Rework Toshi - Initial Impressions

After looking at reviews for essentially every bag in existence, I eventually narrowed what I was looking for to the Rework Toshi and the Aer City Pro Pack 2 (20L). No bag is perfect and found an issue with well...every single bag. Able Carry Max EDC, nice pocket layout but way too big. Able Carry Daily Plus, perfect size but loses some of the pockets from the Max EDC. Sympl Commuter, great looking bag and all the pockets I could want, but concerns about the rigid back kept me away. Fyro Citta, fit most of what I was looking for but hated the burnt orange interior and the price. Considered the Aer City Pro Pack 2 (24L) but wanted an extra pocket instead of an extra water bottle slot. Didn't really want anything with PU coated zippers or crinkly X-pac material.

I was very much on the fence on what size bag I was needing and very concerned that the Toshi would be too small. My initial impression is that is the perfect size and I would not want it to be any bigger. For me, this is a travel support bag for quick access or essentials I don't want to put in a check bag. So, things like earbuds, chargers, cables, tablet, laptop, medicine, and snacks. And all those fit easily. One thing I was very suprised about is the rigidity of the material. i was expecting the bag to be much more maliable and squishy, but the material is thicker and firmer than expected. The shoulder straps are a bit stiffer and thinner than expected, but I am going to get it adjusted, walk around for a bit and see how the comfort feels overall. All the pockets and zippers are great. Overall, my initial impression is this is a great bag and really only have some questions about comfort.

To be sure if I am getting the right bag though, I went ahead and ordered a Pro Pack 2 (20L) and am waiting for its arrival now. Once here, will compare the two, choose a winner, and share my findings with the group.

Cheerio.