Booq Boa XS (backpack for 12" laptops)

[DavidNZ]

Ordered one of these from Australia and just arrived a few days ago. For pictures and another review, go here: http://jkontherun.blogs.com/jkontherun/ ... _revi.html. That site also has a good description of the features of the bag, so i won't duplicate.

Initial impression was that it would be small to hold things, but of more concern is the pressure that is placed on the laptop (and an X40 with an 8-cell fits fine) when the bag is even lightly packed. Already I have a mark impressed on my screen (visible only when turned off) from the trackpoint (and I use a Screensavr cloth on the keyboard), and I'm just worried that putting it in such a small bag/backpack may heighten the problem. It's reasonably comfortable to carry, and it is definitely a 'low-profile' bag in that it doesn't stick out two feet from your body as you carry it (definitely a problem in crowded airport terminals, i've found). It won't carry huge amounts of paperwork (again, fear of stuffing too tight, but also because there just ain't a lot of room), but I had a couple of trade magazines (generally thin) and a Moleskine notebook in it and it seemed reasonable.

I used to walk to and from work yesterday (Friday) and it seemed fine, but not sure if I'll use it travel because it's just too small (and I tend to carry on very little when I travel).

[ivan]

Hi,

I've had this bag for a year and I love it. What I value in a bag: ultra light, small just for laptop basically, backpack.

Its the most convenient bag I've seen: its small, super light, comfortable, great protection and great design. I use it all the time for my daily commute as well as for traveling.

For regular use I have not had trouble with the tightness you mention, unless I try to use it for more than carrying the computer and its accessories (AC and mouse in front pocket) and some paper and pens (middle pocket). Its just not made for more than that.

[I occasionally can't resist and cram my Bose noise cancellation headphones in the middle pocket. Then, admittedly, things are quite tight in the laptop compartment.]

My only real problem have been that:

1. the chest strap's plastic buckle broke after 6 months of using it; I do miss this since, like all backbacks (and especially this one due to its size), this bag is more comfortable when you are strapped in.

2. the two rubber-metal stoppers on the outside bottom of the bag keep falling off (these are of dubious use though; seems like they are meant to keep bag from touching the ground if you rest it occasionally. But I don't see the big point in that).

But these are minor issues. The bag is perfect for me, and everyone wants one when they see it.

-Ivan

[joprodse]

Just got mine from australia as well... And finally I've got it all right this time. this is for sure the one for me and my X32 and I've been through 5 different backpacks in less than a year.
I Might wright a short review later if you guys are interested.