the interior compartment is completely coated in waterproof urethane. Even the zippers are rubberized. Plastic clips and massive Velcro pads round out the closures: If water does somehow get into the bag, which seems unlikely, it can be upturned to roll right out without a fuss.

Tough and rugged, these bags can clearly take a beating — well beyond those described by the typical "ballistic nylon" marketing talk that most packs rely on.

Available in three designs, the only major difference among the Monty, Rummy and Shed bags is size. The pint-sized Monty measures 16" x 10" x 5" while the Shed stretches out to 20" x 12" x 6." You also get a few more internal pockets with the two larger bags.

Otherwise they're all available in the same five colors and the operation and usability is about the same. Consider the number of textbooks and the size of the laptop you'll be hauling and purchase accordingly.

WIRED Good balance. Reasonable color and size selection. Feels military-grade in construction quality. Jumbo-sized shoulder pad. Top can fold down or roll up, as you like.

TIRED Access to all compartments is a little tight; vast, monolithic interior may not be practical for carrying anything beyond books. Hardly aesthetically appealing.

• Manufacturer: Mission Workshop
• Price: $150 to $180

Authors: Christopher Null

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