Timbuk2 Classic Laptop Sleeve
MSRP: $30 - $40
Sizes: S, M, L, XL


One of the first things I do after a major purchase is try to figure out how to make it last as long as possible before I have problems with it. I've learned that laptop computers don't stay looking new very long without a sleeve or case of some kind. Back when I had an Apple 17" PowerBook I used a Brenthaven Case which was huge, loaded with pockets, and was built like a Panzer Tank. It also cost over $170 which isn't pocket change by anyone's standards. With my smaller iBook and MacBook 13.3"" laptops I decided to keep it small and shop for a sleeve instead of a complete bag.

I've been very satisfied with my Timbuk2 Messenger Bag and the quilted laptop sleeve I used on my 12" iBook, therefore I decided to stick with Timbuk2 for my MacBook needs. This time I picked up the Classic Sleeve with an all black nylon exterior. My old Quilted Sleeve had good looks on its side but the tended to get dirty easily. The ballistic nylon used on the Timbuk2 Classic Sleeve is almost slippery to the touch and repels debris, crumbs, and even liquid if it's wiped up quickly. The padded corduroy lining softly cradles your laptop when you're not using it or lugging it around from place to place. A new feature since my 2 year old Quilted model is an extra padded "wing" which slips under the lid flap of your sleeve. This provides padding underneath the flap opening instead of leaving one side of your computer unpadded, it's a nice touch in my opinion.

The Classic Sleeve exterior is a three-panel design just like Classic Messenger bags, although you can't custom-pick the exterior colors, there are 4 choices which should satisfy just about everyone. Your options are All Black, Chestnut/Silver, Red/Silver, and Navy/Grey.

Sizing is very important as Timbuk2 designs their sleeves to firmly grip your computer... if you try and fit a laptop into a sleeve that's too small, bad things may happen. Timbuk2's sizing chart is as follows:

• Small : 'Old School' Apple 12" PowerBook or all laptops 11.5"x9.5"x1.3"
• Medium : Apple 13" MacBook or all laptops 13.3"x10.5"x1.3"
• Large : Apple 15" MacBook Pro or all laptops 14.2"x11"x1.3"
• X-Large : Apple 17" MacBook Pro or all laptops 16"x11.5"x1.3"

Timbuk2 stands by its quality with a lifetime warranty on all material and workmanship defects, all you need to do is send it back with a copy of your sales receipt and they will repair or replace it free of charge. Any damage from abuse or misuse will not be covered under warranty. Once you get your bag home for the first time it's a good idea to register it at Timbuk2.com so they will know you're a new owner.

I've taken my Timbuk2 messenger bag and laptop sleeve on multiple cross-country flights, many road trips, and the rigors of everyday use and abuse. Other than a couple stains which I've scrubbed out and a scuff or two, you can't tell they're several years old. It's not hard to find a prettier or more stylish product out there, but you'd have a difficult time buying a tougher or more long-lasting laptop sleeve. I've heard it said the best advertising is when customers return again and again to buy products from the same company, year after year. That is how Timbuk2 has been for me personally and I recommend them to all my friends if they happen to be shopping for a bag or sleeve. Make sure and check out Timbuk2's website as they have tons of bags, grips, sleeves, and all other sorts of cargo hauling stuff. You'll have many years ahead to appreciate your purchase since it will be a round for a long time.

Related links:

•Apple MacBook 13.3" 2.0GHz"
•Apple iBook G4 12"
•Apple Powerbook G4 17"
•Toshiba Satellite A215 15.4" Laptop

•Timbuk2 Messenger Bag
•Timbuk2 Bag in a Box
•Timbuk2 Quilted Laptop Sleeve
•Timbuk2 Cell Phone Holder
•Brenthaven 17" Powerbook Shoulder Bag



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