Better leather than a Kiss concert

If Saddleback’s Classic Briefcase Thin wrote a book it would be How to Win Friends & Influence People. Everywhere we go with it, this bag inspires conversation. People just want to look at it, feel it, know what the beautiful leather is all about. Even after several months, we’re still ogling it. It’s beautiful, yes. But it’s not perfect for everyone.

There’s a price to all this beauty—besides the whopping $400+ price tag—and that price is comfort. It’s not that the Classic Briefcase Thin is uncomfortable, but it doesn’t offer the same cloud-snuggling-with-our-shoulders feeling we appreciate in other bags. There’s also an issue with space; if you want to use your bag for more than an iPad, MacBook (15 inch), and a few small items, there’s a possibility it simply won’t fit. Unlike traditional bags, the Saddleback just doesn’t stretch, so cramming in a few extras is a no-go. Still, the Thin model is quite a bit more manageable than the Classic Briefcase, making it a better choice for many MacBook users.

Despite the upfront cost, the Saddleback might just save you some money in the long run. These bags are built from leather that is thick, heavy, and tougher than nails. The pigskin lining is even stronger than traditional leather, which is already stronger than fabric bags. It’s so tough that Saddleback offers a 100-year guarantee--which means your Saddleback will outlive you and anything you’re carrying in it.

The bottom line. If you’re serious about buying a good bag, a Saddleback deserves your attention. It’s costly, but the quality construction and 100-year guarantee is an assurance that it’s the last bag you’ll ever need.