[xmacx]

I have been looking for a backpack that is not a typical laptop bag. After much looking around it came down to Oakley Icon and NorthFace Big Shot. I ordered the north face big shot which is a pretty sweet design for my needs. But, I noticed that the fabric on it feels kind of light and plastic kind... So, started looking around more about the fabrics used.

It turns out the big shot I got is made of 420 D, 840D hypalon. I think most places on it has 420D except the base. I went back to check Oakley's fabric that looks like a PVC 2300 and spire usa that uses 1680D...

My question to you all - what is good enough for a backpack that will cary a laptop and will be used for day trips, backpacking from time to time, etc. I was going to buy a brain-cell from tom bihn or some thing similar (sleeve) to carry my laptop in but I don't want to put it in a bag that will rip off as soon as I start walking with it.

[southtdi]

Don't know too much about fabric but let me say this. I have a Brenthaven laptop bag (they also make backpacks) that is made from military grade ballistic nylon. After a year of my use it stil looks brand new. To wear, fuzz, or anything to show on it. I am not weasy on laptop bags and i am truely impressed at how well this one has held up. Might want to see if you can find one that advertises military grade ballistic nylon.

[GlobalNomad]

The best fabric by far is the stuff that Tumi uses.

My dad travels all over the world and he has a Tumi bag that is about 10 years old. It really does look very well. The only way you can tell its old is because some of the foam is pretty dead.

I have owned a Tumi bag for my 12" PowerBook for a little over a year and a half. I have carted it back and to uni every day on public transport. It still looks brand new. Its this 'special' nylon. You can't cut it with a knife or something (or well its hard to). The only place were you can see its ages is were some paint has been rupped away on the ziper holder thingo.

Yeah don't get a leather bag. Sure they look nice but you have to like look after them. PFFT thats to much work.

Go for Tumi, they cost a bit but they will last.