The bag is definitely beautiful. However, I had the previous version of this for 15 years, and I do feel like we've lost some of the best features. The lack of a pocket on the back of the bag is really unfortunate; so that now the only access to pockets or storage means you have to lift the flap. Sometimes--when traveling, or on a bike with a basket, you want to keep certain things easily accessible. Similarly no pen holders, or small zip pockets on the inside also is unfortunate. Finally, the buckle tion feels very very light compared to my previous one.

I got a new version of an older chrome bag which I loved but this new version had new pockets in the front which are great, but the quality has certainly gone down. It doesn’t feel as heavy-duty, the strap is kind of cardboard-like, and even the front logo is cheaper! The biggest thing for me though is the feel. It’s not as thick and the interior liner isn’t nearly as good as the older models. The older strap model from 2021 chrome bags were way nicer than this. It still works I like the bag a lot, but I wish it had the same feel as the old ones. The new features are great though. Like the pockets, laptop sleeve, and water bottle holder.

So far this has been an upgrade to my old Patagonia bag but it’s not perfect. I wish there was more organization and that I could remove the smaller strap from the bag. Overall quality is good and it looks stylish. I am still unsure if I will return it.

I had to unstitch and resew the strap in place to switch the shoulder orientation - and see the stabilizing strap to the other bottom corner of the bag to make it usable. Not exactly the kind of swappability I would be advertising.