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Booq Boa slimcase M

Booq, the well-known laptop bag manufacturer, unveiled the Boa Slimcase line in November. The bags support laptop sizes ranging from 13 to 17 inches, and fit Apple's MacBook and MacBook Pro laptops. The Boa Slimcases are available in portrait and landscape formats. The two models and three sizes per model are designed for the professional who wants to carry only the basic necessities of computing.

I’ve always found the shape of the post-2000 laptops unwieldy and recently found that the vertical bags make them easier to carry, so I tested the Boa slimcase M vertical bag. This $115 bag fits 13 to 15" laptops, while the other more expensive models fit the 17" MacBook Pro portables.

made to last
The construction of the Boa slimcase M lives up to the quality of other Booq bags. The rugged, weather-resistant 1680D black ballistic nylon exterior shows no wear after three months of use, and I expect it to remain scuff free for its life. In addition, the high-density foam padding protects against an accidental drop or errant swing of the bag. One thin pocket, adorned with Booq’s signature orange piping, graces outside for folders or papers.

secure when open
The 3-pound bag is made to protect your laptop even when open, so it isn’t made with a square edged zipper that opens the whole bag. Instead the front has an angled edge, and when opened gussets prevent the flap from falling open. Inside the flap are one zippered pocket, one slip-in pocket, two pen pockets, and four small elasticized Lycra pockets for business cards, or other small items. Facing the front is an insert with another slip pocket and two flap pockets that close with magnets. I’m not a fan of magnets anywhere near my computer and would have preferred Velcro closures. Although the insert looks removable, it is not. The Velcro on the bottom secures laptop padding, not the insert.

interior pockets
Your computer slips into the section behind the red insert, which protects it from anything in the pockets. The 420D polyester red interior makes it easy to find items, but might not appeal to the more conservative among you.

The YKK coil double-stitched zippers are barely visible when closed, and a solid metal Booq-branded pull moves the zipper easily around the rounded edges. Affixed to one of the pockets is a Terralinq metal tag that reads, “If Found please visit Terralinq.com” along with a unique serial number. You can register your serial number at the site, so if your Laptop is lost or stolen, you can sign in to the web site to report the lost bag.

Booq includes a removable shoulder strap for comfort, or you can use the built-in padded carrying handle alone. I found the 2" wide adjustable shoulder strap very comfortable.

great bag, not my favorite
This exceptional bag may be everything you need for light days, but I found it too lean. It provides a very tight fit for my 15” PowerBook, and I could not comfortably fit my barest necessities, which includes a tiny mouse, iPod, headphones, and spare battery. The horizontal bag looks like it may fit a bit more, but I didn’t test that one. As advertised, this is a short-trip bag, not suitable for long hauls.

the good...
Well-constructed. Water-resistant. Comfortable when full. Limited 5-year Warranty. Bag recovery system.

the not-so-good...
Doesn’t quite fit my bare necessities. 15" MacBook is a tight fit.

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Original article posting: MacNN
Posted: May 4, 2007
Author: Art Payne
Four STARS out of five

Booq Vyper exo M

Stylish, sleek, and smart best describes the Vyper exo M laptop case by Booq Bags. According to the cute little tags on the dual exterior pull zippers, the exo fits Apple’s MacBook or the MacBook Pro, although any 15" or less laptop fits inside nicely.

the look
The water resistant exterior of the case is durable ballistic nylon material, black in color, with Booq's trademark orange logo and piping that add subtle contrasts to the look. The well designed dual cloth handles are on each side and are comfortable to use, but may be a little thick for person with small hands. Most users will ultimately use the well-designed shoulder strap. It attaches at opposite corners to distribute and balance the case and make it comfortable to carry. The construction is well thought out from the padded base with non-slip nubs to the metal swivel connectors that attach the strap to the case. Overall, it is very comfortable and very unobtrusive; the only thing I noticed was the weight of the packed case after an extended period of use.

functional protection
When fully closed and zipped, the case is just over 4 inches thick, but it can carry as much as some of the larger laptop cases on the market. The laptop fits in the bottom half of the case, which is lined with a felt like material to prevent scratches. The same felt material is used on the hard flap that flips down and is held in place with Velcro to secure the laptop in place. Two open pockets on the exterior of the laptop flap are a perfect size for a cell phone or iPod. A key fob is also featured for easy access.

functional interior
The other half of the exo case is well designed, with several other pockets and orifices to store and distribute items in a limited amount of space. The pockets are made of nylon that brings to mind a windbreaker jacket, but seem very durable. Two full sized magazine or file folder pockets, one with Velcro, sit along the center divider with two additional open pockets and three pen loops. The other side features three closable pockets, for items like the power adapter, a mouse, and USB gadgets. They're perfect except for one small detail, they close with buttons, like button fly blue jeans. They seem unnecessarily bulky.

The center connects to the back of the case with a nylon web, perfect for quickly dropping in magazines, newspapers or file folders and keeping them in place when it is opened. Finally, a large zipper pocket is built into the back of the case for other items too large or bulky to fit in the other spaces.

lost bag protection
The Vyper exo is not the cheapest case on the market, but a value-added feature minimizes the price. Booq’s new Terralinq Service is a web based system to unite registered owners with a lost bag. Each Vyper exo has a small metal plate that reads, “If This Booq is Found please visit BooqBags.com” along with a unique serial number. If your Laptop is lost or stolen, you can sign in to the web site to report the lost bag and hopefully a good Samaritan has also logged in and reported the Vyper exo found (hopefully, with computer intact) and Booq will reunite you with your missing property.

This is a great idea, except for two flaws in the system. At the time of this review, the Booq Bags web site has no links to the Terralinq Service site to report the found bag. I had to email Booq to get the URL for Terralinq for this review: http://www.terralinq.booqbags.com. I registered and the Report link comes up not found. I hope that this is because the Terralinq system is new and it will be resolved soon.

Overall, the Vyper exo M provides fashionable yet functional protection for your Apple laptop. It is well designed, comfortable to use, although on the expensive side. A quote for Booq on the adjustable strap sums it up best: “Empowering The Next Generation of Creative Performance.” A Vyper exo XL ($195.00 USD) is also available for larger laptops as well as the Vyper M sleeves that provide extra protection.

the good...
Comfortable to carry. Durable. Multiple pockets with an efficient use of space. Sleek, fashionable, and functional design.

the not-so-good...
Button closures on some Pockets. Terralinq Service not fully functional yet. Expensive.

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Original article posting: Spungle blog
Posted: March 6, 2007

Booq Vyper Exo (Verdict: Perfect Protection)

It’s hard to believe that we’re almost a year old. It seems like only yesterday that we were reviewing high-quality newly released bags from Booq. And now, as we close in on our first birthday, here we are, reviewing another perfect product from the geniuses at Booq.

The Vyper exo is truly everything that we’ve ever wanted in a laptop travel bag. And, as if a dream came true, combines all our favorite Booq products into one perfectly sized case. Constructed with a semi-rigid molded exterior from high-grade ballistic nylon, the bag beautifully secures your prized laptop as well as your other precious cargo.

When you open the oversized, easy to operate, paired exterior zippers you’ll be amazed by the fact that the bag opens to a full 180 degrees! This unique feature lets you not only neatly organize your crap, but also easily get to your goodies without jamming and crumpling any papers that you may be carrying.

As opposed to other manufacturers who make laptop “compatible” bags, this bag was designed for your mobile office. From a tough exterior, to an oversized 3” strap to secure you laptop snuggly between the felt-lined interior laptop-panels, to ample storage space, this bag is perfect. We love the fact that there are generous pockets throughout the interior of the bag that are just right for chargers, accessories, plugs, and doo-dads. In addition, the zippered interior document compartment is absolutely perfect for keeping important files safe and easily accessible. And, since there are no exterior pockets, you don’t have to worry about someone putting their grubby hands on your stuff as you rush through your morning commute.

In case the construction of this bag doesn’t give you enough peace of mind, by “purchasing a Vyper exo it is the beginning of an enduring relationship. The Vyper Exo is the first product to come with the all-new TerraLinq. Each bag carries a unique identification number that can be linked to you once you receive the product and register online. If the bag was subsequently reported to Booq as lost and then found, they could put you in touch with the finder and help you regain possession.” How awesome is that! I’m sure Tumi is getting a little nervous…

In conclusion, the Vyper exo is one of the most exciting and innovative cases that we have ever seen. The bag brilliantly protects your valuables, is extremely affordable, and most importantly, is aesthetically beautiful. So, happy near-birthday to us, and we wish you the best of luck in winning your own Vyper exo.

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Original article posting: Legit Reviews
Posted: April 11, 2006
Author: Ken Brown

The Ultimate Backpack for the On-The-Move Enthusiast

I am as guilty as anyone when it comes to skimping on accessories for a new computer. When I got my latest laptop - a 17" monster of a machine, I realized I needed to get a carrying case or backpack to replace the one that I had been using for years. The old backpack (an REI special) was great for storing all my junk and older model laptop with little fuss or fanfare. Unfortunately, after a run-in with our Office Linebacker, I needed a replacement.

We found a great product that we are finding essential if you a computer user on the move. A company based in Southern California called Booq sells a line of a computer bags and cases that are very unique and highly functional. This privately-held family company was started by a small team of highly motivated creative minds committed to providing the highest level of product performance and service to demanding customers. Today, we take a quick look at a backpack case that is one of their newest, the Python XL, and see why we think it is one of the best on the market.

Python XL

The Python series of backpacks is for all of the road-warriors out there. It has a pretty rugged and durable design from the double- and triple- stitching, to the waterproof zippers, to the endless amounts of pockets and hideaway areas. It's not small and dainty though. The Python is designed to protect your laptop and store every piece of hardware accessory that you would think to bring with you on a trip to the airport or to your next class.

Features:

Fits 17" PC Laptops, 17" PowerBooks, 15.4" MacBook Pro

Exterior dimensions: 20.0"x17.0"x8"

Laptop Compartment: 17.0"x 12.25"x2.0" (432x311x51mm)

Weight: 5.4 lbs

High-end materials and hardware, rugged construction, waterproof zippers

Various padded accessory pockets for items large and small

Rigid-frame laptop compartment with 0.75" HD foam padding and non-scratch lining

Room for a stack of books 6" high, shoes, water bottles, SLR camera, etc.

Detachable shoulder bag "Ecto" for small items

Ergonomic, breathable shoulder strap design with sternum strap and waist belt

Dedicated and secure iPod pocket, accessible from the interior only

Real-World Performance

We got the "XL" model to fit one of our 17" laptops - a Mac PowerBook G4. The great thing about Booq's lineup is that if you have a smaller computer, you can get the Python in a smaller size. The Python XM is a large-capacity laptop backpack for 15-inch laptops (fits 14.2 x 11.25 x 1.6" sized computers).

When you first look at this bag, you see something that is incredibly stylish, unique, and built for protection. Because of its rigid design, it can stand on its end with no problem, perfect for those of us waiting in line to check-in at the airport or trying to get through security. The top zipper has very easy access to your rig stored inside so you can easily slip out your laptop for class.

When you carry a laptop in this bag, it is well protected with a wall of padding between your back and the laptop itself. When we stored our 17" PowerBook in the Python XL, we actually had extra room on the top and the sides. We could have stored more files, magazines or even a small textbook if needed. One thing we were looking for was a strap or tie-down to keep the laptop secure when moving. We never had a problem with the contents shuffling around or being jostled however. It just seems natural to have an extra way of securing the contents.

The Python has at least 2,000 pockets and compartments.okay, well, not that many, but it has places to store everything from your business cards, to your iPod, to spare parts.whatever you need to take with you, you can put in this bag. Be careful though, it has so many pockets and places to put things, you might end up loosing something. As you can see in the pictures, there are pockets that have Velcro fasteners, zipper fasteners and some pockets that use elastic. Depending on what you are securing - and how quickly you want to secure things, you have a variety of choices you can make with this carrying case. Even the "Ecto" removable bag is sweet. It's got tons of pockets and heavy-duty zippers as well. I find myself putting small things like keys, pens or even a small digital camera or whatever there. The Ecto ships with a removable shoulder strap so you can dismount it from the Python to create a sort-of day-pack. You have the option of leaving it behind if you think you are carrying enough already. I don't really see myself using it as a "man-bag", but it's cool that Booq includes it to make the Python XL even more versatile.

After you load up this bag, it can become pretty heavy. Already weighing a good 5 pounds, you put in a 17" PC and power cords and other accessories, you can easily top 15 pounds of weight on your back. Don't worry too much though. Booq did an incredible job of designing their backpack bags. When you slip the Python XL on, the load is very well distributed and the padding really does a good job of cushioning not only the contents, but your back and shoulders. For those of us who travel often, this is welcomed news and easily justifies the higher cost.

On a side note, Booq informs us that all of their bags and cases carry a "Limited Lifetime Warranty" which covers defects encountered in normal use of their products. This is again great news for those of us taking the plunge in investing in higher end products.

Ken Brown's Final Thoughts & Conclusions

Many times we don't think about the accessories that augment our computer build or purchase. The temptation is to use what we have laying around and only spend money on the hardware. If you an owner of a laptop and you use it for any sort of commute, you'd better have some form of protection and storage. After looking at Booq's line of bags and cases, we have found what we think is one of the best combinations of protection, style and overall features in the Python XL.

For those of us who do quite a bit of traveling or even those of us who commute with a laptop everyday for work or for school, you will be hard-pressed to find a better laptop case on the market. Booq has done an exceptional job (some would say overkill) of giving consumers a high-end alternative to laptop carrying cases. From each individual zipper to the many pockets and high-quality padding, the Booq Python XL is build around quality for the consumer who is not trying to skimp on protection for their mobile rig. The Booq's Python XL is not cheep by any stretches of the imagination, but you truly get what you pay for: Shock protection for not only your laptop inside, but also for your back as you walk to class; Protection from weather and the elements; Functionality with more than 10 exterior pockets and zippers and almost double that on the inside; A sense of unique style (this isn't your dad's plain-Jane Targa case) this case is unique and built for the on-the-move enthusiast.

If the Booq Python XL is too big for your needs be sure to check out the Booq Python XM as it is aimed at the 15" and under notebook crowd and comes in at a lower price point with all the same features.

Legit Bottom Line:

With a street price of $200 and a lifetime repair warranty, this is easily the best backpack carrying case we have used. Tons of pockets, storage room, and padding, this is the ultimate case for road warriors who want to protect their investment.

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Original article posting: MacNN Reviews
Posted: March 30, 2006
Author: Ilene Hoffman
Four STARS out of five

Review: Booq Vyper M

For those of you who own a PowerBook and don’t want to be saddled with a complex bag, such as the Booq Folee XM reviewed previously, there are a number of sleeves available. Booq’s Vyper M is a sleek black zippered sleeve that seems to protect well. It is made of 1682D cross-weave molded ballistic nylon, and features three ridges on each side. It does not scratch easily and shows no wear after two months of use.

A Sleeve for All Mac Portables

The Vyper M measures 13.75 x 9.5 x 1.2" and covers the 15” PowerBook like a glove. Three other models accommodate the 17” and 12” PowerBooks, and the MacBook Pro, and cost up to $54.95. The sleeve contains 1/4” foam inside to help protect its valuable passenger. The zipper is fully enclosed, so that it never comes into contact with the PowerBook. The case conveniently opens completely with two zippers, so you can use the PowerBook without removing it from the case if you need a lap desk.

The Vyper includes a pull-tab to help remove the sleeve from another case. At 12 oz., it doesn’t add much weight. I found the tab to be a bit short and hard to grab though. I think the bag would benefit from a small handle in place of the tab. I’d feel more comfortable using just the sleeve if it had a handle of some kind.

Lining Good but Attracts Dust

The inside is lined with soft material to prevent scratching your nice silver finish. I recommend you keep the sleeve closed at all times, because I didn’t. The material quickly attracted dog fur and dust. Only a tacky lint remover roller relieved the lining of its debris.

the good...
Excellent construction. Wears well.

the not-so-good...
Pull-tab is too short. Could use a small handle. Soft lining collects dust if left open.

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Original article posting: MacNN Reviews
Posted: March 27, 2006
Author: Ilene Hoffman
Four and a half STARS out of five

Review: folee xm laptop bag

Last December I finally acquired a 15-inch PowerBook G4. With no way to protect my new treasure, I left the machine on a desk out of harm's way until I could find that one special case. My old G3 PowerBook traveled in a perfect vertical sleeve that sported a small padded handle with 4 outside zipper and netting pockets. The Eastern Mountain Sports backpack insert was simple and met my pick up and go needs. A search to find a similar case yielded only an add-on to MacAlly's Travel Roller, but I needed more.

A bag for all needs

The PowerBook's odd size, 13.7 x 9.5 inches, makes it hard to carry for a petite person. After an unsuccessful search, I settled for a case from Booq, LLC. The case wasn’t the form factor I wanted, but it had plenty of room for accessories and an optional fitted insert for extra protection. While my previous case held a mouse, the power supply, plus a few papers, my needs had expanded with the upgraded machine. Now I also wanted room for my iPod, earphones, various USB dongles, and an extra battery. It is not easy choosing a case from pictures on the Web and I was mildly dismayed upon receiving my Folee XM. It was a bit large and oddly designed. As it turns out, this is a good thing; it's designed as a messenger bag and not a briefcase.

First, I inspected the handle, which is round and easy to wrap my small fingers around. The wide shoulder strap is well secured to the bag, and includes a nicely padded moveable section to protect your shoulder. One strap end is secured with Velcro. That made me nervous, but as it turns out, it is very strong. I don't know why it is Velcro, because it isn't very adjustable, as the Velcro is only about two inches long. I suppose a larger person might find it useful.

robust straps

The strap is the only complaint I have after using the bag for two months. Although comfortable, it can only be made longer, not shorter. Both the strap and handle are attached off-center on opposite sides and that took a little getting used to, but actually helps when carrying a fully loaded bag. If you're wondering why I spend so much space discussing the handle, than you've never seen the result after a handle breaks. It's not pretty when one corner of your machine is crushed in a fall and I've seen a few of those wander into my local Apple store. I sincerely doubt the Folee XM’s handle or strap would ever break. walk-in closet on your shoulder

The Folee XM is exceptionally well-made and fully padded with 1" high-density foam on all sides. I rather think even a handle accident wouldn't affect a PowerBook nestled within. In addition to the padded linings, almost every pocket is also padded. This is where it becomes hard to describe the bag, because the pockets are so numerous, it’s like having a walk-in closet on your shoulder. Let me make a list for you from side to side.

Outside unlined zipper pocket for papers and thin items.

Main PowerBook pocket, complete with a "structurally rigid three-sided frame," lined with soft cloth, and 1/2" padding sewn in that fully encloses the machine with or without a sleeve.

A third zippered pocket next to the machine’s space, includes a zippered netted pocket, an open pocket, and four Velcro closing pockets, suitable for iPods, phones, cameras, or whatever else attaches to your body. Also inside is an open pocket with bottom padding in the middle and on the other side 3 slip-in pockets without padding, and yet another medium-sized open pocket. Are you getting the walk-in closet idea yet? There's still more!

On the outside of the bag is a magnetic closure flap that sports another zipper pocket deep enough for CD media.

Inside the flap are 2 more easily accessible padded pockets, penholders, and even a slip in area for last minute items.

On each side of the carrying strap is a soft-lined, zippered pocket with an earphone grommet. Alas, these pockets are not padded.

That's 20 pockets folks, not counting the penholders. If this bag doesn't meet your needs, you're not carrying enough. Weighing in at 3.2 lbs, I thought the bag would be too heavy, but its design makes it seem lighter, especially when fully loaded. The bag is nylon and does not scratch easily either. It isn't a quick carry bag, but it certainly is perfect when you need all your work and peripherals with you. The only missing feature is feet that would keep it off the floor.

The bag is 16.2" x 13.9" x 7.0" and only comes in black. The Folee XS is a similar bag designed for 12” PowerBooks. The XM is available only from Booq’s site, and is presently backordered. It is worth the wait though.

Editor's Note: Rating changed July 2006, after reviewing many more bags. Personally, I think the Folee XM is significantly better than many other bags.

the good...
Surprisingly lightweight and balanced when full. A pocket for everything. Comfortable to carry. Seems indestructible.

the not-so-good...
Shoulder strap can’t be shortened enough for us smaller folk. Outside iPod pockets are not cushioned. No bottom feet.