Peak Design’s Everyday Messenger
Hands on with the bag that’s breaking Kickstarter records
San Francisco-based brand Peak Design knows what they’re doing when it comes to Kickstarter. In the past, they’ve launched four successful campaigns (including this modular wrist strap), with each wildly surpassing its funding goal within just a few days. But its fifth and latest product, the Everyday Messenger bag, has easily overtaken all of those combined—with a hefty $3.7 million pledged so far. We recently got our hands on the bag to see how it handles in the real world.
When developing the Everyday Messenger, Peak Design consulted adventure photographer Trey Ratcliff to make sure it could survive the outdoors—and the results of the collaboration are impressive. A synthetic canvas shell allows water to bead off the sides while taped zippers keep liquids from seeping through the seams. A look into the main compartment also reveals two sturdy, origami-like dividers that keep precious cargo from rattling around when you’re on the go. And those dividers can even fold down, providing a protective barrier on the top of DSLRs or other scratch-able items when you need to squeeze in last-minute gear.
The main flap is secured into place with a clever MagLatch buckle that the brand created especially for the Everyday Messenger. It derives its name from a magnetic clasp that grips onto one of four clips, making it easy to open and close the main compartment with just one hand—something we found to be quite handy with the bag slung around your side. Another original feature seen on the Everyday Messenger is Peak Design’s intuitive Capture clip. It’s a simple bracket attached to the side of the bag that allows you to hang a DSLR for quick access.
The Everyday Messenger isn’t just made for photographers either. It can be used as a work, school or everyday carry bag too—just as its name implies. A padded laptop pouch, smartphone stash spot and a panel of other pockets keep cords, notebooks, keys and other essentials organized, secure—and most importantly—easily accessible.
Early backers can pick up the Everyday Messenger on Peak Design’s Kickstarter page for $195, but be quick; the campaign only lasts for three more days.
Images by Cool Hunting
