Timbuk2 Outtawhack Daypack : Everything but the Kitchen Sink

As laptops, cell phones, iPods and other personal electronic toys have become de de rigueur in in urban life, so have the fancy bags we need to transport them.

Plain old bike messenger bags just don't do it anymore. We need bags with more options, more padding, more pockets.

Thank to Timbuk2 I have a lot of options. Their latest, the Outtawhack daypack, is the most versatile bag they've ever offered. Part backpack, part laptop briefcase, and part bike messenger bag, this all-in-one pack can hold just about ANYTHING.

Under the front flap, there are pockets for pens, pencils, a cell phone, a wallet, and other small necessities. A small zippered front pocket is the perfect place to store change for the bus or parking meter.

The Outtawhack has two major compartments: one roomy enough for a rain jacket, bike lock, and a couple of books; the other a corduroy-lined, padded laptop sleeve. The back of the pack is heavily padded, so my laptop is protected on all sides. Of course, this mighty pack also comes equipped with a headphone port for my iPod.

Unlike most messenger bags, the Outtawhack can be worn as a backpack. The padded straps evenly disperse the weight of the bag across both of my shoulders. So what if the real bike couriers in Portland might think I'm a weenie; my shoulders are thankful. I also wear the bag over-the-shoulder, tucking the backpack straps away into a zippered pocket. (Although, the packed straps can make the bag a bit bulky.)

Personally, I usually end up using my Outtawhack Pack as a backpack because once it's packed full it's a bit too big for a shoulder bag. I think it was primarily designed to be worn as a backpack.

The Outtawhack day pack, made out of super tough ballistic nylon, will accommodate laptops with dimensions up to 15.5" x 10.25" x 1" or 13.7" x 9.5" x 2". It's available in 4 color schemes.

Bottom Line: The Outtawhack, while highly versatile, might be a little too bulky for some, but ideal for people who need to transport a lot of gear. It's ideal for travelers. --B. B. (July '06)

Price: $100

Manufacturer's Site: www.timbuk2.com

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