Review: Bagaboo Custom Workhorse Messenger Bag

To say that my Bagaboo Messenger Bag makes me smile whenever I wear it, is probably a good place to start this review...

Bagaboo is a Hungarian brand, which can be bought direct from the manufacturer at Bagaboo.hu or from select UK distributors. It makes both fully prepared off-the-shelf bags; including messenger bags, rucksacks and shoulder bags; but more excitingly it also makes fully customizable bags which can be tailored in almost every aspect to your desired specification.

Firstly, the looks... I chose the internal tarpaulin, Cordura outer and trim to match my team colours; dark blue and yellow. I reckon it is a pretty damn good looking pack; fitting in well when I go to events, whilst also being a practical and classy colour scheme.

Second I customized a few other features; I had additional reflective strips added (see the large photo below), Airflow back padding for added comfort and I had an internal zippered pocket added for valuables.
You can take the customisation even further if you want to; with hidden pockets, preference of which side the shoulder strap is on, and you can even add a padded laptop sleeve and a U-lock holder!

The build quality of the bag is quite frankly outstanding; this pack really is a Workhorse through and through. The Cordura outer is robust and waterproof, the tarpaulin that lines the bag is the same as you find on commercial HGVs and adds a second waterproof layer, whilst also being incredibly strong.

Even without the customisations the Workhorse Messenger has plenty of class features; a zippered front pocket, pen pouches, then several large internal mesh pockets to hold large items and help to organise your kit. There is no risk of even the most organised traveller not having enough storage options.

The thing that really sets the Bagaboo Workhorse apart from its counterparts it the strap design though. The main shoulder strap is beautifully padded with thick 15mm foam. The straps are made of seatbelt material, so they are pretty indestructible and nice and wide. The Workhorse also has a secondary shoulder strap; a very welcomed feature that is superb for carrying heavier loads in comfort.

In addition to the two shoulder straps there are two side compression straps, which make the bag more comfortable when it is not fully loaded, as well as a few other neat features like a reflective patch on the base of the bag, and a light attachment.

I honestly cannot fault the Workhorse; the build quality is outstanding, the features well thought-out and incredibly customizable to the extent that I cannot imagine anyone will be left unsatisfied. This really is a bag to be used all day, every day; in comfort, style and safety.