Carrying your iPad in public...a MANLY thread!

[UnclePaulie]

Jack Spade

I've been using this Jack Spade bag for the past month:
http://www.zappos.com/jack-spade-warren-street-lightweight-canvas-wide-strap-messenger-tank

The color and wide strap make it look reasonably manly. It holds my iPad inside a neoprene sleeve, the charger, foldable headphones, and a small notebook.

 

[Beau10]

This bag is wonderful: http://www.sfbags.com/products/muzetto/muzetto.htm

While considering this I showed it to my gf. First word out of her mouth, almost pavlovian knee-jerk reaction - "murse". Normally a comment like that wouldn't deter me, but in conjunction w/ the price it put it out of the running. I do agree it's wonderful, maybe if I could just see one in person... (anyone in San Diego?)

 

[Ace R.]

I really don't understand why people are so concerned about this whole "manpurse" thing. I mean yea it's over the top if you wear one just to hold things.. But if you use one to carry your MacBook or iPad around it really isn't a big deal. I'd prefer a strap instead of having to hold one with handles.

 

[MacAddiction]

I really don't understand why people are so concerned about this whole "manpurse" thing. I mean yea it's over the top if you wear one just to hold things.. But if you use one to carry your MacBook or iPad around it really isn't a big deal. I'd prefer a strap instead of having to hold one with handles.

Thank you and I agree. My wife picked up one of the Kenneth Cole leather "Murses" at their outlet store. In NYC no one seems to care. Now if I carried this around the little town where I grew up in Texas? I'd catch some stares. Some things about home I don't miss!

 

[ARF900]

What do you usally wear in public? If its not formal go with a nylon drawstring backpack. Put some memory foam on the inside for protection and be aware of pickpocketers.

 

[jns2001]

Thank you and I agree. My wife picked up one of the Kenneth Cole leather "Murses" at their outlet store. In NYC no one seems to care. Now if I carried this around the little town where I grew up in Texas? I'd catch some stares. Some things about home I don't miss!

Being from Texas I hear you. However, I just purchased a Tumi bag for 69 dollars at the outlet, it is the T-Pass, smallest one they have, it fits the Ipad. Fits a MBP 13" if you want to, chargers, one at a time of course, but it is a very versatile, and it is not a murse. Very nice bag if you ask me, and for the price, you can't beat it.

 

[MacAddiction]

Being from Texas I hear you. However, I just purchased a Tumi bag for 69 dollars at the outlet, it is the T-Pass, smallest one they have, it fits the Ipad. Fits a MBP 13" if you want to, chargers, one at a time of course, but it is a very versatile, and it is not a murse. Very nice bag if you ask me, and for the price, you can't beat it.

Is that this one?

http://www.tumi.com/product/product-detail/?modelId=134580&N=0&Np=500&Nr=AND(p_model_sku_status_id:1)&Nu=p_model_id&Nf=p_laptop_pocket_dimension_large|BTWN%2032.4612%2035.0012|p_laptop_pocket_dimension_medium|BTWN%2022.6568%2025.1968|p_laptop_pocket_dimension_small|BTWN%202.7432%205.2832

Let me know how it works out. I love TUMI, have a roller brief for my laptop and there's plenty of room to slide the iPad in. When I don't need my laptop, the "Kenneth Cole Murse" is for me (birthday present from the Mrs. I have to use it!)

 

[lokerd]

I really don't understand why people are so concerned about this whole "manpurse" thing. I mean yea it's over the top if you wear one just to hold things.. But if you use one to carry your MacBook or iPad around it really isn't a big deal. I'd prefer a strap instead of having to hold one with handles.

Well, I don't suppose the "appearance" is so much an issue as it is just being comfortable. No...I take that back appearance is an issue. I am a high school teacher...in a smaller city...and I run into students all the time.

My students already think I am a goof ball/nerd, whatever, etc. After a few weeks/months of school each year, it is unavoidable that they are going to think that of me. About that time I will play them my theme song "White and Nerdy" by Wierd Al. But I don't need to add to that image.

Anyway, if you live near a REI, they have a very nice selection of messenger style bags. I shopped the isle for about an an hour and almost decided on a bag...but because I am 2 hours away from the store to be able to return/exchange, I held off till I could do some more Internet research.

 

[Shinigami301]

I use an Eagle tactical bug out bag. iPad fits in a padded compartment on one side, my spare H&K USP .45C and three mags for same fit on the other side.

Remember, inclusion of a legally concealed large bore pistol in the package trumps any mention of "man purse" or effects thereof on one's psyche.

 

[iBookG4user]

Have you considered getting a sev?

 

[lokerd]

Remember, inclusion of a legally concealed large bore pistol in the package trumps any mention of "man purse" or effects thereof on one's psyche.

Well, I do have a chl...but I would hate to have to leave the iPad behind in all the places that the gun gets restricted.

 

[OGDaniel]

Is that this one?
View attachment 231768
http://www.tumi.com/product/product-detail/?modelId=134580&N=0&Np=500&Nr=AND(p_model_sku_status_id:1)&Nu=p_model_id&Nf=p_laptop_pocket_dimension_large|BTWN%2032.4612%2035.0012|p_laptop_pocket_dimension_medium|BTWN%2022.6568%2025.1968|p_laptop_pocket_dimension_small|BTWN%202.7432%205.2832

Let me know how it works out. I love TUMI, have a roller brief for my laptop and there's plenty of room to slide the iPad in. When I don't need my laptop, the "Kenneth Cole Murse" is for me (birthday present from the Mrs. I have to use it!)

I would buy one of those if they didn't have all those zippers and crap on it. Something like those bags, but more for a man of business than for a traveller.

To the OP, your thread title was misleading friend. I'm seeing WAY too many purses for a "MANLY thread". Any Tom Bihn product is truly amazing FWIW.

I hope you do find the right case to match your needs. Good luck.

 

[TraceyS/FL]

Well, I don't suppose the "appearance" is so much an issue as it is just being comfortable. No...I take that back appearance is an issue. I am a high school teacher...in a smaller city...and I run into students all the time.

My students already think I am a goof ball/nerd, whatever, etc. After a few weeks/months of school each year, it is unavoidable that they are going to think that of me. About that time I will play them my theme song "White and Nerdy" by Wierd Al. But I don't need to add to that image.

Anyway, if you live near a REI, they have a very nice selection of messenger style bags. I shopped the isle for about an an hour and almost decided on a bag...but because I am 2 hours away from the store to be able to return/exchange, I held off till I could do some more Internet research.

Teens, gotta love them right?

My daughter and I (14yo model of said teen group) both have the timbuk2 net book messenger, black for her, grey/lime for me. I can throw some extra junk in there and it works well. I'd not have an issue with any guy I know carrying it, except the strap is a bit short I think, so you might have issues. I carry it over my shoulder not messenger style.

If you needed to transport more books and stuff, I might jump up to the next size....

Otherwise, kids are ruthless in the big bad world so nothing might work really... Except them being in awe of the iPad!

Good luck!

 

[Hammie]

I think it all comes down to the eye of the beholder.

In my case, style and functionality go hand in hand. It can't meet my needs then I skip over it no matter how awesome it looks.

I personally can not stand the black nylon sytle bags that look like the free laptop bags most corporations give their employees. I prefer leather first off, then a messenger bag style, and then it must function and hold all my belongings that I plan on keeping in the bag. It also cannot be too big and bulky.

Those are my requirements. Some may think my bags look too much like a purse, but IMO, it's just a slightly smaller version of my laptop bag that I have been carrying for years. So, is it the size that turns off people? I've actually got quite a few compliments of my bags from both man and women. I even had one guy say that would be the ONLY bag he would ever carry (which I found sort of amusing).

I never understood the whole "man purse" thing. Just because a guy carries a bag it has to be a man purse? Why is there not the same thing for when a woman carries a briefcase?

Maybe it is just me. Maybe I got up too early. Who knows?

Whatever it is, have a great Monday.

 

[TraceyS/FL]

I think it all comes down to the eye of the beholder.

Definitely. Be confident in what you carry and just go with it!

In my case, style and functionality go hand in hand. It can't meet my needs then I skip over it no matter how awesome it looks.

I've skipped many of bags because i know they just won't work for me.

I personally can not stand the black nylon sytle bags that look like the free laptop bags most corporations give their employees. I prefer leather first off, then a messenger bag style, and then it must function and hold all my belongings that I plan on keeping in the bag. It also cannot be too big and bulky.

I'd love leather, it's not that practical for the Florida summer afternoon rains. It's why my birks were winter shoes and keens were summer shoes!

Those are my requirements. Some may think my bags look too much like a purse, but IMO, it's just a slightly smaller version of my laptop bag that I have been carrying for years. So, is it the size that turns off people? I've actually got quite a few compliments of my bags from both man and women. I even had one guy say that would be the ONLY bag he would ever carry (which I found sort of amusing).

I never understood the whole "man purse" thing. Just because a guy carries a bag it has to be a man purse? Why is there not the same thing for when a woman carries a briefcase?

It's just the typical stereotyping going on.... it will slowly change right?

Maybe it is just me. Maybe I got up too early. Who knows?

Whatever it is, have a great Monday.

I woke up too early, then tried to fall asleep as I should have been getting up. Luckily a kid came in and saved me from certain doom for the day! LOL!!

 

[Dorkington]

http://www.amazon.com/Targus-CityGe...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1277143820&sr=8-1

I got this case. Originally meant for netbooks but the iPad fits *perfectly*. I'm not overstating that, it literally fits in there like the case was built for the iPad. It has another pocket for something else similarly sized (say, and Apple bluetooth keyboard, or in my case a notepad), and the outside pocket has a place for a couple pens (or one stylus and a pen), wallet, keys, charger, whatever...

Love it.

...

I also affectionately call it my "murse", I couldn't give a **** if I look "less manly" for carrying around a bag.

 

[iSimon]

I finally got my Fossil Tablet cover yesterday (a friend had been over in the US on a business trip and just got back with it). I got it in dark brown but for some reason the Fossil website only seems to be showing it in Navy blue - there was a third colour (tan I think) when I was looking about three weeks ago.

Looks really nice though and is a good snug fit - the inside is cusioned nicely (the back of the metal fastening studs are within the cusioning so won't scratch the screen or back of the iPad).

 

[lokerd]

http://www.amazon.com/Targus-CityGe...1?ie=UTF8&s=electronics&qid=1277143820&sr=8-1

I got this case. Originally meant for netbooks but the iPad fits *perfectly*.

WOW! Very nice!!! Really. I like this...although it seems like it might be a LITTLE big for every day use, like when I am riding a bike for commuting to work, etc. as my Neoprene case BARELY fits by folding down the top edge. But, for the price I think I am going to pull the trigger on this one just to try out...less than $25 with free shipping. nice find.

I do have one question. When you say PERFECTLY...as you saying...the ipad with a grip or JUST the iPad only? Got a picture with you iPad stowed? I have an Incase Grip...which I really like to use around the house...well, really all the time. Currently I carry the iPad with GRIP in a neoprene case.

WOW! When I added the Targus case above to my cart, this came up: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002STX2ZG/ref=pd_luc_sbs_02_03 I think I like this a lot better than the targus because of hte open top vs the flap top. And it appears to have a more easily removed shoulder strap.

I have spent so much time shopping ebay, I had not bothered to try Amazon. I am going to keep shopping amazon for a bit.

 

[Hammie]

@ Dorkington and lokerd -- They look too much like computer laptop bags for me. They look very functional, but looks wise they don't do it for me.

Thanks, though, for sharing so others may benefit from them.

 

[lokerd]

Summary of small netbook bags that may work...

@ Dorkington and lokerd -- They look too much like computer laptop bags for me.

Aye! That is what I am thinking will be more MANLY! I just want it to have removable straps and NOT look like a purse.

So. So far, this is what I have the list down to:

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001F192IE/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER ...a little large still...and 13.6 oz...almost a pound sucks!

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B001F7KXAO/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER ...a tiny bit larger than the above...still heavy. I like the strap convert. But I can't see IN the bag. Anybody have this? Is there a storage compartment inside? Is it soft?

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0032GV0XK/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=A2QHBM8MEN9W65 ...I like this but it definitely looks pretty thick. No specs given.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002R2EJSS/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER ...this one is looking pretty good. TINY bit shorter than what I have right now...but this one has straps...under 10 oz. Doesn't look like a purse.

http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002STX2ZG/ref=ord_cart_shr?ie=UTF8&m=ATVPDKIKX0DER ...I also really like this...but a tad bit bigger than what I got. Remember, I ride a bicycle frequently...and I am trying to get a slim case that fits the caboose of the bike.

Here are the ones on ebay that I had narrowed down before find the ones on Amazon:

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=140347413610&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT ...decent I think except forthe big flap...also a bit larger and more $ than the others.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=260430335372&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT ...this is a tiny bit smaller than the one I have right now...which has been serving me very well...two pockets, one facing each way on the front which is a clever way to have a bigger pocket as each one overlaps with the other. Just no option for a strap. Handles are comfortable...and the neoprene case does a good job of protecting the pad...short of sitting on the thing.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=270588629580&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT ...I have thought this was a good option, but I have not been able to get any details from the seller. Looks like it might be a little loose, large, etc. But, it is cheap...could get one just to try out.

http://cgi.ebay.com/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=180515893450&ssPageName=STRK:MEWAX:IT ...I actually like this one as maybe a #2 to one of my favs on Amazon...except...it opens ALL the way up. I think that spells DISASTER for the iPad in a check out lane, fumbling around trying to get a credit card out and the iPad hits the floor. Hmmm. NOT good!!

Well, I think that is it that I can find for now.

 

[Manatee]

I ordered the Waterfield Design Ultimate Sleeve.

I think it looks very sleek. It's fitted for the ipad, it has a micro fiber face that cleans the ipad, it has rigid protection woven into the fabric and it doesnt look like a purse or a bag so to speak

For carrying just the iPad, I really like the Waterfield Ultimate. I have it with a shoulder strap. The feature that I really don't like, though, is the Velcro closure. It makes a lot of noise when opening. Not very stealth. I'd much prefer a nylon clip-type buckle. It's beautifully made, though.

 

[evilyankeefan]

Just got my Tom Bihn Ristretto for iPad. Liking it very much so far. Small enough to carry the iPad but also other goodies. I've only put in my Canon G11 and Sprint Overdrive in it and I have plenty of room to spare. Got it with the Absolute strap and it is very comfortable. Took off the waist straps for now.

It's a little pricey, but I'm happy I splurged on it. Much better than carrying my iPad around in a messenger bag.

 

[raymond lin]

Just get a leather flight bag, the iPad fit perfectly, no one will be any wiser as they don't scream laptop inside.

Plus they are well made and designed to last. Real Leather, brass buckles, but about $150 to $200 a bag, so its not cheap.

Personally i use it to carry more than just the iPad, its my daily bag.

 

[TorontoLRT]

Try the Bag of Holding. I use it for my laptop and school books, and no one's ever said it look feminine. Or there's this from the same site.

 

[Dorkington]

WOW! Very nice!!! Really. I like this...although it seems like it might be a LITTLE big for every day use, like when I am riding a bike for commuting to work, etc. as my Neoprene case BARELY fits by folding down the top edge. But, for the price I think I am going to pull the trigger on this one just to try out...less than $25 with free shipping. nice find.

I do have one question. When you say PERFECTLY...as you saying...the ipad with a grip or JUST the iPad only? Got a picture with you iPad stowed? I have an Incase Grip...which I really like to use around the house...well, really all the time. Currently I carry the iPad with GRIP in a neoprene case.

WOW! When I added the Targus case above to my cart, this came up: http://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B002STX2ZG/ref=pd_luc_sbs_02_03 I think I like this a lot better than the targus because of hte open top vs the flap top. And it appears to have a more easily removed shoulder strap.

I have spent so much time shopping ebay, I had not bothered to try Amazon. I am going to keep shopping amazon for a bit.

I have the iPad in there with Apple Case...

I'll see if I can post a couple pictures later. It definitely has wiggle room and will probably fit fine for just about any case outside something ridiculous.

If you want to test the case out before buying, they can be found at Best Buy for $35.