Originally Posted by
jhg888
Thanks for the response. I think I'll probably spring for the medium. I actually have been using a backpack for the past few years (Timbuk2 Hacker) which has for the most part been awesome and super-duper tough against the rain and tarmac here. In fact, I've been resistant to the idea of using messenger pack for a while since I really like the security and comfort of backpacks. The only issue I have with it is that its really a huge pain to get stuff in and out of it while on the go (in particular, getting out/packing up my u-lock or bike lights between classes, or dropping off mail pieces at mailboxes). Also, the compartments in the backpack make carrying laptops and papers a cinch, but leads to compromises when moving larger things like cereal boxes/jugs of milk/cabbages/etc.
I know walking in msnger bags generally doesn't work, but I'm usually packed very light when trekking in the city.
I was a little nervous before I went ahead and sprung for the medium, but it turned out to be a good move on my part. I had to give up backpacks because they were causing too much strain on my shoulders, but messenger bags are for the most part pretty painless for me. It's easy to walk around with them as long as they're not fully loaded (as mentioned above, the only time they're anywhere near comfortable when fully loaded is when you're on the bike in an aggressive or semi-aggressive riding position). It's also convenient to have the extra bag space in case you want to pick a few things up at the store or whatever, and the easy access to your stuff is a plus as well.