Timbuk2 Especial Shadow Commuter Backpack, Jet Black

I used to own an older version of this backpack(Photo top), It was still working out for me, but it was getting old and I wanted to give this new one a try. This new bag comes with water resistance fabric and zipper. It weights ~26 oz about 10 oz heavier than my old bag(15.5 oz). However this new bag is really nice. I haven't experienced heavy rain, so I can't say how well the water resistance works, but I like the idea. (I used to use a pack raincoat for my older one, I'll probably keep carrying it for heavy rain) I like how this pack is little more sturdy and holds shape. When I hold it by the handle, and open the zipper, it stays upright and it's easy to pack the bag or take things out without everything falling out. I want a bag I can stow inside my suite case, then take it out when I'm at the destination for day use, also an overflow bag if I have more luggage on the return trip. I can't fold this one in half like the old bag, but it flattens out enough for me to fit it in my suitcase. No regrets so far, and I like the new look. I attached couple of straps with buckles so that I can piggyback off my suitcase.

I really liked this backpack. I was looking for a weatherproof pack that is streamlined and not complicated and this fits the bill. The material, design, and look of the backpack builds a bridge between professional and casual look. Kudos to Timbuk 2 for the bright interior!! I am so sick of ANY sack or backpack or even purse that has a black interior; it is like an endless dark hole. My only complaint is lack of a zippered compartment inside. The whole front flap has nothing on it for storage. This is such an obvious fix. The two small stretch storage pockets on the inside/sides are good enough for pens and small objects, but that is it. They are a bit hard to get to, so they are not the greatest. I am not a water bottle carrier, so the 2 stretch compartments on the outside do give additional storage. This bag is smaller, but I would not call it small. It still has good room. I can put my laptop, charge cord, carrying case for loose objects, camera and windbreaker jacket in.

Super cute and stylish commuter bag. This backpacks interior is narrow so its ideal for carrying a laptop and thin materials but not much else. That said, if all you need is a smaller bag then this is a great way to go.

On the upside, this backpack is compact and water resistant, making it practical for your commute if you don’t have much to carry and have to potentially risk getting wet in the rain. It’s a pet peeve of mine when people have massive backpacks on the Metro that hit into others and I could see this very convenient for biking though I’m a walker myself.That said, there isn’t much to it. One small pocket and two sleeves for a bottle on the outside and a laptop sleeve and two narrow pockets on the inside that’s about it. One of the reasons I wanted this was to have a place to put my sports bottle and it’s unfortunately a tight and difficult fit. Even when I did get it in, it bulges to the inside making it so you can’t get anything into the internal pocket.If you’re looking for simple and weather resistant, than this backpack would be a good option for you. If you need more space or pockets to stash your stuff, not so much.

I knew this bag was going to be small, you should know that too. Check out the dimensions. I use this bag when I am heading out for the day to go to work at Starbucks, or as a daypack while on vacation. It has a nice matte rubbery outside finish and a subtle Timbuk2 logo.To give you an idea of the capacity, when I am out for the day I am able to fit the following items on the inside compartment: 13" laptop + charger, small Kindle, lightweight jacket, baseball hat. On the outside side pockets, I have a reusable water bottle and reusable coffee mug. In the outsidde zippered pocket, I keep a phone cable and charger, and extra USB battery.That's a lot of stuff! If you're on vacation on your own, you can fit a light jacket, camera, waterbottle, maps, book, etc... what more do you need?

Also the water bottle pockets on the sides don't fit my 40 oz hydro flask. It could use a chest strap. It could use a waist strap.

I love Timbuktu backpacks. When I received this backpack it is small, expensive, and cheap looking.

The main takeaway for me is that a female, high school sofamor wanted to take it on her school trip to New York City. I received this backpack just in time for my daughter to take it on her trip which was unfortunately cancelled.It is a standard-sized laptop backpack with a sleeve in the back & one zippered, outside pocket on the front. The drink holding pouches on the sides are not mesh but black elastic adding to its sleek look. Both the main & front pocket zippers are waterproof which would be perfect her outing. The size is just right for everyday carry & under-seat stowage.Even though it doesn't have a lot of pockets, it does have some extras. The front pocket has a key lanyard & there are loops next to the top handle to attach things too or possibly hang the backpack. There are deep, corner pockets on the inside that are not zippered.