Quotes

WaterField MacBook Vertical SleeveCase

by Simon Helton

WaterField Designs

Price	$38 and up, depending on configuration
Requirements:	13-inch MacBook
What's Hot:	Thoughtful design, excellent construction, good price
What's Not:	No handle option for standalone use

Mac users are spoiled for choices when it comes to keeping their portable housed in something both stylish and protective. Several companies are making terrific products to cater to all needs, desires, and budgets. One of the companies leading the way has been WaterField Designs, and their line of sleeves is no exception. I'll be taking a look at their SleeveCase for the 13-inch MacBook in a vertical orientation, with optional suspension strap, flap, and piggyback (stay tuned for a review of a differently-configured SleeveCase in a couple weeks).

Most people hear 'sleeve' and think a simple affair: something protective for falls and scratches with a close fit. WaterField, though, offers several options for configuring a sleeve to be minimalistic or nearly a complete replacement for a laptop bag. Options include a flap to completely cover the open end of the sleeve, multiple shoulder strap options, and a piggyback pouch for accessories. In my fully-loaded review model, the SleeveCase is able to replace my normal bag when I'm traveling light. The sleeve itself includes a slot for putting files, papers, etc., and the piggyback pouch provides room for an iPod, digital camera, cell phone, pens, pencils, AC adapter, etc.

The piggyback is one of the more interesting options with the SleeveCase. It attaches via a pair of carabiners to D-rings on the sleeve itself, a rather ingenius system. The interior of the piggyback, like the interior of the sleeve, is lined with a material that will prevent scratches. There is also a pocket within the interior for items needing extra protection. Combine the piggyback, sleeve, and a shoulder strap, and you essentially have a compact two-piece messenger bag. One suggestion we might make, though, is to add a third carabiner to the bottom of the piggyback to attach to the loop at the base of the sleevecase to prevent bouncing of the piggyback while moving.

The sleeve itself shows a similarly great attention to detail and construction quality. The external material is ballistic nylon, known for its ruggedness, with a soft and gentle lining on the inside. It's obvious that the designers paid attention to what material would be in contact with what, as the lining and velcro are situated so that no scratches will befall the laptop. The fit is quite good on the MacBook, with no excessive room for shifting contents or obnoxiously tight quarters. It is interesting to note, though, that the horizontal version of the SleeveCase proved to be significantly more fitted, so if that is important to you, keep that in mind. The level of protection is also quite substantial. While some sleeves are more for looks and protection from minor scratches, I would not fear dropping my MacBook while in the SleeveCase. There is a very slight rigidity from the padding, but it is a soft case.

Overall, I'm quite pleased with the SleeveCase and think the flexibility it offers makes it suitable for a lot of usage types. The construction appears to be very good, the materials high quality, and the design well-conceived. Aside from the earlier suggestion for a third carabiner on the piggyback, I might also suggest an option for a handle on the sleeve's flap, similar to that offered by Timbuk2 for a more briefcase-type look when your back is already occupied by another bag. These are minor nitpicks to improve on a quality product, though, and I don't hesitate to recommend the vertical SleeveCase with flap, piggyback, and suspension strap.

Update: A WaterField employee has let me know that there is a handle available, but it's simply not part of the regular online options. If you're interested in this option, which is about $12 and includes the necessary D-rings, email WaterField. The handle includes a mountain bike-style grip that looks good and should provide plenty of durability.