Shinjuku Messenger Bag

Another great bag; more padding please!

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!

The bag itself is gorgeous. The colors are so rich. It arrived quickly and safely. It is a birthday present and he loves it.

Yea I love this thing. Really good design. I travel quite a bit and im always taking my laptop and all its periferies around. Imo kind of ideal, really well thought out. The bright interior makes everything easy to spot. Strong material. I think im going to have this for a very long time.