I can't speak for R.E. loads, but coming from a large Timbuk2, the Chrome metro is beyond comparison. The strap is nice and comfy. Like all bags, you're going to have to put some consideration into how you load it, but you'll get pretty good at it with time. I prefer the diagonal weight distribution to the horizontal weight distribution of most other bags; I find that the weight is distributed more evenly across my back, and makes heavy loads easier on the shoulder.

Both companies are well-established bag makers with good reputations. You'll probably be happy either way, though as others have noted, you'll be paying a premium for a R.E.load (small outfit, no batches, low-tech assembly process).