BrentHaven Pro 15/17 Backpack
I purchased one of these backpacks to carry around my new MacBook when I'm going to and from work. I'm not fond of briefcases and less fond of messenger bags. My Jansport computer backpack wasn't big enough for the MBP.
After using the Brenthaven Pro 15/17 -- advertised to work with the MBP -- I have several important observations that others should consider before choosing this product.
1. While the backpack's "core" (the very nicely structured compartment for the computer) "fits" the MBP, the thinness of the MBP compared to the PB 15 or PB 17 is significant in permitting the MBP to move fore and aft in the back while walking briskly. Nothing like getting whacked in the back by a 5.4# computer on every alternate step. This could be eliminated by either a foam insert than narrows the depth of the core, or by getting a form fitting neoprene sleeve for the MBP (I'm waiting for mine to arrive any day now). The second problem is that Brenthaven needs to rethink the way the foam "flaps" that are intended to close over the exposed end of the computer are designed. The flaps don't close securely, which isn't a big deal EXCEPT if you wear a backpack in a rainy climate (like Bellingham, WA - home of Brenthaven). The design causes the flaps to "open" the moment the computer compartment is unzipped. Unfortunately, if the back pack, which is externally waterproof, is covered with water, all the external water drips right through the now opened backpack and onto the exposed, naked computer. Not good at all.
For me, this won't be a major issue once I get the neoprene sleeve I've ordered. Until then I'll have to be really careful to dry off the top of the backpack before opening it if I've just come 2 blocks through the pouring rain (like this morning).
I love the feel, the fit, and the finish of Brenthaven products, but this backpack needs some re-engineering to be really useful with the MBP in rainy climates. (BTW, I've discussed all these issues directly with Brenthaven. I'm not just here complaining).
After using the Brenthaven Pro 15/17 -- advertised to work with the MBP -- I have several important observations that others should consider before choosing this product.
1. While the backpack's "core" (the very nicely structured compartment for the computer) "fits" the MBP, the thinness of the MBP compared to the PB 15 or PB 17 is significant in permitting the MBP to move fore and aft in the back while walking briskly. Nothing like getting whacked in the back by a 5.4# computer on every alternate step. This could be eliminated by either a foam insert than narrows the depth of the core, or by getting a form fitting neoprene sleeve for the MBP (I'm waiting for mine to arrive any day now). The second problem is that Brenthaven needs to rethink the way the foam "flaps" that are intended to close over the exposed end of the computer are designed. The flaps don't close securely, which isn't a big deal EXCEPT if you wear a backpack in a rainy climate (like Bellingham, WA - home of Brenthaven). The design causes the flaps to "open" the moment the computer compartment is unzipped. Unfortunately, if the back pack, which is externally waterproof, is covered with water, all the external water drips right through the now opened backpack and onto the exposed, naked computer. Not good at all.
For me, this won't be a major issue once I get the neoprene sleeve I've ordered. Until then I'll have to be really careful to dry off the top of the backpack before opening it if I've just come 2 blocks through the pouring rain (like this morning).
I love the feel, the fit, and the finish of Brenthaven products, but this backpack needs some re-engineering to be really useful with the MBP in rainy climates. (BTW, I've discussed all these issues directly with Brenthaven. I'm not just here complaining).
7 Windoze, 4 Linuxen & 3 OS X (2 iBooks, MBP 2.0), Mac OS X (10.4.5), More iPods than people in my house
