I own three bags from Topo Designs:
1) the Global Pro 3-Way Briefcase 20L
2) the Mountain Cross Bag 17L
3) the Global Briefcase 20L
The Global Pro 3-Way Briefcase 20L is aesthetically unique. The fabric seems innovative, and the brand guarantees its wear resistance and considers it tear-resistant. Let's hope so. I don't like shoulder straps for backpack use, and such straps make the bag bulkier.
The hooks (hardware) on this one seem sturdy and of higher quality than the hooks on the Mountain Cross Bag 17L; let's hope the hooks are strong and durable, and that the sewn-in loops on the bag also hold up.
The front pocket is very nice, allowing you to store smaller items without having to open the main compartment. The retractable handles are also nice.
The internal organization is better than the Global Briefcase 20L, but it still needs improvement.
The side handle (the one used when the bag is converted into a backpack) seems to be too protruding and noticeable.
I haven't used the Global Pro 3-Way Briefcase 20L yet, but I have to say it's very stiff and hard (I hope it softens with use).
I hope to be proven wrong and perhaps contact the Topo Designs design team to reassure me about the durability of this bag's material and whether it will soften with use.
I own the Dark Pine colorway (nice color).
Good product, well-made and durable. Just one note: when inserting the thin, flexible plastic string that holds the three pouches together, be careful, as the string can puncture the pouches. For example, after removing the plastic string (without forcing it), there was a small hole in the yellow lining of the smaller pouch. Now, that hole seems to be gone. Keep in mind that I haven't used the micro pouch yet.
Good product, well-made and lightweight. The visor isn't very soft and isn't very flexible. The visor could be improved.
Very nice color.
Good product, well-made and lightweight. The visor isn't very soft and isn't very flexible. The visor could be improved.
Very nice color.