I have been trying for years to find a backpack that suits a grown up professional woman with a city commute. The "professional" ones are so boxy and boring, and when they're sized for a smaller woman, they don't hold enough. And my old North Face backpack was too structured, with too many pockets and gadget spaces to actually carry anything well. I finally found this black bag and I love it. It feels great to carry --well balanced and even with a full load of stuff, it's still light. I can actually carry books (I'm a college professor) --backpacks aren't made to carry books anymore!! My son had a Herschel lunch box that he no longer needs (he's away at college now) so I can now use that in the backpack too--fits great and I don't worry about leaks. I bought the rectangular pencil case to go with it (it's a Little Herschel but who cares) to stash all my pens, classroom supplies, and adapters and chargers. I am finding I like this removable pouch way more than having more pockets for stuff. It's easier to access and I can carry it on its own when I go to class in the same building as my office. And finally, the black bag with gold zipper looks a little more stylish, and less kid-like. My only wish is that there was a smaller side pocket to easily slip out your transit pass without taking the bag off your back. I've been reaching awkwardly into the bottle pocket, although that works well enough. But almost no bags seem to have solved this problem so I am not going to blame this one. Thank you Herschel!!

I love the deep red color, and the canvas is really sturdy. The straps are nicely padded, and the bag easily fits my laptop (appreciate the laptop sleeve), binders, snacks, etc. I've had my bag for a few months now, and so far so good!