Almost as big is the Mahoubar’s lofty reputation, having been named Bicycling Magazine Editors choice for Best Commuter Bag of the year. So it was with no lack of excitement when Crumpler asked us to review the Mahoubar Messenger Backpack….
The Crumpler Mahoubar is a fine example of the latest messenger bag style – the messenger backpack, a kind of hybrid lovechild born of a regular messenger bag and camping-style backpack. The Mahoubar is one third of a range of three similar bags from Crumpler – the Seedybar (smallest), the Famous Wine Bar (largest) and the mid-sized Mahoubar sandwiched in the middle.
Featuring a water-resistant shell and ripstop lining, this bag is really well made; expect it to last a long time. Featuring padded shoulder straps and backpad, which I really appreciated when carrying my hard hat to and from work recently, which would otherwise have dug into my back.
The main flap is fitted with quick release clips, as are the adjustable waistbelt and chest strap. These straps allow the bag to be fitted snugly to your body, so that the bag does not slide across your back if you lean to one side whilst cycling.
The bag also has front zippered pocket, accessory straps and loops for bottled water, etc. and two velcro-sealed pockets. The interior has the standard padded laptop compartment for laptops up to 17 inches in size.
One thing I’d like to make clear: This bag is, as described, a messenger backpack, not a backpack. The shape of the bag, as you can see from the pictures, is rather flat and elongated, making it perfect for carrying your laptop, documents, folders etc. without bending them or creasing them as a regular backpack may do.
If you are looking for a bag to take camping, and have no practical use for its document-carrying capabilities, this may not be the bag for you. Not to say that you couldn’t take this bag camping, you most certainly could, but it really has been designed to carry documents first and foremost. If you are looking for a bag to carry your paperwork around in and also a few personal items (newspaper, lunch, gym gear etc. this bag is perfect for you.
Available in a range of colors: baby blue, lime green and royal blue (all $105 each) or black/dark gray ($155). Better get in fast though, some of these colors are already sold out on Crumplers website, highlighting the popularity of this product.
5: Insanely Great! • 4: Steve Approves • 3: Needs Work • 2: Sugared Water • 1: Dogsh*t frosting
Model: Crumpler Mahoubar Company: Requirements: Laptop up to 17″ List Price: $105-155 dependent on color Buy Now: The Mahoubar is available from Amazon for $107.14 including free shipping.
