I was super-excited when Waterfield SFBags announced their new Bolt Briefcase. Then again, every new Waterfield offering tends to grab my attention. This, however, was something new. The Bolt was designed with the business traveler in mind. Since I’m doing more travel than ever, it caught my eye. In the few weeks I’ve had it, the case hasn’t disappointed.
At $249 for the small version and $279 for the large version, the Bolt isn’t an inexpensive bag. I seem to always make a comment like that when reviewing a Waterfield product, but I feel I must — the company’s bags are indeed pricey. For that price however, you get a product that is well-made, thoughtfully designed, and will last years longer than the laptop or tablet you carry inside it.
As noted, the bolt comes in two sizes with a $30 price difference between them. The smaller bag is designed to hold up to 13” laptop. The larger version is perfectly sized for my 15” MacBook Pro with Retina display and can handle up to a 17” laptop. Despite that however, I opted for the smaller version when requesting my review sample. My reason for this was simple. I love my MacBook but tend to only carry my iPad and a ZAGG keyboard case these days. When I do need a laptop, I usually take one of the Windows 2-in-1s I have on hand. Add in the fact that I expect a retina 12” laptop to come out this year, and the smaller Bolt simply made more sense.
Here’s what Waterfield has to say about the Bolt:
Built to Bolt. The streamlined Bolt Briefcase augments your productive lifestyle. As a carry-on for business travelers and a carry-all for commuters, the Bolt organizes and protects your gear with thoughtfully placed pockets, waterproof zippers and a back side that conveniently slips over rolling suitcase handles. A padded laptop compartment keeps your thousands of digital docs safe and ready. Toss on the removable shoulder strap to dash through airports or grab the leather-lined handles and stride into the conference room with authority.
That description pretty much covers the features I would otherwise describe. Instead of doing so, let’s take a look at the bag on camera.
Video Look at the Bolt Briefcase
Specifications
- Padded laptop compartment:
– Small fits up to 13″ MacBook Air
– Large fits up to 17″ laptop - Ballistic nylon or waxed canvas base with naturally tanned leather accents
- Splash-proof zippers
- Slips over rolling suitcase handle
- Invisible magnets secure front pockets
- Includes removable shoulder strap
- Small: 14.5″ x 10.5″ x 4″ — 1.95 lbs.
- Large: 17″ x 11.5″ x 5″ — 2.95 lbs.
I really love this bag. It is the kind of item that looks right at home in pretty much every context. Add in the fact that it has all the quality I have come to love from Waterfield AND is one of the more functional bags I have used and this new Waterfield item is clearly destined to be a classic. Yes, The Waterfield Designs Bolt Briefcase means business, but it doesn’t try to do too much. As a result, it is something you will love from day one and, I suspect, be enjoying for many years to come. You can learn more here.
Source: Manufacturer supplied review sample of the Waterfield Bolt Briefcase
What I Like: Great design; Serious yet casual, casual yet serious; Outside pocket design is great thanks to a long zippered compartment and two smaller pockets with magnetic closures; Zippers are water-sealed; Interior color makes it easy to find your stuff
What Needs Improvement: Pricey; I love the look, but it may not be everyone’s cup of tea