Chrome Industries Midtown Messenger Bag

Perfect Read more

I had been looking to buy something from Chrome Industries for a while due to the brand's reputation, but since I only ride my bike a couple of times a week, I didn't have many excuses. This bag, which I bought without reading any reviews because it's new, hasn't disappointed me at all. I chose the Sage color, as I already have a black Cordura briefcase. The color is beautiful, like a grayish green. The Midtown offers plenty of space without being excessively large. It's roomy enough to carry several books and a change of clothes, a tech pouch, and even has capacity and padding for two laptops, which is extremely useful. (Although I always wonder about how they measure volume in liters... this one claims to have 20, but yesterday I couldn't fit as much stuff as in my 16L Manhattan Portage Tribeca) One feature I really appreciate is the versatility of the flap, which can be tucked away to convert the bag into a messenger style or left out to function more like a briefcase. The closure is also adaptable; it can be fully closed for greater security or left open in more controlled environments. Additionally, the front pocket with magnetic closure is a fantastic idea for storing my wallet and small items. The water bottle pockets are huge and well-fitted, which is another point in its favor. The construction of the bag is really solid. There are no loose threads, and the nylon seems very durable. I hope the Sage color will stay clean over time, but its texture makes me think it will be easy to clean. The only thing I'm not entirely convinced about is the use of Velcro to secure both the laptop compartment and the flap closure. I understand it's practical and doesn't make much noise, but I'm concerned about how much it might wear out in the long term, given that the rest of the material looks so solid. Overall, I'm very satisfied with this purchase!! Well done, Chrome!! Read more

Meh. This thing has the build and aesthetic sensibility of a traditional 90s laptop bag, velcro and all. The handle for "briefcase" carry is situated awkwardly on top of the side panel, rather than centered over the bag, and I can't seeing it being practical to use— your options here are shoulder-strap versus tote-bag carry. Shoulder strap is only "removable" in the sense that you can un-thread it, like you can most straps— it's not a quick conversion. Velcro will wear out and be impossible to clean. Magnetic flap doesn't accomplish anything in terms of securing your belongings, but poses a risk to any magnetic storage media you might wish to carry— like a computer. I'm generally a fan of Chrome Industries, but they're quite hit-and-miss. I'd say this is one of their misses. All that said, it's not bad enough to return, and it does seem to be well stitched together. Read more

Somewhat good, somewhat not. It doesn't have the same quality Chrome used to have. It was lightweight. I didn't like the feel. Read more