I purchased the medium backpack in black in May 2023, so I've used it daily/weekly for 2.5 years. This is an amazing bag that is very versatile. I've used it to carry my Bible and essentials for Adoration, run errands, and when travelling.
Materials and quality:
This backpack is made with full grain leather that's slightly thicker than other brands. In my opinion the leather is one of the best. Right from the beginning, the leather was smooth, durable, and flexible - not at all stiff. It has beautifully held it's shape over the 2.5 years and I enjoy using it, knowing that it was made in America. The brass zippers were a little stiff in the beginning, but they became smooth overtime. I love using the interior pocket for my wallet, phone, and keys - it's nice to keep those separate from the stuff in the main compartment. The front pocket is spacious - I usually put my Rosary, lip balm, pens, and hand sanitizer.
Weight from use:
I bought this backpack because I wanted a bag with medium capacity that was not too heavy. At 2.5 pounds, it's one the lightest leather backpacks of it's size when compared to other brands, in my opinion. I've taken it with me on trips and typically pack it with an 18oz water bottle, umbrella, tripod stand, blanket (for spontaneous picnics), jacket, wallet, phone, and other essentials. When packed for travel, I can carry it for 2-3 hours at a stretch, but I pack much less when running errands, so I can carry it comfortably for a longer time then. When I bought it in 2023, I also separately purchased shoulder pads from Go Forth Goods (GFG) because I knew that would make the straps more comfortable when using the bag for long hours. As always, GFG has great customer services, so the ordering process was easy!
Electronics:
My 13 inch MacBook fits in the main compartment of the backpack and not the interior pocket. An iPad/tablet probably would fit in the interior pocket.
Care:
This backpack is easy to maintain, especially since the leather is water-resistant. If I need to quickly walk out in rainy weather, I just wipe away the drops once I'm inside my car or house. I typically condition the backpack once a year.
All in all, a great backpack that is made with high quality materials and can be used for various different occasions. It'll be part of my collection for many, many years!