I have always loved leather messenger bags & have been using one for many years now. I love the durability and the rugged look after they age some. I finally decided to replace my ancient leather bag & update to something new that could accommodate my laptop, iPad, chords , cables , etc...Without any doubt I knew I wanted leather so researched leather messenger bags forever until ordering one. A few minutes after opening it & trying it out, I knew it wasn't large enough to do what I needed so I returned it. I then ordered a larger style that I knew should work. I loved the smell & look of it and it fit my stuff, but didn't provide a lot of organization & the weight made it a little cumbersome. I decided it really wasn't practical for me, so decided I needed to try another style. I then researched canvas type bags and kept seeing Timbuk2. I needed a large bag and the Commander seemed to have everything I needed. After thoroughly looking, I decided on it & ordered. I got the large in midway color, bc it was half price & other colors I wanted weren't available in large. I was reluctant to change to a bag that wasn't leather, but it was definitely a GREAT decision...I absolutely love this bag! I like a somewhat rugged look but still professional enough for my job & Timbuk2 does all that. The webbing along the front w/ the aluminum hooks give it a somewhat backpacking kind of look. I love the hook & webbing closures, it allows you options to close based on how much you are carrying & how tight you want it closed. I had no issues getting used to the hooks & find it easy to use & one of my favorite features. The padded laptop section on the back side is easily accessed by a zipper & actually fits my laptop w/ the sleeve along with my iPad that goes in the designated pocket. Ive never had a bag that the padded compartment actually has that much room, to fit a 17 laptop & iPad so easily is so nice. The napoleon pockets are awesome & extremely useful, I didn't know how much I needed them until using this bag. The larger one is apprx the length of the bag & allows easy access to my wallet, keys or anything else you want to have quick access to without removing the bag. The microfiber type lining in the smaller pocket above is great for phones, glasses, etc... it could be larger but happy w/ that feature. On the same end is a side mesh pocket for a water bottle, etc...The other side has vertical zipped pocket , which is good for cables , chargers, etc... The fact that the top flap is lined to be waterproof is a great feature as well. The main compartment is very large & I can easily fit another laptop, files , books , etc... It also has a separate compartment that has Velcro closure & has many uses. The bag is versatile & makes a great overnight or carryon bag. The shoulder strap is by far the best Ive had. Its comfortable & easy to adjust with its impressive design. You simply pull the strap to desired tightness & close the clamp. The additional chest strap is a nice bonus that allows you additional support , similar to a backpack, so the bag doesnt move & bounce all over the place when running around. The handle is nice to have and doesnt detract from the traditional messenger bag style. There is a large zippered pocket, pen holders & 2 mid size pockets inside on lining of the back of main compartment. Its a high quality bag & seems very durable & a bag that should last a very long time...& the lifetime warranty backs that up. If I knew how convenient a bag like this was, I would have went away from leather a long time ago. I honestly cant say enough good things about this bag. Its not perfect, it doesnt sit flat & tends to fall over, they could have utilized the flap or backside, where luggage strap pass through is, and added another pocket & a few other things, but its by far the best messenger bag Ive owned!