Every wanted a laptop case to keep your MacBook nice and close to your... erm... butt? Well your prayers have been answered! Introducing...
the LEvertigo Laptop Bag!
Unlike most laptop bags, the LEvertigo holds the laptop vertically, and is designed to be carried close to your body. What possible benefit could this provide you ask? Well, the manufacturers of the bag will have you believe that this allows you to carry your laptop and accessories without weighing you down. While I'm quite undecided as to whether this claim is true, in reality it really means is you are less likely to swing your laptop case into the nearest pole while meandering aimlessly down city streets.
(I finally got my butt on MacTalk! A proud moment.)
A modern MacTalker needs a modern bag, and the LEvertigo certainly doesn't disappoint on style, nor substance. The silver nylon exterior has a mesh-like appearance, and while the white sides and bottom appear plasticky, they are certainly quite sturdy - not to mention easily cleaned! The strap is best likened to a seatbelt - it even has the same visual pattern and feel of a seatbelt, and because of this seems quite strong and sturdy. The clips and connections are all solid metal, with no breaks or weak spots. I couldn't physically bend any of the metal connections, giving me confidence that these metal connections will last.
There is almost no visible stitching on the external of the bag, and very little that has the possibility that it will unravel. The overall construction of the bag feels quite strong, although the padding around the laptop itself is slightly thinner than other bags I've had in the past. The unit does not seal, however the manufacturer claims that the design is waterproof. However the open sides of the bag and velcro "e" to seal the bag leave enough doubt to make you want to bring some other form of protection.
The interior pocket space is sufficient for most basic items you would want to carry, however after inserting the power brick, a mouse, and my iPod, there is little room left for extras. Two internal zipper compartments are perfect for storing small or secure items such as your USB key or wallet, however the overall depth of the bag doesn't allow for larger items such as most digital cameras. There is a document pouch suitable of carrying a small A4 notepad and a few documents, however you wouldn't want to put any folders in the bag.
While wearing this bag around the streets of Canberra, I got the distinct impression I was being followed by small, helium inhaling mice. While having metal connections for the strap is a wonderful thing, the bag certainly sounds like it could use some WD40. What am I getting at? Well, the bag squeaks. You just have to position the bag perfectly on your butt so that the metal connections aren't at an angle to each other, either that or buy yourself a supply of cheese to distract those pesky rodents.
So if I was to dot point, which I will...
Pros:- Stylish!
- Perfect size and shape for a 15" MacBook Pro and accessories
- Sturdy design, strong connections
Cons:- Not much room for accessories
- Not the thickest padding - I certainly wouldn't want to drop the bag
- Squeak!
Despite these small limitations, the overall design of the bag gives me confidence in it's ability to protect my MacBook, and the style and sophistication to fool even the most hardy of snobs. Having purchased many laptop bags in the past, I've finally found true lappybag love.
The hard facts:
Manufacturer:
http://www.be-ez.com/
Technical Specs:
http://www.be-ez.com/pdf/LEvertigo-s...echdata-EN.pdf (caution: Engrish!)
Size: 34.2 x 357 x 259 mm
Weight: 850g
Colour: Silver/Blue - also available in many other colours.
Fits notebooks with sizes up to 15.4"
The price:
$99.95 at Streetwise, also available by order from Mac1, and NextByte.
LEvertigo Laptop Bag
