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Sometimes the coolest tech tools are not the newest ones. I missed Kensington SaddleBag when it was first released (in 1996). This uniquely-designed laptop case can be worn like a backpack, carried like a brief case, or hefted onto your shoulder with a clip-on shoulder strap.
The SaddleBag is very stylish...at least some will think so, style obviously being in the eye of the beholder. Personally, I like the look. The version Kensington sent me was the two-tone black and brown, with black as the main color and the faux suede trim in a light brown. The two colors certainly give it a saddle baggy/western look, but I don't much like the scheme. The version with black faux suede trim would be more my speed. The bag has lots of compartments, zippered pockets, and pouches. There's a big zippered pocket and a slit ticket pocket on the outside flap. I wish more bags had this quick-access ticket pocket. Inside, there are two compartments. The smaller front compartment has a mesh pocket in front and a zip-down organizer in back. The organizer has another zippered mesh pocket, cellphone pocket, business card and pen holders, a diskette pocket, and a key holder. The main compartment has a removable accordian file organizer and a foam-padded computer compartment. The carrying handle is thick foam, offering a comfortable hold for what proves to be a very heavy lift. With the bag full, using the handle is a bit of a strain, unless you're only carrying it a short distance. The shoulder strap would more likely be the main means of carrying the bag. The padded adjustable backpack straps can be stowed in a zippered hide-away pocket when not being used (this pocket can also be used for other stuff). One thing Kensington points out in their press release is that, since the SaddleBag doesn't look like a traditional laptop bag, it's more secure on the road. It's less likely to get stolen or switched by mistake with someone else's bag in an airport baggage area (how many of those identical Targus bags have you seen whizzing around the baggage carousel?). There may be some truth to this claim. I'm impressed with the SaddleBag. I think it's a handsome, well made, and versatile bag. And, at a street price of $55, it's cheaper than comparable bags. But take a tip from Gareth "Fashion-Forward" Branwyn, the two-tone western thing is just so '80s Ralph Lauren. Black-on-black, on the other hand, is always in style. - Gareth Branwyn [6/15/98]
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