Thinkpads Forum

donking! wrote:In case people are interested, I've been adding links for other sources of sleeves and laptop bags that I found (some intriguing designs). I'm adding the links a couple posts up, just to keep them all in the same place.

donking! -

1) Thanks for the links I'm enjoying them
2) Ironically I met a guy over the weekend with the WaterField Sleeve. Yes, it is quite impressive! (although like you, I'm not fond of the checkered pattern on the bottom) However I thought why not? So I placed and order which arrives tomorrow. I provide some feedback on it in a couple of days.

I emailed Waterfield and they said for $25 they could pull a sleeve off the line and do something different with the checkerboard strip at the bottom.

I'm thinking pretty strongly of going with the felt German laptop sleeve now. The one in Charcoal color with a red flap I think looks pretty classy. And it's very different from other sleeves. I also like that it has a flap instead of a zipper (like Waterfield and like the Japanese IBM sleeve). And wool felt just seesm like an interesting nice material to me.

donking! wrote:I emailed Waterfield and they said for $25 they could pull a sleeve off the line and do something different with the checkerboard strip at the bottom.

I'm thinking pretty strongly of going with the felt German laptop sleeve now. The one in Charcoal color with a red flap I think looks pretty classy. And it's very different from other sleeves. I also like that it has a flap instead of a zipper (like Waterfield and like the Japanese IBM sleeve). And wool felt just seesm like an interesting nice material to me.

I just recieved my WaterField order today. These products are really top of the line. I'm so impressed with the quality of the stitching, the way everything lines up, etc. Best of all, is the fit, my ThinkPad fits in nice and snug. They have terrific material for padding, and an overall look of class and style. I believe their sleeve would outlast all of the others. Because of the fit, and superior padding I would not hesitate to put my computer in any other bag / backpack and not worry about damage.

donking! -
The WaterField Sleeves are offered in two basic configurations.
One is open ended with a velcro strap wrapping around from back to front, securing the laptop.
The other is a Flap...No Zippers used here.
Check out this link.
http://www.sfbags.com/products/sleeveca ... l_5_lg.jpg

I am extremely pleased with this purchase.

Hey archer6,

How bulky is the Waterfield sleeve? It looks like I won't be able to get the felt sleeve that I like. I emailed them about shipping to the U.S. and the email bounced back to me. So now I wonder if they're even still in business.

I want a sleeve that adds very little extra bulk to the contents of my backpack. So I'm seriously thinking about the plain old Glove, from Radtech (just a neoprene zip up sleeve). I'm even tempted by their very thin Sleevz sleeve, made from a heavier version of their sceen protection material.

But I like the Waterfield because is has no zipper, yet can still have a flap covering the opening. So again, just wondering about how much extra bulk it adds to the laptop. Thanks.

donking! wrote:Hey archer6,

How bulky is the Waterfield sleeve?

I have the same criteria, as I like to take my laptop in a backpack evenings and weekends. In fact that's why I bought the X60s, small and light yet very usable. It is this computer that caused me to start looking for the ultimate sleeve.
Don't get me wrong, I have many sleeves of various thicknesses and brands. I have backpacks designed for laptops, and backpacks that are not designed for a computer. I like to have choices and flexibility for the need of that particular day.
I do not like the neoprene type because they are either too loose, or snug to the point that the zipper scratches the computer. In addition, there is absolutely no drop/impact/opps? protection.
I ordered just one Waterfield sleeve to try and I was so impressed with the product that I immediately ordered a bag and both types of sleeves for my X & T series ThinkPads. The open sided sleeve that uses a velcro strap to hold the computer in, and one with the flap so I could carry just that into a quick meeting, Starbucks, etc. In fact, the sleeve with the flap is a perfect solution of protection, durability, style, and ease of use. One could put their ThinkPad in it, and then put it in any bag and know that it's perfectly protected. The quality of material used in the sleve is the very best I have seen, and the assembly quality is superb. This is by far the best sleve available. It fits the computer perfectly. It's snug without being too snug, it has the best padding and with the computer in place there is nothing loose, or sticking out.
I cannot imagine that you would not like this WaterField sleeve.

I really like the http://www.booqbags.com sleeves and backpacks. What I am worried about is my 9 cell messing things up with it buldging out. My T60 is coming with a 9 cell standard and I am ordering the ultrabay battery with it - so I don't want to spend MORE on a 6 cell to have for toting around day to day.

Any suggestions or experiences?

I've read elsewhere that with the Booqbag Vyper sleeve design it really is a snug fit. That bag, obviously, has a sort of hard shell design, so to me it seems likely that the 9 cell wouldn't work with it. They do provide the interior dimensions on the web site, so you ought to be able to figure out if it would work or not.

The PowerSleeve, to me, looks malleable enough to accomodate a 9 cell battery. You can also find the interior dimensions for them on the web site. But I have no personal experience to speak of with this sleeve.

How about a Filson 258? A buddy of mine has one, absolutely loves it, and the couple of times I've seen it I admire it...pricey though, and I'd love to compare it side by side to the Waterfield Cargo as I'm about to pull the trigger on a T60 and I need another bag to add to my collection....

http://www.filson.com/product/index.jsp ... geBucket=0

They also make a smaller one, style 257 but that is probably a bit too snug for a 15" T60 with a sleeve:

http://www.filson.com/product/index.jsp ... geBucket=0

Great forum and resource, been a Thinkpad user since the early 90's when I was with IBM (last 3 have been my personal purchases).

Randy

donking! wrote:I've read elsewhere that with the Booqbag Vyper sleeve design it really is a snug fit. That bag, obviously, has a sort of hard shell design, so to me it seems likely that the 9 cell wouldn't work with it. They do provide the interior dimensions on the web site, so you ought to be able to figure out if it would work or not.

The PowerSleeve, to me, looks malleable enough to accomodate a 9 cell battery. You can also find the interior dimensions for them on the web site. But I have no personal experience to speak of with this sleeve.

Powersleeve XM fits a 14" 6 and 9 cell battery. Though 9-cell batt will push the sides of the bag, making it look a bit... hmmm.. you know
6 cell fits perfectly. I love my powersleeve XM!
Actually, the thinkpad doesnt fill all the available space. But the empty space is located on the top of the powersleeve, and the way you carry the laptop makes that you wont care of the empty space. The thinkpad wont move. It is not the case for the Vyper XM, depending on how you put it in you bag or backpack.

Speaking of the Vyper from Booq, does anyone have any input on the Vyper L model? It seems like it's the best snug for the 15" T60. The 15" T60 is 13" x 10.6" x 1.2-1.4" (from NotebookReview.com). The Vyper L is 14.2 x 10.9 x 1.6", so there's definitely some extra width room inside (1.2") for the laptop to shift around.

DUM DUM DUM...


the sleeves you all have been waiting for have arrived!

http://forum.thinkpads.com/viewtopic.php?p=159586

The ones I have actually say IBM Thinkpad on them btw.

Jaybert,

I'm assuming those IBM sleeves from china are for the 14" models. I have a 15" coming, is there any space I can work with for a 15" T60?

myrighteye wrote:Jaybert,

I'm assuming those IBM sleeves from china are for the 14" models. I have a 15" coming, is there any space I can work with for a 15" T60?

I doubt it....its a pretty snug fit for the 14", so I dont see how a 15" model can fit.

how well does a 14" with a 9-cell battery fit in those?

i dont have a 9cell battery to show, but it will fit fine because of the way the case closes. since its a flap, it will just wrap around the extended battery and still stay shut tucked under the loop in front.

Hopefully that makes sense

Too bad there's none for the 15". I was planning on getting the Booq PowerSleeve 14 (on sale on their site for less than $60), but this very innovative one is really getting my attention:

RadTech Tekmod



Only $62.99 at eBags.com, with free shipping, and 6% cash back via FatWallet!

Gotta agree with archer6, the Waterfield sleeve is NICE...I ended up getting the large Cargo Mambo Combo, and since I don't envision using the sleeve by itself I got it without the flap...the sleeve itself is not bulky, but has definite heft such that I feel very comfortable with my T60 in there. It is snug, but that's good. It has a pocket in back for a few papers or file folders, and as a nice touch has a loop at the bottom to grab onto when you're puling out your laptop...you'll see how useful it is when you use it, and it's not a big thing, but it's unexpected and just screams quality. The bag itself is large, with compartments galore, and a pouch where the sleeve goes. I like it because I can bring it in a corporate environment and feel comfortable about it because it is obviously a quality product, with still a little bit of pizazz...not important to everyone of course, but the bag just has personality.

I'd be remiss if I didn't mention the customer service...ordered from their web site maybe 2pm central time last Wednesday, and within an hour got a call from one of their reps telling me the color I ordered was not in stock, and would I like to change the order or wait a few days until they got back in stock...I decided to change the color then they mentioned to me that UPS has already picked up for the day but they'd try to get another run out to get me the bag by Friday, which they did...inside the box was a handwritten thank you note from the rep I spoke to, and had previously gotten an email from the owner of the company thanking me for the order and asking how I found their site (I referenced this forum). Just a class organization all around, at least from my experience, and a quality product. If you're not looking for a backpack, they should have something to suit your needs.

Randy

I like the styling of the Burning Love sleeve, but it doesn't look very protective; is there anything that looks simple/stylish while being protective like the Waterfield?

edit: These look interesting, if not a tad bit pricey - http://www.acmemade.com/thedesignerslim.html

I have owned over 15 laptops or so, have lost count. Have also owned just as many computer bags, if not more.

After travelling too often on planes and having my computer wrecked by other passengers stowing too many things in the overhead or thoriwng shoes and what have not under their chairs etc. I got a Pelican case. But with recent tightening down of ariline restrictions there came more and more remarks on the weight etc from the airline staff.

The other item was that I often travelled to pporer countries where a laptop is often worth more than that a person earns in a year.

It is important not to advertise that you have "expensive goodies" on your person, even in the civilised world late at night it is becoming increasingly risky.

After long, long searching I now have a Crumpler backpack and have been extreemly pleased with it. It is not the fastest to get your gear in and out from but it serves it purpose of protecting and hiding your stuff. My son got the same backpack but the photographic version and he too is very pleased with it. The built quality is belonging to the best that I have had.

If I had not a bag and would be asked which one I would buy again then this is the one I would get again, no doubt in my mind.

Marinus

vital-analitix wrote:I now have a Crumpler backpack and have been extreemly pleased with it. It is not the fastest to get your gear in and out from but it serves it purpose of protecting and hiding your stuff. The built quality is belonging to the best that I have had.

If I had not a bag and would be asked which one I would buy again then this is the one I would get again, no doubt in my mind.

Marinus

I have a large number of bags for a variety of applications and when it comes to casual attire, I really like my Crumpler backpack. It offers the best protection for my ThinkPad of all the different packs and bags I have. In addition, I too appreciate that it does not scream LAPTOP! The other aspect I really like is how comfortable it is. There is a lot of space for other items, or if I'm traveling light it works just as well. The material and stitching is really first class. Also I like that it's just different from the other backpacks. It also seems easier to keep clean (perhaps it just me).

For those of you still looking, take a look at Crumpler. You may like it.

Hello All,

Just wanted to share my experience.

I've owned a waterfield cargo bag for a little over a year and I can honestly say it's _very_ well made and has a wonderfull design. But, I've grown tired of messenger style bags and decided to go back to using a backpack.

I bought and just recieved the "Premium Backpack" from Mobile Edge (http://www.mobileedge.com/items.asp?cid=3&scid=3&pid=5) and I'm quite happy with its quality and layout.

Good luck finding the perfect bag

elqed wrote:
I bought and just recieved the "Premium Backpack" from Mobile Edge (http://www.mobileedge.com/items.asp?cid=3&scid=3&pid=5) and I'm quite happy with its quality and layout.

Good luck finding the perfect bag

Went to their web site and I must say, this looks like a very nice backpack!

My questions:
1) does it have a removable waist strap?
2) Do you find the shoulder straps well shaped and comfortable?
3) How is the stitching and assembly quality?
Please describe the layout of the various pockets/compartments.

Thanks in advance for you response.
Archer6
admitted laptop & bag addict

archer6 wrote:

donking! wrote:Hey archer6,

How bulky is the Waterfield sleeve?

I have the same criteria, as I like to take my laptop in a backpack evenings and weekends. In fact that's why I bought the X60s, small and light yet very usable. It is this computer that caused me to start looking for the ultimate sleeve.
Yadda Yadda Yadda...

(Yadda Yadda Yadda added)
Hey Arch, you never ended up answering Don's question? Was wondering myself, because I want to get the Waterfield and put it inside my work 'messenger-style' leather bag. The internal compartments of this bag couldn't hold anything thicker than just under 2 inches.

How much thickness/depth/width does the Waterfield add?

astro wrote:How much thickness/depth/width does the Waterfield add?

In order to insure that I provide you with absolutely accurate measurements it's important to note that it all depends on Ambient Temp / Humidity / Barometric Pressure. The foam padding is subject to dynamic shrinkage or expansion based on the above conditions. OK...OK... I know... blah, blah, blah, that's half the fun.

All seriousness aside here's the answer:

The thickness of the sleeve is 6.5 mm, uncompressed. This is on all sides/bottom etc. The ThinkPad fits very snugly (a perfect fit) so there is no loose space or gaps between the laptop and the sleeve. So simply add 13 mm and the "thickness of your ThinkPad" to determine if it will work in your bag.

archer6 wrote:

astro wrote:How much thickness/depth/width does the Waterfield add?

In order to insure that I provide you with absolutely accurate measurements it's important to note that it all depends on Ambient Temp / Humidity / Barometric Pressure. The foam padding is subject to dynamic shrinkage or expansion based on the above conditions. OK...OK... I know... blah, blah, blah, that's half the fun.

I was thinking that I might have to take into account the Coriolis effect as well -- having bought the bag from North America, I might have to "reset" it by twirling it around a few times in the opposite direction or it might damage my laptop when I put it in...
[This almost belongs in the other thread...]

archer6 wrote: The thickness of the sleeve is 6.5 mm, uncompressed. This is on all sides/bottom etc. The ThinkPad fits very snugly (a perfect fit) so there is no loose space or gaps between the laptop and the sleeve. So simply add 13 mm and the "thickness of your ThinkPad" to determine if it will work in your bag.

Cheers, mate!

Archer...

Sorry for the delay in my response, I've only had the bag for three days, and just received my T60p today, so I haven't been able to thoroughly test it.


1- there is a waist strap. it is not removable.
2- the shoulder straps a quite comfy. I keep a fairly heavy load (laptop, 1 or 2 large books, a note book, ipod, various pens) and the weight didn't bother me at all, and my shoulders don't have any sore "contact points" like I had with my last backpack.
3- I don't know enough about stitching to say anything meaningful other than by comparison - the stitching and assembly quality is at or near the level of my waterfield bag.

Compartments.
Outside, there are three pockets, one on either side of the bottom of the bag that are smallish and unremarkable (not poor, just simple/plain) and one large pocket on the "front" bottom of the bag, this pocket has two elastic netted compartments.

Opening the top flap, on the front face of the bag is a small pocket for doc's such as boarding passes, note it is accessible with the flap closed. There are two large main compartments inside the bag.

The rear compartment is large, has a padded sleeve for the laptop (a 2623DDU fits very well, nice and snug but not too snug) and the padding material looks like it would be very effective. There is also a small pouch at the top of this compartment meant for an ipod/cdplayer, there is access to the outside of the bag for headphone wires from this pouch.

The front compartment is the same size as the rear compartment; it has two deep elastic netted compartments, a three pen holder, and a business card holder.

Let me know if you need any other info.

elqed wrote:Archer..

The front compartment is the same size as the rear compartment; it has two deep elastic netted compartments, a three pen holder, and a business card holder.

Let me know if you need any other info.

Thanks for the report, it sounds like a very nice bag.

Can anyone confirm that the sleeve in the Crumpler King Single backpack fits a 15'' T60p with a 9 cell battery?

I compared the dimension of the sleeve (15''x10.6''x1.6'') with the dimensions of the T60p (13''x10.6''x1.2'') and it looks like this will be a tight fit. Also, I do not know if the T60p dimensions take the battery into account.

Any help would be appreciated.

jenss wrote:Can anyone confirm that the sleeve in the Crumpler King Single backpack fits a 15'' T60p with a 9 cell battery?

I compared the dimension of the sleeve (15''x10.6''x1.6'') with the dimensions of the T60p (13''x10.6''x1.2'') and it looks like this will be a tight fit. Also, I do not know if the T60p dimensions take the battery into account.

Any help would be appreciated.

Personally I do not like the extra weight and bulk (it's huge) of the nine cell. The battery protrudes off the rear of the computer and really so I ended up selling mine on eBay.

With the standard 6 cell battery, my T60 fits perfectly in the Crumpler King Single backpack I have. It's the best backpack I have ever owned, and I have quite a few. What I especially like about the Crumpler is the comfort and balance on your back. The weight of the computer is barely noticeable because it's so secure and does not move in the backpack.

Archer6,
Thank you very much for your super quick answer.

So I guess this means that the T60p with the 9 cell battery does not fit in the Crumpler 'King Single' sleeve. I was hoping that the extra height (sleeve: 1.6'', T60p: 1.2'') would allow to stretch the sleeve sufficiently to make the T60p with the 9 cell battery fit.

I also don't like the bulkiness of the 9 cell battery, but I do like the extra battery life I get compared to the 6 cell battery. Unfortunately, this means no Crumpler for me