My commute is muti-modal, and while I can say that I would generally prefer to negotiate Metra with a backpack vs panniers, carrying panniers really isn't that big of a deal. The Ortliebs I use most often have a shoulder strap that could be way wider and more comfortable, but it's still not bad. I usually use two panniers - one on my shoulder, one in my hand. If I use one of my Arkel Bugs, it's even more of a moot point, since they convert to perfectly comfortable backpacks off of the rack. Whatever panniers I choose to use, the (in)convenience of how they carry off of the bike is far outweighed by the comfort they afford me while I'm on the bike.