Larry G. returns to Review the Tucker & Bloom East to West

Gear Diary is independently owned and operated. We receive compensation through advertising and from the companies whose products we review, usually in the form of the reviewed product. We test the products supplied to us, and the opinions expressed are our own.

Gear Diary is also reader-supported. When you buy through links posted on our site, we may earn a commission at no cost to you.

You can learn more by clicking here.

Tucker and Bloom has been in the business of making bags for over thirty years.  Their products focus on organizing your gear while maintaining a clean and stylized design.  Their design philosophy comes straight to the point.  “Tucker and Bloom designs aim to organize people with a need to look professional while providing an alternative to the norm.”

When Judie described the bag she was sending me for review as the “hairy bag”, I was nothing if not curious at seeing it up close and in person.

The East to West Messenger Bag is a classic bike style messenger bag with a not so traditional look.  Each Tucker and Bloom bag is made in small batches, using traditional European craftsman techniques.

Click on through to read my full review of this unique bag and catch a special appearance by Larry G’s take at the end.

The East to West Messenger Bag is a full featured messenger style bag for those who want and need function and organization, but who wish to create their own sense of style and break free from the norm.

Why is it different?  Well as Judie said, it’s hairy.  The top of the bag features a shag like fur that certainly makes it stand out in a crowd.

Overall dimensions of the bag are:  16″ x 12″ x 4″; I’d categorize it as a medium.  It’s large enough to carry most day to day items.  Not too small that you’ll run out of room and at the same time not so big that you feel as though your toting around a small pup-tent.

It features side pockets which can accommodate a cell phone, PDA, camera or iPod.

The main chamber is unpadded and can be used for files, folder, laptops etc.  It features a black and orange inner lining.

It also features a smaller, zippered pocket where you can securely hide items.

The front organizer panel has pockets for items such as airline tickets, business cards, pens, calculators, etc.

There is a large pocket along the back perfect for storing your newspaper or other items you need quick access to.

The adjustable shoulder strap is removable and can be used for carrying the bag over your shoulder or via the more traditional sling style method.

The bags locks closed with two sturdy, metal alloy, quick release buckles.

I was able to comfortably fit my “daily-driver” gear inside the bag and still had some room left over.  For my every day use this bag is the perfect size.  It’s large enough to hold the stuff I need on a day to day basis and still have some room left over.  If I was traveling for an extended period of time I’d probably have to go with something a bit larger but for a every day “walking around” bag it’s a perfect fit.

I used the bag with my 13″ Mac Book Pro which is wrapped in a Speck See-Thru case.  My laptop fit with little room to spare so my belief is that any laptop at 13″ or 14″ should work but anything larger will not.

How does Larry G. feel about the East to West?  Watch the video below to find out.

I’m sure there’s a saying that goes something along the lines of “a sense of style doesn’t come without a hefty price tag.”  If there isn’t there should be.  Because while the Tucker and Bloom East to West might be stylish, at $250 it’s not cheap.

While I don’t know very many messenger style bags that garner a price tag as high as this one, but I’ve got to give the East to West it’s credit.  The bag’s construction is top notch.  It’s sturdy, roomy and carries quite comfortably.

This bag may not fit into everyone’s budget but for those that can afford it and are yearning for a bag that breaks free from plain Jane black on black nylon, this might be worth checking out.

My biggest complaint with the bag is the warranty.  According to the Tucker and Bloom web site their bags come with a 1-yr. warranty.  For the price they are asking this bag should come with no less than a lifetime warranty plain and simple.  Other bags of the price point do.

Updated 03/23/10 by Judie: I’ve just received good news from Tucker & Bloom. 🙂

Judie,
Please let “Larry G” know that as a result of his comments on our warranty we now offer a “lifetime” warranty.
Thanks,

Case

You can find out more about the bag here.

M.S.R.P. – $250 as shown (Optional pad for shoulder strap $15.)

What I like – Durable, stylish, plenty of pockets, large but not gigantic. Updated: Lifetime warranty now available

What I don’t like – Expensive.  Style might not be for everyone.  Warranty does not fit price.

As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases. Thanks for your support!


About the Author

Gear Diary Staff
Gear Diary was founded on September 30, 2006, with the goal to create a website that would not easily be labeled. Everyone who is part of Gear Diary is a professional who uses technology in their work and daily lives. On this site, we share our enthusiasm while exploring the gear we use — the equipment that makes our lives easier, more entertaining, more productive, and more manageable. Our hope is that Gear Diary visitors find this site to be a welcoming, friendly, and accessible place to learn about and discuss interesting topics — and not only those that are tech-related! Gear Diary is a place to discover and explore all kinds of new gear, including smartphones, computers, kitchen gadgets, Toys, EDC, camping gear, or even your next new car! You can follow us on Twitter @GearDiarySite.

1 Comment on "Larry G. returns to Review the Tucker & Bloom East to West"

  1. Ahhh yeah … and Larry G is back! 😆 Fun review! 🙂

Comments are closed.