Grand Ambition Neoprene Backpack

This was a disappointment. Conceptually, this bag is designed really well - neoprene fabric for ease of use, multiple handle designs, good placement of pockets and laptop design. But it falls apart on execution. The zippers are tight and hard to use, the straps don't hold their positioning making them open wider easily and they don't handle the simple weight of a macbook and a journal without cutting into my back. I didn't want to return this but I tried if for five minutes and it was already cutting into my shoulder. Not usable.

I LOVE the interior and pockets! That part is perfect. But the front zipper frequently got caught and was hard to un/zip. The bag also doesn't have enough structure so it would fall over when placed on the ground, and when I used the crossbody strap it would fold. If the bag was about $100 it would be worth it, but not for $200+. The small silver braided version has much better structure but was a little too small. I'm sad because the interior and pockets (inside and out) are exactly what I was looking for. I'm on the hunt again for a good convertible backpack bag.

I love this bag! It is great to hold my laptop and work supplies, and the material is thick and high quality so I don't have to worry about damaging the items inside on my (sometimes hectic and crowded) commute. I removed 1 star for the straps, they do not easily stay in the place you tighten them to, especially with heavy things inside the bag. This is a bit of a pain because I need to tighten them multiple times while walking to prevent the bag from slipping all the way down my back.

Have been using this bag for about 8 months. It’s a great size, lightweight and has great compartments / pockets. I continue to struggle with the straps not securing in place (you have to adjust them each time and can’t actually use it as a tote/shoulder bag), and now am disappointed to see some detailing on the handles starting to peel away.. would have expected more durability from CH. In retrospect, I wish I had returned when I had the chance.