfect all-in-one solution
• Made in the United States
• Multiple combinations are available

What’s Not

• Some may find it expensive

How Does It Stack Up?

I haven't found a bag this nice to look at, which also offers this level of protection.

Where Can You Get It, And How Much Does It Cost?

The Staad is $319 for the Slim version, and $329 for the Stout. Both are available through the SFBags website.

Our Advice

Don’t complain about the price for The Staad, especially when you consider what you paid for the devices it will protect.

The Staad’s Overall Scores:

Aesthetic Appeal: ★★★★★ Wow Factor: ★★★★★ Build Quality: ★★★★★ Value: ★★★★☆ Buy Now: You may purchase the $319 Slim Staad and $329 Stout Staad at this link.

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