Features:

  • 100% Man Made
  • Made in USA or Imported
  • Internal organizer for pens, phones, and other small stuff, Internal water bottle pocket,
  • Coordinating Strap Pad included, Cross strap not compatible with XS messenger, Fully adjustable shoulder strap with a permanent, super comfortable airmesh strap pad
  • Partially concealed flap buckles with bottom compression straps for subtle and secure closure (XS size does not have bottom compression), Waterproof TPU liner and Flap corners fold into place for excellent weatherproofing
  • Timbuk2 Double-Loop cam buckle enables easy fit adjustment while eliminating any excess webbing
Perfect Bag - Updated Designed Very Welcomed!

I’ve had several Timbuk2 bags over the years (messenger bags and backpacks) and this is my first bag with their updated material and design for the classic messenger. I had some concerns due to limited negative reviews on Amazon and the manufacturers website. But my experience has been nothing but positive. All of the changes to the design are well thought out improvements including the lip on side opening of the bag that folds in the keep water out, the new lighter weight material, and the changed placement of the straps under the flap for aesthetics and to act as optional compression for the bag. The new material is also still highly waterproof and durable. The bag came with a nice cushioned shoulder strap that previously I had to replace on older models as they used to be just uncomfortable nylon wraps. There is also plenty of pockets for organizing both inside and outside of the bag. There is a laptop divider good for a e-device or papers you don’t want crushed. And it also still has a simple big compartment inside. The addition of a low profile handle on the outside of the bag so you can carry it like a briefcase is very useful as well. The new strap adjustment system also works like a charm and is easy and quick to operate. Check the manufacturers website for a good video tour that highlights all of the features. I’ve taken this bag on an international trip to Iceland. I wore it everyday and even wore it while pushing a stuck tour-bus on top of a mountain in Iceland out of three feet of snow. I also take it with me to work on my regular commute via bus. It has held up great (still looks brand new) and the small size is perfect to carry everything I need but not so big that is can’t comfortably sit on my lap for 45 mins without taking up much space. I have seen two other commuters with the same bag. It’s comfortable to wear for an extended amount of time and easy to run with while wearing. I carry in the bag a 21 oz water bottle, my lunch, an umbrella, some magazines, a work binder, a toiletry bag, pill bottles, keys, a work badge, pens, hand sanitizer, and earbuds. I would also have space to stuff in more things or a wind jacket. The small messenger is a great size for travelers or commuters. The small might be viewed more as a medium compared to other brands as the medium Timbuktu bag is too big in my opinion unless you are an absolute packrat or bike messenger. The medium might be the right size if you want to also carry a pair of shoes or a bike helmet in your bag. The large would be for people who want to carry a full wetsuit, shoes, and bike helmet in your bag. The bottom line is I love this bag and and I’m happy I bought it. It’s proven tough, versatile, professional looking, well designed, and ergonomic. I can’t identify with any of the criticisms from other negative reviews. My bag’s build quality is fantastic and the changes they have made to its design have significantly improved my experience compared to using their older style bags. I would highly recommend this bag.

Many sizes fit many, and there are lots of colours, too.

One of the strangest things about my childhood in the war-surplus era of the 1950's is that although I had several packs of various sorts, I didn't carry one every day. I lugged my books and such back and forth to school every day in a pile under my arm. The closest thing I had to a daily carry was a zippered ring binder with pockets. Today is better. Everyone walks around hands-free with a bag of some sort carrying the tools of daily life. For several years my main tool of daily life was an 8" tablet, and I had a nice and simple KAVU bag to hold it, and my pens and cards and such. A series, actually,because as handy as the KAVU bags were, as comfortable on my bicycle, they lasted about two years before the corners wore through. Eight months ago, just as the corners were opening on my last KAVU, I upsized to a Lenovo Yoga Book as my main daily tool. How should I carry it? The reviews and adverts showed people carrying it under their arms, much as I had carried my notebooks in grade school, but I thought that method had too many disadvantages to consider seriously. Fortunately, I found that the faithful Timbuk2 Classic Messenger bag, a version of which I had used when I lugged an IBM ThinkPad around in the 1990's, comes in many sizes. The smallest is perfect for my YogaBook. It seems as well made as my old Messenger, which a friend still uses to carry his daily tools. It's also perfect for about everything else I carry on a daily basis, unless I want to pick up some bulky items during the day. It will hold my tablet, a Nintendo Switch, various cables and pens and cards and such, easily with room left over for a bottle of wine, but not much else. This is probably a good thing, as it discourages me from buying stuff I don't really need anyway.

This is a very versatile messenger.

Let me start by saying that I have a few Timbuk2 messenger bags. I've been wearing them for years, so I wasn't ever interested in buying another brand. With that said, this particular messenger is one of the best bags (messenger or otherwise) I've ever owned. I got the grey solstice color in small. There are some notable differences between this bag and Timbuk2's previous iterations of its classic messenger. The very first thing I noticed was that the strap on this one is much slimmer than the others I have. I was worried that the thin strap would dig into my chest, but it's actually really comfortable, and it looks more understated than the thicker strap the company used to use. The material is another big difference. This bag feels a lot thinner than other messengers I have as well. I've worn it to work with a blazer, and it looks fine, but I can also see myself carrying this to the park, packed up with my dog's water bowl. It's really versatile. It easily fits my 13" laptop, iPad, legal pad, a book and a few other things (chargers, pens, etc.).

My third (and favorite) Timbuk2 bag

I'm re-writing this review, because my first go-around sucked. ***After a week of using the bag - newly updated!*** I got the Medium edition of this, the 2014 Classic Timbuk2 Messenger (Diablo). It is my 3rd in a series of Timbuk2 bags I purchased seeking the perfect messenger. Here is the whole list: 1. Timbuk2 Classic Messenger Bag 2013 (small, night blue/blue/night blue)- This was my first Timbuk2. I thought I wanted it to be small, but I found myself wishing it were bigger every day I carried it. Also, the colors (night blue/blue/night blue) were slightly brighter than I had expected, which was offputting. It was a pretty good fit for my fiance, however. 2. Timbuk2 Command Laptop TSA-Friendly Messenger Bag (medium, Red/Gunmetal) - Using what I learned from the first bag, I got this one. It was bigger, which I liked. It was cooler looking, which was good. I would have kept and used it without any complaints; but 1 week after I bought it this new bag was released. So I decided to get the new one and send back whichever one I liked less. 3. Medium 2014 Classic Messenger (Diablo) - the new digs. The rest of this review will be about this bag with comparisons to my two previous purchases. First off, if you haven't checked out the official Timbuk2 website for the features of this bag, you should. They are more in-depth there, and include a video which was fairly helpful. The 2014 Classic comes with a number of new features: - MATERIALS - > The new Cordura fabric - the new fabric is smoother to the touch and less stiff than the ballistic nylon used on their previous bag. While this is a matter personal taste, I like that this bag feels more like a bag and less like a floppy box (which the other ones felt like at times). The new material is LIGHT, though. The medium 2014 classic weighs less than the small 2013 classic. ***The lightness has been huge. I liked it at first, now I love it.*** - FIT - > The new Double-Loop CAM Buckle - this is the feature I'm the least sold on right now. It's less intuitive than the CAM Buckle on the 2013 classic or the 2013 Command. Both the 2013 Classic CAM Buckle allowed the bag to be either short or long, but nothing in-between (without adjustment). The 2013 Command CAM system removes the dumb loop that hangs off the side of the Classic, but does so at a cost. When you unbuckle it, the bag will just fall off you if you aren't holding onto it. The 2014 Double-Loop CAM doesn't have a binary "Short" and "Long" mode. Instead you slide it every time. It is much less intuitive than the the 2013 editions, and I haven't figured out how to do it easily just yet. ***CORRECTION: I have figured out how to do it fairly easily. If you hold the strap to your chest and use your other hand to unbuckle/slide/rebuckle, it works really well. I'm making this review 5 STARS now that I've figured out how to properly utilize the updated CAM Buckle.*** > The new strap pad is more comfortable than the 2013 Classic, basically on-par with the 2013 Command. > The removable cross-strap I haven't gotten to test yet, but I'm really glad the option is there. The strap is indeed very removable. It comes in a plastic sack inside your Timbuk2 bag. - ORGANIZATION - > They removed 2 of the 3 zippered pockets found under the flap. I could see why some people would dislike this change, but I'm all for it. The 3 zippered pockets under the flap on the 2013 editions shared the same physical space within the bag. Filling any of the 3 made it very difficult to use the other 2. I always left 2 of them empty. > Side Napoleon pocket - unchanged, and still awesome. > The internal organizer on the back side of the face of the bag has been simplified. They say it's about balancing the bag, but I'm guessing it was more of a cost-saving measure. The new organizer has fewer compartments (4 total) and no velcro pouch. I probably preferred the old organizer, but it's nothing I wouldn't get used to. ***While this is still a bit of a bummer, I've gotten used to the new organizer. It holds what I need it to.*** - CLEVER EXTRAS - > Internal waterbottle pocket - This is an elastic pocket on the left side of the bag. It's too small for a Nalgene. You can't even force one in there, it won't go. A standard Camelbak will fit, but it's still a bit tight. I don't plan on switching back to Camelbaks just to use the waterbottle holder. I'll put snacks in there or something. ***I might use this to hold a personal thermos full of coffee, but it's too small for my water needs. It and the stash pocket are currently holding the two heavyish items I carry every day (a leatherman and a portable external battery).*** > Internal stash pocket - unchanged from what I can tell. Fit's my 15.6" work laptop just fine. > Corner flaps - They that fold in to keep the rain out. When it rains, I'll be glad I have them. When it's not raining, they can be kind of a pain when taking wide things out of the bag. Overall, I'm glad they are there, though. > Low-profile grab handle - since it sits on the rear of the bag and not the top, it looks less gaudy. It also makes the bag lean forward a bit when you use it. Definitely meant for a "grab and go" situation and not for extended holds. This bag doesn't double as a briefcase quite like the Command Laptop bag does. > Partially concealed buckle flap closure - makes it slightly more difficult to close the bag all around. The velcro catches just a little less easily, and the buckles are just a little less easy to get to. I do think it improves the overall aesthetic of the bag, though. ***While this might still be true, it's less of a bother than I originally anticipated. The bag closes very easily.*** > Compression straps - good feature. Two straps now dangle off the front of the bag at all times. They removed the loop from the main strap, but then added two more straps that dangle off the front of the bag all the time. Probably worth it. ---- FINAL THOUGHTS ---- > The new (2014) Classic Messenger is my favorite bag thus far, but it's going to take some getting used to. Is it $30 better than the 2013 Classic? Meh, close call. It's better for my needs than the 2013 Command Laptop bag, and for that reason, I'm glad I bought it. ***After getting used to the new strap and figuring out some of the quirks of this bag, I'm even more glad I bought it. I'm raising my original 4/5 review to a full 5/5. Would recommend.***

the wait is over

I love this bag more than I should. After years of looking for a good, solidly built messenger bag, my search has ended. This bag is sturdy, and well designed. The shoulder strap, is comfortable to wear, and the distributes the weight evenly across my shoulder. The bag itself is spacious when I need it to be, and has straps I can use to cinch down the width if I need. The extra length of material where the flap folds over is, bar-none, my FAVORITE aspect of this bag. I live in Washington, and this extra flap keeps the contents dry and the bag looking sharp. I would definitely recommend this product to anyone looking for a well designed, sturdy bag. 10/10 would buy again.

Everyday Carry Bag for Minimalists

Well, I was on the fence between a medium and a small. I'm 6'2 and for my needs the small is the size that works for me best. I am absolutely thrilled about the construction and workmanship on this bag. It seems very durable and even the inside stitching (where other messenger bags fall short) feels sturdy and looks professional. I'm not using this as an overnight bag, but as an EDC day bag. I like messenger style bags because I can wear them on my body in different positions and find getting into them (while still on me) much easier then backpacks. As for the color choice, I am at an age where I'm just done with 'black' everything. I try to incorporate color where I can. The best way I can describe this red color is that is falls into a cherry tomato red vs. a fire engine red. Lol, I might be color blind, but let me tell you, I like the fact that it stands out in a crowd. I've been able to pare down what I take with me, and I'm down to a tablet, journal and few other daily items. Everyone is going to need a different size, but like I said initially, I like the small size of this bag. I'll probably get the medium as an overnight crash bag, but for now I'm very happy with my purchase. If you like this review, let me know :D

Works for iPad Pro 11” with Smart Folio or Smart Keyboard Folio

I was looking for a carrying case that would work with the recently introduced iPad Pro 11”. By looking at the specs and reviews I thought the Extra Small Timbuk2 Messenger Bag would work and I was correct. It almost seems like it was designed for the iPad Pro 11" in the back pocket. There is also room to store my wife’s regular iPad in the back pocket so the bag would also work with the Smart Keyboard Folio with the iPad Pro 11”. I generally like the appearance and functionality of the bag. There are plenty of pockets for cables, charger, battery pack, etc. and it is somewhat expandable if I need to stuff in other items or snacks. As I read the reviews, I was amused by comments saying the Velcro was too loud, but now I see what they were talking about. It really can be annoyingly loud if you are opening the bag in a quiet setting. I put a couple Velcro strips on the Velcro it to keep it from connecting. They are easily removable when I want a secure closure when traveling. The quick connectors were extremely tight when I first got it and I had to resort to pliers to get it opened. I was considering returning the bag the bag but they loosened up after a few openings and are fine now.

It's a Camera Bag, School Bag, Gym Bag for me!

First off I bought a small and with the color Grey Solstice. The color is true on the picture posted on Amazon. I bought this bag mainly for it being a camera messenger bag. The cool thing with Timbuk2 is that they make a camera insert for their messenger bags. I bought the extra small Snoop camera insert and it fits inside the bag with some space left. This is great for holding additional items in my bag while shooting. When I was browsing online one of the key things was the bag had to be water proof. This bag is! When i opened up my package the first thing i did was spray it with my faucets spray head on the front and on the side. The grey material in front is water resistant at first but then it soaks up the water. Underneath the grey material is the TPU liner which is water proof so nothing gets through. When I sprayed it from the side the flap corners did their job, but underneath the main flap the TPU liner had a little bit of water, which could potentially get to the contents of your bag. Though keep in mind that the faucet spray head sends out monsoon like rain. I'm taking summer classes in Austin so I wanted this bag to be versatile and change purposes for me. I usually bike to class and with the cross strap given I'm able to enjoy my ride without any swinging of the bag.This bag holds my 13 inch MacBook Pro, 1 medium sized book, 1 Notebook, 1 Folder, and a pair of Jeans. It can hold one more medium sized book, but you are pushing it's limits then. I also use this bag for the gym and it has more than enough space for my gym clothes and other workout items. The only con I found with this bag are the water bottle holders inside the bag. The holders can pretty much only carry the plastic Ozarka, Nestle, plastic water bottles. That is about as wide as those water bottles holders extend to. The holders can fit my camelbak podium big chill inside, but i feel like it's going to rip with continuous use. It's a small con for me usually i get around it by just filling my big water bottle up with ice and then just placing it in the bag and not in the holders. Once i get into school or the gym i just fill it up there. I do this because i feel that that the water bottle may leak in my bag. I could just use a plastic water bottle, but i don't get as many ounces of water. Anyways this bag is amazing with all it's nifty organizers! Also the main outside pocket has another zippered pocket underneath it so that you can reach this pocket without opening your bag up. I like how it serves many purposes for me and how it does it's job well for protecting me from potential heavy downfalls! Thanks Timbuk2!

Please don't turn away from this bag! Worth every penny.

This is likely the most well though out messenger bag that I have come across yet. I picked up the small mojave for ~45$ and what a bargain that was. For all of you on the fence, this is not your run of the mill messenger! This thing is heavy duty, organized, well stitched, completely rainproof (!), awesome adjustable shoulder strap, designed for people on the move (cycling anyone?), and has probably some of the best ergonomics to boot. I have looked and tried all sorts of other things. I have a huge, large capacity soft sided brief that I can carry a mountain in if I need but, for every day carry, this is it hands down. The size is curiously flexible. I say this because its small but, I can somehow cram all sorts of stuff into it and still get by. For everyday its not big and floppy (cinch straps are quick and easy) and when you want this thing bagged up and ready to go, its solid and not going anywhere. Your stuff isn't shifting around or banging together, you fold the flap down, clip the straps, and tighten. I would have to say its like having the convenience of a backpack but, somehow in the shape of a small and stylish messenger. I can't think of any complaints really. People have complained about the velcro and I admit I didn't get it at first but, its there for sure intentionally. When you are jumping up quick with your bag and don't want to clip the straps the velcro gets your back. If anyone has a messenger they know if you don't secure the flap, it usually hangs open and isn't fun to deal with, thank you velcro! The fabric somehow looks like soft cotton based stuff, but its like plastic coated or something and feels like it could withstand a small hurricane (its super thick). Much better than the tent like fabrics a lot of other companies use (as it pertains to style and function). I have never owned a Timbuk2 before and won't likely be going to any other brand anytime soon. Goodbye finicky leather and unprofessional tent nylon, I no longer have to choose between professional looking or practical in function. Its here and then some. Fits my 13" laptop, Bible, planner, padfolio, all sorts of trinkets, diapers/wipes, coffee, cellphone/wallet, and coolness.

The Perfect Mirrorless Camera Bag

Along with a camera insert, the Timbuk2 XS Classic Messenger Bag makes for the "perfect" travel camera bag ... for me! I have a Sony a6000 with 18-105mm lens attached, along with a 10-18mm lens. All fit perfectly with room to spare if I want to also carry the 55-210mm or 50mm along. In the slot for a tablet, I put any reference material or my phone. All the other pockets are perfect for spare memory cards and batteries, whatever else I decide to take with me like a rain sleeve (just in case). My only issue is my fault... sometimes I cram more in that I want to carry. Bottomline, bag is perfect for what I wanted if for.

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